Structural barrier and related methods of use

Abstract

An elongated structural barrier is provided that includes a base, a first panel extending upwardly from the base, a first sealing wall extending downwardly and laterally from the base, a second panel joined with the first panel and extending upwardly, a lower wedge extending upwardly from the base adjacent the first sealing wall, and a core compartment defined by the lower wedge and the panels having an open face defined above the lower wedge and providing a viewing portion into the core compartment. The lower wedge can include a first flange to form a first chamber of the compartment, an intumescent core can be positioned in the first chamber and configured to expand into a second chamber of the compartment when it expands. A second flange can oppose the first flange to further secure the core in the first chamber, and a deployment gap can be formed therebetween. Related methods of use are also provided.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a construction barrier, and more particularly to a construction barrier that is placed between adjacent structures to inhibit the passage of sound, fire, smoke, and other items through the gap between adjacent structures. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the construction of buildings, walls typically extend between a floor and a ceiling in a room or other space. In many construction projects, a wall, floor, or ceiling abuts another wall, floor, or ceiling, sometimes creating a joint or gap. This often occurs in commercial construction where the building shell or multiple structural floors are first constructed. After the shell or floors are constructed, walls are built to subdivide the shell or individual floors into multiple rooms. The walls typically include a base panel that is secured to the floor. The walls extend upwardly toward the ceiling. The walls also include a top panel or top that is placed proximate to the ceiling. To facilitate raising or tilting the built walls into position below the ceiling, the walls are constructed to be slightly shorter than the distance between the floor and the ceiling, such that the top panel does not engage the ceiling when the walls are raised into an upright configuration.

[0003] Because the walls are shorter than the distance between the floor and the ceiling, an opening is created above the wall and below the ceiling. Most fire and other building codes require that this opening be filled with a fire retardant, fire resistant, and / or soundproofing material. Typically, these materials are applied in the form of a liquid, semi-liquid, or sprayed foam. An installer typically manipulates a large applicator tube or caulk gun filled with a tube of material and aims a nozzle at the opening. As the installer progresses along the opening, the installer activates the tube or gun to spray or apply a bead or amount of material into the opening. The installer must move the nozzle in perfect timing and at a constant rate to ensure that the bead size is uniform, so that material is not wasted, and so that there is enough material to fill the opening to seal the opening between the wall and the ceiling.

[0004] In most cases, the material is applied with a large tube or caulk gun as described above. These applicators are large, cumbersome, and unwieldy, especially when the installer is installing the material at openings overhead during the workday, along very long walls, or multiple times along multiple walls. Additionally, after the material cures, excess applicator material must be removed to provide the final appearance of the fill and the adjacent wall. For example, the material can need to be shaved, and sometimes sanded, to make it flush with the adjacent wall or ceiling so that wall covering or flooring can be applied. Additionally, when the material is applied by hand and is semi-liquid in form when applied, the material often drips or runs down the wall. It is also possible to fill the gap for wiring, plumbing, and / or HVAC ducting in a wrap or other manner. This creates a significant amount of additional work to remove the excess material.

[0005] Accordingly, there is still room for improvement in the field of fillers for sealing or filling openings between adjacent walls, ceilings or panels in a construction project. SUMMARY

[0006] An elongated structural barrier is provided that includes a base, a first panel extending upwardly from the base, a first sealing wall extending downwardly and transversely to the base, a second panel joined to the first panel and extending upwardly, a lower wedge extending upwardly from the base adjacent to the first sealing wall, and a core compartment defined by the lower wedge and the panels, having an open face defined above the lower wedge and providing a viewing portion into the core compartment. The elongated structural barrier can be easily and precisely installed between various building structures to automatically seal the respective gaps therebetween.

[0007] In one embodiment, the barrier can include an upper wedge extending downwardly from a trailing end of the second panel toward the lower wedge. The upper wedge and the lower wedge can collectively define the open face.

[0008] In another embodiment, an elongated core can be disposed in the compartment. The core can have an elongated configuration and extend along a length of the base. The core can include an exposed surface exposed to a viewer through the open face.

[0009] In yet another embodiment, the core can be constructed of an intumescent material that expands against the lower wedge and optionally the upper wedge upon exposure to heat. These wedges can cooperatively hold the core within the core compartment as the core expands. For example, in some cases, the upper wedge and the lower wedge are able to exert opposing forces on the core as the core thermally expands, thereby holding the core in the compartment.

[0010] In yet another embodiment, the second panel extends upwardly along a curvilinear contour. The curvilinear contour can include a radius of about 0.2 inches to about 0.6 inches. The curvilinear contour can be convex upwardly away from a horizontal reference line that bisects the core compartment into an upper portion and a lower portion. The curvilinear contour and the second panel can generally be flexible to automatically accommodate varying sizes of the gap in which the barrier is placed. As a result, this can expand the range of minimum and maximum fits of the gap.

[0011] In yet another embodiment, the barrier can include a transition wall extending vertically and transverse to the horizontal reference plane. The transition wall can join the first panel and the second panel. In some cases, the transition wall can be planar, while the first panel and the second panel can both be curvilinear and convex away from the horizontal reference plane.

[0012] In yet another embodiment, the core in the core compartment can be constructed of a fire-retardant, fire-resistant, and / or soundproofing material to further enhance the insulating function of the structural barrier placed in the gap.

[0013] In another embodiment, the barrier can include a first lower flange extending from the first wedge. The core compartment can include a first chamber and a second chamber. The lower wedge can include the first lower flange extending toward the first panel. The first chamber can be below the first lower flange. The second chamber can be above the first lower flange.

[0014] In yet another embodiment, the barrier can include a second lower flange joined with the first panel and extending toward the lower wedge. The first chamber can be below the second lower flange. The second chamber can be above the second lower flange.

[0015] In yet another embodiment, the core can be constructed of an intumescent material that expands against the first lower flange and the second lower flange upon exposure to heat. The first lower flange and the second lower flange can define a deployment gap therebetween. When the core expands, the intumescent material can expand through the gap into the second chamber of the core compartment.

[0016] In another embodiment, a method of installing an elongated structural barrier is provided. The method can include placing the elongated structural barrier in a gap between a first surface and a second surface of a building such that the first panel and the second panel are within the gap, the first panel engages the first surface and the second panel engages the second surface above the first surface, and the base extends away from the first panel; placing a first sealing wall extending downward from the base and transverse to the base against a third surface of the building that is substantially perpendicular to the first surface, wherein the first sealing wall prevents at least the first panel and the second panel from extending too far into the gap between the first surface and the second surface; moving the second panel downward toward the base, the second panel bending along an arcuate profile toward the base such that a height of the barrier is automatically adjusted to allow the barrier to fit within the gap between the first surface and the second surface; and optionally applying a wall covering to the first sealing wall such that the first sealing wall blends into the third surface.

[0017] In another embodiment, the method can be used where the first surface is an upper portion of a vertical wall; the second surface is a horizontal surface above the vertical wall, spaced apart from the upper portion of the vertical wall by a gap; and the third surface is a vertical surface of the vertical wall. The applying step can include applying the material on the lower edge of the first seal wall and the vertical surface.

[0018] In yet another embodiment, the method can include compressing an intumescent core within the core compartment. The intumescent core can be held within the core compartment by the force applied to the core by the respective first and second wedge portions. In some applications, the core can be visible through the opening face when the barrier is installed within the gap.

[0019] Current embodiments of the structural barrier and related installation methods provide previously unattainable advantages in sealing or filling gaps between adjacent building structures. For example, an elongated structural barrier can be quickly installed within a gap overhead, low, or in locations within a building that are difficult to reach. Where the second panel is arcuate and flexible, the elongated structural barrier can compress or expand within the gap and automatically and sufficiently seal the adjacent surfaces regardless of the size variation of the gap therebetween. Where lower and / or upper wedge portions are included, these components can hold the core within the core compartment for a longer period of time to enhance fire protection. The core can expand, but the wedge portions can exert an opposing force on the core to prevent it from expanding out of the core compartment and / or barrier.

[0020] These and other objects, advantages, and features of the present application will be more fully understood and appreciated by reference to the description of the current embodiments and

[0021] Before the embodiments of the application are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the application is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The application is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of "including," "comprising," or "having" and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items and equivalents thereof. Further, enumeration can be used in the description of various embodiments. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the use of enumeration should not be construed as applying to any specific order or sequence of steps or components. Nor should the use of enumeration be construed as excluding from the scope of the application any additional steps or components that might be combined with or substituted for enumerated steps or components. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1is a cross-sectional view of a structural barrier of the current embodiment;

[0023] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a structural barrier without the core installed;

[0024] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a structural barrier being initially installed in a gap between adjacent building structures;

[0025] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a structural barrier that has been installed in a gap;

[0026] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a structural barrier that is partially sealed and covered by a wall covering;

[0027] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a dual structural barrier of a first alternative embodiment installed in a gap;

[0028] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a second alternative embodiment of a structural barrier that includes a reduced volume core prior to inflation;

[0029] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a second alternative embodiment of a structural barrier with the core being inflated; and

[0030] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of a dual structural barrier of a second alternative embodiment installed in a gap. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] The current embodiment of a structural barrier is shown in Figures 1 to 5 and generally designated "510". The structural barrier can be in the form of an elongated structure. As Figure 2As shown, the elongated structure can have a length L. The length L can be any predetermined length suitable for installation between adjacent building structures, such as walls, ceilings, floors, roofs, etc. Depending on the application and the length of the gap to be filled, sealed, or otherwise closed, the predetermined length L can optionally be at least 1 foot, at least 2 feet, at least 3 feet, at least 4 feet, at least 6 feet, or greater or lesser lengths. The structural barrier 510 can include a first panel 520 and a second panel 530. The first panel 520 and the second panel 530 can be joined via a transition wall 560. The first panel 520 can extend to a base or extension wall 540, which itself can transition to a first sealing wall 550. The second panel 530 is shown disposed over the first panel 520, the transition wall 560, the extension wall 540, and the first sealing wall 550, which can terminate in a wiper end 537. The wiper end 537 can be closer to the transition wall 560 than the first sealing wall 550, and can be configured to move in direction M, for example, when the barrier 510 (optionally under the action of a force) is forced into a gap between structural members.

[0032] The barrier 510 can be equipped with one or more wedge-shaped portions, such as a first or upper wedge-shaped portion 581 that protrudes from the second panel 530 away from the transition wall 560 at or near the wiper end 537, and / or a second or lower wedge-shaped portion 582 that protrudes from the base 540 at or near the first sealing wall 550. The wedge-shaped portions 581 and 582 can define an open face 589 therebetween through which the fire-resistant core 590 can be visible to confirm its presence in the barrier 510 by visual inspection. The open face design with a core also allows the first wedge-shaped portion 581 to flex toward the second wedge-shaped portion 582 when the core is forced to compress, which in turn allows for significant variation in the width of the gap in which the barrier can be used. In addition, as described below, the first wedge-shaped portion 581 and the second wedge-shaped portion 582 can act to contain and restrain the core 590 when it expands at elevated temperatures. In some cases, as described below, the wedge-shaped portions redirect pressure from the expanding core to increase the retention of the core within the barrier.

[0033] As Figures 4 to 5 shown, the structural barrier 510 can be disposed between a building first surface 1 and a building second surface 2 to fill, close, or partially or completely block a gap G between the first surface 1 and the second surface 2. As shown, the first surface 1 can be an upper portion of a wall W, while the building second surface 2 can be a horizontal surface, such as a ceiling or roof in a building or other generally horizontal structure C. Of course, in other applications as described below, the gap G can be formed between other building surfaces.

[0034] The structural barrier 510 can be constructed from a variety of materials, such as polymers, composites, metals, and combinations thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, the structural barrier can be an extruded piece of polymeric material. Such polymeric material can be a fire resistant or flame retardant thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Of course, other types of polymeric materials can be used. These polymeric materials can be fire resistant and / or heat degradation resistant, or can generally burn at a very slow rate. These polymeric materials can include polar monomers and / or hydrogen bonds between polymer chains to enhance fire resistance. The polymers can optionally incorporate aromatic or heterocyclic rings, with polyimides, polybenzoxazoles, polybenzimidazoles, and polybenzothiazoles being some examples of polymers suitable for the structural barrier. The polymeric material can be ladder polymers, which are connected to polymer chains by periodic covalent bonds, or can be double-stranded single strands. Further optionally, the polymeric material can include inorganic and / or semi-organic polymers with silicon-nitrogen, boron-nitrogen, and / or phosphorus-nitrogen monomers. Further optionally, the polymeric material can include flame retardant additives and / or fillers. Examples of such additives can include aluminum, phosphorus, nitrogen, antimony, chlorine, bromine, and in some cases, magnesium, zinc, and / or carbon. In some cases, when the structural barrier is constructed from a composite material, the composite material can include flame resistant natural fibers. In other cases, the structural barrier can be constructed from nanocomposites, carbon fibers, and other carbon-based materials. In yet other cases, organically modified clays, titanium dioxide, nanoparticles, silica nanoparticles, layered double hydroxides, carbon nanotubes, and polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes can be incorporated into and / or form the structural barrier.

[0035] Optionally, the structural barrier can be constructed by extrusion. This can enable the structural barrier to be produced in an elongated form and in a continuous, repeatable manner. Such extrusion can also facilitate the manufacture of long pieces of the structural barrier, which can optionally be cut to custom or standard lengths for particular jobs. These long structural barriers can also be wound into rolls, where the structural barrier material is flexible. Of course, in other applications, the elongated structural barrier can be constructed by injection molding and cast molding through other techniques.

[0036] Further reference is made to Figures 1 to 2The structural barrier 510 can include a first panel 520, a second panel 530, and a base 540. The base 540 can be a planar strip or sheet and can extend from a first sealing wall or panel 550 to the first panel 520. The base 540 can extend the length L of the barrier 510. The base can include an upper surface 540U and an opposite lower surface 540L. The upper surface can be flat and featureless and configured to face and engage the core 590, as described below. The lower surface can likewise be flat and featureless, however, in some cases, the lower surface can include ribs 540R. These ribs can be elongated and can extend the length L of the barrier. The ribs can be polygonal, or other shapes, such as rounded, contoured, or other shapes. When installed, the ribs can engage and bite into the drywall or other wall structure below the barrier 510. This can provide enhanced retention to hold the barrier in the gap G in which it is placed. The upper surface can be free of ribs as it generally only engages the core 590.

[0037] As described above, the base 540 can extend between the sealing wall 550 and the first panel 520. The base can include a second or lower wedge 582 projecting therefrom. As shown, the wedge projects upwardly from the upper surface 540U of the base 540 at, near, or adjacent to the sealing wall 550. The wedge can be a true wedge, where first and second walls 582A and 582B taper toward a point 582P and toward each other, or the wedge can be a thick flange having a uniform thickness extending upwardly from the base. When the wedge is in a static state as shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 The wall 582B of the wedge can face the first panel 520 and / or the second panel 530 when the wedge is in a static state as shown. The lower wedge can be indented back from the outer or exterior surface of the first sealing wall 550 by a distance D4. This distance can be equal to or greater than the thickness of the first sealing wall 550, depending on the application.

[0038] The first sealing wall 550 may be connected to the distal end 542 of the base 540. The first sealing wall 550 may be substantially perpendicular to the first extension wall 540 and extend downward away from the horizontal reference line R1, which substantially divides the core compartment 590C into an upper U and a lower L. The reference line R1 may also correspond to a reference plane that extends along the length L of the structural barrier 510 through the reference plane. As described above, the first sealing wall 550 may be a planar or flat shape as shown, extending downward away from the reference line R1 or the reference plane and the first extension wall or base 540. The first sealing wall 550 may extend downward from the base 540 by a distance H3. This distance H3 may be less than the total height H1 plus H2 of the barrier 510 above the sealing wall 550, and optionally less than each of the height H1 of the upper U of the core compartment or the barrier itself or the height H2 of the lower L. In some cases, the height H3 may optionally be 0.25 inches to 2.00 inches (inclusive), 0.5 inches to 1.5 inches (inclusive), 0.75 inches to 1.25 inches, 0.5 inches to 1.00 inches (inclusive), approximately 1.00 inch, or other heights, depending on the application and the amount of overlap with the adjacent building surface 3 (e.g., the vertical surface of wall W). Although shown as flat or planar, the first sealing wall 550 may be curved and / or may include curvature. The sealing wall 550 may be somewhat rigid and inflexible to help place the barrier in the gap G, as described below. In other cases, the wall 550 may be elastic and bendable when the distal end 552 engages the third surface 3, as... Figure 4 As shown, the third surface 3 can be substantially perpendicular to the first surface 1. As shown, the first sealing wall 550 can at least prevent the first panel 520 and the second panel 530 from being excessively inserted into the gap G between the first surface 1 and the second surface 2.

[0039] Optionally, the distal end 552 can be thinned to a second thickness less than the first thickness T1. This second thickness can be very thin, allowing the structure at the distal end 552 to blend seamlessly into the adjacent surface during installation and transition smoothly and uniformly. This allows wall coverings such as paint, coatings, wallpaper, gypsum board, films, or other materials to be applied. Figure 5 The first sealing wall 550 can be placed at the distal end without forming a substantially noticeable line or edge at that location. Typically, the first sealing wall 550 can taper towards its distal end 552 (not shown), as described below. As an example of such taper, the first sealing wall 50 can taper from a first thickness T1 towards the distal end 552 to a smaller second thickness.

[0040] The base 540 may include a lower surface 540L, which is configured to face the first surface 1 of the building's first structure. For example, as Figure 4As shown, surface 540L can be configured to face an upper or upper surface 1 of a building wall W when structure barrier 510 is placed in gap G and directly contacts this first surface 1. Base 540 can include an upper surface 540U that can be configured to face reference line R1 and second panel 530. Second panel can include an upper surface 530U and a lower surface 530L that generally faces compartment 590C and upper surface 540U. Upper surface 530U can be configured to face a second surface 2, e.g., a horizontal surface, such as Figure 4 As shown, building ceiling C. In practice, the respective surfaces and walls can join respective surfaces 1 and 2, as described below.

[0041] As Figure 1 shown, base 540 can optionally extend a distance D1 away from first sealing wall 550 parallel to reference line R1. For this distance, upper surface 540U and base 540 can be generally parallel to reference line R1. Depending on the application, this distance D1 can optionally be at least ¼ inch, at least ½ inch, about 0.555 inch, at least 1 inch, at least 1.5 inches, at least 3 inches, at least 5 inches, or more.

[0042] First panel 520 can include a first or proximal end 521 and a second or distal end 522. Likewise, second panel 530 can include a first or proximal end 531 and a second or distal end 532. Proximal end of first panel 521 can be directly or indirectly joined with proximal end 531 of second panel. As Figure 1 shown, proximal end 521 can be directly joined with transition wall or panel 560, and proximal end 531 can also be joined to this common transition wall 560 at its upper end. Optionally, transition wall 560 can extend vertically and transversely to horizontal reference line or reference plane R1 and can join first panel with second panel. As shown, this transition wall 560 can be linear, flat, and / or planar, or in some cases can take an arcuate shape or curvature that extends through plane R1. Further optionally, the transition wall can have a different shape than the first and second panels, e.g., be generally linear or planar, while the first and second panels can be generally arcuate or include a curvature.

[0043] As Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the base 540 can extend to the first panel 520. The first panel can be curvilinear and can transition on a convex curve CI away from a horizontal reference line or reference plane Rl as it extends toward the second panel 530. The curve CI can be constant or variable. In some cases, the curve can actually be a right angle, where the base 540 transitions to the first panel 520 with a corner or right angle. In such cases, the base can be parallel to the reference line Rl, while the first panel can be transverse or perpendicular to the reference line Rl. The first panel can be flat and planar and can extend vertically upward from its distal end 522.

[0044] As described above and as Figure 1 shown, the structural barrier 510 can include a reference plane or reference line Rl that bisects the core compartment 590C or the structural barrier 510 into an upper portion U and a lower portion L having respective heights Hl and H2. As shown, the structural barrier 510 can be a slightly asymmetric construction about the reference line Rl. For example, the first panel 520 and the second panel 530 can both be curved convexly away from the reference line, but the curvatures CI and C2 can be different and can have different length radii Rl and R2, respectively.

[0045] Optionally, the radius of curvature R2 of the second panel 530 can be greater than the radius of curvature Rl of the first panel 520. The second panel 530 can have a convex upward curvature C2 or curvilinear profile. The second panel 530 can also be flexible, such that the second panel can move toward or away from the horizontal reference line or reference plane Rl to automatically adjust the height of the barrier relative to the gap between the structural members on which the barrier is placed. The second radius R2 of the curved or curvilinear profile C2 can be constant or variable. In certain cases, it can be constant. In constant cases, the radius R2 can optionally be from about 0.1 inch to about 1.5 inches, from about 0.2 inches to about 0.8 inches, from about 0.2 inches to about 0.6 inches, or from about 0.3 inches to about 0.4 inches.

[0046] Each of the first and second panels can also have its corresponding distal end 522 and 532 extend approximately the same vertical distance from the reference line Rl. Optionally, these ends 522 and 532 can be separated from each other by a total height Hl plus H2, which can be less than, equal to, or greater than the gap G in which the structural barrier 510 is to be placed. In some cases, the total height Hl plus H2 can be slightly greater than the gap G, so that the second panel 530 is elastically compressed so that the sliding end 537 and the distal end 532 of the second panel automatically adjust to varying heights along the gap G when the barrier is placed. Depending on the gap to be filled, the total height Hl plus H2 can be any height, but can optionally be about ¼ inch, ½ inch, 2 / 3 inch, ¾ inch, 0.755 inch, 1 inch, 2 inches, 3 inches, 4 inches, or other height. Again, due to the flexibility of the second panel 530 and the compressibility of the core 590 when included, the barrier can accommodate a variety of different sized and varying gaps.

[0047] Optionally, the thickness Tl of the base 540, the first panel 520, and the second panel 530, and the optional transition wall 560, can be substantially equal. In some cases, the thickness Tl can optionally be 0.01 inch to 0.25 inch, inclusive, about 0.05 inch, 0.10 inch to 0.2 inch, inclusive, or 0.05 inch to 0.125 inch. As noted above, in some cases, the thickness can taper or vary depending on the application.

[0048] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the second panel 530 can taper or curve or slope away from the reference line Rl while extending a distance D2 toward the distal end 532 of the panel. The distance D2 can be greater than the distance Dl described above. The second panel 530 can be a generally upwardly curved, bent, or arched, and convex away from the reference line Rl. In other embodiments, the second panel 530 can slope in multiple steps upwardly and away from the reference line, depending on the application. With this curvature or slope of the second panel 530 away from the reference line Rl, the panel can be elastic, bendable, and flexible so that when placed against a surface, for example, the second surface 2, its distal end 532 can bend, flex, fold, or move (herein collectively referred to as "move") in a general direction M toward the reference line Rl while still maintaining the distal end 532 in contact with the horizontal surface 2, as described below. In some cases, the height Hl can be significantly reduced to less than half of Hl, as shown.

[0049] As Figure 1As shown, the second panel 530 can extend to its distal end 532. The second panel 530 can extend to a rub-down end 537 that generally terminates above the first seal wall 550 and above the horizontal reference line Rl. The rub-down end, particularly the upper surface 530L of the second panel, can optionally be free of ribs or barbs as described above. As shown, the upper surface can be curved and smooth without any such ribs or protrusions. This in turn can reduce the weight of the rub-down end so that it does not sag when exposed to excessive heat or fire, causing the gap in which the barrier is placed to open. Without the ribs, the upper surface of the second panel and barrier are also less likely to cause smoke to pass along or over the barrier 510.

[0050] The second panel 530 and / or rub-down end 537 can include an optional first or upper wedge 581. The upper wedge can extend downward from the rub-down end of the second panel toward a lower wedge 582. The upper wedge 581 can include an outer wedge wall 581A that extends between the outer edge 537E of the rub-down end 537 and the apex 581P of the upper wedge toward the open face 589. The wall 581A can be a curved recess, optionally concave. The wedge 581 can also include a second or inner wall 581B that faces generally toward the second panel and the first panel, or generally toward the reference line or plane Rl. The inner wall can optionally be planar or flat, or in some cases can be similar to but facing away from the outer wall.

[0051] Optionally, the upper wedge can be smaller in size than shown, or absent from the second panel and / or rub-down end. With the upper wedge being smaller, this can reduce the weight of the rub-down end so that it does not sag when exposed to excessive heat or fire, causing the gap in which the barrier is placed to open. Further optionally, while shown as a right wedge with a wall tapering or thinning toward the apex, the upper wedge can also be in the form of a wall of uniform thickness, or in the form of an inverse wedge that is still referred to herein as a "wedge."

[0052] The upper wedge 581 can extend downward toward the lower wedge 582, with the wedges defining therebetween the open face 589. As described above, the open face can provide a user with a viewing portion of the wick compartment 590C and the wick 590 disposed therein. The viewing portion can provide a viewer with a visual confirmation that the wick is indeed included in the barrier 510, thereby providing an appropriate level of fire, smoke, noise, or other suppression.

[0053] As shown, the core compartment 590C can be bounded by the lower wedge 582, the first panel 520, the transition panel 560, the second panel 530, and the upper wedge 581. Of course, in the event one of these walls, wedges, or panels is missing, the compartment 590C can be bounded by fewer or more walls or panels. Also, when including the open face 589 bounded above by the lower wedge and below by the upper wedge, this open face 589 can provide a viewing portion into the core compartment to assess or confirm its contents.

[0054] As described above and as shown in FIG. 6, the core compartment 590C can include a core 590. This core can be an elongated structure and can extend generally along the length L of the base or barrier from one end to the other. The core can include an exposed surface 590E, as described below, that is exposed to a viewer through the open face 589 when the barrier is installed relative to the first and second structural members. The core 590 can be a bright color, such as red, bright yellow, and orange, to help in the inspection and confirmation of its presence. The core can be formed to match the interior surfaces of the core compartment to provide superior fit and retention in the core compartment when the barrier 510 is installed. In some cases, the core can have a uniform density throughout its cross-section, while in other cases the density can vary. Figure 1

[0055] The core 590 can include a number of surfaces and features that directly interface with components of the barrier 510. For example, the core can include a lower wedge surface 592 that interfaces with the lower wedge 582 and an upper wedge surface 591 that interfaces with the upper wedge 581. As described below, these surfaces can expand against the respective wedges when the core expands due to heat. The respective upper and lower wedges can exert counter forces Fl and F2, respectively, on the expanding core to retain the core in the core compartment when subjected to heat or fire. Optionally, the core can also include a second panel surface 593 that interfaces with the second panel 530. This surface and the core material near it can be compressed more than other portions of the core when placing the barrier in the gap G in some cases, as the second panel 530 bends or flexes in the direction M to accommodate the size of the gap. Further optionally, the core can include a transition surface 593 that interfaces with the transition wall 540, a first panel surface 597 that interfaces with the first panel 520, and a base surface 598 that interfaces with the base 540. Of course, in some applications, the core can not match the interior surfaces of the panels and walls of the barrier. In such cases, the core can have a polygonal, circular, or elliptical cross-section and simply be placed in the core compartment without matching its interior shape and dimensions.

[0056] ​As described above, the elongated core can be constructed of a variety of materials. The material can be in the form of a fire-retardant, sound-dampening, noise-reducing, and / or cushioning element. In some cases, the core can be pre-cut and shaped to fit the interior of the core compartment. In other cases, the core can be sprayed or otherwise filled within the core compartment 590C within all panels. The core can be compressible such that when the barrier is placed in the gap, the core can compress when the second panel is moved in the direction M. In some cases, the core can be constructed of foam, polymer, natural fibers, gel, viscous material, or a combination of any of the foregoing. As shown, the core can be constructed of an intumescent foam that expands when exposed to heat, for example, due to a fire or flame, optionally above 200 degrees, above 300 degrees, above 400 degrees, above 500 degrees, above 1000 degrees, or other Fahrenheit temperature. When the core expands, its wedge surface expands outward against the lower and upper wedges that cooperatively hold the core within the core compartment as the core expands. Again, this can be due to the dynamic and reactive forces F1 and F2 that the wedges exert on the core. The panels and walls surrounding the core can also cooperatively work to generally contain the core within the core compartment and barrier 510. In some cases, the core can expand or expand or swell through the opening face 589. After prolonged exposure to heat or flame, the core can begin to break down and the barrier itself can melt or burn.

[0057] A method of installing a structural barrier will now be described with reference to Figures 3 to 5 A structural barrier can be installed between a first building structure W and a second building structure C. The first building structure W can optionally be a vertical wall or vertical surface having a third or outer surface 3 that is vertical. The second building structure C can optionally be a ceiling or horizontal surface having a second surface 2. The wall W can also include a first surface 1 formed in an upper portion of the wall W. A gap G can be formed vertically between the first surface 1 and the second surface 2.

[0058] Figure 3 The structural barrier 510 in FIG. 5 can be tilted along the direction R3 and inserted into the gap G. Upon insertion, the sealing wall 550 can engage the third surface 3. Upon such engagement, the first sealing wall 550 can remain rigid or slightly curved. The first sealing wall 550 can extend downward from the base 540 and laterally against the third surface 3 of the building that is substantially perpendicular to the first surface such that the first sealing wall at least hinders the first and second panels from being inserted further into the gap between the first and second surfaces.

[0059] The base 540 and / or the first panel 520 can engage the first surface 1. The sliding end 537 and / or the second panel 530 can engage the second surface 2 of the ceiling C. As a result, the second panel 530 can elastically deflect and / or slightly bend during this engagement. The second panel 530 can move downward toward the base in the direction M, automatically bending or folding, wherein the second panel bends toward the base along an arcuate profile. The total height H1 plus H2 of the barrier 510 can be automatically adjusted to allow the barrier to fit within the gap G between the first surface 1 and the second surface 2. In this case, the second panel can optionally change from the arcuate shape shown to a smaller arcuate shape or a more curved shape. The first wedge and the second wedge can also be disposed in the gap, and again, the sealing wall does not enter the gap but is disposed on the wall 3. As the barrier is inserted, the sliding end can also move in the direction M. During this insertion process, the core is compressed in the core compartment, its volume decreases, and optionally its density increases, such that the respective inner surfaces press against the core surface. The wedges can further serve to hold the core in the compartment.

[0060] like Figure 4 As shown, the structural barrier 510 can be almost completely installed in the gap G. In this configuration, the second panel 530 and the sliding end 537 can be bent to accommodate different sizes of the gap along its length. The total height H1 plus H2 of the barrier can be reduced to a smaller second height H1. The U-shaped core compartment 590C can also be slightly compressed and closed. The first sealing wall 550 can engage and continue to engage the third surface 3. Typically, the first sealing wall can extend laterally from the first extension wall and can be placed against the third surface 3, which is also substantially perpendicular to the first surface 1 of the wall. The sliding end and the second panel can be placed against the surface 2 of the ceiling and apply a force F3 to the surface 2 of the ceiling, which applies a reaction force and a corresponding force F4. When the structural barrier 10 is pushed into the gap G, the base and the panel can be compressed toward each other and toward the reference line R1. Again, when the structural barrier 510 is inserted into the gap G, the first sealing wall 550 can prevent the first panel, the second panel, and the base from being inserted too much into the gap G between the first and second surfaces.

[0061] refer to Figure 5 The structural barrier 510 can be fully installed. Optionally, the structural barrier 510 can be in place by adhesive A applied to the respective surfaces of the base, the first panel, and the second panel. Adhesive A secures the base and a portion of the first panel 520 to the first surface 1, the first sealing wall 550 to the third surface 3, and the second panel and the sliding end to the second surface 2. In this configuration, the opening surface 589 can initially be open, making the core 590 visible to an inspector or other observer to confirm its presence and placement.

[0062] Optionally, a wall covering WC can be applied to the respective surfaces 2 and 3 of the wall W and ceiling C. The wall covering WC can also extend over the sliding end and portions of the first sealing wall 550. A filler material, optionally spackling, drywall, caulk, or other material, can be installed over portions of the barrier 510. The wall covering WC can also extend over the filler material. Of course, in other applications, the filler material can not be installed, leaving a small recess at the top of the wall.

[0063] By installing the structural barrier 510 in the gap G, sound dampening can be provided between the different spaces 51 and 52 on opposite sides of the building structure W. The structural barrier can also inhibit, prevent, or weaken the spread of fire between the spaces 51 and 52. In addition, the structural barrier can prevent the transfer or movement of debris, materials, substances, or other things from the first space 51 to the second space 52.

[0064] A first alternative embodiment of a structural barrier is shown in Figure 6 and generally designated as "610." Except for a few exceptions, the structural barrier can be nearly identical in structure, function, and operation to the structural barrier 510 described above. For example, the structural barrier 610 can include a base 640, a first panel 620, and a second panel 630 with wedge portions 681 and 682 to hold a core 690 in a core compartment 690C. In this embodiment, the barrier can also include a double-sided tape 610T. The tape 610T can be used to secure the first panel 620, the transition panel 660, and / or the second panel 630 to the bracket 680. A filler strip 686 can be disposed in the bracket 680 over the wall. The filler strip can be a fire barrier or intumescent foam located between the first surface 1 of the wall and the second surface 2 of the ceiling. In addition, in this embodiment, another or second barrier 610 can be disposed on the other side of the strip 6, adjacent to the other surface 4 of the wall W opposite the first wall surface 3. The double barrier can provide enhanced fire protection, prevent or weaken the spread of fire, and reduce noise.

[0065] A second alternative embodiment of a structural barrier is shown in Figures 7 to 9The structural barrier 710 is shown in the diagram and is generally designated "710". The structural barrier 710 may be substantially identical or similar to structural barriers 510 and 610, and any other embodiments described above in terms of structure, function, and operation, with a few exceptions. For example, the structural barrier 710 may include a base 740, a first panel 720, and a second panel 730 having one or more wedges 781 to retain the core 790 within the core compartment 790C. The first panel 720 and the second panel 730 may be connected by a transition wall 760. The first panel 720 may extend to the base or extension wall 740, which itself may transition to the first sealing wall 750. The second panel 730 may terminate at a distal free end 737, which extends cantilevered over the base and the wedges 782 described below. The second panel may be positioned above the first panel 720, the transition wall 760, the extension wall 740, and the first sealing wall 750. Except for the free end, all these components can actually be the same as those in the above embodiments. The free end and the second panel can be configured to move in direction M, for example, when the barrier 710 is forced (optionally under force) into the gap between the structural members.

[0066] like Figure 7 As shown, similar to the embodiments described above, the base 740 can extend to the first panel 720. As the first panel extends toward the second panel 730, the first panel can be curved and can transition on a convex curve C3 away from the horizontal reference line or reference plane RL. Curve C3 can be constant or variable. In some cases, the curve can actually be right angled, such that the base 740 transitions to the first panel 720 at an angle or right angle. In this case, the base can be parallel to the reference line R1, while the first panel can be transverse or perpendicular to the reference line R1. The first panel can be flat and planar, and can extend vertically upward from its distal end toward the transition wall or the second panel 730.

[0067] Similar to the embodiments described above, both the first panel 720 and the second panel 730 can be convexly curved away from the reference line; however, the curvatures C3 and C4 can be different and can have different length radii R3 and R4. Optionally, the radius of curvature R2 of the second panel 730 can be greater than the radius of curvature R3 of the first panel 720. The second panel 730 can have a curvature C4 or an upwardly convex curved profile. The second panel 730 can also be flexible, allowing it to move toward or away from the horizontal reference line or reference plane R1 to automatically adjust the height of the barrier 710 relative to the gap G between the structural member on which the barrier is placed. The second radius R4 of the curvature or curved profile C4 can be constant or variable. In some cases, it can be constant. In the case of constancy, the radius R4 can optionally be about 0.1 inches to about 2 inches, about 0.1 inches to about 1.5 inches, about 0.2 inches to about 0.8 inches, about 0.2 inches to about 0.6 inches, or about 0.3 inches to about 0.4 inches.

[0068] like Figure 9 As shown, one or more structural barriers 710 can be disposed between the first surface 1 and the second surface 2 of a building to fill, close, or partially or completely block the gap G between the first surface 1 and the second surface 2, essentially the same as the barriers in the embodiments described above. As shown, the first surface 1 can be the upper portion of a wall W, while the second surface 2 of the building can be a horizontal surface, such as a ceiling or roof in a building or other generally horizontal structural surface C. Of course, in other applications described below, the gap G can be formed between other building surfaces.

[0069] However, in this second embodiment, one or more wedges, a core, and a core compartment may differ from those described in the previous embodiment. For example, the barrier 710 may be equipped with one or more wedges, such as a first or lower wedge 782 protruding from the base 740 at or near the first sealing wall 750. The distal free end 737 may not have any such wedge. An opening face 789 may be defined between the wedge 782 and the distal free end 737. Through this face, the refractory core 790 can be seen, allowing visual inspection to confirm its presence in the barrier 710. As described below, the opening face design with the core also allows the distal end 737 to bend toward the wedge 782 when the core is compressed, which in turn allows for a significant variation in the gap width of the barrier.

[0070] The wedge 782 in this embodiment may be similar to, but differ from, the lower wedge in the above embodiments. For example, the wedge 782 may include an outer wall 782A and an inner wall 782B, the inner wall 782B facing the first panel 720. The inner and outer walls are generally planar and parallel to each other. Although referred to as a wedge, the element 782 may not perform the actual wedging action in some cases and may be in the form of a wall. In some cases, the outer wall 782A may be aligned parallel to and substantially flush with the outer surface of the first sealing wall 750. The outer surfaces of these walls may lie in a common reference plane RP. The inner wall 782B may be positioned opposite to the curve C3 and the uppermost part of the first panel 720. Optionally, as shown, the wedge 782 may extend upward from the base 740 by a distance D6, which is approximately equal to the position where the curve C3 on the first panel 720 terminates. Of course, in other applications, this distance D6 may be varied. Furthermore, this distance D6 can be less than, equal to, or slightly greater than the thickness T4 of the core 790, as described below.

[0071] Optionally, the wedge 782 may extend upward to an upper end 782U, which may optionally be located below the reference line R1 and the lower portion L of the barrier 710. The upper end 782 may include, or may otherwise be connected to, a first lower flange 771 that projects generally toward the first panel 720 and / or the transition panel 760. The flange may be parallel to the base 740 and may project inward toward the panels 720 and / or 760 by a distance D7. Depending on the application, this distance D7 may optionally be 0.1 inches, at least 0.25 inches, or some other measurement. The first lower flange 771 may terminate at an end 771T. When the core is disposed in the core compartment 790C, particularly in the first chamber 790C1 of the core compartment 790C, the end may be disposed on the upper surface or exposed surface 790E of the core 790.

[0072] like Figure 7 As shown, the first lower flange can be connected to the first wedge-shaped portion 782 and can substantially divide the core compartment 790C into the first chamber 790C1 and the second chamber 790C2 described above. As shown, the first chamber can have a smaller volume and / or area than the second chamber. The first chamber can occupy a small portion of the space of the core compartment, while the second chamber can occupy a large portion of the space of the core compartment. Generally, the first chamber 790C1 can be located below the lower portion of the reference line R1 and the barrier 710. The first chamber can also be located below the first lower flange 771 and its end 771T. The dimensions of this lower first chamber can be designed to accommodate the core 790, which, apart from its general construction, can be the same as the core described in the above embodiments.

[0073] Optionally, the core 790 can be constructed of the same materials as described above, in some applications, an intumescent foam. As described above, foams such as these can increase in volume and decrease in density when exposed to heat, such as heat generated by fire and / or flames. As with the embodiments described above, the core can be configured such that it expands due to exposure to heat.

[0074] However, as Figure 7 The core 790 in the embodiment shown can be a generally rectangular and / or polygonal structure that fits easily within the first chamber. The innermost corner edge 790CE can be rounded or contoured to match the curvature C3 and to fit against the first panel, optionally abutting the first panel along the curvature C3. The lower surface of the core 790L can abut the base 740, and the outer surface 790O can abut the inner wall 782B. The upper surface 790E can face upward and can be visible through the opening face 789 of the barrier 710. As shown in Figure 7 The outer portion 790E of the core 790C can be visible through the deployment gap 788 disposed adjacent to the first lower flange 771, in particular from the end 771T thereof, as shown. Thus, Figure 9 The user U shown in FIG. 7 can see the presence of the core 790 in the barrier 710 installed between the surfaces 1 and 2 through the opening face 789 and through the deployment gap 788, as described below. In this way, the user can confirm that the core is present in the fire barrier in some applications.

[0075] Optionally, the deployment gap 788 can also be bounded by a second lower flange 772 that extends toward the opening face and / or the lower wedge 782. The second lower flange 772 can be aligned with and in the same plane as the first lower flange 771. The second lower flange 772 can terminate at an end 772T that can be distal from the first end 771T. As shown, the second flange can protrude from the upper portion of the first panel 720 and / or the lower portion of the transition panel 760. In other applications, the flange 772 can protrude from the first panel 720 alone, or from the transition panel 760 alone.

[0076] Generally, the second lower flange 772 can be disposed above the first chamber 790C1 and below the second chamber 790C2. The second flange 772 can project outwardly away from the first panel 720 and / or the transition panel 760 a distance approximately the distance D7 such that the flange 772 projects onto the outer surface 790E of the core 790. In cases where both the first lower flange 771 and the second lower flange 772 project onto the core upon installation, these elements can secure the core 790 within the first chamber 790C1. The first and second flanges can cooperatively form the deployment gap 788 therebetween. In the absence of the second flange 772, the deployment gap can be formed between the first lower flange 771 and the first panel 720 and / or the transition panel 760. Further, although the first and second lower flanges are shown projecting outwardly above the core a distance D7, this distance D7 can vary and can be offset towards or away from the first panel and the transition panel depending on the application of the core 790 and the intended trajectory of the core 790 upon deployment and expansion outwardly from the body of the core. Further, above the first chamber, the first and second flanges can be stepped or can be vertically offset relative to one another, although shown as being in the same plane.

[0077] Referring to Figure 8 , the expansion and expansion of the core 790 within the barrier 710 is shown. At this point, the core 790 can be constructed of intumescent foam that expands due to exposure to heat H, for example, generated by a fire. Upon such exposure to heat, the foam can begin to expand and intumesce. In this case, when flanges are not included, the foam can deploy outwardly and in the direction E, generally through the deployment gap 788 defined between the lower flanges 771 and 772 or just between the wedge 782 and the panel 720 or 760. When this occurs, the foam material begins to engage the upper surface of the lower flanges, and in the case of the inclusion of the transition panel 760, the transition panel 760, and the upper panel 730. As shown in some applications, the foam can continue to expand outwardly through the open face 789. At this point, it can extend beyond the reference plane RP of the first seal wall 750 and / or the wedge 782. It can also extend beyond the free end 737 of the barrier 710. As will be appreciated, as the core expands and expands, it escapes through the deployment gap into the second chamber 790C2, moving upwardly there through and optionally filling the entire compartment 790C. Referring to Figure 9 When this occurs, the gap G between the first surface 1 and the second surface 2, for example, between a wall and a ceiling, can be filled with a fire resistant material, namely the intumescent material that has intumesced. The material can continue to burn for a predetermined period of time, or until the fire or heat is suppressed or subsides. In this way, the fire can be limited from spreading from one space 51 on one side of the wall to another space 52 on the other side of the wall via the barrier 710.

[0078] In use, the method of installing the structural barrier 710 of the present embodiment is similar and substantially the same as the above described embodiments and will not be described again here. Generally, reference is made to Figure 9 Opposing structural barriers 710 can be installed within the gap G. The barriers 710 can be provided on opposite sides of the gap G, above the wallboards WB1 and WB2 adjacent the steel studs WS. The barriers 710 can be pushed against the second surface 2 so that the second panel 730 and the free end 737 can flex in the direction M to accommodate the gap G. The first panel can form part of the base 740 which can engage the first surface. The second panel 730 can engage the second surface above the first surface. The base can also extend away from the first panel. The first sealing wall 750 can extend downwardly from the base and laterally against a third surface of the building substantially perpendicular to the first surface. The first sealing wall 750 can optionally prevent the first and second panels from being inserted too far into the gap G, in a manner similar to the above described embodiments.

[0079] As described above, the second panel 730 can be moved in the direction M, optionally downwardly towards the base 740. In this way, the second panel 730 can be flexed in an arcuate profile towards the base. In this way, the height of the barrier is automatically adjusted to fit the barrier within the gap G between the first and second surfaces. Wall covering can be applied over the first sealing wall so that the first sealing wall is integrated into the third surface.

[0080] In the present embodiment, a first wedge portion 782 can be provided along the base 740 so that the opening face 789 is provided above the first wedge portion 782. A first chamber 790C1 can be defined below the lower flange 771 extending from the wedge portion. Optionally, in other applications where a lower flange extends from a base and / or first panel into a core compartment, a first chamber can be defined below the flange. A second chamber can be defined above the lower flange 771 and / or the lower flange 772. The barrier 710 can be configured so that an intumescent core 790 can be positioned within the first chamber 790C1 and / or generally within the core compartment 790C, as in the above described embodiments. The intumescent core can be at least partially retained within the first chamber by the lower flange and positioned adjacent the first wedge portion, the base and / or the first panel. The intumescent core can be positioned so that when exposed to heat, it can expand upwardly through the deployment gap 788 defined adjacent the first lower flange 771 and / or the second lower flange 772. In this way, reference is made to Figure 8 As described above, the intumescent core can expand and move out of the first chamber in the direction E into the second chamber, or generally expand throughout the core compartment to provide additional fire protection through the barrier 710.

[0081] Various components and features of the embodiments herein, such as structural barriers and components thereof, can take a wide variety of aesthetic forms, shapes, and sizes. Although a particular component or feature can have a function, the feature can be expressed in different aesthetic ways to form an artistic design and / or purely decorative design.

[0082] Directional terms such as "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "upper," "lower," "inner," "inwardly," "outer," and "outwardly" are used to facilitate description of the applications, based on the orientation of the embodiments shown in the drawings. The use of directional terms should not be interpreted to limit the applications to any particular (one or more) orientation.

[0083] Additionally, when a component, part, or layer is referred to as being "connected," "coupled," "attached," "fixed," or "joined" to another component, part, or layer, it can be directly connected, coupled, attached, fixed, or joined to the other component, part, or layer or intervening components, parts, or layers can be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly connected," "directly coupled," "directly attached," "directly fixed," or "directly joined" to another element or layer, there are no intervening components, parts, or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion, such as "adjacent," "adjacent to," and the like. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0084] The above description is that of current embodiments of the application. Various alterations and changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the application, which is defined by the scope of the following claims, interpreted in the light of the prior art. This disclosure is presented chiefly for exemplary purposes, and it should not be construed as an exhaustive description of all embodiments of the application, nor should the scope of the claims be limited to the specific elements illustrated or described herein. For example and without limitation, any individual element of the application can be replaced by an alternative element providing substantially similar functionality or otherwise providing suitable operation. This includes, for example, presently known alternative elements, such as those that can be currently known to those skilled in the art, as well as alternative elements that can be developed in the future, such as those that can be identified by those skilled in the art as alternative elements after development. Moreover, the disclosed embodiments include a number of features that cooperate to describe and provide a range of benefits. The application is not limited to only those embodiments that include all of these features or provide all of the described benefits, unless otherwise explicitly stated in the claims. Any reference to claim elements in the singular, for example, using the articles "a," "an," "the" or "said," means that one or more elements can be included in the implementation of the claim. Any reference to claim elements in the alternative, for example, using the phrase "at least one of X, Y and Z," means that any of X, Y or Z can be included, either individually or in any combination of X, Y and Z (e.g., X, Y, Z; X, Y; X, Z; Y, Z), and / or any other possible combination of the elements, together or individually.

Claims

1. An elongated structural barrier, comprising: a base; a first panel extending upward from the base toward a horizontal reference line; a first seal wall extending downward and transverse to the base; a second panel joined with the first panel and extending in a curvilinear manner upward of the horizontal reference line and having a radius of 0.2 inches to 0.6 inches, the second panel extending to a run end terminating at the first seal wall and above the horizontal reference line; a lower wedge extending upward from the base adjacent the first seal wall, the lower wedge including a first wedge wall and a second wedge wall facing at least one of the first panel and the second panel; and a core compartment defined by the lower wedge, the first panel, and the second panel such that an opening face is defined above the lower wedge and provides a viewing portion into the core compartment, the core compartment configured for receiving a core therein.

2. The elongated structural barrier of claim 1, comprising: the core disposed in the core compartment; wherein the core has an elongated configuration and extends along a length of the base; wherein the core compartment includes a first chamber and a second chamber; wherein the lower wedge includes a first lower flange extending toward the first panel; wherein the first chamber is below the first lower flange; wherein the second chamber is above the first lower flange.

3. The elongated structural barrier of claim 1, the core constructed of intumescent material capable of expanding upon exposure to heat; wherein whereby, upon the core increasing in volume upon exposure to heat, the core increases in volume and decreases in density such that the core expands against the first panel and the lower wedge, the lower wedge retaining the core in the core compartment.

4. The elongated structural barrier of claim 3, the first seal wall extending downward from a first distal end of the base; wherein wherein the first seal wall includes a first seal wall inner surface configured to face a building wall outer surface.

5. The elongated structural barrier of claim 1, comprising: a second lower flange joined with the first panel and extending toward the lower wedge; wherein the core compartment includes a first chamber and a second chamber; wherein the first chamber is below the second lower flange; wherein the second chamber is above the second lower flange.

6. The elongated structural barrier of claim 1, the run end including an upper wedge having an outer wedge wall extending between an outer edge of the run end and an apex of the upper wedge toward the opening face. wherein 7. The elongated structural barrier of claim 6, comprising: a second lower flange joined with the first panel and extending toward the lower wedge; and the core; wherein the lower wedge includes a first lower flange extending toward the first panel; ​ ​ wherein the core compartment includes a first chamber defined below the first and second lower flanges, and a second chamber defined above the first and second lower flanges; wherein the core is disposed in the core compartment in the first chamber; wherein the core has an elongated configuration and extends along a length of the base; wherein the core is captured in the first chamber by the first and second lower flanges; wherein the core is constructed of intumescent material that is capable of intumescing against the first and second lower flanges upon exposure to heat; wherein the first and second lower flanges define a deployment gap therebetween; whereby, when the core intumescs, the intumescent material intumescs through the gap into the second chamber of the core compartment.

8. An elongated structural barrier, comprising: a base; a first panel extending upward from the base toward a horizontal reference line; a first sealing wall extending downward and transverse to the base; a second panel joined with the first panel and extending upward of the horizontal reference line; a first wedge extending upward from the base adjacent the first sealing wall, the first wedge including a first wedge wall and a second wedge wall facing at least one of the first panel and the second panel; and a core compartment bounded by the first wedge, the first panel, and the second panel such that an open face is defined above the first wedge and provides a viewing portion into the core compartment, the core compartment configured to receive a core therein.

9. The elongated structural barrier of claim 8, wherein the second panel extending upward along a curved profile; wherein the curved profile includes a radius of 0.2 inches to 0.6 inches.

10. The elongated structural barrier of claim 9, wherein, the curved profile includes a radius of 0.3 inches to 0.4 inches; wherein the first sealing wall extends downward away from the base and is configured to engage a vertical building surface.

11. The elongated structural barrier of claim 9, wherein, the curved profile is convex away from the horizontal reference line; wherein the second panel extends to a run-off end terminating above the first sealing wall and the horizontal reference line.

12. The elongated structural barrier of claim 8, wherein, the second panel is flexible such that the second panel is movable toward or away from the horizontal reference line to automatically adjust a height of the elongated structural barrier relative to a gap between structural members upon which the elongated structural barrier is placed.

13. The elongated structural barrier of claim 8, comprising: the core, the core being an elongated foam core disposed in the core compartment; a first lower flange extending from the first wedge; a second lower flange extending from the first panel toward the first lower flange to establish a deployment gap therebetween; wherein the core compartment includes a first chamber defined below the first lower flange and the second lower flange, and a second chamber above the first lower flange and the second lower flange; wherein, when the elongate structural barrier is installed relative to the first structural member and the second structural member, the elongate foam core is visible through the opening face and through the deployment gap.

14. The elongate structural barrier of claim 13, wherein the elongate foam core is constructed of an intumescent foam that is capable of expanding upon exposure to heat, such that when the core expands the foam expansion is through the deployment gap into the second chamber of the core compartment.

15. The elongate structural barrier of claim 8, wherein the base is a planar wall that extends to the first panel; wherein the first panel is curvilinear and transitions toward the second panel on a convex curve away from the horizontal reference line.

16. The elongate structural barrier of claim 8, comprising: the core, the core being an elongate foam core disposed in the core compartment; a first lower flange, the first lower flange extending inward from the first wedge portion above the base into the core compartment, forming a first chamber below the first lower flange and a second chamber above the first lower flange; a second lower flange, the second lower flange opposing the first lower flange to form a deployment gap therebetween, the second lower flange extending inward into the core compartment to cooperate with the first lower flange to form the first chamber below the second lower flange and the second chamber above the second lower flange; wherein the elongate foam core is disposed in the first chamber; thereby, the elongate foam core is positioned such that when the elongate foam core expands, the elongate foam core travels through the deployment gap to protrude into the second chamber.

17. The elongate structural barrier of claim 16, comprising: an upper wedge portion, the upper wedge portion extending downward from a trailing end of the second panel toward the first wedge portion; the core, the core being an intumescent core disposed in the core compartment, the intumescent core including a lower wedge portion surface that engages the first wedge portion and an upper wedge portion surface that engages the upper wedge portion when the core expands upon heat; thereby, the upper wedge portion and the first wedge portion exert opposing forces on the expanding core to retain the core in the core compartment.

18. A method of installing an elongate structural barrier, the method comprising: placing an elongate structural barrier in a gap between a first surface and a second surface of a building such that a first panel and a second panel are within the gap, the elongate structural barrier engages the first surface and the second panel engages the second surface above the first surface, and such that a base extends away from the first panel; placing a first sealing wall extending downwardly from the base and transversely to the base against a third surface of the building, the third surface being substantially perpendicular to the first surface, the first sealing wall preventing at least the first panel and the second panel from being inserted too far into the gap between the first surface and the second surface; moving the second panel downwardly toward the base, the second panel bending along an arcuate profile toward the base such that a height of the elongate structural barrier is automatically adjusted to allow the elongate structural barrier to fit within the gap between the first surface and the second surface; and applying a wall covering to the first sealing wall such that the first sealing wall blends into the third surface.

19. The method of claim 18, comprising: providing a first wedge along the base such that an open face is defined above the first wedge and a core compartment is bounded by the first wedge, the first panel, the second panel, and the base; defining a first chamber of the core compartment below a lower flange extending into the core compartment from at least one of the first wedge, the base, and the first panel; and defining a second chamber of the core compartment above the lower flange.

20. The method of claim 19, comprising: positioning an intumescent core in the first chamber; wherein the intumescent core is held within the first chamber at least in part by the lower flange and positioned adjacent to the first wedge, the base, and the first panel; wherein the intumescent core is positioned such that the intumescent core expands upwardly through a deployment gap adjacent to the lower flange upon exposure to heat.

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