CPC Definition - Subclass E04B

Last Updated Version: 2024.01
GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS (border constructions of opening in walls, floors or ceilings E06B 1/00; {electromagnetic shielding H05K 9/0001})
Definition statement

This place covers:

Building constructions, i.e. construction of edifices, their structural or non structural walls, their roof structures, their floor structures, suspended or false ceilings;

Insulation of buildings or other protection of buildings.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Railway vehicles

B61

Motor vehicles

B62D

Ships or other waterborne vessels

B63

Aircrafts; Cosmonautics

B64

Bridges

E01D

Foundations

E02D

Structural elements for building construction

E04C

Roof coverings

E04D

Finishing work on buildings, e.g. lining, flooring

E04F

Scaffolding;Shuttering

E04G

Structures specially adapted for buildings for special purposes, general layout of buildings, e.g. modular co-ordination; Masts; Tents;Swimming pools

E04H

Small buildings for limited occupation, e.g. kiosks, waiting shelters for bus stops

E04H 1/12

Buildings or shelters adapted to withstand or provide protection against abnormal external influences, e.g. war-like action, earthquakes, hurricanes

E04H 9/00

Border constructions of opening in walls, floors or ceilings

E06B 1/00

Devices for fastening or securing general constructional elements or machine parts together

F16B

Electromagnetic shielding

H05K 9/0001

Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs (scaffolds, shutterings E04G; structures specially adapted for buildings for special purposes, general layout of buildings, e.g. modular co-ordination, E04H)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Building constructions in general, i.e. construction of edifices; Structures of buildings which are not restricted either to walls, or floors or ceilings or roofs.

Special structures and methods of construction of buildings, e.g. arched, movable, collapsible, box-like structures; Connections for building structures, e.g. connections of slab-shaped or elongated members; Insulation or other protection of buildings, e.g. against water-damage, heat, sound, fire.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Partitions per se

E04B 2/00

Floor structures per se

E04B 5/00

Roof structures per se

E04B 7/00

Suspended or false ceilings per se

E04B 9/00

Foundations per se

E02D

Roof coverings per se

E04D

Scaffolds, shutterings

E04G

Structures specially adapted for buildings for special purposes;General layout of buildings, e.g. modular co-ordination

E04H

{Base structures; Cellars}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Cellars, basements, also retrofitted under existing buildings;

Crawl spaces.

Relationships with other classification places

This subgroup covers foundations with the emphasis on the connection to a superstructure, as opposed to E02D where the emphasis is on the connection to the ground;

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Foundations per se

E02D

Drainage and exterior waterproofing of foundation

E02D 31/00

Special rules of classification

Exterior insulation of cellars is classified here.

{Building characterised by incorporated canalisations (E04B 1/34869 takes precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Building with passages for fluids integrally formed with structural elements of the building.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Box-like or cell-like units for special technical purposes

E04B 1/34869

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Building envelopes with canalisations for insulation purposes

E04B 1/74

Special adaptation of floor structures for incorporating ducts

E04B 5/48

Domestic plumbing installations for combinations of baths, showers, sinks, wash-basins, closets, urinals, or the like

E03C 1/01

Slab-shaped or panel-shaped building elements for locating conduits

E04C 2/52

Vertical ducts

E04F 17/00

Canalisation per se

F16L

Conducts for ventilation, heating systems or air-conditioning

F24F

{Loggias}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Loggias, wintergardens, enclosed balconies, verandas.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Greenhouses

A01G 9/14

Glass roofs

E04D 3/06

Bay windows

E06B 1/363

Structures consisting primarily of load-supporting, block-shaped, or slab-shaped elements (E04B 1/32 - E04B 1/36 take precedence)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structures consisting primarily of large load-supporting panels or large load-supporting panel-shaped blocks.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Arched, vaulted or folded structures

E04B 1/32

Extraordinary structures

E04B 1/34

Structures characterised by movebale, separable or collapsible parts

E04B 1/343

Structures covering a large free area

E04B 1/346

Structures composed of e.g. box-like or cell-like units

E04B 1/348

Extraordinary methods of construction

E04B 1/35

Bearings or like supports allowing movement

E04B 1/36

Masonry walls

E04B 2/02

the elements consisting of other material
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structures with elements consisting of specified materials other than concrete, stone-like material, metal or wood.

the elements being composed of two or more materials (of reinforced concrete E04B 1/04)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structures with elements consisting of the combination of two or more specified structural materials.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Structures consisting primarily of reinforced concrete block-shaped or slab-shaped elements

E04B 1/04

Structures made from masses, e.g. of concrete, cast or similarly formed in situ with or without making use of additional elements, such as permanent forms, substructures to be coated with load-bearing material (E04B 1/32 - E04B 1/36 take precedence)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Arched, vaulted or folded structures

E04B 1/32

Extraordinary structures

E04B 1/34

Structures characterised by moveable, separable or collapsible parts

E04B 1/343

Structures covering a large free area

E04B 1/346

Structures composed of e.g. box-like or cell-like units

E04B 1/348

Extraordinary methods of construction

E04B 1/35

Bearings or like supports allowing movement

E04B 1/36

{with vertical and horizontal slabs, both being partially cast in situ}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Stacked prefabricated cells, e.g. with concrete poured between the cells

E04B 1/34807

Permanent inflatable forms for concrete

E04G 11/04

Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2/84 - E04B 2002/8694 for classifying additional information of details of lost formwork of cast in-situ walls.

{with vertical and horizontal slabs, only the vertical slabs being partially cast in situ (E04B 2/86 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Walls made by casting in-situ in permanent forms

E04B 2/86

Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2/84 - E04B 2002/8694 for classifying additional information of details of lost formwork of cast in-situ walls.

{with elongated load-supporting parts, cast in situ (E04B 1/161, E04B 1/163 and E04B 1/164 take precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Structures made from masses with vertical and horizontal slabs, both being partially cast in situ

E04B 1/161

Structures made from masses with vertical and horizontal slabs, only the vertical slabs being partially cast in situ

E04B 1/163

Structures made from masses with vertical and horizontal slabs, only the horizontal slabs being partially cast in situ

E04B 1/164

{with curved surfaces, at least partially cast in situ in order to make a continuous concrete shell structure (E04B 1/169 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Structures made from masses cast with inflatable flexible permanent forms

E04B 1/169

Structures comprising elongated load-supporting parts, e.g. columns, girders, skeletons (E04B 1/32 - E04B 1/36 take precedence; elongated load-supporting parts as elements, trusses, truss-like structures E04C 3/00)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structures comprising elongated load-supporting parts, e.g. columns, beams, girders, skeletons.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Arched, vaulted or folded structures

E04B 1/32

Extraordinary structures

E04B 1/34

Structures characterised by moveable, separable or collapsible parts

E04B 1/343

Structures covering a large free area

E04B 1/346

Structures composed of e.g. box-like or cell-like units

E04B 1/348

Extraordinary methods of construction

E04B 1/35

Bearings or like supports allowing movement

E04B 1/36

Elongated load-supporting parts as elements, columns, beams, girders, trusses, truss-like structures

E04C 3/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Connection of bar-shaped building elements, i.e. of smaller cross-section

E04B 1/58

Log cabins

E04B 2/701

Special rules of classification

Structures made from a horizontal or vertical juxtaposition of elongated elements other than wood are classified in E04B 1/18.

Structures made from a juxtaposition of porticos or stacks of frames are only classified in E04B 1/18, irrespective of the material of the elongated elements.

Three-dimensional framework structures
Definition statement

This place covers:

Space frames, i.e. truss-like lightweight structures constructed from interconnected struts in a geometric pattern spanning a large area, with either short struts connected at the nodes or continuous struts folded at the nodes, wherein the frames are not habitable or accessible upon construction.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Vaulted roof structures with folded or grid-like formations acting as shell structures

E04B 7/10

Cosmonautic vehicles

B64G 1/00

Trusses

E04C 3/02

Truss-like towers or mats

E04H 12/00

Special rules of classification

Documents showing large parts of the space frame are classified here, even if they show details of component parts or their connections. Use E04B 1/1903 - E04B 2001/1996 for classifying additional information of the details of the component parts of the space frame, their connections and the type of space frame for the documents classified in E04B 1/19.

{Connecting nodes specially adapted therefor}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Node corner connector for furniture

A47B 47/0016

Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2001/1924 - E04B 2001/1996 for classifying additional information of the details of the component parts of the space frame, their connections and the type of space frame for the documents classified in E04B 1/1903

{with central spherical, semispherical or polyhedral connecting element}
Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2001/1924 - E04B 2001/1996 for classifying additional information of the details of the component parts of the space frame, their connections and the type of space frame for the documents classified in E04B 1/1906

{with central cylindrical connecting element}
Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2001/1924 - E04B 2001/1996 for classifying additional information of the details of the component parts of the space frame, their connections and the type of space frame for the documents classified in E04B 1/1909.

{with central cubical connecting element}
Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2001/1924 - E04B 2001/1996 for classifying additional information of the details of the component parts of the space frame, their connections and the type of space frame for the documents classified in E04B 1/1912.

the supporting parts consisting of concrete, e.g. reinforced concrete, or other stonelike material
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structures with posts and beams made from concrete.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Space frames

E04B 1/19

Special rules of classification

Documents showing large parts of the structure are classified here, even if they show details of connections.

the supporting parts consisting of metal
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structures with posts and beams made of metal

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Space frames

E04B 1/19

Special rules of classification

Documents showing large parts of the structure are classified here, even if they show details of component parts and their connections. Use E04B 1/2403 - E04B 2001/2496 for classifying additional information of the details of the component parts and their connections of the structures classified in E04B 1/24.

{Connection details of the elongated load-supporting parts}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Connection of bar-shaped, i.e. of smaller cross-section, building elements

E04B 1/58

Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2001/2466 - E04B 2001/2496 for classifying additional information of the documents classified in E04B 1/2403.

the supporting parts consisting of wood
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structures with posts and beams made of wood.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Space frames

E04B 1/19

Log cabins

E04B 2/701

Caps for the protection of the ends of wooden beams against humidity

E04B 5/12

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Load-bearing walls with posts of wood

E04B 2/706

Special rules of classification

Documents showing large parts of the structure are classified here, even if they show details of component parts and their connections; Use E04B 1/2604 - E04B 2001/2696 for classifying additional information of the documents classified in E04B 1/26.

{Connections specially adapted therefor (shear dowels E04B 1/486, E04B 1/49)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Shear dowels for wood

E04B 1/486

Shear dowels for wood with self-penetrating parts

E04B 1/49

Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2001/2696 for classifying additional information of the documents classified in E04B 1/2604.

{Connectors made from folded sheet metal (E04B 1/2612 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Joist hangers

E04B 1/2612

{Brackets, gussets or joining plates}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Interlocking connectors, e.g. with hooks or dovetails, added to the elongated wooden members

E04B 2001/2628

{Connector nodes}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Connection node with interlocking of specially shaped wooden members, e.g. puzzle type connection

E04B 2001/262

the supporting parts consisting of other material
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structures with posts and beams made of specified material other than concrete, stone-like material, metal, wood.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Space frames

E04B 1/19

Structures with posts and beams made of the combination of at least two different materials having a structural function

E04B 1/30

the supporting parts being composed of two or more materials; Composite steel and concrete constructions (of reinforced concrete E04B 1/20)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structures with posts and beams made of at least two specified different materials having a structural function, e.g. a steel pipe filled with concrete

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Space frames

E04B 1/19

Structures made of elongated load supporting parts made of reinforced concrete

E04B 1/20

Arched structures; Vaulted structures; Folded structures ({E04B 1/345 takes precedence;} vaulted roofs E04B 7/08)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Arched structures; Vaulted structures; Arched or vaulted structures with a folded surface.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Structures deriving their rigidity from concertina folds

E04B 1/345

Vaulted roof structures

E04B 7/08

Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2001/3217 - E04B 2001/3294 for classifying additional information of the component parts, their connections and the type of structures of the documents classified in E04B 1/32 - E04B 1/3211.

Do not use E04B 2001/0061 to classify the documents of E04B 1/32 - E04B 1/3211.

Looping references between E04B 1/32 and E04B 7/08 have been identified. Until this inconsistency is resolved in IPC, the current classification practice in CPC is as follows: the reference to E04B 7/08 is considered limiting.

{Structures with a longitudinal horizontal axis, e.g. cylindrical or prismatic structures}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structures in the shape of a portion of a cylinder, with a smooth or faceted surface.

{Structures with a vertical rotation axis or the like, e.g. semi-spherical structures}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structures in the shape of a portion of a sphere, with a smooth or faceted surface.

Extraordinary structures, e.g. with suspended or cantilever parts supported by masts or tower-like structures enclosing elevators or stairs; Features relating to the elastic stability (E04B 1/342, E04B 1/343, E04B 1/348 take precedence; for floors E04B 5/43; buildings for special purposes, e.g. withstanding earthquake, E04H)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Structures covering a large free area

E04B 1/342

Structures characterised by movable, separable or collapsible parts

E04B 1/343

Structures composed or box-like or cell-like units

E04B 1/348

Floor structures of extraordinary design; Features relating to the elastic stability of floors

E04B 5/43

Buildings for special purposes, e.g. withstanding earthquakes

E04H

Special rules of classification

Exterior staircases retrofitted to buildings are classified in E04B 1/34.

{mainly supported by a central column or footing (E04B 1/3416 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Structures comprising mainly a central support and a cantilevered roof

E04B 1/3416

{Structures comprising mainly a central support column and a cantilevered roof}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mushroom-type structures or elongated structures having a "T" or "Y" vertical cross-section.

Structures covering a large free area, whether open-sided or not, e.g. hangars, halls (roof trusses E04C 3/00; non-structural features for specified purposes, see the relevant groups of E04H)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Roof trusses

E04C 3/00

Non-structural features for specified purposes

E04H

Structures characterised by movable, separable, or collapsible parts, e.g. for transport (movable roof parts E04B 7/16; floatable buildings B63B; small prefabricated buildings, transportable as a whole, E04H 1/12; small garages E04H 6/02; tents or canopies, in general E04H 15/00)
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Movable roof parts

E04B 7/16

Floatable buildings

B63B

Containers

B65G

Small prefabricated buildings, transportable as a whole

E04H 1/12

Small garages

E04H 6/02

Tents or canopies, in general

E04H 15/00

Special rules of classification

References E04B 7/16, B63B, B65G, E04H 1/12, E04H 6/02 and E04H 15/00 are non-limiting in subgroup E04B 1/343. CPC will be corrected once this inconsistency is resolved in IPC.

Looping references between E04B 1/343 and E04H 6/02 have been identified. Until this inconsistency is resolved in IPC, the current classification practice in CPC is as follows: both references are considered informative.

{telescopic}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structure with room-sized telescopic section extendable horizontally from a side of the structure or vertically from the top or bottom of the structure.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Telescopic wheeled arched structures

E04B 1/3455

Telescopic roofs

E04B 7/166

Caravans or campers with telescopic sections

B60P 3/34

Swimming pools with movable roof sections

E04H 3/165

Special rules of classification

Structures with more than one telescopic section extendable each from different surfaces of the structure, or with telescopic sections comprising two or more nested sub-sections are classified here.

{with only one level of nesting}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structure with a single telescopic section extendable horizontally from a side of the structure or vertically from the top or bottom of the structure.

{characterised by separable parts}
Special rules of classification

Structures formed of a combination of structural elongated elements and structural panels are classified here.

{mainly constituted by panels}
Special rules of classification

Use E04B 1/61 - E04B 2001/6195 for classifying additional information of the details of the connections of the panels.

{mainly constituted by longitudinal elements}
Special rules of classification

Use E04B 1/58 - E04B 2001/5893 for classifying additional information of the details of the connections of the longitudinal elements.

{Structures movable as a whole, e.g. mobile home structures (vehicles comprising living accommodation for people, e.g. caravans, camping or like vehicles B60P 3/32)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mobile home structures.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Vehicle aspects of mobile homes

B60P 3/32

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Structures composed of a number of box-like units

E04B 1/348

{Anchoring means therefor}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Ground anchors

E02D 5/80

{with provisions to raise or lower the whole structure}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structures with means for raising and lowering them above ground level;

Structures with means for retracting them into the ground and returning them to ground level.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Telescopic structures

E04B 1/34305

Buildings raisable in case of floods

E04H 9/145

with hinged parts
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Collapsible caravans

B60P 3/34

Special rules of classification

Use E04B 1/34336 for classifying additional information of documents showing mobile homes.

Do not use E04B 1/34321 to classify the documents of E04B 1/344.

{with articulated bar-shaped elements}
Special rules of classification

Collapsible articulated space frames are classified here.

{foldable in a flat stack of parallel panels}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Collapsible large containers

B65D 88/52

{Portal- or saddle-shaped structures}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of the subject matter classified in this subgroup:

media0.png

{with rotating shell-forming segments}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structures with rotating shell-forming segments, e.g. armadillo plates type structure.

Illustrative example of the subject matter classified in this subgroup:

media1.png

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Roof structures with movable sections

E04B 7/16

Swimming pools with movable roof sections

E04H 3/165

{Wheeled arch-type structures}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Roofs with movables sections

E04B 7/16

Greenhouses with sliding roofs

A01G 9/16

Weather protection for road works

E01C 23/03

Weather protection for building works

E04G 21/28

Swimming pools with movable roof sections

E04H 3/165

Special rules of classification

Half-arches wheeled at one extremity against a building wall and at the other end on the ground are also classified here.

Rotary buildings; Buildings with rotary units, e.g. rooms
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Carousels for milking stations

A01K 1/126

Turntable for vehicles

B60S 13/02

Special rules of classification

Do not use E04B 2001/0061 to classify the documents of E04B 1/346.

Structures composed of units comprising at least considerable parts of two sides of a room, e.g. box-like or cell-like units closed or in skeleton form
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structures composed of units comprising at least considerable parts of two sides of a room, e.g. box-like or cell-like units closed or in skeleton form, i.e. only the edges of the boxes or cells are materialized (only frame, no infill panels)

Special rules of classification

In E04B 1/348 - E04B 1/34861 use E04B 2001/34876 - E04B 2001/34892 for classifying additional information of documents showing sloping or barrel roof, or means allowing access to the structures.

{Elements integrated in a skeleton}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Box-like units resting on shelves or beams of a supporting structure;

Stacked cells with concrete poured between the cells.

{the supporting structure consisting of concrete}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structures with the main vertical structural parts consisting of concrete.

{the supporting structure consisting of metal}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structures with the main vertical structural parts consisting of metal.

{the supporting structure consisting of wood}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structures with the main vertical structural parts consisting of wood.

{the supporting structure consisting of other specified material, e.g. of plastics}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structures with the main vertical structural parts consisting of specified material other than concrete, metal, wood.

{the supporting structure being composed of two or more materials}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structures with the main vertical structural parts consisting of the combination of two or more specified structural materials.

{Elements for special technical purposes, e.g. with a sanitary equipment}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structures composed of units comprising at least considerable parts of two sides of a room where the units are pre-fitted for special technical purposes, e.g. with pre-fitted piping, plumbing, sanitary equipment or electrical wiring.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Structures composed of a number of box-like units

E04B 1/348

Combination of baths, douches, sinks, wash-basins, closets or urinals

A47K 4/00

Plumbing installations for baths, douches, or the like

E03C 1/01

Panels serving for locating conduits

E04C 2/521

Ducts for receiving installation lines

E04F 17/08

Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2001/34876 - E04B 2001/34892 for classifying additional information of documents of E04B 1/34869 showing sloping or barrel roof, or means allowing access to the structures.

Extraordinary methods of construction, e.g. lift-slab, jack-block (E04B 1/34 takes precedence; falsework, shuttering for shaping walls, floors, ceilings or roofs in situ E04G 11/04; conveying or assembling of building materials E04G 21/00; working measures on existing buildings E04G 23/00)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Extraordinary structures

E04B 1/34

Falsework, shuttering for shaping walls, floors, ceilings or roofs in situ

E04G 11/04

Conveying or assembling of building materials

E04G 21/00

Working measures on existing buildings

E04G 23/00

Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2001/3561 - E04B 2001/3594 for classifying additional information of the documents of E04B 1/35 - E04B 1/3555.

{characterised by the in situ moulding of large parts of a structure (E04B 1/3511, E04B 1/3516, E04B 1/3522, E04B 1/3533, E04B 1/3544, E04B 1/355 take precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Lift-slab;Extraordinary methods of construction characterised by a purely vertical lifting of floors or roofs or parts thereof

E04B 1/3511

Extraordinary methods of construction characterised by erecting a vertical structure and then adding the floors from top to bottom

E04B 1/3516

Extraordinary methods of construction characterised by raising a structure and then adding structural elements under it

E04B 1/3522

Extraordinary methods of construction characterised by the raising of hingedly-connected building elements, e.g. arches, portal frames

E04B 1/3533

Extraordinary methods of construction characterised by the use of a central column to lift and temporarily or permanently support structural elements

E04B 1/3544

Extraordinary methods of construction characterised by the tilting-up of whole buildings or sections thereof, e.g. walls, portal frames

E04B 1/355

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Structures made from masses cast in-situ

E04B 1/16

{characterised by raising a structure and then adding structural elements under it (E04B 1/3511, E04B 1/3516, E04B 1/3533 take precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structure raisable using temporary supports, e.g. scaffolding or lifting machines, or permanent supports.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Lift-slab; Extraordinary methods of construction characterised by a purely vertical lifting of floors or roofs or parts thereof

E04B 1/3511

Extraordinary methods of construction characterised by erecting a vertical structure and then adding the floors from top to bottom

E04B 1/3516

Extraordinary methods of construction characterised by the raising of hingedly-connected building elements, e.g. arches, portal frames

E04B 1/3533

{the structure being a roof}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Method of construction whereby the walls are added under the raised roof, e.g. in order to enable work in dry conditions

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Enlarging an existing structure

E04G 23/0266

{characterised by the raising of hingedly-connected building elements, e.g. arches, portal frames (E04B 1/355 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Extraordinary methods of construction characterised by the tilting-up of whole buildings or sections thereof, e.g. walls, portal frames

E04B 1/355

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Structures with hinged parts

E04B 1/344

{characterised by the use of a central column to lift and temporarily or permanently support structural elements (E04B 1/3516 and E04B 1/355 take precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Extraordinary methods of construction characterised by erecting a vertical structure and then adding the floors from top to bottom

E04B 1/3516

Extraordinary methods of construction characterised by the tilting-up of whole buildings or sections thereof, e.g. walls, portal frames

E04B 1/355

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Small buildings mainly supported by a central column or footing

E04B 1/3412

Bearings or like supports allowing movement (for bridges E01D 19/04; buildings with-standing earthquakes E04H 9/02)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Bearings allowing movement of the supported structure due to exterior influences, but also allowing movement for the purpose of adjusting horizontal or angular position of the supported structure.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Bearings for bridges

E01D 19/04

Buildings withstanding earthquakes

E04H 9/02

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Rubber bearings

F16F 1/36, F16F 3/08

Connections for building structures in general
Special rules of classification

Documents should only exceptionally be classified in E04B 1/38, connections for general applications should be classified in subclass F16B.

{Separate connecting elements (Connecting devices specially adapted for embedding in concrete E04B 1/41; Dowels, i.e. members adapted to penetrate the surfaces of two parts and to take the shear stresses E04B 1/48)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Connecting devices specially adapted for embedding in concrete

E04B 1/41

Dowels, i.e. members adapted to penetrate the surfaces of two parts and to take the shear stresses

E04B 1/48

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Connecting or other auxiliary members for forms, falsework structures or shutterings

E04G 17/00

Releasable clips or clamps, hooks, wedges, wall-dowels, nails, bolts, rivets, screws, wood-screws

F16B

Connecting devices specially adapted for embedding in concrete or masonry ({joist hangers E04B 1/2612; shear dowels E04B 1/483;}  spacers {other than masonry wall ties} for cavity walls E04B 2/30, E04B 2/44; connectors for reinforcing elements E04C 5/16; fastening frames to the border of openings E06B 1/56)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Joist hangers

E04B 1/2612

Shear dowels for concrete parts

E04B 1/483

Spacers other than masonry wall ties for cavity walls

E04B 2/30, E04B 2/44

Connectors for reinforcing elements

E04C 5/16

Fastening frames to the border of openings

E06B 1/56

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Supporting devices for connector reinforcing rods for concrete walls

E04G 21/125

Spacers between rows of masonry blocks

E04G 21/1841, E04B 2002/0282

Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2001/4192 for classifying additional information of connecting devices which are attached to the concrete reinforcement members for the documents classified in E04B 1/41 - E04B 1/4178.

{Elements with sockets (E04B 1/4107 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Longitudinal elements having an open profile, with the opening parallel to the concrete or masonry surface, i.e. anchoring rails

E04B 1/4107

{with transverse hook- or loop-receiving parts (E04B 1/415 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Elements with captive and extendable anchoring parts, e.g. spring-loaded bolts, hanging rings

E04B 1/415

{Nailable or non-threaded screwable elements (dowels F16B 13/00)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Dowels for holding a fastener

F16B 13/00

{Masonry wall ties (with insulation-layer locating devices E04B 1/7616; replacing or adding wall ties E04G 23/0222)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Separate tie rods embedded in the horizontal or vertical masonry joints, for tying a masonry wall to a non-masonry support, e.g. a concrete wall or posts, or for making a T-junction between two masonry walls.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Masonry wall ties with insulation-layer locating devices

E04B 1/7616

Replacing or adding wall ties

E04G 23/0222

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Masonry blocs with integrated spacers or masonry walls with spacers not located in the masonry joints

E04B 2/02

Walls of framework or pillar-work with a brick veneer facing

E04B 2002/565

Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2001/4192 for classifying additional information of connecting devices which are attached to the concrete reinforcement members.

Use E04B 1/7616 for classifying additional information of connecting devices which are combined with insulation-layer locating devices.

{for cavity walls with both wall leaves made of masonry (spacers for permanent forms E04B 2/86)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Separate tie rods embedded in horizontal or vertical masonry joints, for tying two parallel masonry walls together.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Spacers for permanent forms

E04B 2/86

Special rules of classification

Use E04B 1/7616 for classifying additional information of connecting devices which are combined with insulation-layer locating devices.

{Shear dowels for wood (E04B 1/49 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Shear dowels with self-penetrating parts

E04B 1/49

with self-penetrating parts, e.g. claw dowels
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Nail plates

F16B 15/0023

{Joints substantially without separate connecting elements, e.g. jointing by inter-engagement}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Welded, glued or the like joints, in general

F16B

of bar-shaped building elements {(framework connections E04B 1/21, E04B 1/2403, E04B 1/2604)}
Relationships with other classification places

Joints with emphasis on the bar-shaped element, as opposed to F16B 7/00 where the emphasis is on the connector.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Connections of large longitudinal structural elements

E04B 1/21, E04B 1/2403, E04B 1/2604

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Structures comprising elongated load-supporting parts, e.g. columns, girders, skeletons

E04B 1/18

Connections of rods

F16B 7/00

Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2001/5862 - E04B 2001/5893 for classifying additional information of the documents classified in E04B 1/58 - E04B 1/5818.

{with a closed cross-section}
Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2001/5862 - E04B 2001/5893 and E04B 2001/5856 for classifying additional information of the documents of E04B 1/5825 - E04B 1/585.

of slab-shaped building elements with each other
Relationships with other classification places

Joints with emphasis on the slab-shaped element, as opposed to F16B 7/00 where the emphasis is on the connector.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Connections for structural concrete panels

E04B 1/043

Connections of sheet metal panels

F16B 5/00

Connections for furniture

F16B 12/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Joining sheets or plates

F16B 5/00

Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2001/6195 as additional information to classify slabs connected at an angle for documents classified in E04B 1/61 - E04B 1/6187 and E04B 2001/6191.

{with rotatable locking means co-operating with a recess}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Locks for sliding doors with bolt pivoting about an axis perpendicular to the wings

E05B 65/0817

Rotating connectors

F16B 5/0092, F16B 12/2009

Insulation or other protection; Elements or use of specified material therefor (chemical compositions C01 - C11; implements for applying insulation or sealings E04F 21/00; buildings to withstand, or to provide protection against, external undesired influences E04H 9/00; sealing pipes in walls or partitions F16L 5/02; shielding against dangerous radiation G21F)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Insulation or other protection for buildings in general; Elements or use of specified material for insulation of buildings or other protection of buildings.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Insulation of partition walls

E04B 2/00

Insulation of floor structures

E04B 5/00

Insulation of roofs

E04B 7/00, E04D 13/16

Insulation of suspended ceilings

E04B 9/00

Chemical compositions

C01 - C11

Insulation of floorings, e.g. floating floors

E04F 15/18

Implements for applying insulation or sealings

E04F 21/00

Buildings to withstand or to provide protection against external undesired influences

E04H 9/00

Sealing pipes in walls or partitions

F16L 5/02

Shielding against dangerous radiation

G21F

for making damp-proof; Protection against corrosion (sealings E04B 1/66)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Sealings

E04B 1/66

{Protecting metallic construction elements against corrosion (for concrete reinforcing elements made of steel E04C 5/01; anodic or cathodic protection C23F 13/00)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Anodic or cathodic protection

C23F 13/00

Protection of concrete reinforcing elements made of steel

E04C 5/01

{Damp-proof courses (in combination with lintels E04C 3/02)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Damp-proof courses installed during construction of the structure, also retro-fitted e.g. by driving plates in masonry joints.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Damp-proof courses in combination with lintels

E04C 3/02

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Sealing membranes, sealing coatings

E04B 1/66

{obtained by removal and replacement of a horizontal layer of an existing wall}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Damp-proof courses made of a plate, sheet, or hardening composition, e.g. mortar.

{obtained by injection or infiltration of water-proofing agents into an existing wall}
Special rules of classification

Documents with details of the composition and manufacture of water-proofing agents should be additionally classified in the relevant classes for these compositions, e.g. C08L for bituminous compositions

Sealings ({damp-proof courses E04B 1/644; fire-proof sealings E04B 1/948}; additions of anti-leak properties to plaster C04B; bituminous sealing masses C08L 95/00; sealings for hydraulic engineering work in general E02B 3/16; against ground humidity or ground water E02D 31/02; coverings against rain or other precipitations of the atmosphere E04D; composition of material or manufacture of sealing foils, see the relevant classes for these foils)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Sealing membranes or coatings for buildings in general.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Damp-proof courses

E04B 1/644

Fire-proof sealings

E04B 1/948

Additions of anti-leak properties to plaster

C04B

Composition of material

C08G, C08L, C09D, C04B

Manufacture of sealing foils

C08J, D06N, B29C, B29D, B32B

Bituminous sealing masses

C08L 95/00

Sealings for hydraulic engineering work in general

E02B 3/16

Sealings against ground humidity or ground water

E02D 31/02

Roof coverings against rain or other precipitations of the atmosphere

E04D

Roofing membranes

E04D 5/00

Repairing sealings

E04G 23/02

Water-proofing of tunnels

E21D 11/38

Sealing where pipes, cables pass through walls or partitions

F16L 5/02

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Sealing in water management

E02B 3/00

Repairs, e.g. by sealing impregnation

E04G 23/02

Special rules of classification

Documents with details of the composition or manufacture of sealing agents should be additionally classified in the relevant classes for these compositions.

of joints, e.g. expansion joints (packing for joints in roads or airfields E01C 11/02; expansion joints for bridges E01D 19/06; sealing joints between foundation piles E02D 5/14; joints in foundation structures E02D 29/16; devices for sealing the spaces or joints between roof-covering elements E04D 1/36; sealing joints between roof-covering elements E04D 3/38; {construction of joints for flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements E04F 15/02005}; construction of joints for flooring or floor layers made of masses in situ E04F 15/14)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Machines for inserting or removing sealing strips

B23P 19/047

Tools for inserting or removing sealing strips

B25B 27/0092

Packing for joints in roads or airfields

E01C 11/02

Expansion joints for bridges

E01D 19/06

Sealing joints between foundation piles

E02D 5/14

Joints in foundation structures

E02D 29/16

Devices for sealing the spaces or joints between roof-covering elements

E04D 1/36

Sealing joints between roof-covering elements

E04D 3/38

Construction of joints for flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements

E04F 15/02005

Construction of joints for flooring or floor layers made of masses in situ

E04F 15/14

Repairing sealings of joints

E04G 23/02

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Sealing of joints in water management

E02B 3/16

Sealing in mechanical engineering

F16J 15/00

Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2001/6818 for documents classified in E04B 1/68 - E04B 1/6816 for classifying additional information of joints comprising swellable parts.

{Fillings therefor}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Joints using a putty-like filler, with or without backing strip.

{Joint covers (E04B 1/6815 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Expansion elements specially adapted for wall or ceiling parts

E04B 1/6815

{Waterstops (E04B 1/6807 takes precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Sealing strips embedded in two succesively poured concrete structures.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Expansion elements for parts cast in situ

E04B 1/6807

{Expansion elements for parts cast in situ}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Waterstops with a central deformable section, e.g. hollow or folded.

{Compressable seals of hollow form (E04B 1/6816 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Porous tubular seals for injecting sealing material

E04B 1/6816

{Expansion elements specially adapted for wall or ceiling parts}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Finishing strips for the junction of a wall and a ceiling

E04F 19/0436

{Porous tubular seals for injecting sealing material (filling of cracks in existing buildings E04G 23/02)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Filling of cracks in existing buildings

E04G 23/02

Drying or keeping dry, e.g. by air vents ({using damp-proof courses E04B 1/644; using sealings, e.g. sealing masses or foils, E04B 1/66}; during erection E04G 21/28)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Drying or keeping dry using damp-proof courses

E04B 1/644

Drying or keeping dry using sealings, e.g. sealing masses or foils

E04B 1/66

Caps for the protection of the ends of wooden beams against humidity

E04B 5/12

Drying or keeping dry during erection

E04G 21/28

Repairing sealings

E04G 23/02

{by using electricity, e.g. electro-osmosis (electrochemical desalination or re-alkalisation of reinforced concrete C04B 41/00)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Drying or keeping dry by the use of electricity, e.g. electro-osmosis, electrical heating of a wall or a room, electrical ventilation.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Electrochemical desalination or re-alkalisation of reinforced concrete

C04B 41/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Removing salts from walls

E04G 23/00

{by heating the ambient air}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Drying by heating the ambient air, e.g. using a burner.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

{by collecting water in basements}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Drainage around foundations

E02D 31/02

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

{by ventilating (means for ventilating in floors E04B 5/48, in ceilings E04B 9/02, in building blocks E04C 1/392, in building panels E04C 2/521, in roofs E04D 13/16; ventilating wall coverings E04F 13/007)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Means for ventilating in floors

E04B 5/48

Means for ventilating in ceilings

E04B 9/02

Means for ventilating in building blocks

E04C 1/392

Means for ventilating in building panels

E04C 2/521

Means for ventilating in roofs

E04D 13/16

Ventilating wall coverings

E04F 13/007

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Electrical ventilation for drying rooms

E04B 1/7007

Air-ducts or air channels

E04F 17/04

{Air vents for walls}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Connections of the interior of the building or the interior of the wall with the exterior of the building; Air vents for crawl spaces.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Pest control by keeping dry

E04B 1/70

Impregnation of wood or like materials

B27K

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Arrangements for catching or killing insects

A01M 1/24

Special rules of classification

Documents with air vents for walls in combination with other aspects of ventilation are classified in E04B 1/7069.

Pest control , E04B 1/72.

Heat, sound or noise insulation, absorption, or reflection (forms of, or arrangements in, rooms for influencing or directing sound E04B 1/99); Other building methods affording favourable thermal or acoustical conditions, e.g. accumulating of heat within walls (fire protection E04B 1/94; elements chiefly adapted for structural purposes E04C 1/00 - E04C 3/00; chiefly adapted for surface coverings E04F 13/00; as underlayers for floor coverings E04F 15/18; closures for wall or like openings E06B)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Fire protection

E04B 1/94

Forms of, or arrangements in, rooms for influencing or directing sound

E04B 1/99

Elements chiefly adapted for structural purposes

E04C 1/00, E04C 2/00, E04C 3/00

Elements; chiefly adapted for surface covering

E04F 13/00

Elements chiefly adapted as underlayers for floor coverings

E04F 15/18

Closures for wall or like openings

E06B

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Thermal insulation in general

F16L 59/00

Use of solar heat

F24S 20/00, F24S 21/00

Heat storage using latent heat

F28D 20/02

Noise damping in general

G10K 11/00

Special rules of classification

Heat insulation of the whole building enveloppe and active heat insulation, e.g. walls with ventilation conduits for insulation purpose, are classified in E04B 1/74.

specifically with respect to heat only (heat insulation in general F16L 59/00)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Insulating elements of car bodies

B60R 13/08

Heat insulation in general

F16L 59/00

Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2001/741 - E04B 2001/7695 for classifying additional information of the documents classified in E04B 1/76 - E04B 1/806 and E04B 1/88, E04B 1/90

{fillings for cavity walls}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Implements or machines for applying insulating material

E04F 21/06

{with insulation-layer locating devices combined with wall ties}
Special rules of classification

Also classify in E04B 1/4178 or E04B 1/4185 when combined with masonry wall ties.

{Exterior insulation of exterior walls}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Bases for plaster

E04F 13/04

{Dowels with enlarged insulation retaining head}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Fastening of an exterior insulation on a roof using screws or nails

E04D 3/3601

{Anchoring of separate elements through the lining to the wall}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Hinges or other suspension devices for doors, windows or wings

E05D

{comprising an insulating layer, disposed between two longitudinal supporting elements, e.g. to insulate ceilings}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Insulating material disposed between the purlins or rafters of a roof

E04D 13/1625

{comprising fiber blankets or batts}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Manufacturing of inorganic fiber blankets or batts

D04H 1/4209, D04H 3/002, D04H 5/12

Special rules of classification

Documents concerning fiber blankets or batts mentioning heat and sound insulation but without giving characteristics specific to sound insulation are classified in E04B 1/7662 - E04B 1/767.

Heat insulating elements {(E04B 1/7662 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Heat insulating fiber blankets or batts

E04B 1/7662

slab-shaped
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Nailable or screwable inserts for foam panels

E04B 2001/386

{with vacuum spaces included in the slab}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Thermal insulation in general, using vacuum

F16L 59/06

Cold rooms, refrigerators using vacuum insulation

F25D 2201/14

specifically with respect to sound only ({of floors or ceilings E04B 9/001;} noise damping in ducts or channels E04F 17/00; noise damping in general G10K 11/16)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Sound insulation for building constructions in general or for building structures which are not restricted either to walls or floors or ceilings or roofs.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Sound insulation of suspended or false ceilings

E04B 9/001

Noise damping in ducts or channels

E04F 17/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Partition walls with special measures for sound insulation

E04B 2/7403, E04B 2/7409

Insulating elements of car bodies

B60R 13/08

Sound insulation of flooring

E04F 15/20

Sound damping devices for pipes

F16L 55/033

Noise damping in general

G10K 11/16

Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2001/741 - E04B 2001/748 and E04B 2001/8245 - E04B 2001/8495 for classifying additional information of the documents classified in E04B 1/82 - E04B 1/90.

Reference G10K 11/16 is non-limiting in subgroup E04B 1/82. CPC will be corrected once this inconsistency is resolved in IPC.

{sound absorbing devices (E04B 1/8218, E04B 1/8227 take precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Passive noise absorbtion body located in a room for absorbing the noise generated in the room.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Soundproof enclosures

E04B 1/8218

Screens; Arrangements of sound-absorbing elements, e.g. baffles

E04B 1/8227

Ceiling with acoustic baffles

E04B 9/34

{soundproof enclosures}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Enclosures keeping the noise out or in.

{screens (E04B 2/74 takes precedence; for road or railway traffic E01F); Arrangements of sound-absorbing elements, e.g. baffles}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Partition walls

E04B 2/72, E04B 2/74

Ceiling with acoustic baffles

E04B 9/34

Screens for road or railway traffic

E01F

Sound-absorbing elements
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structural elements, specifically for sound absorbtion.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Structural building elements in general

E04C

{block-shaped}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Block-shaped building elements in general

E04C 1/00

{sheet-shaped}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Sheet-shaped building elements in general

E04C 2/00

slab-shaped
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Panel or slab-shaped building elements in general

E04C 2/00

Insulating elements for both heat and sound
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Structural building elements in general

E04C

Special rules of classification

Documents concerning fiber blankets or batts mentioning heat and sound insulation but without giving characteristics specific to sound insulation are classified in E04B 1/7662 - E04B 1/767

slab-shaped
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Panel or slab-shaped building elements in general

E04C 2/00

Protection against other undesired influences or dangers (buildings providing protection against external dangers E04H 9/00; shielding against dangerous radiation G21F)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Protection against other undesired influences or dangers for buildings in general, e.g. fire or vibrations and shocks originating from inside the building or due to wind or traffic, e.g. using mass damping systems.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Protection of foundations against entry of noxious gases, e.g. radon

E02D 31/008

Buildings providing protection against external dangers, e.g. earthquake- or hurricane-proof buildings

E04H 9/00

Shielding against dangerous radiation

G21F

Screening of rooms against electric or magnetic fields

H05K 9/0001

Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2001/925 for classifying additional information of the documents classified in E04B 1/92.

against fire ({fire protection of partitions E04B 2/7403, E04B 2/7409; supporting constructions for ceilings having the capability of expansion in case of fire E04B 9/08}; fire-fighting A62C, {e.g. fire prevention or containment A62C 2/00}; impregnation of wood or similar materials B27K; {fireproof paints C09D 5/18; fireproofing materials C09K 21/00; flame-resistant papers D21H 5/0002; coverings or linings, e.g. for walls or ceilings, in general E04F 13/00}; fireproof doors E06B 5/16; {firebreak devices for pipes or the like passing through walls F16L 5/04; protection of pipes by means of non-inflammable material F16L 57/04})
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Fire protection of partitions

E04B 2/7403, E04B 2/7409

Supporting constructions for ceilings having the capability of expansion in case of fire

E04B 9/08

Fire-fighting

A62C

Fire prevention or containment

A62C 2/00

Permanently installed fire-fighting equipment

A62C 35/00

Impregnation of wood or similar materials

B27K

Fireproof paints

C09D 5/18

Fireproofing materials

C09K 21/00

Flame-resistant papers

D21H 5/0002

Coverings or linings, e.g. for walls or ceilings, in general

E04F 13/00

Fireproof doors

E06B 5/16

Firebreaks for passages of pipes, cables or protective tubing through walls or partitions

F16L 5/04

Firebreak devices for pipes or the like passing through walls

F16L 5/04

Protection of pipes by means of non-inflammable material

F16L 57/04

Special rules of classification

Documents with details of the composition of fireproofing compounds should also be classified in the relevant classes for these compositions;

Use E04B 2001/949 for classifying additional information of the documents classified in E04B 1/94 - E04B 1/945 .

{Building elements specially adapted therefor}
Special rules of classification

Fusible suspension supports are classified in E04B 1/941.

{slab-shaped}
Special rules of classification

Documents with details of the composition should be classified also in E04B 1/94 and should receive classes for the compositions per se;

Details of fire-proof sealing of the connection of panels should additionally be classified in E04B 1/948.

{covered with fire-proofing material}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Beam coverings

E04B 9/005

{by closing openings in walls or the like in the case of fire (fire-proof doors E06B 5/16)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Fire-proof doors

E06B 5/16

{Fire-proof sealings or joints (for doors or windows E06B 5/164)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Fire-proof sealings or joints for doors or windows

E06B 5/164

against vibrations or shocks (on foundations E02D 31/08); against mechanical destruction, e.g. by air-raids (against incendiary damage only E04B 1/94; finishing work therefor E04F; buildings withstanding earthquake or the like, shelters, arrangements of splintercatching walls E04H 9/00)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Protection of buildings against vibrations or shocks originating from inside the building, e.g. an explosion within the building, or are caused by the wind or nearby construction works or traffic.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Protection against incendiary damage only

E04B 1/94

Protection against vibrations or shocks on foundations

E02D 31/08

Finishing work for protection against vibration, shocks, or mechanical damge

E04F

Buildings withstanding earth-quake or the like, shelters, arrangements of splintercatching walls

E04H 9/00

Buildings against air-raids or other war-like actions

E04H 9/04

Buildings adapted to withstand tornadoes

E04H 9/14

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Pressure relieve panels in case of over-pressure

E06B 5/12, B65D 90/325, H02B 13/025, E05B 65/102

Room acoustics, i.e. forms of, or arrangements in, rooms for influencing or directing sound (E04B 1/82 takes precedence; acoustics in general G10K 11/00; electric signal processing for producing a reverberation or echo sound G10K 15/08)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Arrangments for adjusting the acoustics of e.g. a concert hall

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Insulation specifically with respect to sound only

E04B 1/82

Acoustics in general

G10K 11/00

Electric signal processing for producing a reverberation or echo sound

G10K 15/08

Walls, e.g. partitions, for buildings; Wall construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted to walls (connections for building structures in general E04B 1/38; insulation for buildings in general E04B 1/62; building elements of relatively thin form for parts of buildings E04C 2/00)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Load-bearing and non-load-bearing walls for buildings, wall construction with regard to insulation, and connections specially adapted to walls for buildings.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Building panels

E04C 2/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Connections for building structures in general

E04B 1/38

Insulation for buildings in general

E04B 1/62

Heat, sound or noise insulation, absorption, or reflection

E04B 1/74

Retaining walls

E02D 29/02

Special rules of classification

Load-bearing walls made from panels, e.g. pre-fabricated walls, are classified in E04B 1/02 - E04B 1/14.

Load-bearing or non-load-bearing walls built-up from layers of building elements, e.g. brick or block walls, are classified in E04B 2/02 - E04B 2/54.

Load-bearing walls having a framework or a pillarwork, and walls incorporating load-bearing elongated members, are classified in E04B 2/56 - E04B 2/709.

Non-load-bearing walls made of panels or posts and panels are classified in E04B 2/72 - E04B 2/828.

Load-bearing or non-load-bearing walls made by casting, pouring or tamping in situ are classified in E04B 2/84 - E04B 2/8664.

References E04B 1/38 and E04B 1/62 are non-limiting in main group E04B 2/00. CPC will be corrected once this inconsistency is resolved in IPC.

built-up from layers of building elements
Definition statement

This place covers:

Walls for buildings built-up from layers of building elements, e.g. brick or block walls, as well as building elements of block or brick shape for the construction of parts of buildings. The walls can be bearing walls or non-bearing walls, e.g. partition walls, and the building elements accordingly.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Toys building blocks

A63H 33/04 - A63H 33/14

Positioning wedges

E04G 21/1841

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Masonry wall ties, i.e. anchors

E04B 1/4178

Details of connections of block or brick shaped building elements

E04B 2002/0202

Details of connections

E04B 2002/0202

Special features of block or brick shaped building elements

E04B 2002/0256

Retaining walls

E02D 29/02

Special rules of classification

Building elements of block or brick shape, for the construction of parts of buildings, are classified in E04B 2/02 - E04B 2/54, even if they do not explicitly form part of a wall.

Building elements of block or brick shape, for the construction of parts of buildings, and characterised by special adaptations, e.g. serving for locating conduits, for forming soffits, cornices or shelves, for fixing wall-plates or door-frames, for claustra, are classified in E04C 1/39 - E04C 1/397.

Building elements of block or brick shape, for the construction of parts of buildings, and being built-up from parts of different materials are classified in E04C 1/40 - E04C 1/41.

Building elements of glass or other transparent material, for the construction of parts of buildings, are classified in E04C 1/42.

All aspects of the block or brick shaped building elements, e.g. special features, and details of connections among themselves, should be classified in E04B 2/02 - E04B 2002/0297.

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Block shape

block shape is not restricted to parallelepiped shape

Walls having neither cavities between, nor in, the solid elements
Definition statement

This place covers:

Walls having neither cavities between, nor in, the solid building elements, as well as solid brick or block shape building elements having no cavities in them.

by filling material with or without reinforcements in small channels in, or in grooves between, the elements
Definition statement

This place covers:

Walls built-up from layers of solid building elements of brick or block shape, and having no cavities in the elements, wherein the joints, e.g. small channels or grooves between the building elements and/or between the successive layers are filled with material, with or without additional reinforcements in the joints, small channels or grooves.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Separate spacers between building elements

E04B 2002/0282

Reinforcing elements of low bending resistance

E04C 5/02

Light-weight girders

E04C 5/065

Reinforcing elements of material other than metal

E04C 5/07

Walls having cavities in, but not between, the elements, i.e. each cavity being enclosed by at least four sides forming part of one single element
Definition statement

This place covers:

Walls built-up from layers of building elements of brick or block shape having cavities in, but not between, the building elements, as well as brick or block shape building elements having cavities in them.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Building elements of brick or block shape with holes filled with insulating material

E04B 2002/0289

Building elements of block shape, serving for ventilating, heating, cooling, and for locating conduits

E04C 1/392, E04C 1/397

by filling material with or without reinforcements in small channels in, or in grooves between, the elements
Definition statement

This place covers:

Walls built-up from layers of building elements of brick or block shape, and having cavities in the elements, wherein the joints, e.g. small channels or grooves between the building elements and/or between the successive layers are filled with material, with or without additional reinforcements in the joints, small channels or grooves.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Separate spacers between building elements

E04B 2002/0282

Reinforcing elements of low bending resistance

E04C 5/02

Light-weight girders

E04C 5/065

Reinforcing elements of material other than metal

E04C 5/07

the walls being characterised by fillings in some of the cavities forming load-bearing pillars or beams
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Load-bearing walls of framework or pillarwork

E04B 2/56 - E04B 2/709

the walls being characterised by fillings in all cavities in order to form a wall construction
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Walls made by casting, pouring, or tamping in situ, e.g. in permanent forms, but not by filling cavities in brick or block elements exclusively

E04B 2/84

Walls having cavities between, but not in, the elements; Walls of elements each consisting of two or more parts kept in distance by means of spacers, all parts being solid
Definition statement

This place covers:

Walls made from layers of building elements of brick or block shape, the walls having cavities between, but not in, the elements, e.g. walls made of solid building elements having special profiles on their small side faces in order to create a cavity when connected with the adjacent elements;

Walls made from layers of building elements of brick or block shape, each consisting of two or more parts kept in distance, in a direction perpendicular to the wall, by means of spacers, all parts of the elements being solid.

using elements having specially designed means for stabilising the position; Spacers for cavity walls {(masonry wall ties E04B 1/4178)}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Masonry wall ties, i.e. anchors

E04B 1/4178

Details of connections

E04B 2002/0202

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Spacers for cavity walls

spacers between solid parts of brick or block shaped elements for building cavity walls, e.g. spacers integrated in a block consisting of two parallel solid slab shaped parts kept at a distance by the spacer

by filling material with or without reinforcements in small channels in, or in grooves between, the elements
Definition statement

This place covers:

Walls made from layers of building elements of brick or block shape, the walls having cavities between, but not in, the elements, wherein the joints, e.g. small channels or grooves between the building elements and/or between the successive layers are filled with material, with or without additional reinforcements in the joints, small channels or grooves.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Separate spacers between building elements

E04B 2002/0282

Reinforcing elements of low bending resistance

E04C 5/02

Light-weight girders

E04C 5/065

Reinforcing elements of material other than metal

E04C 5/07

the walls being characterised by fillings in some of the cavities forming load-bearing pillars or beams
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Load-bearing walls of framework or pillarwork

E04B 2/56 - E04B 2/709

the walls being characterised by fillings in all cavities in order to form a wall construction
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Walls made by casting, pouring, or tamping in situ, e.g. in permanent forms, but not by filling cavities in brick or block elements exclusively

E04B 2/84

Walls having cavities between, as well as in, the elements; Walls of elements each consisting of two or more parts, kept in distance by means of spacers, at least one of the parts having cavities
Definition statement

This place covers:

Walls made from layers of building elements of brick or block shape, the walls having cavities between, as well as in the elements, e.g. walls made of building elements having cavities and having special profiles on their small side faces in order to create a cavity when connected with the adjacent elements;

Walls made from layers of building elements of brick or block shape, each consisting of two or more parts kept in distance, in a direction perpendicular to the wall, by means of spacers, at least one of the parts of the elements having cavities.

using elements having specially-designed means for stabilising the position; Spacers for cavity walls {(masonry wall ties E04B 1/4178)}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Masonry wall ties, i.e. anchors

E04B 1/4178

Details of connections

E04B 2002/0202

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Spacers for cavity walls

spacers between parts of brick or block shaped elements for building cavity walls, at least one of the parts having cavities, e.g. spacers integrated in a block consisting of two parallel, non-massive, slab shaped parts kept at a distance by the spacer

by filling material with or without reinforcements in small channels in, or in grooves between, the elements
Definition statement

This place covers:

Walls made from layers of building elements of brick or block shape, the walls having cavities between, as well as in the elements, wherein the joints, e.g. small channels or grooves between the building elements and/or between the successive layers are filled with material, with or without additional reinforcements in the joints, small channels or grooves.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Separate spacers between building elements

E04B 2002/0282

Reinforcing elements of low bending resistance

E04C 5/02

Light-weight girders

E04C 5/065

Reinforcing elements of material other than metal

E04C 5/07

the walls being characterised by fillings in some of the cavities forming load-bearing pillars or beams
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Load-bearing walls of framework or pillarwork

E04B 2/56 - E04B 2/709

the walls being characterised by fillings in all cavities in order to form a wall construction
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Walls made by casting, pouring, or tamping in situ, e.g. in permanent forms, but not by filling cavities in brick or block elements exclusively

E04B 2/84

{Load-bearing} walls of framework or pillarwork; Walls incorporating load-bearing elongated members (E04B 2/74, E04B 2/88 take precedence; pillars E04C 3/30)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge

E04B 2/74

Curtain walls

E04B 2/88

Pillars

E04C 3/30

{with fillings between the load-bearing elongated members}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Nogging of half-timbered walls.

the members being formed of two or more elements in side-by-side relationship
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Framework with metallic elongated load-supporting parts formed of a number of parallel profiles

E04B 2001/2472

made by filling-up wall cavities (E04B 2/24, E04B 2/38, E04B 2/52 take precedence)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Walls having cavities in, but not between, the elements, the walls being characterised by fillings in some of the cavities forming load-bearing pillars or beams

E04B 2/24

Walls having cavities between, but not in, the elements, the walls being characterised by fillings in some of the cavities forming load-bearing pillars or beams

E04B 2/38

Walls having cavities between, as well as in, the elements, the walls being characterised by fillings in some of the cavities forming load-bearing pillars or beams

E04B 2/52

{with integrated supporting and obturation function}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Walls made from horizontally laid logs or beams, e.g. log cabins.

{with longitudinal horizontal elements (E04B 2/704, E04B 2/705 take precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Walls incorporating load-bearing elongated members of wood, with longitudinal horizontal elements shorter than the length of a wall

E04B 2/704

Walls incorporating load-bearing elongated members of wood, with longitudinal horizontal elements placed between columns

E04B 2/705

{with supporting function}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Walls comprising structural wooden studs or posts with non structural closure elements en-between, e.g. structural stud walls and shear bracing therefor.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Half-timbering

E04B 2/562

{Non-load-bearing} walls of elements of relatively thin form {with respect to the thickness of the wall} (E04B 2/56, E04B 2/74, E04B 2/88 take precedence; with joint fillings acting as framework or pillars E04B 2/68; elements E04C 2/00)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Non-load-bearing thin walls without studs or posts, with profiled or folded panels or trays.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Load-bearing] walls of framework or pillarwork; Walls incorporating load-bearing elongated members

E04B 2/56

Non-load-bearing walls of elements of relatively thin form with joint fillings acting as framework or pillars

E04B 2/68

Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge

E04B 2/74

Non-structural stud walls

E04B 2/7453

Curtain walls

E04B 2/88

Building elements of relatively thin form for the construction of parts of buildings, e.g. sheet materials, slabs, or panels

E04C 2/00

Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2002/725 - E04B 2002/728 as additional information for the documents of E04B 2/72.

{constituted of gypsum elements}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Non-load-bearing thin walls with folded plasterboard or gypsum or plaster projected onto a lattice.

Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2/845 as additional information for the documents of E04B 2/723.

Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge (framed panels E04C 2/38)
Definition statement

This place covers:

E.g., modular coordination.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Screens, e.g. for an auscultation room

A47G 5/00

Framed panels

E04C 2/38

Electric wiring

H01R

Special rules of classification

Documents with tables, shelving and similar items associated with a partition wall should be additionally classified in furniture groups, e.g. in A47B for tables or desks.

Reference E04C 2/38 is non-limiting in subgroup E04B 2/74. CPC will be corrected once this inconsistency is resolved in IPC.

{assembled using frames with infill panels or coverings only; made-up of panels and a support structure incorporating posts (E04B 2/78 and E04B 2/80 take precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Removable non-load-bearing partitions or partitions with a free upper edge with framework or posts of metal characterised by special cross-section of the frame-members

E04B 2/78

Removable non-load-bearing partitions or partitions with a free upper edge with framework or posts of wood

E04B 2/80

Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2/7409 - E04B 2002/7498 as additional information for the documents of E04B 2/7407 - E04B 2/7459.

{Details of connection of panels (E04B 2/7427 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Partitions with a free upper edge with separate framed panels without intermediary support posts and with adjustable angular connection of panels

E04B 2/7427

{Glazing details}
Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2/7437 - E04B 2/7444 as additional information for the documents of E04B 2/7435.

{with panels hooked onto posts (E04B 2/7438 takes precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Non-load-bearing partition with free upper edge and panels hooked onto posts, e.g. with additional securing elements to prevent its unhooking.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Partitions with a free upper edge with panels with support posts and with adjustable angular connection of panels to posts

E04B 2/7438

{hinged connections (E04B 2/7444 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Partitions with a free upper edge with panels with support posts and with panels hooked onto the rim or in a groove of circular posts

E04B 2/7444

{Glazing details}
Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2/7451 as additional information for the documents of E04B 2/745.

{Glazing details}
Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2/7457 - E04B 2/7459 as additional information for the documents of E04B 2/7455.

{with wallboards attached to the outer faces of the posts, parallel to the partition (E04B 2/7459 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Removable non-load-bearing partitions with panels and support posts, extending from floor to ceiling, the posts being telescoping to compensate for floor or ceiling irregularities

E04B 2/7459

with framework or posts of metal {(details of connections, thresholds or skirtings E04B 2/82)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Connections of horizontal and vertical metallic frame members.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Details of connections, thresholds or skirtings

E04B 2/82

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Mitre joints for windows, doors

E06B 3/96

characterised by the manner in which edges are connected to the building; Means therefor; Special details of easily-removable partitions {as far as related to the connection with other parts of the building}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Means for connecting partition walls or panels to the ceilings

E04B 9/008

{the connection between the floor and the ceiling being achieved without any restraining forces acting in the plane of the partition}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Removable non-load-bearing partitions with panels and support posts, extending from floor to ceiling, the posts being telescoping to compensate for floor or ceiling irregularities

E04B 2/7459

Connections between wall studs and upper or lower locating rails allowing vertical movement of upper rail with respect to the stud, e.g. by using slots in the rail or stud

E04B 2/768

{Partitions constituted of sliding panels}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Non-load-bearing partitions constituted of sliding panels, where the sliding occurs in a direction parallel or perpendicular to the plane of the partition

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Suspension arrangements for sliding wings of doors

E05D 15/06

Walls made by casting, pouring, or tamping in situ (E04B 2/02, E04B 2/56 take precedence; forms therefor E04G 11/06; working of concrete or similar masses able to be cast or poured in situ E04G 21/02)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Walls built-up from layers of building elements

E04B 2/02

Load-bearing walls of framework or pillarwork ; Walls incorporating load-bearing elongated members

E04B 2/56

Reusable forms for walls made by casting, pouring, or tamping in situ

E04G 11/06

Working of concrete or similar masses able to be cast or poured in situ

E04G 21/02

Special rules of classification

Documents where the filling does not contain a hardenable binder, e.g. rammed earth or loose rocks, are classified in E04B 2/84.

made in permanent forms
Special rules of classification

Use E04B 2002/867 - E04B 2002/8694 as additional information for the documents of E04B 2/86 - E04B 2/8652.

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

A "tie" holds the two opposite leaves of the form together.

A "spacer" keeps the two opposite leaves at a predetermined distance from each other.

A single element can but must not have both functions: i.e. a tie can be a spacer or not, a spacer can be a tie or not.

{with ties attached to the inner faces of the forms (E04B 2/8611 and E04B 2/8623 take precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Walls made by casting, pouring, or tamping in situ in permanent forms with spacers being embedded in at least one form leaf

E04B 2/8611

Walls made by casting, pouring, or tamping in situ in permanent forms with spacers and at least one form leaf being monolithic

E04B 2/8623

{using dovetail-type connections}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Connections with dovetail or "T"-shaped grooves in the inner face of the form or the spacer

{with ties going through the forms}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Ties going through the form, e.g. nails or screws going through the forms into the spacers.

Curtain walls {(fixing of glass panes E06B 3/54)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Fixing of glass panes

E06B 3/54

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Measures for draining-off condensed water or water leaking in windows

E06B 7/14

Special rules of classification

Curtain walls in combination with ventilation , heating, drainage, shading, adjustable supports are classified in E04B 2/88;

Drainage details should additionally be classified in E06B 7/14.

{comprising a supporting structure for flush mounted glazing panels}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Connectors for fixing the flush mounted glazing to the supporting structure

E06B 3/54

comprising panels directly attached to the structure {(E04B 2/885 takes precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Panels directly attached to the structure, the panel comprising a frame or not

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Curtain walls comprising a supporting structure for flush mounted glazing panels

E04B 2/885

Concrete panels (E04B 2/92 takes precedence)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Curtain walls with sandwich-type panels

E04B 2/92

comprising panels attached to the structure through mullions or transoms {(E04B 2/885 takes precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Panels attached with panel clamping bars to the mullions or the transoms.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Curtain walls comprising a supporting structure for flush mounted glazing panels

E04B 2/885

Glass roofs

E04D 3/06

Flush mounted glazing, the panels being attached without clamping bars to mullions or transoms

E06B 3/54

{Connections of mullions and transoms}
Special rules of classification

Documents with details of connections of mullions to mullions, with details of connections of mullions or transoms to the supporting structure, or with details of the infill panels are classified in E04B 2/96, even if they show details of the connections of mullions and transoms.

Documents with details of angles or corners of the curtain walls are classified in E04B 2/962, even if they show details of the connections of mullions and transoms.

{Details of the cross-section of the mullions or transoms (E04B 2/965 takes precedence)}
Special rules of classification

Are classified in E04B 2/967 documents which show only details of the cross-section of the mullions or transoms.

Documents with details of connections of mullions to mullions, of connections mullions or transoms, or with details of the infill panels, or with details of angles or corners of the curtain walls are classified in E04B 2/96,E04B 2/962 or E04B 2/965, even if they show details of the cross-section of the mullions or transoms.

Floors; Floor construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted therefor (elements for floors, e.g. bricks, stones, filling bodies, girders, E04C; flooring as finishing work, insulation of flooring, sectional false floors, e.g. for computers E04F 15/00)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Structural floors for buildings; Building floors construction in general and with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted to floors.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Producing slab shaped elements of concrete in moulds

B28B

Decks for ships

B63B 3/48

Flat foundations, floors resting on the ground

E02D 27/00

Girders for floors

E04C 3/00

Flooring as finishing work, insulation of flooring, sectional false floors, e.g. for computers

E04F 15/00

Decks, e.g. garden decks

E04F 15/00

Disposable shutterings, forms for floors

E04G

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Connections for building structures in general

E04B 1/38

Building insulation in general; Heat and sound insulation for buildings

E04B 1/62, E04B 1/74

Buildings for parking cars

E04H 6/00

Load-carrying floor structures formed substantially of prefabricated units (E04B 5/43 - E04B 5/48 take precedence)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Decks, e.g. garden decks

E04F 15/00

Sectional false floors

E04F 15/024

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Floor structures of extraordinary design

E04B 5/43

Special adaptation of floors for transmission of light

E04B 5/46

Special adaptation of floors for incorporating ducts

E04B 5/48

{with beams or slabs of plastic}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Beams of plastics

E04C 3/28

with beams {or slabs} of concrete or other stone-like material, e.g. asbestos cement (E04B 5/08, E04B 5/14 take precedence)
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Load carrying floor structures formed substantially of prefabricated units, and assembled of block shaped elements

E04B 5/08

Load carrying floor structures formed substantially of prefabricated units, with beams or girders laid in two directions

E04B 5/14

Special rules of classification

Load-carrying floor structures consisting of prefabricated slabs of concrete or other stone like material are classified in E04B 5/04, except floor structures consisting of hollow core slabs which are classified in E04B 5/043.

{having elongated hollow cores}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Load-carrying floor structures consisting of elongated hollow cores slabs, e.g. placed against one another.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Load-carrying floor structures partly cast in situ with prefabricated or partly prefabricated beams and one or more hollow cores between the beams

E04B 5/265

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Hollow core slab

Hollow core slab is a precast slab of prestressed concrete, having tubular voids extending the full length of the slab

{with beams placed with distance from another}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Load-carrying floor structures formed of prefabricated beams placed with distance from one another, the space between the beams being filled or covered by prefabricated elements and eventually completed by non-structural layers of concrete or mortar..

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Load carrying floor structures formed substantially of prefabricated units, and assembled of block shaped elements

E04B 5/08

Load-carrying floor structures partly cast in situ with prefabricated stiffening ribs

E04B 5/23 - E04B 5/29

{with beams} placed against one another {optionally with pointing-mortar}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Load-carrying floor structures consisting of elongated slabs placed against one another

E04B 5/04

Load-carrying floor structures consisting of elongated hollow cores slabs placed against one another

E04B 5/043

assembled of block-shaped elements, e.g. hollow stones (E04B 5/14 takes precedence; floors composed of reinforced brickwork E04B 5/44)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Load carrying floor structures assembled of prefabricated block-shaped elements, e.g. joined together by mortar, tensioning or connecting elements.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Load carrying floor structures formed substantially of prefabricated units, with beams or girders laid in two directions

E04B 5/14

Floors composed of reinforced brickwork

E04B 5/44

with metal beams or girders, e.g. with steel lattice girders (E04B 5/14 takes precedence)
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Load carrying floor structures formed substantially of prefabricated units, with beams or girders laid in two directions

E04B 5/14

Metal beams or girders

E04C 3/04

Light-weight girders as reinforcing elements

E04C 5/065

with wooden beams (E04B 5/14 takes precedence)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Also means for supporting beams.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Load-carrying floor structures formed substantially of prefabricated units with beams or girders laid in two directions

E04B 5/14

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Wooden joists hangers

E04B 1/2612

Wooden beams

E04C 3/12

Shores or struts

E04G 25/00

Load-carrying floor structures wholly or partly cast or similarly formed in situ (E04B 5/43 - E04B 5/48 take precedence; floors merely characterised by the prefabricated elements E04C)
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Floor structures of extraordinary design

E04B 5/43

Floors composed of stones, mortar and reinforcing elements

E04B 5/44

Special adaptation of floors for transmission of light

E04B 5/46

Special adaptation of floors for incorporating ducts

E04B 5/48

Forms or shutterings for making floors

E04G 11/00

Floor structures partly formed in situ
Definition statement

This place covers:

Floor structures partly formed in situ, i.e. in which at least some parts of the structure are prefabricated, e.g. precast girders or prefabricated filling members between the beams.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Floor structures cast in situ with hollow cylindrical or spherical filling elements

E04B 5/32

Floor structures cast in situ with form units as part of the floor; with slab shaped form units acting as reinforcement

E04B 5/36, E04B 5/38

with stiffening ribs or other beam-like formations wholly cast between filling members
Definition statement

This place covers:

Floor structures partly formed in situ, with prefabricated filling members and with stiffening ribs wholly cast between or in the prefabricated filling members; Prefabricated filling elements suitable for casting stiffening ribs between or in them.

the filling members acting as self-supporting permanent forms (E04B 5/21 takes precedence)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Floor structures partly formed in situ, with prefabricated self-supporting filling members and with stiffening ribs wholly cast between or in the prefabricated self-supporting filling members, e.g. elongated self-supporting filling members resting on the walls.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Load-carrying floor structures consisting of slabs

E04B 5/04

Load-carrying floor structures consisting of hollow cores slabs

E04B 5/043

Floor structures partly formed in situ, with prefabricated filling members and with stiffening ribs wholly cast between or in the prefabricated filling members, and extending in two different directions

E04B 5/21

Load-carrying floor structures partly cast in situ with prefabricated or partly prefabricated beams and one or more hollow cores between the beams

E04B 5/265

Cross-ribbed floors
Definition statement

This place covers:

Floor structures partly formed in situ, with prefabricated filling members and with stiffening ribs wholly cast between or in the prefabricated filling members, and extending in two different and intersecting directions. Prefabricated filling elements suitable for casting cross-ribbed floors.

with stiffening ribs or other beam-like formations wholly or partly prefabricated (with all load-carrying parts substantially consisting of prefabricated units E04B 5/02 {; beams built-up by elements joined in line E04C 3/22})
Definition statement

This place covers:

Floor structures partly formed in situ, with prefabricated or partly prefabricated beam-like formations, e.g. prefabricated beams of concrete, metal or wood.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

With all load-carrying parts substantially consisting of prefabricated units

E04B 5/02

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Provisions for connecting wooden stiffening ribs to the concrete slab

E04B 2005/232

Beams built-up by elements joined in line

E04C 3/22

with filling members between the beams (E04B 5/28 takes precedence)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Floor structures partly formed in situ, with prefabricated or partly prefabricated beam-like formations and with prefabricated filling members between the beams;

Prefabricated elements for use as filling elements between prefabricated or partly prefabricated beams.

{Monolithic filling members}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Floor structures partly formed in situ, with prefabricated or partly prefabricated beam-like formations and with prefabricated monolithic filling members between the beams;

Prefabricated monolithic elements for use as filling elements between prefabricated or partly prefabricated beams.

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Monolithic

In one piece

{with a flat lower surface (E04B 5/265 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Load-carrying floor structures partly cast in situ with prefabricated or partly prefabricated beams and one or more hollow cores between the beams

E04B 5/265

{with one or more hollow cores}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Load-carrying floor structures partly cast in situ with prefabricated or partly prefabricated beams and one or more hollow cores between the beams

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Load-carrying floor structures consisting of hollow cores slabs only

E04B 5/043

Cross-ribbed floors
Definition statement

This place covers:

Floor structures partly formed in situ, with prefabricated or partly prefabricated beam-like formations and with prefabricated filling members between the beams;

Prefabricated elements for use as filling elements between prefabricated or partly prefabricated beams in a cross-ribbed floor.

the prefabricated parts of the beams consisting wholly of metal (E04B 5/28 takes precedence)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Beams, as independent entities, consisting of steel and concrete

E04C 3/293

Beams, as independent entities, consisting of concrete combined with a girder-like steel structure extending laterally outside the element

E04C 3/294

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Metal beams or girders

E04C 3/04

Light-weight metal girders used as reinforcement, e.g. with a precast concrete part

E04C 3/065

Floor structures wholly cast in situ with or without form units or reinforcements
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Means preventing cold bridging at the junction of external walls with a floor

E04B 2001/7679

Floor structures having permanent form for the floor edges

E04B 2005/322

Floor structures having peripheral anchors or supports

E04B 2005/324

Forms or shutterings for making floors

E04G 11/00

Special rules of classification

Floor structures cast in situ with hollow cylindrical or spherical filling elements are classified in E04B 5/32.

Floor structures cast in situ with a metal form-slab are classified in E04B 5/40.

with form units as part of the floor
Definition statement

This place covers:

Floor structures wholly cast in situ with form units as part of the floor, the form units being either made in one piece or made of different elements, e.g. non-self-supporting form units.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Sectional false floors

E04F 15/024

Special rules of classification

Non-self-supporting floor form units, either made of one element or of a series of elements, are classified in E04B 5/36, except in case of metal form-slabs.

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Floor form unit

A form, either made of one element or of a series of elements, that allows the floor to be cast over it, in situ, without the need of additional forms.

with slab-shaped form units acting simultaneously as reinforcement; Form slabs with reinforcements extending laterally outside the element {(beams placed against one another and acting as permanent forms E04B 5/23)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Floor structures wholly cast in situ with slab-shaped substantially self-supporting form units acting simultaneously as reinforcement;

Form slabs with reinforcements of metal or other material extending laterally outside the form slab, and that are suitable to be embedded in the concrete of the floor slab to be cast in-situ, e.g. "Predalles" concrete slabs or semi-finished reinforced concrete slabs.

with metal form-slabs
Definition statement

This place covers:

Floor structures wholly cast in situ with metal form-slabs, e.g. with corrugated or non-corrugated metal form-slabs.

Floor structures of extraordinary design; Features relating to the elastic stability; Floor structures specially designed for resting on columns only, e.g. mushroom floors ({anchoring devices for balconies with means for preventing cold bridging E04B 1/0038}; extraordinary constructions in general E04B 1/34)
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Anchoring devices for balconies with means for preventing cold bridging

E04B 1/0038

Extraordinary constructions in general

E04B 1/34

Shear reinforcements, e.g. shear heads for floor slabs

E04C 5/0645

Buildings adapted to withstand abnormal external influences, e.g. earthquakes

E04H 9/00

Floors composed of stones, mortar, and reinforcing elements (with inserts of glass E04B 5/46)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Floors composed of stones, e.g. hollow bricks, mortar and reinforcing elements.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Special adaptation of floors for transmission of light, e.g. by inserts of glass

E04B 5/46

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Load carrying floor structures assembled of prefabricated block-shaped elements

E04B 5/08

Beams built-up by elements joined in line

E04C 3/22

Special rules of classification

Floor structures assembled of relatively large prefabricated block-shaped elements and relatively little mortar or concrete are classified in E04B 5/08.

Special adaptation of floors for transmission of light, e.g. by inserts of glass (of ceilings E04B 9/32, block-shaped elements E04C 1/42; slab- or sheet-shaped elements E04C 2/54; for roof covering E04D 3/06)
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Translucent ceilings

E04B 9/32

Block-shaped building elements of glass or transparent material

E04C 1/42

Slab-like translucent building elements

E04C 2/54

Roof coverings of glass or other translucent materials

E04D 3/06, E04D 3/28

Special adaptations of floors for incorporating ducts, e.g. for heating or ventilating (in block-shaped elements E04C 1/39; in slab- or sheet-shaped elements E04C 2/52)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Special adaptations of floors for incorporating ducts, e.g. for heating or ventilating, in the structural body of the floor.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Sectional false floors

E04F 15/024

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Building elements of block shape serving for locating conduits

E04C 1/39

Building elements of slab shape serving for locating conduits

E04C 2/52

Hot-water central heating systems

F24D 3/00

Ventilation with air supply through perforated floors

F24F 7/10

Installation of electric cables in floors

H02G 3/283

Roofs; Roof construction with regard to insulation (structures for roofs as well as for floors E04B 5/00; ceilings E04B 9/00; greenhouses A01G 9/14; large containers having floating covers B65D 88/34; roof trusses, truss-like structures, joists E04C 3/02; roof coverings E04D)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Roofs, i.e. roof structures; Roof construction with regard to insulation, e.g. self-supporting insulated roof-slabs.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Structures for roofs, in particular for flat roofs, as well as for floors

E04B 5/00

Ceilings, i.e. suspended ceilings

E04B 9/00

Greenhouses

A01G 9/14

Large containers having floating covers

B65D 88/34

Roof trusses per se, truss-like structures

E04C 3/02

Roof coverings

E04D

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Three-dimensional frameworks

E04B 1/19

Arched structures; Vaulted structures; Folded structures

E04B 1/32

Extraordinary structures; Structures covering a large free area; Structures characterised by movable, separable or collapsible parts; Structures composed of box-like or cell-like units

E04B 1/34, E04B 1/342, E04B 1/343, E04B 1/348

Arched girders or portal frames

E04C 3/38

Sunshades; Awnings

E04F 10/00

Tents or canopies, in general

E04F 15/00

Buildings or structures for particular purposes, e.g. bus shelters, swimming pools; coverings thereof

E04H

with plane sloping surfaces, e.g. saddle roofs (E04B 7/12 takes precedence)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Roofs formed in bays, e.g. saw-tooth roofs

E04B 7/12

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Sunshades, e.g. made of flexible canopy materials

E04F 10/00

{consisting of a plurality of parallel similar trusses or portal frames}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Roof trusses per se, truss-like structures

E04C 3/02

Arched girders or portal frames

E04C 3/38

{the trusses or frames supporting load-bearing purlins, e.g. braced purlins (battens, supports for battens E04D 12/00)}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Roof battens; supports for roof battens

E04D 12/004

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • " Purlins " and "Battens"
{consisting of prefabricated modules, e.g. box-like or cell-like units (E04B 7/24 takes precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Roof consisting of prefabricated modules, e.g. box-like or cell-like units, the prefabricated modules arriving in situ ready to be put in place as they are.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Roofs consisting of self-supporting slabs, the slabs being collapsible or retractable, e.g. for transport

E04B 7/24

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Structures composed of box-like or cell-like units

E04B 1/348

{consisting of structures of pyramidal or conical shape}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Small buildings erected in the open air, e.g. waiting shelters, kiosks, beach cabins, public WC's

E04H 1/1205

supported by horizontal beams or the equivalent resting on the walls (E04B 7/06 takes precedence)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Details of connections between the roof structure and the supporting walls, for roofs in which the roof structure is supported by the walls, e.g. roof trusses supported by horizontal beams resting on the walls.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Constructions of roof intersections or hipped ends

E04B 7/06

{with connectors made of sheet metal for connecting the roof structure to the supporting wall (connectors made of sheet metal for wooden elongated load-supporting elements in general E04B 1/2608)}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Connectors made of sheet metal for wooden elongated load supporting elements in general

E04B 1/2608

Constructions of roof intersections or hipped ends
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Greenhouses

A01G 9/14

Mutual connections of metal glazing bars

E04D 2003/0868

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Hipped end

The ridge end or node defined by the junction of three or more triangular sloping faces in a hip roof

{Hipped ends}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Mutual connections of metal glazing bars on the ridge of the roof

E04D 2003/0875

Vaulted roofs (E04B 7/14 takes precedence; vaulted structures in general E04B 1/32; inflatable tents or canopies, in general E04H 15/20; inflatable forms for shaping in situ E04G 11/04)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Vaulted roofs, i.e. roofs having a general curved shape, in one or more directions, e.g. an arched shape, an hyperbolic-parabolic shape, a dome shape, a curved and folded shape.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Suspended roofs

E04B 7/14

Inflatable tents or canopies, in general

E04H 15/20

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Vaulted structures in general

E04B 1/32

Extraordinary structures; Structures covering a large free area

E04B 1/34, E04B 1/342

Saw-tooth roofs

E04B 7/12

Inflatable forms for shaping in situ

E04G 11/04

Special rules of classification

Barrel vaulted roofs are classified in E04C 3/08. Folded barrel vaulted roofs are classified in E04B 7/107.

Shell structures, e.g. of hyperbolic-parabolic shape; Grid-like formations acting as shell structures; Folded structures {(buildings E04B 1/32)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Curved roof structures made by shell structures, e.g. roof structures of hyperbolic-parabolic shape made of a thin-shell concrete membrane, or by a plurality of thin-shell units connected together;

Curved roof structures made by grid-like formations acting as shell structures, i.e. thin and substantially self-supporting, that is without the need of intermediate supports;

Curved roof structures made by a folded structure, e.g. globally curved roof structures made by concertina-like folded metal sheets.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Three-dimensional frameworks

E04B 1/19

Arched buildings structures; Vaulted buildings structures; Folded buildings structures

E04B 1/32

Saw-tooth roofs

E04B 7/12

{Shell structures}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Curved roof structures made by shell structures, e.g. roof structures of hyperbolic-parabolic shape made of a thin-shell concrete membrane, or by a plurality of thin-shell units connected together.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Arched structures comprised entirely of a single panel

E04B 2001/3258

Arched structures comprised of a number of panels connected together

E04B 2001/327

Bending sheet metal

B21D 5/00

Inflatable forms for shaping in situ

E04G 11/04

{Grid-like structures}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Curved roof structures made by grid-like formations acting as shell structures, i.e. thin and substantially self-supporting, that is without the need of intermediate supports.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Arched structures having a grid frame

E04B 2001/3235

{Folded structures}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Curved roof structures made by a folded structure, e.g. globally curved roof structures made by concertina-like folded metal sheets.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Arched structures with faceted surfaces

E04B 2001/3294

Structures deriving their rigidity from concertina folds

E04B 1/345

Saw-tooth roofs

E04B 7/12

Corrugating sheet metal

B21D 13/00

formed in bays, e.g. sawtooth roofs (E04B 7/10 takes precedence)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Roofs formed in bays, e.g. massive saw-tooth roofs for factory buildings.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Curved roof structures made by a folded structure, e.g. globally curved roof structures made by concertina-like folded metal sheets

E04B 7/107

Suspended roofs (suspended tents or canopies in general E04H 15/04)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Suspended roofs, i.e. permanent roofs suspended from a structure, e.g. a roof for a stadium consisting of a membrane suspended by cables, or a roof for a building consisting of a membrane being anchored along its borders on the walls of the building.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Suspended tents or canopies in general

E04H 15/04

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Extraordinary structures; Structures covering a large free area

E04B 1/34, E04B 1/342

Roof structures with movable roof parts (buildings for special purposes E04H)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Skylights or domes having movable parts

E04D 13/035

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Structures characterised by movable, separable or collapsible parts

E04B 1/343

Buildings for special purposes

E04H

{characterised by a pivoting movement of the movable roof parts (E04B 7/166 takes precedence)}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Roof structures with movable parts characterised by a translation movement

E04B 7/166

Skylights having movable parts pivoting about a fixed axis

E04D 13/0351

{characterised by a translation movement of the movable roof part, with or without additional movements}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Roof structures with movable parts characterised by a pivoting movement

E04B 7/163

Skylights having movable parts moving in their own plane

E04D 13/0358

Special structures in or on roofs, e.g. dormer windows (in connection with roof coverings E04D 13/00, especially domes E04D 13/03)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Special structures on roofs, in connection with roof coverings

E04D 13/00

Skylights and domes

E04D 13/03

Chimneys

E04F 17/00

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Dormer window

Roof window set in a structure that is protruding from the surface of a sloping roof; the window itself is substantially vertical

Roofs consisting of self-supporting slabs, e.g. able to be loaded
Definition statement

This place covers:

Roofs consisting of self-supporting slabs, e.g. a saddle roof in which each plane sloping surface is made by a series of adjacent self-supporting slabs resting only on the walls of the building and on the ridge beam of the roof.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Waterproof roofing slabs comprising two or more layers, e.g. for insulation

E04D 3/35

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Building panels in general

E04C 2/00

Special rules of classification

Self-supporting multi-layered roof slabs also used as roof coverings are classified both in E04B 7/20 - E04B 7/24, and in E04D 3/35 or its sub-groups.

{the slabs having non-structural supports for roofing materials (for slaps having insulating properties E04B 7/225)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Self-supporting insulating slabs for roofs, the slabs having non-structural supports for roofing materials

E04B 7/225

Roof battens

E04D 12/004

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Non-structural supports for roofing materials

Supports like battens, purlins

the slabs having insulating properties, e.g. laminated with layers of insulating material
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Layered products

B32B

Sandwich panels

E04C 2/288, E04C 2/292, E04C 2/296, E04C 2/365

Waterproof roofing slabs comprising two or more layers, at least one of the layers being composed of insulating material

E04D 3/351

Insulating devices or arrangements insofar as the roof covering is concerned

E04D 13/16

{the slabs having non-structural supports for roofing materials}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Roof battens

E04D 12/004

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Non-structural supports for roofing materials

Supports like battens, purlins

the slabs being collapsible {or retractable}, e.g. for transport
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Structures characterised by movable, separable or collapsible parts; with hinged parts

E04B 1/343, E04B 1/344

Ceilings; Construction of ceilings, e.g. false ceilings; Ceiling construction with regard to insulation (ceilings used as forms for making floors E04B 5/00; coverings or linings for ceilings E04F 13/00)
Definition statement

This place covers:

  • Ceilings, i.e. suspended ceilings and false ceilings;
  • Construction of suspended and false ceilings;
  • Suspended and false ceiling construction with regard to insulation.
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Ceilings used as forms for making floors

E04B 5/00

Coverings or linings for ceilings, directly attached to the lower face of the floor slab

E04F 13/00

Plastering, finishing work

E04F 21/00

Special rules of classification

This subclass comprises only suspended ceilings and false ceilings. Ceiling consisting of ceiling panels, coverings or linings attached directly to the lower face of the floor slab are only classified in E04F 13/00.

Ceiling consisting of ceiling panels, coverings or linings indirectly attached to the lower face of the floor slab in a way similar to wall covering panels, e.g. with only one lath in-between wall and panel, are also only classified in E04F 13/00.

{characterised by provisions for heat or sound insulation}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Suspended ceilings or false ceilings having provisions for heat or sound insulation.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Sound absorbing open-work ceilings; Ceilings with acoustic baffles, e.g. sound absorbing panels vertically suspended from the ceiling

E04B 9/34

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Heat, sound or noise insulation in buildings; with respect to heat only; with respect to sound only

E04B 1/74; E04B 1/76; E04B 1/82

Slab shaped heat absorbing elements for buildings

E04B 1/80

Slab shaped sound absorbing elements for buildings

E04B 1/86

Suspended ceilings having slabs, panels

E04B 9/04

Means for suspending the supporting construction of the suspended ceilings from the floor slab, with arrangements for damping vibration

E04B 2009/186

Methods or devices for protecting against or damping noise

G10K 11/00

Special rules of classification

Suspended or false ceilings having insulating slabs or panels with non-specified insulating properties are classified in E04B 9/04, not in E04B 9/001.

{with movable parts, e.g. pivoting panels, access doors}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Access doors mechanically connected to loft ladders

E04F 11/04

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Hinges

E05D

Doors

E06B

Recessed bases for lighting devices, e.g. in ceilings

F21V 21/04

{composed of imitation beams or beam coverings}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Caps covering surfaces of the supporting construction

E04B 2009/062

Coverings or linings of wood

E04F 13/10

{with means for hanging lighting fixtures or other appliances to the framework of the ceiling}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Suspended or false ceilings with means for hanging lighting fixtures or other appliances to the framework of the suspended or false ceiling, e.g. to the T-bars of a suspended ceiling.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Means for suspending the supporting construction of the suspended ceilings from the floor slab; adjustable

E04B 9/18, E04B 9/20

Supports for pipes

F16L 3/00

Supporting, suspending or attaching arrangements for lighting devices

F21V 21/00

Suspension of electric conduit channels

H02G 3/263

Special rules of classification

Hanging means directly attached to the lower face of the floor slab are not classified here.

Translucent ceilings, i.e. permitting both the transmission and diffusion of light are classified in E04B 9/32.

{with means for connecting partition walls or panels to the ceilings}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Partition walls; removable partition walls

E04B 2/72, E04B 2/74

having means for ventilation or vapour discharge
Definition statement

This place covers:

Suspended or false ceilings having means for ventilation or vapour discharge.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Suspended or false ceilings having means for ventilation or vapour discharge, the supporting ceiling grid acting as air diffuser

E04B 2009/026

Ventilation, air conditioning systems; Air-humidification systems

F24F, F24F 6/00

Clean-rooms

F24F 3/167

Special rules of classification

Classify in E04B 9/02 only if the ceiling components themselves, e.g. the ceiling panels or the framework of the ceiling, have something special in relation to ventilation or vapour discharge.

A general ceiling having only openings for ventilation ducts and no other specific ventilation feature, should not be classified in E04B 9/02. Conversely, a clean room ceiling having openings for ventilation ducts, the rest of the ceiling being air-tight, should be classified in E04B 9/02, the air-tightness of the ceiling being a specific feature of the ceiling linked to the ventilation of the clean room.

comprising slabs, {panels,} sheets or the like
Definition statement

This place covers:

Suspended or false ceilings comprising slabs, sheets or the like, e.g. suspended ceiling comprising inverted tee-bars and panels.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Open-work ceilings, e.g. grids

E04B 9/34 - E04B 9/36

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Slab shaped heat absorbing elements for buildings

E04B 1/80

Slab shaped sound absorbing elements for buildings

E04B 1/86

Building slabs, sheets or panels per se

E04C 2/00

Coverings or linings for walls or ceilings

E04F 13/00

Ceiling panels lifting devices

E04F 21/1805

Special rules of classification

Classify a suspended or false ceiling comprising slabs, sheets or the like in E04B 9/04 only if the slabs, sheet or the like have some special technical feature, e.g. a special composition, a special geometry, special borders.

{comprising ducts}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Ceiling heating, cooling and ventilating systems in general

F24D, F24F

{having closed internal cavities}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Ceiling panels having a honeycomb core structure

E04B 9/0442

{of the tray type}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Ceiling panels consisting of a tray made of a single element, and having 1 to 4 upstanding borders on their sides.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Ceiling panels having a frame

E04B 9/0428

characterised by constructional features of the supporting construction {, e.g. cross section or material of framework members}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Suspended or false ceilings characterised by constructional features of the supporting construction, e.g. by the cross section or the material of T-bar members.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Constructional features of the means for suspending the supporting construction

E04B 9/18, E04B 9/20

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Cross-sectional aspects of metal beams, girders or joists

E04C 2003/0404

{comprising extruded supporting beams}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Extrusion of metal

B21C 23/00

Extrusion of plastics

B29C 48/00

{comprising supporting beams having a folded cross-section}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Bending of sheet metal

B21D 5/00

Metal beams made of bent sheet material

E04C 3/07, E04C 3/09

having the capability of expansion {, e.g. in case of fire}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Suspended or false ceilings comprising a supporting construction having the capability of expansion.

Connections between parallel members of the supporting construction (E04B 9/08 takes precedence)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Connections between parallel members of the supporting construction, e.g. connections side to side of T-bars or connections tip to tip with an additional joining element

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Suspended or false ceilings comprising a supporting construction having the capability of expansion.

E04B 9/08

Connections between non-parallel members of the supporting construction (E04B 9/08 takes precedence)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Suspended or false ceilings comprising a supporting construction having the capability of expansion.

E04B 9/08

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Connection details of elongated metal supporting parts

E04B 1/2403

Grid-like ceilings

E04B 9/345

Racks for cabinets

A47B 47/00

Special rules of classification

Grid-like ceilings that are suitable for supporting panels can also be classified in E04B 9/12 or its subgroups.

Means for suspending the supporting construction
Definition statement

This place covers:

Means for suspending the supporting construction of the suspended ceiling from the lower face of the floor slab.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Suspended or false ceilings with means for hanging lighting fixtures or other appliances to the framework of the suspended or false ceiling,

E04B 9/006

Separate fastening elements for wall covering elements

E04F 13/0801

Supports for pipes

F16L 3/00

Supporting, suspending or attaching arrangements for lighting devices

F21V 21/00

Suspension of electric conduit channels

H02G 3/263

adjustable
Definition statement

This place covers:

Adjustable means for suspending the supporting construction of the suspended ceiling from the lower face of the floor slab, particularly means adjustable in length.

Connection of slabs, {panels,} sheets or the like to the supporting construction
Definition statement

This place covers:

Connections of substantially horizontal slabs, sheets or the like to the supporting construction of a suspended or false ceiling.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Open-work ceilings, e.g. grids

E04B 9/34

with the slabs, {panels,} sheets or the like positioned on {the upperside of}, or held against {the underside of the} horizontal flanges of the supporting construction {or accessory means connected thereto}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Suspended ceilings comprising a supporting grid consisting of inverted T-shaped sections

E04B 9/067, E04B 9/068

{with the slabs, panels, sheets or the like positioned on the upperside of the horizontal flanges of the supporting construction}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Suspended ceilings comprising a supporting grid consisting of inverted T-shaped sections

E04B 9/067, E04B 9/068

{by means of screws, bolts or clamping strips held against the underside of the supporting construction (E04B 9/26 takes precedence)}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Connections of slabs to the supporting construction of a suspended ceiling by means of snap action of elastically deformable elements held against the underside of the supporting construction

E04B 9/26

Fastening devices in general

F16B

{by means of sliding or pivoting locking elements, held against the underside of the supporting construction}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Fastening devices in general

F16B

{by means of permanent magnetic force held against the underside of the supporting construction}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Coverings fixed to walls by means of magnets

E04F 13/088

by means of snap action of elastically deformable elements {held against the underside of the supporting construction}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Connections of substantially horizontal slabs, sheets or the like to the supporting construction of a suspended or false ceiling by means of snap action of elastically deformable elements held against the underside of the supporting construction.

with the slabs, {panels,} sheets or the like having grooves engaging with horizontal flanges of the supporting construction or accessory means connected thereto
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Suspended ceilings comprising a supporting grid consisting of inverted T-shaped sections

E04B 9/067 , E04B 9/068

characterised by edge details of the ceiling; e.g. securing to an adjacent wall
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Connections between non-parallel members of the supporting construction, one member being discontinuous and abutting against the other member

E04B 9/127

Finishing strips between ceiling and wall

E04F 19/0436

{for flexible tensioned membranes}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Suspended or false ceilings comprising a flexible tensioned membrane secured to the supporting construction and/or to the adjacent walls.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Ceiling slabs comprising fabrics tensioned on frames

E04B 2009/0492

Tapestry work

B44C 7/022

Coverings made of fabrics

E04F 13/002

Boards having display surface tensioning means

G09F 15/0025

Translucent ceilings, i.e. permitting both the transmission and diffusion of light ({E04B 9/303 and} E04B 9/34 takes precedence; lighting F21)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Suspended or false ceilings comprising a flexible tensioned membrane secured to the supporting construction and/or to the adjacent walls

E04B 9/303

Grid-like or open-work ceilings, e.g. lattice type ceilings

E04B 9/34

Lighting

F21

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Translucent floors

E04B 5/46

Translucent roofs

E04D 3/06, E04D 3/28

Special rules of classification

Suspended or false ceilings with means for hanging lighting fixtures or other appliances to the framework of the suspended or false ceiling, e.g. to the T-bars of a suspended ceiling, are classified in E04B 9/006.

{Grid-like or} open-work ceilings, e.g. lattice type {box-like modules, acoustic baffles} (E04B 9/30 takes precedence)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Details of ceiling edges

E04B 9/30

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Sound or noise insulation in buildings

E04B 1/74, E04B 1/82

Slab shaped sound absorbing elements for buildings

E04B 1/86

Grids for lighting devices

F21V

Methods or devices for protecting against or damping noise

G10K 11/00

Special rules of classification

Ceilings comprising suspended box-like modules are classified in E04B 9/34.

Ceilings comprising suspended vertical panels used as acoustic baffles are classified in E04B 9/34.

{consisting of non-parallel slats, e.g. grids}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Connections between non parallel members of the supporting construction of a suspended ceiling

E04B 9/12

Special rules of classification

Grid-like ceilings are classified in E04B 9/345.

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Slat

A long, thin, flat piece of lumber, metal or plastic.

consisting of parallel slats
Special rules of classification

Open-work ceilings consisting of slats having horizontal principal plane and slats having vertical principal plane are classified in E04B 9/36.