Patent Description:
This disclosure relates to grain storage devices used in agriculture. More specifically and without limitation, this disclosure relates to a double ended stud bolt system and method of use for installing external stiffeners on the sidewall of grain bins.

Grain bins are massive structures used to store bulk flowable grain products such as corn, soybeans, wheat, rice, or any other grain products or other material. Conventional grain bins are generally formed in a cylindrical shape with a corrugated sidewall covered by a peaked roof. Grain bins vary in height (ranging from twenty feet high or about <NUM>,<NUM> meters to over a hundred and fifty feet or about <NUM>,<NUM> meters high), and diameter, (ranging from eighteen feet or <NUM>,<NUM> meters in diameter to over a hundred and fifty feet or about <NUM>,<NUM> meters in diameter). The storage capacity of modern grain bins can range anywhere from a few thousand bushels (about <NUM>) to well over a million bushels (about <NUM>).

Grain bins are often used to store grain for long periods of time. To ensure the stability of bulk grain during long-term storage the moisture level of the grain is closely monitored and controlled. As an example, corn is often stored within the narrow range of <NUM>% to <NUM>% moisture. If, however, the moisture level exceeds certain limits, the grain will likely spoil.

The spoilage of grain is obviously undesirable. Spoiled grain is a direct financial loss. Another problem associated with spoiled grain is that the spoilage process has a tendency to form clumps within the grain. Clumped grain often does not easily flow out of the grain bin causing a blockage in the flow of material out of the grain bin. In addition, clumped grain has a tendency to stick to the grain bin walls and/or get stuck in grain handling equipment. As such, clumped grain can cause breakdowns, plugs and unloading problems. The cleaning and removal of clumped grain within a grain bin can be a difficult, time consuming and arduous task. It is for these and many other reasons that great efforts are taken to prevent moisture from penetrating grain bins.

The growth in the size and sophistication of grain bin designs has complicated the process of sealing moisture out of grain bins. As an example, many large commercial grain bins have sidewalls formed of multiple sheets of corrugated steel that are layered upon one another, or "laminated. " These laminated sheets provide additional strength and rigidity to the grain bin. However, these laminated sheets substantially complicate the assembly process. In addition, these laminated sheets make it more complicated to prevent water from entering the grain bin as water can travel between the laminated sheets and seep into the gran bin.

Complicating matters further, many large sized commercial grain bins use external stiffeners to provide additional strength and rigidity to the grain bin. An external stiffener is an elongated structural member that generally extends vertically along a grain bin sidewall. External stiffeners can themselves be formed of a plurality of layers, meaning that the external stiffeners themselves are "laminated. " These external stiffeners are generally bolted to the exterior surface of the grain bin sidewall. While these external stiffeners are successful at increasing the strength of the grain bin, these stiffeners further complicate the assembly process. In addition, attaching external stiffeners to the grain bin sidewall makes it more complicated to prevent water from entering the grain bin as water can travel between the stiffener and the sidewall and into the grain bin if not sealed properly.

It is particularly difficult to seal the intersection between the inward surface of the stiffener and the exterior surface of the grain bin. This is especially true just below the intersection between rings where the upper ring hangs over a portion of the lower ring thereby forming a step. This step makes it difficult if not impossible to draw the interior surface of the stiffener against the exterior surface of the grain bin to provide a seal. When a gap is left between the interior surface of the stiffener and the exterior surface of the grain bin water has a tendency to find its way through this unsealed intersection and into the grain bin along the shaft of the bolt connecting the stiffener to the sidewall.

Conventionally, bolts used to connect a stiffener to a grain bin are inserted from the interior of the grain bin outward through the sidewall and through the stiffener thereby connecting the stiffener to the sidewall. Conventionally, the head of these bolts are sealed against the interior surface of the interior layer of the laminated sheet that forms the sidewall. Sealing the head of these bolts against the interior surface of the interior layer of the laminated sheet that forms the sidewall does not prevent water from entering the grain bin. Instead, sealing the head of these bolts against the interior surface of the interior layer of the laminated sheet that forms the sidewall forces the water to travel between the layers of the laminated sheets, which is, in and of itself, undesirable as water between the layers of the laminated sheet is likely to promote inter-layer corrosion and reduce the longevity and useful life of the grain bin.

Over time, at least a portion of the water between the layers of the laminated sheets tends to seep into the grain bin by exiting an edge of the laminated sheet that is positioned within the grain bin. This moisture then causes spoilage of the grain in the area around the leak which is undesirable. <CIT> discloses (in <FIG>) a double-walled silo comprising an inner panel <NUM> and outside plate <NUM>. Inner panel <NUM> interconnects by bolt connections <NUM> with outside plate <NUM>. Special-shaped studs 5a are used for the bolt connections <NUM>. Each end of the studs 5a are threaded, and each stud is equipped with two protruding circles which can make inner panel <NUM> and outside plate <NUM> easier to locate in the installation process. Bolt connection <NUM> is made up of a stud 5a, having at each end: a rubber folder steel wire packing ring 5b, a steel washer 5c and a nut 5d. Inner panel <NUM> and outside plate <NUM> are pressed into the two protruding circles of the studs 5a due to the tightening of nuts 5d. Consequently, when compared to the present invention defined in claim <NUM>, this document discloses a grain bin system comprising a sidewall having an interior surface and an exterior surface, a stiffener having an interior and an exterior surface, the interior surface facing the exterior surface of the sidewall, a stud bolt having a first threaded portion, a second threaded portion and a feature between the first threaded portion and the second threaded portion, an inner nut on the first threaded portion, an outer nut on the second threaded portion, wherein the feature is between the interior surface of the stiffener and the exterior surface of the sidewall, the first threaded portion is exposed at the interior surface of the sidewall, and the second threaded portion is exposed at the exterior surface of the stiffener. <CIT> discloses a grain bin system according to the state of the art.

Therefore, for all the reasons stated above, and the reasons stated below, there is a need in the art for an improved manner of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a bin that prevents moisture from entering the grain bin.

Thus, it is a primary object of the disclosure to provide a system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a bin that improves upon the state of the art.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin that prevents water from seeping into the grain bin.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin that is easy to use.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin that provides a seal against the exterior surface of the sidewall of the grain bin regardless whether a gap is present between the stiffener and the sidewall.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin that has a long useful life.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin that is durable.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin that is easy to manufacture.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin that is relatively inexpensive.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin that has a robust design.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin that is high quality.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin that is easy to install.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin that can be installed using conventional equipment and tools.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin that reduces or prevents water from getting between the layers of a laminated sidewall.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin that reduces grain spoilage.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin that reduces grain bin corrosion.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin that reduces clumping of grain within a grain bin.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin that can be used with any grain bin.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin that can be used with any stiffener.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin that extends the useful life of a grain bin.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin that facilitates a secure connection between the sidewall of the grain bin and the stiffener.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin that provides a new and improved manner of assembling an externally stiffened grain bin.

These and other objects, features, or advantages of the disclosure will become apparent from the specification, figures and claims.

A system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin using a double end stud bolt having a first threaded end, a second threaded end and a feature positioned between the first end and a second end is presented. A sealing member is positioned over the first end of the stud bolt, which in one case is a metallic washer with an affixed compressible member, such as a rubber, plastic, composite or other washer formed of a non-metallic or other material that facilitates a seal. The first end of the stud bolt is inserted into a hole in the sidewall and an inner nut is placed over the first end inside the sidewall. As the inner nut is tightened, the feature is pulled toward the exterior surface of the grain bin thereby causing the sealing member to form a seal with the exterior surface of the grain bin. The second end of the stud bolt is inserted into a hole in a stiffener and an outer nut is placed over the second end on the exterior side of the stiffener. As the outer nut is tightened, the stiffener is pulled toward the exterior surface of the grain bin thereby connecting the stiffener to the grain bin. This arrangement provides the advantage of forming a durable, repeatable, long term, and robust seal between the sealing member and the exterior surface of the sidewall of the grain bin regardless of whether the interior surface of the stiffener engages the exterior surface of the grain bin.

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. The scope of the disclosure(s) is defined only by the appended claims.

As used herein, the terminology such as vertical, horizontal, top, bottom, front, back, end, sides, left, right, and the like are referenced according to the views, pieces, parts, components and figures presented. It should be understood, however, that the terms are used only for purposes of description, and are not intended to be used as limitations.

With reference to the figures, a double ended stud bolt system <NUM> (system <NUM>) is presented that includes a stud bolt <NUM> that is used to install a stiffener <NUM> onto a sidewall <NUM> of a grain bin <NUM>, as is further described herein.

In the arrangement shown, double ended stud bolt system <NUM> is used in association with a grain bin <NUM>. Grain bin <NUM> may be formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to hold a bulk amount of flowable material such as grain or the like materials. In one arrangement, as is shown, grain bin <NUM> is a large, generally cylindrical structure that has a curved sidewall <NUM>. Sidewall <NUM> connects at its lower end to a foundation <NUM>. Sidewall <NUM> connects at its upper end to a peaked roof <NUM>.

Sidewall <NUM> of grain bin <NUM> is formed of any suitable size, shape and design. In one arrangement, as is shown, sidewall <NUM> is formed of a plurality of sheets <NUM> of material. Sheets <NUM> have an upper edge <NUM>, a lower edge <NUM> and side edges <NUM>. Sheets <NUM> have in exterior surface <NUM> and interior surface <NUM>. In the arrangement shown, these sheets <NUM> are formed of corrugated material. That is, when sheets <NUM> are viewed from their side edge <NUM>, the sheets <NUM> have a repetitive oscillating curve that smoothly transitions between rounded peaks and rounded valleys, similar to that of a sine-wave or sine-function. This corrugation provides strength and rigidity to the sidewall <NUM> however the corrugation provides a number of challenges, such as manufacturing complexities and preventing water from infiltrating the grain bin <NUM>. Any other configuration of sidewall <NUM> and more broadly grain bin <NUM>, is hereby contemplated for use in association with stiffener <NUM> and stud bolt <NUM>.

Sheets <NUM> of sidewall <NUM> may be formed of a single layer of material. Alternatively, to increase the strength and rigidity of the sidewall <NUM> a plurality of sheets <NUM> may be laid over one another thereby forming what is known as a "laminated" sheet <NUM> or sidewall <NUM>. Laminated sheets <NUM> may include two, three, four, five or any other number of layers.

In one arrangement, as is shown, sheets <NUM> curve slightly from side edge <NUM> to side edge <NUM> such that each sheet <NUM> forms a partial portion of a cylinder. In this arrangement, a plurality of sheets <NUM> are connected together in side-to-side arrangement to form what is known as a ring <NUM>. With reference to <FIG>, each ring <NUM> is formed of a plurality of sheets <NUM> connected together with each sheet <NUM> having one side edge <NUM> positioned inside of an adjacent sheet <NUM> and the opposite side edge <NUM> positioned outside of the other adjacent sheet <NUM>. As an example, when moving in a clockwise direction, the first side edge <NUM> of a sheet <NUM> is positioned on the interior side of the prior sheet <NUM> whereas the second side edge <NUM> of a sheet is positioned on the exterior side of the next sheet <NUM>. Adjacent sheets <NUM> are connected together using a plurality of sidewall bolts <NUM> that extend through the overlapping portion of adjacent sheets <NUM>.

In one arrangement, as is shown, rings <NUM> are vertically stacked to form sidewall <NUM>. Rings <NUM> are stacked in such a manner that the lower edge <NUM> of the sheets <NUM> of the upper-positioned ring <NUM> is positioned on the outside of the upper edge <NUM> of the sheets <NUM> of the lower-positioned ring <NUM>. The vertically adjacent sheets <NUM> are then connected together using a plurality of sidewall bolts <NUM> that extend through the overlapping portion of the vertically adjacent sheets <NUM>.

By overlapping the vertically stacked rings <NUM> in this manner this forms a step <NUM> where the exterior surface <NUM> at the lower edge <NUM> of the upper positioned sheet <NUM> is spaced outward a distance "D" from the exterior surface <NUM> of lower positioned sheet <NUM>. This distance "D" is equivalent to the thickness of sheet <NUM>. The thicker the sheet <NUM>, the greater the distance "D" of step <NUM>. This step <NUM> helps to shed water running down the exterior surface <NUM> of sidewall <NUM>. By positioning the lower edge <NUM> of the sheets <NUM> of the upper-positioned ring <NUM> on the outside of the upper edge <NUM> of the sheets <NUM> of the lower-positioned ring <NUM> this serves much like shingles of a roof and water on the exterior surface of the grain bin <NUM> under the force of gravity runs down the sidewall <NUM> and has a limited the opportunity to infiltrate the layers of sheets <NUM>. However, this step <NUM> provides a problem when attaching a stiffener <NUM> to the exterior surface <NUM> of the sidewall <NUM>, as is further described herein.

While rings <NUM> are vertically stacked, to provide maximum strength, in one arrangement care is taken to offset the seams <NUM> formed by the overlapping sides edges <NUM> of adjacent sheets <NUM>. With reference to <FIG>, these seams <NUM> are positioned in what is known as a bricklayer's pattern wherein the seams <NUM> of each vertically stacked ring <NUM> are offset a predetermined amount from the seams <NUM> of the ring <NUM> positioned immediately above and below. However any other arrangement is hereby contemplated for use. As is also shown in <FIG>, in one arrangement, as one example, stiffeners <NUM> are connected to sidewall <NUM> offset from seams <NUM>. In this arrangement, where seams <NUM> and stiffeners <NUM> are offset, sidewall bolts <NUM> are used to connect adjacent sheets <NUM> at seams <NUM> as well as connect adjacent rings <NUM>, whereas stud bolts <NUM> are used to attach stiffeners <NUM>. Attaching stiffeners <NUM> to sidewall <NUM> at locations other than seams <NUM> avoids the added thickness and complexity of attaching a stiffener <NUM> where adjacent sheets <NUM> overlap. This is especially true when splice plates <NUM> are used over seams <NUM>. Splice plates <NUM> are narrow sections of material that mirror the shape of sidewall <NUM> and are attached over seams <NUM> where the side edges <NUM> of sheets <NUM> are butted against one another. In the arrangement shown, in <FIG>, a pair of splice plates <NUM> are placed on the interior surface <NUM> and exterior surface <NUM> of sheets <NUM> and are attached using sidewall bolts <NUM>. In this arrangement, stiffeners <NUM> are attached using stud bolts <NUM> along side seams <NUM>.

Once sidewall <NUM> of grain bin <NUM> is formed, stiffeners <NUM> are attached.

Stiffeners <NUM> are formed of any suitable size, shape and design and are configured to be attached to the exterior surface <NUM> of the sidewall <NUM> of grain bin <NUM> and provide additional strength and rigidity to sidewall <NUM>. As such, stiffener <NUM> is any structural element that is affixed to the sidewall <NUM> of grain bin <NUM> that enhances the strength and/or rigidity of the sidewall <NUM>.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, stiffeners <NUM> extend a length from an upper edge <NUM> to a lower edge <NUM>, which in the arrangement shown in <FIG> coincides with the upper edge of the upper-most ring <NUM> and the lower edge of the lower-most ring <NUM>, however any other configuration is hereby contemplated for use. Stiffeners <NUM> can extend the entire length/height of sidewall <NUM>, such as that shown in <FIG>, or alternatively, stiffeners <NUM> can extend any portion of sidewall <NUM>. In the arrangement shown, stiffeners <NUM> provide strength and rigidity to grain bin <NUM> in-part by extending across multiple rings <NUM>.

As one example, as is shown, stiffeners <NUM> have in exterior surface <NUM>, that faces outward and away from the exterior surface of sidewall <NUM> of grain bin <NUM>, and an interior surface <NUM> that faces inward and toward the sidewall <NUM> of grain bin <NUM>. In the example shown, stiffener <NUM> includes a center wall <NUM>, opposing side members <NUM>, forward walls <NUM> and tabs <NUM>. Center wall <NUM> is generally flat and planar and extends from upper edge <NUM> to lower edge <NUM>, or a distance thereof. Center wall <NUM> includes a plurality of vertically spaced holes <NUM> positioned approximately at its center. These holes <NUM> are configured to receive a portion of stud bolt <NUM> there through to facilitate attachment of the stiffener <NUM> to the sidewall <NUM> of grain bin <NUM> as is further described herein.

As one example, as is shown the outward edges of center wall <NUM> are connected to opposing side members <NUM>. Like center wall <NUM>, side members <NUM> are generally flat and planar and extend from upper edge <NUM> to lower edge <NUM>, or a distance thereof. Side members <NUM> connect at their rearward edge <NUM> to the outward edge of center wall <NUM>, and connect at their forward edge <NUM> to the inward edge of forward wall <NUM>. Side members <NUM> extend outward at an angle away from one another (and away from center wall <NUM>) as they extend from center wall <NUM> to forward wall <NUM>.

The forward edges <NUM> of side members <NUM> are connected to the inward edges of forward walls <NUM>. Like center wall <NUM>, forward walls <NUM> are generally flat and planar and extend from upper edge <NUM> to lower edge <NUM>, or a distance thereof. In the arrangement shown, opposing forward walls <NUM> are positioned in approximate planar spaced relation to one another, and forward walls <NUM> are positioned in approximate parallel spaced relation to center wall <NUM>. Forward walls <NUM> connect at their outward edges <NUM> to the forward edge of tabs <NUM>.

As one example, as is shown the forward edges of tabs <NUM> connect to the outward edges <NUM> of tabs <NUM>. Like center wall <NUM>, tabs <NUM> are generally flat and planar and extend from upper edge <NUM> to lower edge <NUM>, or a distance thereof. In the arrangement shown, tabs <NUM> extend outward at an angle away from one another (and away from center wall <NUM> while extending toward sidewall <NUM>) as they extend from their forward edge before terminating at their rearward edge <NUM>.

In this way, the combination of center wall <NUM>, side members <NUM>, forward walls <NUM> and tabs <NUM> form a structural element that provides additional strength and rigidity when connected the sidewall <NUM> of grain bin <NUM>. When viewed from above or below, the combination of center wall <NUM>, side members <NUM>, forward walls <NUM> and tabs <NUM> essentially form corrugation, like that of sidewall <NUM> of grain bin <NUM> that provides strength and rigidity. While stiffener <NUM> is shown having center wall <NUM>, side members <NUM>, forward walls <NUM> and tabs <NUM>, this is just one of countless examples for the design of stiffener <NUM>, and any other features or combination of features are hereby contemplated for use with stiffener <NUM>.

Like sheets <NUM> of sidewall <NUM> of grain bin <NUM>, stiffener <NUM> may be formed of a plurality of layers, or "laminated" to provide additional strength and rigidity. In addition, just as the sidewall <NUM> is formed of a plurality of sheets <NUM>, stiffeners <NUM> that extend the length of sidewall <NUM> may be formed of a plurality of sections that are connected together in end-to-end connection and/or in overlapping condition.

With reference to <FIG>, conventionally, stiffener <NUM> is attached to the exterior surface <NUM> of sidewall <NUM> of grain bin <NUM> by inserting a conventional sidewall bolt <NUM> having a head and a threaded shaft from the interior surface <NUM> of sidewall <NUM>, through sidewall <NUM> and through a hole in stiffener <NUM>. A nut is then placed on the outward end of the threaded shaft of the sidewall bolt <NUM> on the exterior of sidewall <NUM> and stiffener <NUM>. This nut is then tightened against the exterior surface <NUM> of stiffener <NUM>. Upon tightening, the head of this sidewall bolt <NUM> seals against the interior surface <NUM> of sidewall <NUM>. In some arrangements a sealing member, such as a compressible washer, may be placed between the head of the sidewall bolt <NUM> and the interior surface <NUM> of sidewall <NUM>. In this arrangement, the sealing member forms the seal between the head of sidewall bolt <NUM> and interior surface <NUM> of sidewall <NUM>.

However, when laminated sheets <NUM> are used, sealing the head of this sidewall bolt <NUM> to the interior surface <NUM> of grain bin <NUM> does not prevent water from entering the grain bin <NUM>. Instead, this merely forces water that travels along the shaft of this sidewall bolt <NUM> to be diverted into the space between layers of the laminated sheet <NUM>. Some of this water finds its way out the lower edge <NUM> of the sheet <NUM> (which is positioned in front of the upper edge <NUM> of the adjacent lower ring <NUM>), and therefore not into the interior of the grain bin <NUM>. Some of this water also finds its way out of the exterior positioned side edge 30E (which is positioned in front of the adjacent sheet <NUM> in the same ring <NUM>), and therefore this water does not enter into the interior of the grain bin <NUM>. However, some of this water finds its way out of the interior positioned side edge 30I (which is positioned in behind the adjacent sheet <NUM> in the same ring <NUM>), and therefore this water enters into the interior of the grain bin <NUM>. This interior positioned side edge 30I may be referred to as the "leaking edge" or "seeping edge" of laminated sheet <NUM> of rings <NUM> of sidewall <NUM>.

This problem is particularly prevalent, or is exacerbated, where a space is present between the interior surface <NUM> of stiffener <NUM> and the exterior surface <NUM> of sidewall <NUM> even after tightening the nut against the exterior surface <NUM> of center wall <NUM> of stiffener <NUM>. Such a space is often present just below the step <NUM> between rings <NUM> in sidewall <NUM> as in these places the stiffener <NUM> cannot be drawn tight against the sidewall <NUM> of grain bin <NUM>. The exposed shaft of the sidewall bolt <NUM> and the associated un-sealed hole in the exterior surface <NUM> of sidewall <NUM> provides a path for water to enter into the laminated sheet <NUM>. This arrangement is shown in <FIG> wherein the two sidewall bolts <NUM> positioned just below the step <NUM> between overlapping rings <NUM> have an exposed portion of the shaft of sidewall bolts <NUM> between the interior surface <NUM> of stiffener <NUM> and the exterior surface <NUM> of sidewall <NUM>.

The arrangement presented herein using stud bolt <NUM>, resolves this problem.

Stud bolt <NUM> is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to tighten against the exterior surface <NUM> of sidewall <NUM> of grain bin <NUM> while also pulling stiffener <NUM> into firm engagement with the sidewall <NUM> of grain bin <NUM>. The use of stud bolt <NUM> ensures that a seal is formed with the exterior surface <NUM> of sidewall <NUM> of grain bin <NUM> regardless of whether the interior surface <NUM> of stiffener <NUM> can be drawn tight against the exterior surface <NUM> of sidewall <NUM> of grain bin <NUM>.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, stud bolt <NUM> is a generally cylindrical elongated member having a first threaded end <NUM> and a second threaded end <NUM>. First threaded end <NUM> and second threaded end <NUM> are positioned in coaxial alignment with one another. That is, the center axis of rotation of first threaded end <NUM> and second threaded end <NUM> are in alignment with one another, despite the fact that the diameters or shapes or features of the first threaded end <NUM> and second threaded end <NUM> may differ. In the arrangement shown, a feature <NUM> is positioned between the first threaded end <NUM> and the second threaded end <NUM>. First threaded end <NUM> and second threaded end <NUM> may have the same diameter, or different diameters. First threaded end <NUM> and second threaded end <NUM> may have the same length, or different lengths. First threaded end <NUM> and second threaded end <NUM> may have the same threads, or different threads.

Feature <NUM> is formed of any suitable size, shape and design. Feature <NUM> serves to engage the exterior surface <NUM> of sidewall <NUM> of grain bin <NUM> as the first threaded end <NUM> is tightened against the sidewall <NUM>. Feature <NUM> may be formed of that same material as that of the first threaded end <NUM> and/or second threaded end <NUM> in a monolithic or unitary structure, such as being formed through a machining process or casting process or the like manufacturing process. Alternatively, feature <NUM> may be a separate component to the shaft formed by first threaded end <NUM> and second threaded end <NUM> that is affixed thereto by a secondary process to form a unitary member, such as through a welding process, a pinning process, a bolting process, an adhering process, a gluing process or by any other process that results in a permanent or semi-permanent connection between a separate feature <NUM> and the shaft formed by first threaded end <NUM> and second threaded end <NUM>. Alternatively, feature <NUM> may be attached to the first threaded end <NUM> and/or the second threaded end <NUM> while being moveable along all or a portion of the length of the stud bolt <NUM>. In one arrangement, this is accomplished by feature <NUM> being a nut or other member that is threaded over first threaded end <NUM> and/or second threaded end <NUM>. Alternatively, any combination of the above is contemplated for use.

With reference to <FIG>, as one example of a stud bolt <NUM>, feature <NUM> is formed of a hexagonal, or hex-head member that is positioned approximately in the middle of stud bolt <NUM> between first threaded end <NUM> and second threaded end <NUM>, which are of approximately the same length, diameter and thread. The use of a hex-head member for feature <NUM> allows for the use of a conventional deep socket or wrench during the assembly process to hold or rotate the stud bolt <NUM>. In an alternative arrangement, the length of the first threaded end <NUM> and second threaded end <NUM> vary such that feature is not positioned in the approximate middle of the stud bolt <NUM>. In an alternative arrangement, the first threaded end <NUM> and second threaded end <NUM> vary in diameter, such that one end has a larger diameter than the other end. In an alternative arrangement, the first threaded end <NUM> and second threaded end <NUM> have different threads. Any other differences between the first threaded end <NUM> and second threaded end <NUM> are hereby contemplated for use.

In one arrangement, as is shown, in <FIG>, feature <NUM> is formed of as a unitary and monolithic member with the shaft formed by first threaded end <NUM> and second threaded end <NUM> such that the feature <NUM> is non-moveable along the length of stud bolt <NUM>. In an alternative arrangement, feature <NUM> is threaded onto shaft formed by first threaded end <NUM> and/or second threaded end <NUM> or otherwise connected in a moveable manner. In an alternative arrangement, feature <NUM> is a separate member from the shaft formed by first threaded end <NUM> and/or second threaded end <NUM> and is affixed by a secondary process to form a unitary member, such as through a welding process, a pinning process, a bolting process, an adhering process, a gluing process or by any other process that results in a permanent or semi-permanent connection between a separate feature <NUM> and the shaft formed by first threaded end <NUM> and/or second threaded end <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, as another example of a stud bolt <NUM>, feature <NUM> is formed of a step or shoulder positioned between a smaller diameter first threaded end <NUM> and a larger diameter second threaded end <NUM>. Also shown in this example is a rotation member <NUM> positioned in the end of the second threaded end <NUM>. Rotation member <NUM> is any feature or device that allows for the stud bolt <NUM> to be grasped and rotation to be imparted on the stud bolt <NUM>. In the arrangement shown, as one example, rotation member <NUM> is generally cylindrical in shape and has a diameter slightly smaller than the diameter of the second threaded end <NUM>. This rotation member <NUM> includes a pair of flat surfaces <NUM> on opposing sides of the rotation member <NUM>. These flat surfaces <NUM> allow for a wrench or other tool to grasp the rotation member <NUM> and impart torque there on. This can be useful during the installation process. It is hereby contemplated for use that rotation member <NUM> can take on any other form, such as a hex-head member, a square head member, a recessed hexagonal socket, a recessed square socket, a recessed flat head feature that receives a flat head screw driver, a recessed Philips head feature that receives a Phillips head screw driver, a slot, a pair of crossed slots, or any other feature that can be used to impart rotation. In this arrangement, when the first threaded end <NUM> is inserted within sidewall <NUM>, the second threaded end <NUM> and the rotation member <NUM> extend outward from the sidewall <NUM> thereby facilitating easy access to the rotation member <NUM>. In this arrangement, once the first threaded end <NUM> is inserted into the sidewall <NUM> of grain bin <NUM>, a tool grasps the rotation member <NUM> thereby imparting rotation on stud bolt <NUM> or preventing rotation of stud bolt <NUM>.

While in the arrangement shown, in <FIG>, rotation member <NUM> is shown as positioned on one end of the stud bolt <NUM>, it is hereby contemplated that rotation member <NUM> may be placed on either end or both ends of the stud bolt <NUM>, or along the length of stud bolt <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, as another example of a stud bolt <NUM>, feature <NUM> is formed of a generally circular or cylindrical flange member that is positioned between first threaded end <NUM> and second threaded end <NUM>, with the first threaded end <NUM> and the second threaded end <NUM> having approximately the same diameter and thread. However, the second threaded end <NUM> is longer than the first threaded end <NUM> in this example. In the arrangement shown, the feature <NUM> has a generally cylindrical or disc-shaped design with a pair of opposing flat surfaces <NUM> positioned on opposite sides of the feature <NUM>. These flat surfaces <NUM> allow for a wrench or other tool to grasp the feature <NUM> and impart torque there on. This can be useful during the installation process to facilitate holding the stud bolt <NUM> in place or to impart rotation upon stud bolt <NUM>.

Stud bolt <NUM> can be formed of any other suitable size, shape and design. Stud bolt <NUM> is used to tighten a sealing member <NUM> against the exterior surface <NUM> and/or interior surface <NUM> of sidewall <NUM> of grain bin <NUM> thereby forming a seal against sidewall <NUM>. Stud bolt <NUM> may be formed of any combination of any or all of the configurations or features mentioned herein.

Sealing member <NUM> is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to form a seal against the exterior surface <NUM> and/or interior surface <NUM> of sidewall <NUM> of grain bin <NUM> to thereby prevent water from entering the interior of grain bin <NUM>. Sealing member <NUM> is any device that forms a seal, such as a compressible washer, an O-ring, a gasket, a sealing adhesive layer, a compressible member, a flange gasket, or the like. Sealing member <NUM> may be formed of any compressible material that is capable of forming a seal with the exterior surface <NUM> and/or interior surface <NUM> of sidewall <NUM>, such as rubber, plastic, composite, nylon washer, neoprene, a poly, or any other compressible material and/or combination thereof.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, sealing member <NUM> includes a rigid washer <NUM> and a compressible member <NUM> that fit around the first threaded end <NUM> of the stud bolt <NUM>. In one arrangement, rigid washer <NUM> and compressible member <NUM> are separate and unattached components. In another arrangement, rigid washer <NUM> and compressible member <NUM> are adhered or connected to one another and/or formed as a single component, which reduces assembly steps and reduces the potential that the components will be unintentionally separated from one another during or prior to the installation process.

In another arrangement, the rigid washer <NUM> is eliminated and the feature <NUM> serves as the rigid washer <NUM> that forces the compressible member <NUM> into engagement with the exterior surface <NUM> and/or interior surface <NUM> of the sidewall <NUM> of grain bin <NUM>. In yet another arrangement, the rigid washer <NUM> is formed as part of the feature <NUM> and the compressible member <NUM> is either a separate piece from this combined feature <NUM> and rigid washer <NUM>, or is adhered to or connected to or formed as part of this combined feature <NUM> and rigid washer <NUM>. That is, in one arrangement, feature <NUM> is a hex-shaped, or other shaped, member like many conventional nuts with an extended flange or washer formed as part of one end of the feature <NUM>; this feature <NUM> with the combined flange or washer may be formed as part of the stud bolt <NUM> or it may be added as a separate nut-type member that is placed on the stud bolt <NUM>. In one arrangement, feature <NUM> includes a recess therein, such as a groove that facilitates connection to compressible member <NUM>, such as receiving a compressible O-ring therein or receiving a flange of a gasket therein that holds the compressible member <NUM> to the feature <NUM>.

In one arrangement, sidewall <NUM> of grain bin <NUM> is assembled by connecting sheets, <NUM>, which may be laminated sheets formed of a plurality of layers, in edge-to-edge alignment to form rings <NUM>. This arrangement is shown in <FIG> wherein one side edge <NUM> of sheet <NUM> is positioned behind an adjacent sheet <NUM> making this side edge <NUM> the interior side edge 30I, whereas the opposite side edge <NUM> of sheet <NUM> is positioned in front of the other adjacent sheet <NUM> making this side edge <NUM> the exterior side edge 30E. In one arrangement, as is shown, rings <NUM> are formed by inserting side sidewall bolts <NUM> through the sheets <NUM> which when tightened the head and sealing member of the sidewall bolt <NUM> forms a seal with the exterior surface <NUM> of the sheet. As the rings <NUM> are formed, care is taken to ensure that the lower edge <NUM> of sheets <NUM> of an upper-positioned ring <NUM> is positioned outside of the upper edge <NUM> of sheets <NUM> of the lower-positioned ring <NUM> at which point sidewall bolts <NUM> are inserted through the overlapping sheets <NUM> which when tightened the head and sealing member of the sidewall bolt <NUM> forms a seal with the exterior surface <NUM> of the sheet. Care is also taken when assembling vertically adjacent rings to ensure that the seams <NUM> of vertically adjacent rings <NUM> are offset from one another. Typically, grain bin <NUM> is assembled in a top-down manner with the assembly of roof <NUM> followed by the assembly of consecutive rings <NUM>.

Once some or all of the rings <NUM> are assembled, stiffeners <NUM> are added to the exterior surface <NUM> of sidewall <NUM> using stud bolts <NUM>. If stud bolts <NUM> are not pre-assembled with sealing member <NUM>, which may be formed of a rigid washer <NUM> and a compressible member <NUM> thereon, the sealing member <NUM> is placed on the first threaded end <NUM> of stud bolts <NUM>. Assembled stud bolts <NUM> are then installed on the sidewall <NUM>. The first threaded end <NUM> of the stud bolt <NUM> is inserted into a hole in the sidewall <NUM>. Next, an inner nut <NUM> is threaded onto the end of the first threaded end <NUM> of the stud bolt <NUM> on the inside of sidewall <NUM> within grain bin <NUM>. The inner nut <NUM> is then tightened against the interior surface <NUM> of the sidewall <NUM> thereby pulling the feature <NUM> of the stud bolt <NUM> toward the exterior surface <NUM> of the sidewall <NUM>. As the inner nut <NUM> is tightened, the feature <NUM> forces the sealing member <NUM> into tight frictional engagement with the exterior surface <NUM> of sidewall <NUM> thereby forming a water tight seal preventing water from entering the hole in sidewall <NUM> through which the first threaded end <NUM> of stud bolt <NUM> is inserted. This seal further prevents water from getting between the layers of the laminated sheet <NUM>. As the inner nut <NUM> is tightened, the rigid washer <NUM> disperses the force across the compressible member <NUM> thereby providing a broad, consistent and durable seal by dispersing the force across a greater surface area. In one arrangement, a sealing member <NUM> is also positioned on the interior surface <NUM> of sidewall <NUM> as well in a similar if not identical manner as is described herein. However in many arrangements, when water is prevented from entering the exterior surface <NUM> of sidewall <NUM> it is unnecessary or of minimal benefit to seal the interior surface <NUM> of the hole that receives stud bolt <NUM> therein.

Also, as the inner nut <NUM> is tightened against the interior surface <NUM> of sidewall <NUM>, the compression between feature <NUM> and inner nut <NUM> brings the layers of the laminated sheet into tight and rigid connection with one another. This increases the strength and rigidity of the sidewall <NUM>.

When inner nut <NUM> and/or stud bolt <NUM> are tightened against one another, in one arrangement, the features <NUM> of stud bolt <NUM> and/or the rotation member <NUM> of stud bolt <NUM> are used to hold the stud bolt <NUM> in place and prevent rotation as the inner nut <NUM> is installed on the first threaded end <NUM>. Alternatively, when inner nut <NUM> and/or stud bolt <NUM> are tightened against one another, in one arrangement, the features <NUM> of stud bolt <NUM> and/or the rotation member <NUM> of stud bolt <NUM> are used to rotate the stud bolt <NUM> as the inner nut <NUM> is held in place.

This process of installing stud bolts <NUM> is repeated for all of the stud bolts <NUM> that are used to attach stiffener <NUM> to sidewall <NUM> of grain bin <NUM>.

Once the stud bolts <NUM> are installed on the sidewall <NUM> using inner nut <NUM>, stiffener <NUM> is installed on stud bolt <NUM>. More specifically, stiffener <NUM> is inserted onto the second threaded end <NUM> of stud bolt <NUM> that extends outward from the exterior surface <NUM> of sidewall <NUM>. This is accomplished by placing the hole <NUM> of center wall <NUM> of stiffener <NUM> over the second threaded end <NUM> of stud bolt <NUM>. Once stiffener <NUM> is installed on stud bolts <NUM>, outer nut <NUM> is threaded on the outward end of the second threaded end <NUM> of stud bolt <NUM>. The outer nut <NUM> is then tightened against the exterior surface <NUM> of the center wall <NUM> of the stiffener <NUM> thereby forcing the interior surface <NUM> of the stiffener <NUM> toward the exterior surface <NUM> of the sidewall <NUM>.

Above step <NUM> between adjacent rings <NUM>, as the outer nut <NUM> is tightened, the outer nut <NUM> forces the interior surface <NUM> of stiffener <NUM> into engagement with the feature <NUM> thereby forming a tight frictional engagement between center wall <NUM> of stiffener <NUM> and the feature <NUM> of stud bolt <NUM>. In this position, the stiffener <NUM> is tightly held in compression between the outer nut <NUM> and the feature <NUM>.

Below step <NUM> between adjacent rings <NUM>, as the outer nut <NUM> is tightened, the outer nut <NUM> forces the interior surface <NUM> of stiffener <NUM> toward feature <NUM>, however when the distance "D" is greater than the amount of bend or flex that the stiffener <NUM> can provide, a gap is left between the interior surface <NUM> of the stiffener <NUM> and the exterior edge of the feature <NUM>. In this arrangement, as the feature <NUM> and the sealing member <NUM> have already formed a seal with the exterior surface <NUM> of the sidewall <NUM>, the gap does not present a water infiltration problem. That is, because the feature <NUM> and the sealing member <NUM> have already formed a seal with the exterior surface <NUM> of the sidewall <NUM> the exposed portion of stud bolt <NUM> between the interior surface <NUM> of center wall <NUM> does not facilitate water to travel along the threads of the shaft of stud bolt <NUM> and into the grain bin <NUM> and/or between the layers of laminated sheets <NUM>. In addition, in this arrangement, the torque applied to the outer nut <NUM> holds the stiffener <NUM> in rigid tension with the sidewall <NUM> thereby providing the desired enhancement in strength and rigidity to sidewall <NUM>.

Another benefit to this assembly process is by inserting the stud bolts <NUM> into the sidewall <NUM> and having the second threaded end <NUM> of stud bolt <NUM> extend outward from sidewall <NUM> after stud bolt <NUM> is tightened to sidewall <NUM> this facilitates easy hanging of the stiffener <NUM> onto the second threaded ends <NUM>. That is, because the stud bolts <NUM> are rigidly affixed to the sidewall <NUM> prior to the installation of the stiffener <NUM> this allows a user to align the holes <NUM> in the center wall <NUM> of stiffener <NUM> with the second threaded ends <NUM> of stud bolts <NUM> and once aligned slide the stiffener <NUM> onto the second threaded ends <NUM> of stud bolts <NUM>. Once the stiffener <NUM> is placed over the second threaded ends <NUM> of stud bolts <NUM>, the stud bolts <NUM> tend to hold the stiffener <NUM> in place as the outer nuts <NUM> are installed. This eases the installation process by helping to facilitate alignment of the stiffener <NUM> and by holding the stiffener <NUM> during installation. As such, in this way, the use of stud bolts <NUM> eases and speeds the installation process.

This assembly process can be performed with conventional tools used by every grain bin millwright. In addition, this process can be performed on practically any grain bin, new or existing.

From the above discussion it will be appreciated that the system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin presented herein improves upon the state of the art.

Specifically, the system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a bin presented: prevents leaks; is easy to use; provides a seal against the exterior surface of the sidewall of the grain bin regardless whether a gap is present between the stiffener and the sidewall; has a long useful life; is durable; is easy to manufacture; is relatively inexpensive; has a robust design; is high quality; is easy to install; can be installed using conventional equipment and tools; reduces or prevents water from getting between layers of a laminated sidewall; reduces grain spoilage; reduces grain bin corrosion; reduces clumping of grain within a grain bin, among countless other advantages and improvements.

Claim 1:
A grain bin system (<NUM>), comprising:
a sidewall (<NUM>) having an interior surface and an exterior surface (<NUM>);
a stiffener (<NUM>) having an interior surface and an exterior surface, the interior surface facing the exterior surface of the sidewall;
a stud bolt (<NUM>) having a first threaded portion (<NUM>), a second threaded portion (<NUM>), and a feature (<NUM>) between the first threaded portion and the second threaded portion;
an inner nut (<NUM>) on the first threaded portion;
an outer nut on the second threaded portion, wherein the feature is between the interior surface of the stiffener and the exterior surface of the sidewall, the first threaded portion is exposed at the interior surface of the sidewall, and the second threaded portion is exposed at the exterior surface of the stiffener; and
a compressible member (<NUM>) between the feature and the exterior surface of the sidewall.