Rotatable Patents (Class 108/94)
  • Patent number: 6309034
    Abstract: A cooler with a number of product shelves and an oscillating drive mechanism. The oscillating drive mechanism is connected to the product shelves so as to rotate the product shelves in an oscillating manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: The Coca-Cola Company
    Inventors: William S. Credle, Jr., James R. Bardin
  • Patent number: 6279490
    Abstract: A movable stage assembly suitable for use in a vacuum has three circular stages rotating independently of one another. The stage assembly includes a base and a large rotatable circular table mounted on the base. This large table has a second smaller circular table which is eccentrically mounted within the first large table and rotates independently. This second table also has a smaller third circular table eccentrically mounted on it and independently rotatable within the second table. All the rotatable tables utilize ferrofluidic seals to prevent air within the air bearings from leaking into the vacuum chamber and are driven by motors mounted beneath the tables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: Etec Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Manuel G. Pastor
  • Publication number: 20010015599
    Abstract: A rotary stepped storage and display unit is placed on shelves in cabinets and other locations above eye level to store and display items such as spice jars etc. on a stepped surface so that items can be seen easily from below. Preferably, the device comprises a circular stepped pyramid on a rotary base. The device is provided in separate sections which are small enough to pass through the access opening to corner cupboards in kitchens or similar places where the access openings are considerably smaller than the inside dimensions of the cupboard. Easy-to-use snap fasteners are integral with the sections and are used to fasten the sections together inside the cabinet to form a structure which is too large to pass through the access opening but utilizes the space efficiently in the cabinet. The device either can rotate on its own rotary base, or can be mounted on one or more of the upper shelves of a series of rotary shelves mounted to rotate on a vertical axle in a corner or similar cupboard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2001
    Publication date: August 23, 2001
    Applicant: Robbins Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Rodney W. Robbins, Carter McGuyer
  • Patent number: 6263808
    Abstract: A rotary stepped storage and display unit is placed on shelves in cabinets and other locations above eye level to store and display items such as spice jars etc. on a stepped surface so that items can be seen easily from below. Preferably, the device comprises a circular stepped pyramid on a rotary base. The device is provided in separate sections which are small enough to pass through the access opening to corner cupboards in kitchens or similar places where the access openings are considerably smaller than the inside dimensions of the cupboard. Easy-to-use snap fasteners are integral with the sections and are used to fasten the sections together inside the cabinet to form a structure which is too large to pass through the access opening but utilizes the space efficiently in the cabinet. The device either can rotate on its own rotary base, or can be mounted on one or more of the upper shelves of a series of rotary shelves mounted to rotate on a vertical axle in a corner or similar cupboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Assignee: Robbins Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Rodney W. Robbins, Carter McGuyer
  • Patent number: 6182579
    Abstract: A desk includes two inverted U-shaped frames connected with each other and each frame has two legs connected by a bar. A top supported on the two bars of the two frames. Each leg of the two frames has a tube connected to a distal end thereof and each tube has an open end so as to be pivotally connected to an auxiliary device such as a document tray or a support platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Inventor: Chien-Kuo Chang
  • Patent number: 6182582
    Abstract: Two wedge-shaped platforms, each rotatable about a different axis, are rotationally mounted together so that a pointing device mounted on one of the platforms can be made to point in a desired direction by predetermined rotational positioning of the two platforms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: David Arthur Bailey, Robert Edward Winkel, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6158357
    Abstract: A computer desk comprises a base, an upright support rod fastened at one end thereof with the base, a computer desktop mounted on other end of the upright support rod, a main unit desktop mounted on the base, a periphery desktop fastened with the upright support rod and located under the computer desktop, and a keyboard desktop fastened adjustably with the upright support rod by two pivoting pieces, a bracket, a pivoting seat, two fastening rods, and a plurality of receptacles, plastic bodies and screws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventor: Tsung-Chin Shih
  • Patent number: 6154956
    Abstract: A method of assembling electronic equipment using a work station which comprises a rotatable work surface, a fixed work surface and a support frame. The rotatable work surface is rotatably mounted to the fixed work surface which is, in turn, mounted to the support frame. The work station includes a locking mechanism positioned between the rotatable work surface and the fixed work surface for adjusting the rotational orientation of the rotatable work surface. The rotatable work surface and the fixed work surface are both made of an electrostatic discharge (ESD) safe material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Assignee: Micron Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Marcus S. Frohardt
  • Patent number: 6099093
    Abstract: A computer desk for use by one or two users. The desk integrates a monitor platform above the desktop and a keyboard tray system below the desk surface which are connected to a vertical pivot for coordinated rotation to maintain relative alignment of the monitor and keyboard over a wide angular displacement. The desk eliminates the need to manually realign hardware components when sharing use of a computer, thereby reducing wear and risk of unintentional disconnection of cables, while maintaining a maximal amount of desktop working space and allowing ergonomically and aesthetically favorable suspension of the keyboard below the desktop of the desk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Avante Furniture Manufacturing (1992) Ltd.
    Inventor: Kelly Spence
  • Patent number: 6089167
    Abstract: A work station for assembling equipment comprises a rotatable work surface, a fixed work surface and a support frame. The rotatable work surface is rotatably mounted to the fixed work surface which is, in turn, mounted to the support frame. The work station includes a locking mechanism positioned between the rotatable work surface and the fixed work surface for adjusting the rotational orientation of the rotatable work surface. The rotatable work surface and the fixed work surface are both made of an electrostatic discharge (ESD) safe material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Micron Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Marcus S. Frohardt
  • Patent number: 6027165
    Abstract: A table attachment for arm chairs including a base portion adapted to be clamped to a chair arm. The attachment includes a base portion and a table portion pivotally secured to the front end of the base portion. The table portion may be selectively positioned so that it projects outwardly from either side of the base portion to accommodate right or left-handed mounting conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Inventor: Avis V. Adkins
  • Patent number: 6010187
    Abstract: A seat (10) especially adapted for use by a mechanic includes a frame (11) which carries a seat cushion (21) and a lower tray (22). A tray frame (35) removably carries an upper tray (30) and is pivotally attached to the frame (11) by a pivot assembly (40). The pivot assembly (40) includes a hollow rod (41) attached to the tray frame (35). A coil spring (42) which carries pivot pins (43, 44) is slidably received in the rod (41). The pins (43, 44) engage the frame (11) so that the tray frame (45) and the upper tray (22) carried thereby are pivotal from a first position generally under the seat cushion (21) to a second position at least partially out from under the seat cushion (21) for ready access to items carried by the upper tray (22). The frame (35) may be maintained in the first position by a fastener (45) carried by the frame (35) and engageable with the frame (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Assignee: Whiteside Mfg. Co.
    Inventors: W. Gordon Dallas, Kirt E. Whiteside, Terry L. Whiteside, Robert E. Whiteside
  • Patent number: 5947035
    Abstract: A device for connecting an auxiliary desk to a main desk includes two frames attached to the underside of the main desk and each of the two frames having a groove defined therein for a slide movably received between the two frames. An inverted T-shaped connecting member is connected between the connecting member and the auxiliary desk wherein the connecting member is rotatably connected to the slide so that the auxiliary desk is slid and pivoted relative to the main desk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Inventor: Chien-Kuo Chang
  • Patent number: 5931103
    Abstract: A desk for supporting computer includes a top panel having a slot formed in the middle portion for engaging with a casing which is formed on a rear portion of a plate. The plate includes a front hook for engaging with the front portion of the top panel for allowing the plate to be secured to the top panel without fasteners. The casing includes one or more openings for engaging with electric wire and for allowing the electric wire to engage through the plate. A support is pivotally secured to the top panel for supporting a mouse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1999
    Inventor: Huei Mien Huang
  • Patent number: 5842425
    Abstract: There are provided a plurality of main tables associated with at least one side table which is pivotably connected to two main tables. In storage position the side table is at least partly stored underneath one main table, while in use it is pivotably extended and connected to two main tables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Inventor: John van der Aa
  • Patent number: 5810181
    Abstract: A display stand having a first shelf for an article to be displayed, a first base for supporting the first shelf in a display position relative to a support for the display stand with the first shelf and first base having a combined vertical plan outline, a second shelf for an article to be displayed, and first structure cooperating between the second shelf and at least one of the first shelf and first base for guiding repositioning of the second shelf relative to the at least one of the first shelf and first base between a) a first position wherein a substantial portion of the second shelf resides outside of the combined vertical plan outline of the first shelf and first base, and b) a second position wherein the second shelf resides substantially entirely within the combined vertical plan outline of the first shelf and first base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Inventors: Bradley S. Emalfarb, Seymour Emalfarb
  • Patent number: 5775233
    Abstract: A stand or platform is integrated directly within the profile of a collapsed tripod riser for easy transport of the device. The tripod riser uses a single center post configuration, with a first support leg rigidly attached thereto and second and third support legs rotatable around the center post support. A unique center post locking system allows multiple-height single-plane nesting of the legs. In addition, the integrated stand is retained within the same plane of the nested support legs and within a cavity created by the interior profile cavity created by the support legs during a collapsed and transport position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Inventor: Charles S. Kendall
  • Patent number: 5769004
    Abstract: A tripod riser support system is integrated directly within a portable stand thus creatinga a more compact, lighter and less expensive tripod riser. A portable stand is used as a support base for both an individual and for support of a tripod by the attachment of additional tripod receiving channels. A user would transport the device to a location where they desire to film a particular event. The legs of the stand would be unfolded and the tripod support channels extended to form three symmetric channels separated by 120 degrees from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Inventor: Charles S. Kendall
  • Patent number: 5720524
    Abstract: A combination toy and stool is provided that rotates and simultaneously lowers when a child sits on the seat. When the seat lowers fully, the invention can be used as a stool. The invention includes a stool seat that has a helically grooved or twisted central shaft extending below the seat, and a plurality of support shafts spaced about the central shaft also extending below the seat. The seat sets onto a pedestal that incorporates an upper and a lower member that rotate relative to each other similar to a "lazy susan". The upper pedestal member has a plurality of upward extending tubular members that receive the support shafts that extend below the seat. The lower pedestal member has an upward extending central shaft that extends through the center of the upper pedestal member and receives the twisted central shaft of the seat in a vertical aperture in the central shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 24, 1998
    Inventor: Albert J. Hall
  • Patent number: 5683154
    Abstract: A desk includes a top which has four legs extending from a bottom thereof. A frame is disposed to the bottom of the top and which has two tracks formed on two opposite sides thereof for a sliding plate to be slidably received therein which has an L-shaped plate disposed thereto. An auxiliary rack has one end thereof pivotally connected to the L-shaped plate and the other end of the auxiliary rack has wheels disposed thereto so as to roll on the ground. The auxiliary rack includes two horizontal first side rails and two vertical second side rails and a board disposed between the two first side rails. The auxiliary rack has a section where the board does not extend and two rods are connected between the two first side rails within the section so as to hang suspension files between the two rods. A rectangular support is pivotally disposed to the bottom of the top for a key board to be put thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1997
    Inventor: Chien-Kuo Chang
  • Patent number: 5632540
    Abstract: A desk having a pivoting, sliding hidden return mounted atop a drawer pedestal and beneath the desk top. The return is supported upon a rail and pivot mechanism which allows the return to pivot and slide between a closed position beneath the desktop and an open position perpendicular to the desktop. The return includes hinged support legs that are stored flat atop the work surface when stored and are folded down to provide support during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 27, 1997
    Assignee: Hekman Furniture Company
    Inventor: Steven R. Wilcox
  • Patent number: 5572936
    Abstract: A rotating cake support including a pair of horizontally disposed pallets joined together by a number of tubular pillars is disclosed. The upper pallet directly supports a cake plate having a central bore for rotational engagement with a peg which extends upwardly from the upper pallet. The periphery of the cake plate is provided with a resilient band forming a moisture impermeable barrier for ensuring the longevity of the plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Inventor: Helenice Chroniger
  • Patent number: 5567026
    Abstract: A rotating shelf display comprises a plurality of upstanding side walls defining an enclosure. The enclosure has a front half and a back half, with at least one of the side walls at the front half of the enclosure being transparent so that objects on the shelf can be seen from outside. Within the enclosure is a circular rotating shelf. The vertical axis of the shelf lies between the front half and the back half of the enclosure. The shelf comprises a disk having an outer edge and a rim upwardly extending about the outer edge. Disposed within only the back half of the enclosure are means for supporting the shelf for rotation about its vertical axis. The supporting means comprises at least three vertical members secured within the back half of the enclosure. Mounting pegs are detachably secured to each vertical member. An axle is affixed to each mounting peg. A roller is rotably attached to each axle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1996
    Assignee: Master-Bilt
    Inventor: Edward L. Lacewell
  • Patent number: 5562049
    Abstract: A table having a pair of laterally extendable table surfaces. The table includes a base having a horizontally disposed periphery that defines a footprint on an underlying surface, first and second generally planar table surfaces, a table surface forward extension mechanism interconnected with the base and the first and second table surfaces, and a table surface lateral extension mechanism interconnected with the base and the first and second table surfaces. The table surface forward extension mechanism and the table surface lateral extension mechanism are each constructed and arranged so that each of the first and second table surfaces is movable between a retracted position, in which the first and second table surfaces are positioned generally above the base footprint, and a laterally extended position, in which the major portions of the first and second table surfaces are generally horizontally disposed and are positioned above, forwardly and laterally of the base footprint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Assignees: Helton, Inc., Ultra-Mek, Inc.
    Inventors: D. Stephen Hoffman, J. Steven Helton
  • Patent number: 5558417
    Abstract: A carousel cabinet including a base; a first, rotatable body section having at least one row and two colunms of drawers; a second, stationary body section having a flat top surface and including a light switch; a central, tubular shaft extending from the base to above the flat top surface and terminating in a light connected to the switch; a multiple electrical connector located in the second body section; and a single electrical connector operably connected to the multiple connector, located in the base, for supplying power to the multiple connector via connection to a standard extension cord. In addition, the second section may contain a variety of communications devices such as an intercom, a remote station call button, and so on, for sending and receiving a communication signal. The cabinet body may be cylindrical or of any other geometric shape that provides access to the drawers or open compartments therein by rotating the first body section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1996
    Inventor: Clara M. Termotto
  • Patent number: 5536080
    Abstract: A work station (10) for use in a home, office, hotel or other area having a limited amount of space is disclosed. The unit (10) includes sections (12,14,16) movable between a closed position, wherein the unit looks like an armoire or entertainment cabinet, and an open position, wherein the unit is a complete work station with a desk top (24,26) and storage space (22,23,30) for a computer, printer, phone, chair, fax machine and files.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1996
    Assignee: atelier ADIME Internationale, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Madimenos, Corrine Madimenos
  • Patent number: 5522514
    Abstract: Any number of generally identical shelves can be formed from any pair of generally identical semicircular shelf halves by removably attaching the shelf halves along the straight edge which subtends the semicircle. Each shelf half has an aperture in the straight edge concentric with the semicircle so that the shelf halves can be removably attached while encircling an umbrella table pole. A higher shelf is supported above a lower shelf by a triplet of generally identical struts removably attached to the top side of a lower shelf and removably attached to the bottom side of a higher shelf in tripod formation. A triplet of generally identical arm struts can be removably attached to the top side of the highest shelf in tripod formation so that accessories such as lights or flowers can be hung from the arm strut horizontal arm which projects away from the pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1996
    Inventor: David Robinson
  • Patent number: 5493976
    Abstract: A tray for use on a table about an upwardly extending projection, such as an umbrella pole, is disclosed. The tray comprises a tray member comprising a central aperture, an outer peripheral edge and a radial opening extending from the central aperture to the peripheral edge. A closure member can also be provided to close the slot to define the central aperture in which an umbrella pole or the like is receivable. The connection of the closure member to the tray member is readily released, allowing the slot of the tray member to be opened to permit insertion around or removal from the umbrella pole or the like. The tray can take on a variety of shapes and may include a plurality of interior compartments for receiving items such as vegetables and dips, condiments, etc. Rollers can be positioned on the underside of the tray member to facilitate rotation of the tray upon a supporting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1996
    Inventor: Timothy R. Hammond
  • Patent number: 5479867
    Abstract: A rotary table for supporting items within an enclosure includes a base having a planar top surface, a central through hole, and a radially extending circumferential flange, and a bearing retainer having a central through hole and an array of barrel-shaped recesses defined therein, arranged on plural concentric circles. Each of the recesses loosely contains a captive ball which partly protrudes from both top and bottom ends of the recess, each ball bearing against the top surface of the base. A rotatable plate is supported by the balls, and retained with respect to the base by a central post that extends downwardly through the central holes in both the retainer and the base. The ball retainer and the base have similar polar arrays of reinforcing ribs, to provide a strong but lightweight unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1996
    Inventors: Bruce D. Blevins, Richard A. Souder
  • Patent number: 5454636
    Abstract: A combination storage cabinet and L-shaped work station assembly. The assembly includes a base having a top work surface. An arcuately-swingable, pedestal-mounted top is supported above, overlies and is spaced upwardly of the top surface of the cabinet. In a second position, the top is pivotally displaced about a fixed vertical axis to extend outwardly in a horizontal plane and normally of a principal horizontal axis of the cabinet to expose the top work surface of the cabinet and to form, with the cabinet, an L-shaped work station. Walls depend skirt-like from two adjacent edges of the top to define a visual screen for hiding from view office components which may conveniently be allowed to remain in place on the top work surface of the cabinet when the assembly is in a closed mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 3, 1995
    Inventor: Ronald H. Taub
  • Patent number: 5343816
    Abstract: An attractive, sturdy revolving shelf unit which provides for efficient storage space for books, magazines, or wine bottles etc. Each shelf is characterized by an L-patterned arrangement of vertical supports between shelves which permit efficient storage and provide strength. Methods employed in manufacturing the storage units provide for easy adaptation to different sizes of the storage unit and variation in the size of the L-pattern to accommodate different storage items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 6, 1994
    Inventor: Xen N. Sideris
  • Patent number: 5337682
    Abstract: A snack table includes a lower top, a set of legs connected to the lower top for supporting the lower top above a horizontal support surface, and an upper top disposed above the lower top for providing a table top surface. A mounting component connected to the upper and lower tops rotatably mounts the upper top on the lower top in order to enable a user to rotate the upper top relative to the lower top about a generally vertical axis of rotation. The mounting component is configured to place the axis of rotation off center so that rotating the upper top 180-degrees moves it from an overlying position in which the upper top overlies the lower top to an extended position in which the upper top extends laterally beyond the lower top. A horizontally extending member connected to two legs in the set of legs is included for providing a stabilizing structure upon which the user's feet can bear for table stabilizing purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1994
    Inventor: Russell B. Wiseman
  • Patent number: 5269231
    Abstract: A central tubular post pivotally mounts respective right and left shelf plates orthogonally relative to the central post, with the right and left shelf plates having orthogonally and fixedly directed therethrough respective right and left post members. A modification of the invention includes a mounting structure relative to the right and left shelves, as well as auxiliary illumination structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1993
    Inventor: John I. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5269232
    Abstract: A system of revolving shelves for filing documents having the same rectangular format is disclosed. The system consists of four shelves revolving around a horizontal axis on which the documents to be filed are replaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1993
    Inventor: Jorge de Lasada
  • Patent number: 5253594
    Abstract: An attractive, sturdy revolving shelf unit which provides for efficient storage space for books, magazines, or wine bottles etc. Each shelf is characterized by an L-patterned arrangement of vertical supports between shelves which permit efficient storage and provide strength. Methods employed in manufacturing the storage units provide for easy adaptation to different sizes of the storage unit and variation in the size of the L-pattern to accommodate different storage items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1993
    Inventor: Xen N. Sideris
  • Patent number: 5161561
    Abstract: An outdoor service system is disclosed which is comprised of a segmented pole, a plurality of fixed split thrust bearing parts mounted on said pole, a split table mounted on a rotatable thrust bearing part which bears upon one of said fixed thrust bearing parts, a plurality of receptacles detachably secured to a rotatable thrust bearing part which is borne by one of said fixed thrust bearing parts, and a parasol mounted on a rotatable thrust bearing part which is borne by another one of said fixed thrust bearing parts. The disclosed outdoor service system further includes a pointed lowermost pole segment adapted to be driven into the ground and a plurality of wings pivotably mounted on said lowermost pole segment whereby to prevent its withdrawal from the ground. A foot plate is further provided to assist in the embedding of the lowermost pole segment in the ground, and to resist angular deflection of the pole when its lowermost segment is fully embedded in the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1992
    Inventor: Bruce W. Jamieson
  • Patent number: 5101738
    Abstract: A rotating shelf is provided for the housing of books and magazines which is attractive, sturdy, and stores books and magazines efficiently. The shelf is characterized by L-shaped vertical supports between the shelf units which permit efficient storage and provide strength. Manufacturing methods employed in constructing the bookcase can also be used to construct storage racks for other items, such as wine bottles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1992
    Inventor: Xen N. Sideris
  • Patent number: 5024168
    Abstract: A multi-sided carousel storage device is rotatably mounted and has a plurality of storage cavities for receiving objects. Part of the rotatable mechanism comprises a stationary member having an upright member connected thereto, the upright member being fixedly connected to a platform member arranged in an opening of an upper surface of the carousel unit. The upper surface of the carousel unit includes a ring-like member having a bearing surface thereon. Rotatable members are mounted on the fixed platform and have bearing surfaces which bear against the bearing surface of the ring-like member, so that when the carousel member is rotated, the rotatable members rotate to frictional engagement with the bearing surface of the ring-like member. Decorative objects are preferably removably mounted on the rotatable members to rotate with rotation of the carousel device. Specific storage and shelf configurations are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 18, 1991
    Inventor: David M. Stravitz
  • Patent number: 5005925
    Abstract: A combination toy chest and table has a top lid which serves as a desk top, and which is pivoted at one end to be movable between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the toy chest serves its normal function with the lid covering the toy chest. In its open position, the lid is displaced approximately 90.degree. from the toy chest and is supported by preferably two legs to give it stability in this position. A person such as a child need only to place a chair next to the table for use at this point. A spring loaded locking mechanism is employed for locking the top in its closed position. In a further embodiment, the top lid for the toy chest extends beyond the width of the toy chest, so that it could also be used as a desk when the toy chest is in its closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1991
    Inventor: Henry Diehl
  • Patent number: 4938364
    Abstract: Variable display presentation of carpet samples with variable juxtaposition is accomplished by a presentation display storage system which is economical, light in weight, easily assembled without tools, easily movable and subject to easy rearrangement of the samples. The system is made up of a wheeled starbase which supports a vertical spindle upon which presentation platforms are mounted. A slide-and-spin-resistant support slider is positioned at a baseline position axially on the spindle. A bottom presentation platform, made up of a relatively fragile lightweight presentation platform shelf and a hold-down slider, cantilever the presentation platform by compressing the shelf between itself and the support slider. The top surface of the hold-down slider forms a support surface for the presentation platform shelf of the overlying presentation platform, in sequence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 3, 1990
    Inventors: Hildegarde A. Stadelman, Fred E. Stadelman
  • Patent number: 4863124
    Abstract: A corner work center includes a mounting unit for a computer and like equipment which quickly attaches to two adjoining surfaces at the same height. The unit eliminates the need for an expensive and complex intermediate or third top and the requisite hardware. The unit includes an elevated plate mounted on the frame and a forward tray or bridging surface which is captured by the frame and extends forwardly of the frame at a lower elevation and bridges the included angle between the adjoining surfaces. The unit may also include an articulating arm assembly having a positionable keyboard tray which may be positioned beneath and forwardly of the forward tray. With the arm assembly the keyboard tray can be extended for use or retracted when not in use. The tray includes handles and adjustable bumpers. The unit also includes one or more swing arm supports secured to the frame to position computer components or accessories at desired locations for effective use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1988
    Date of Patent: September 5, 1989
    Assignee: Hauserman, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas C. Ball, George E. Sherbourne, Jeffrey M. Gioitta
  • Patent number: 4830614
    Abstract: An oral hygiene work station includes a work table which includes a wash basin and a spray fitting and at least one cabinet which can receive additional components. A table top is pivotally mounted underneath and approximately in the center of the work table. The table top is pivotally mounted between a first position where the table top is disposed between the work table and the cabinet and extends so that the table top faces away from the wash basin to a second position where the table top has pivoted approximately 90.degree. so that the table top extends beyond the frontal edge surface of the work table and avoids interference with access to the cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1989
    Assignee: Kommanditgesellschaft Speiko Dr. Speier GmbH. & Co. NACHF.
    Inventors: Hanns Schricker, Heinz-Dieter Bialy
  • Patent number: 4827638
    Abstract: An apparatus for supporting a work article on a work surface. The apparatus includes a base member having an opening therein, a work article support member attached to and positioned above the base member, the work article support member having an opening therein positioned in at least partial alignment with the opening of the base member, and means attached to the base member and positioned between the base member and the work surface for allowing the base member and the work article support member to rotate with respect to the work surface. A storage tray having an opening positioned in at least partial alignment with the openings of the base member and the work article support member can be attached to the base member and positioned between the base member and the work article support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1989
    Inventor: Gerald A. Peters
  • Patent number: 4815392
    Abstract: A work station in the form of a work table having a fixed working surface and a rotatable working surface, these working surfaces being coplanar. A rigid frame assembly supports both working surfaces and a motor for driving the rotatable working surface by way of a traction wheel. The motor is controlled by a switch situated on the fixed working surface. The working surfaces have hingedly connected side panels to enable the movable table to pass through doorways. Another fixed working surface can be mounted on the rigid frame assembly by way of a post extending through a hole in the rotatable working surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1989
    Inventor: Olaf Soot
  • Patent number: 4790440
    Abstract: A card file of compact and efficient design which is fitted with a compact rotary base and separate stabilizers fastened to the bottom surface of the card file. A swivel base and stabilizers attached to the file housing provide a low profile, lighweight and efficient means by which the card file can be swivelled to any desired position in the horizontal plane. Adjusting means are also available to ensure that the stabilizing means can accommodate any irregularities in the bottom surface of the file or other object to which the swivel is attached in order to provide a proper disposition of the stabilizing elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1988
    Assignee: The Bates Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: John Leszczak
  • Patent number: 4763582
    Abstract: An assembly of furniture comprising an upstanding base including at least one and preferably a plurality of stanchions to which at least one or a plurality of support platforms are pivotally attached wherein the support platforms are structured to have fixedly secured thereto horizontally oriented panel members themselves structured to be supporting surfaces for serving, eating, display, etc. The support platforms and panel members mounted thereon are selectively movable about the longitudinal axis of the respective stanchion to which they are attached. The support platforms, panel members thereon, and stanchions are cooperatively positioned such that support surfaces are provided at various levels and adjustably positioned at such levels to vary the geometric configuration of the furniture assembly which would result in varying the quantity of floor space (or other horizontal surface) required for its usage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1988
    Inventor: Joseph C. Rigsby
  • Patent number: 4738495
    Abstract: A half-moon rotary shelf assembly having shelves mounted on a vertical post that is connected to cabinet frame by securing it to a bottom mounting assembly which is itself secured to the floor of the cabinet. The half-moon shelf assembly is adaptable for use in a dead-end storage corner cabinet. The half-moon shelf can also be secured to slides to allow the shelf to be slidably extended from the cabinet to provide additional access to the shelf. A rotation restriction means can be placed over the shaft to prevent destructive rotation of the half-moon shelf both within the cabinet and when the shelf is in its extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1986
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1988
    Assignee: Rev-A-Shelf, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard K. Mitts
  • Patent number: 4720140
    Abstract: An elongated platform is disclosed herein for supporting a person in a chair or recliner which is adapted to rotate about a central pivot support and having wheels arranged in an arc adjacent to the opposite ends of the platform. The exposed upper surface is provided with a pair of spaced apart grooves or recesses for insertably receiving the standard rungs of the chair or recliner. Snap-lock latches releasably retain the rungs in position so that the chair or recliner and the platform constitute a unitary structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1988
    Inventor: Nicholas D. Change, III
  • Patent number: 4646655
    Abstract: A data processing work station has a tubular framework that supports a keyboard support shelf in front of and below a video display support shelf and a pair of side shelves. The framework may be reconfigured into a compacted configuration for storage and shipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1984
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1987
    Inventor: Claude Robolin
  • Patent number: 4579311
    Abstract: An equipment lockdown apparatus for locking pieces of equipment such as computer modules, typewriters or the like is disclosed. The apparatus includes a sub-base suitably secured to a desk or other supporting structure and which supports the remainder of the unit for rotation. A base shelf is included together with a pedestal which rotatably supports thereon one or more additional shelves for rotation. Shields are positioned adjacent each shelf to preclude access to fastening elements for the pieces of equipment on each shelf and a key-controlled locking mechanism holds the entire unit in assembled relation thus precluding access to the fastening means whereby the pieces of equipment are securely locked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1983
    Date of Patent: April 1, 1986
    Inventor: Joseph J. Spranza, III