Portable Patents (Class 160/135)
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Patent number: 7040064Abstract: The modular multi-configurable display has a series of box frames and provides variable positioning for appurtenances. The display can include a plurality of vertical columns, and generally horizontal trusses. The columns are capable of receiving the trusses at each end of the columns. Each box frame can be stackable with another box frame such that the vertical span of the display is adjustable. Appurtenance can be attached at various positioning locations to the display such that a myriad of modular configuration combinations are available to an exhibitor.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2004Date of Patent: May 9, 2006Assignee: Skyline Displays, Inc.Inventors: Mark Fritsche, Dan Berg, Jason Johnson
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Patent number: 7040899Abstract: A ultra light presentation display case is a slim, lightweight portable case that can be easily carried to the site of a presentation. The case easily folds open to provide a multi surfaced, free standing exhibit display. The display case comprises three lightweight, rigid structural panels, each panel encapsulated by a rigid frame, the three panels hinged together, allowing the two outer panels to be folded towards the center panel, and a handle fixedly secured to the top of the center structural panel. Each of the panels is made from a rigid, lightweight polystyrene foam core. The front surface of the panels is covered with a Velcro® compatible loop material. The rear surface of the panels is covered with a thermoplastic polymer that is heated and formed to create a corrugated pattern providing both structural integrity and an embossed area wherein a logo or other advertising can be affixed.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2004Date of Patent: May 9, 2006Inventor: Ronald G. Armstrong
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Patent number: 6955204Abstract: A partition system which includes a hollow body, plastic panel, a connector link member, a plurality of inserts for the panel, a trim element for mounting to the panel, a leveling member for adjusting the orientation of the panel relative to a floor surface, a friction ring for cooperative engagement with the connector link member, and a plurality of fasteners for mounting the inserts, the connector link member, and the trim element to the panel. The panel can include a first face surface, a second face surface, a pair of opposing ends, a top surface, a bottom surface, and a shear wall wherein the first and second face surfaces are connected together. The panel can be formed in a blow-molding process. A pair of connector link members can be joined together to define a connector link assembly for joining a pair of panels together. The connector link assembly is adapted to allow the joined panels to be oriented with respect to each other over a range of angles.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2002Date of Patent: October 18, 2005Assignee: Iceberg Enterprises, LLCInventors: Richard R. Gilbert, Ed Y. Wu, John M. Jepsen
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Patent number: 6926020Abstract: Collapsible structures are provided having at least one lower panel, each panel having a foldable frame member having a folded and an unfolded orientation, with a fabric material substantially covering the frame member to form the panel when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation. The fabric assumes the unfolded orientation of its frame member, and each panel further includes a first side, a second side, a bottom side and a top side. The first side of one panel is coupled to the second side of an adjacent panel. The collapsible structure according to the present invention further includes an upper panel having a bottom side coupled to the top side of one of the lower panels. In other embodiments, at least two upper panels are provided, with the upper panels provided above the lower panels. The respective panels can be coupled to each other using stitching and/or detachable connectors, or by crossing the frame members of the panels at adjacent left, right, top or bottom sides.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2002Date of Patent: August 9, 2005Assignee: Patent Category Corp.Inventor: Yu Zheng
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Patent number: 6926060Abstract: A partition structure defining compartments shielded from moving objects, such as baseballs, from other compartments. The structure comprises a central support and at least three partition walls extending substantially radially outwardly from the central support to define at least three compartments. Each partition wall includes a lower frame element and a pliable web of material extending therefrom for shielding one of the compartments from the others. The partition structure is preferably collapsible and may be anchored to the ground via stakes. A collapsible backstop system is also disclosed, comprising a collapsible backstop and a container for receiving the collapsible backstop in its collapsed configuration for storing or transporting the backstop.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2003Date of Patent: August 9, 2005Inventor: Justin Mark
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Patent number: 6892784Abstract: A portable room divider includes a plurality of wall panels interconnected by hinges. Each pair of adjacent wall panels also is connected by a position control hinge which provides resistance to pivotal motion between those wall panels. As a result, a force in excess of a given magnitude must be applied to pivot those wall panels, which provides stability to the room divider in use. Feet project laterally from both side of some of the wall panels and self-leveling casters are mounted to the feet. A spring biasing mechanism forces each caster against the floor to compensate for irregularities in the floor surface. Thus, the self-leveling casters are maintained against the floor to further stabilize the room divider when in use. A mechanism is provided to connect and join together multiple room dividers in a series.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2003Date of Patent: May 17, 2005Inventor: Paul A. Maas
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Patent number: 6880297Abstract: A modular system for assembling a storage unit is provided which includes a plurality of panels and different connectors. The system allows for subdividing spaces which may feature walls, floors, ceilings, etc. at varying angles or in areas having irregular contours. Additionally, the connectors are simple recesses and protrusions which allow for easy assembly and disassembly of the storage unit.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2002Date of Patent: April 19, 2005Inventor: Robert M. Johnston
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Patent number: 6865853Abstract: A base plate assembly and method of forming a base plate assembly for use with a wall panel structure that is pleasing in appearance, simple in construction, and easy to install. The base plate assembly is generally u-shaped with top and bottom flanges. Prongs are associated with the top flange that snap into slots on each side of the base of adjacent vertical members that hold wall panels. Slots are located in the bottom flange of the base plate assembly and fit over vertical tabs on each side of spaced supports that enable the height of the vertical members to be adjusted. Pivoting the base plate assembly upward about the vertical tabs allows the prongs to be inserted and locked in the corresponding slots in each side of the base of the adjacent spaced vertical members thereby forming a volume in which electrical wiring, including electrical outlets, may be located.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2003Date of Patent: March 15, 2005Assignee: HON Technology Inc.Inventors: David J. Burken, James C. Fitzgerald, William J. McKibbin, Christian J. Kleppe, Robert Nichols
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Patent number: 6854234Abstract: A panel connector system is provided and includes a plurality of panels and panel connectors. Each panel includes panel sidewall extensions, lips extending from the sidewall extensions, and cross-walls. The sidewall extensions, lips, and cross-walls define outwardly opening edge channels. The panel connectors include a base and a member extending generally transversely from the base. The base includes a base plate and a contact element. The arm portion includes a generally longitudinal slot, a ledge or protruding portion and a spring portion. A male seating surface extends from the ledge and a female seating surface is present on the spring portion. The clip base plate is fastened to the panel cross-wall and one of the lips is disposed in the clip slot when the clip is attached within the edge channel.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2001Date of Patent: February 15, 2005Assignee: Skyline Displays, Inc.Inventors: Dixon Gimpel, Timothy Cota, William Funk
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Patent number: 6817149Abstract: A space dividing system includes a column and a series of partition panels adapted for interconnection with the column. The column includes an internal passage, and is adapted to receive wiring from a building for supplying power to a receptacle arrangement interconnected with the column. Adjacent panels are connected to the column at spaced locations, and the receptacle arrangement is exposed between the adjacent panels. The column includes a structural skeleton to which the receptacle arrangement is mounted, and a series of covers are releasably engaged with the structural skeleton for finishing the aesthetic appearance of the column. An adjustable height mounting arrangement is interconnected with the upper end of the column for connection to a ceiling to stabilize the upper end of the column. Each panel is in the form of a frame defining an opening within which a core is received.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2002Date of Patent: November 16, 2004Assignee: Krueger International, IncInventors: Niels Diffrient, Timothy J. Bouche, Andrew J. Kopish
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Patent number: 6805185Abstract: A partition for open building space and the like having a frame including at least one substantially horizontal surface. A cover member is configured to enclose at least a portion of the frame. The cover member includes attachment members configured to connect the cover member to the frame. A seal is attached to the cover member and includes a resilient flap which engages the substantially horizontal surface of the frame to inhibit the passage of acoustical and/or optical energy through the partition.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2001Date of Patent: October 19, 2004Assignee: Steelcase Development CorporationInventors: Donald P. Gravel, Douglas L. Hancey, Vladimir Zila
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Publication number: 20040173325Abstract: A portable room divider includes a plurality of wall panels interconnected by hinges. Each pair of adjacent wall panels also is connected by a position control hinge which provides resistance to pivotal motion between those wall panels. As a result, a force in excess of a given magnitude must be applied to pivot those wall panels, which provides stability to the room divider in use. Feet project laterally from both side of some of the wall panels and self-leveling casters are mounted to the feet. A spring biasing mechanism forces each caster against the floor to compensate for irregularities in the floor surface. Thus, the self-leveling casters are maintained against the floor to further stabilize the room divider when in use. A mechanism is provided to connect and join together multiple room dividers in a series.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 6, 2003Publication date: September 9, 2004Inventor: Paul A. Maas
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Publication number: 20040168776Abstract: A free-standing panel assembly includes adjacent panels hinged together by an easily installed hinge mechanism. The hinge mechanism is removably attachable to respective fasteners formed adjacent edges of each of the panels. The assembly may also include a stay mechanism that serves to fix a relative angle between adjacent panels.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2003Publication date: September 2, 2004Applicant: Gressco, Ltd.Inventor: Christopher Murray
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Publication number: 20040154756Abstract: An office panel partition includes a panel frame having at least two uprights and a horizontal structural member rigidly interconnecting the uprights. The panel frame has a first side and a second opposite side, and the panel frame defines at least four apertures on the first side thereof. The partition also includes a cover member having a major planar surface defining an exterior surface of the partition. The cover member includes at least four projections that are removably insertable into the at least four apertures to removably secure the cover member to the frame. The apertures are arranged in at least two vertically spaced horizontal rows and at least two horizontally spaced vertical columns. The apertures in a first one of the columns have different horizontal dimensions than those of the apertures located in the other of the columns. Each of the projections has a range of lateral positions when inserted into a respective one of the apertures.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 2, 2004Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventors: Douglas B. MacDonald, Steven E. Sanders, Mark T. Slager, Dean K. Hubbard, Roy W. Fink, Steven J. Throndset, David J. Battey, Robert E. Jeffers, Allen C. Hager
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Patent number: 6772816Abstract: A portable display case includes four panels with adjacent panels being connected by pivots defining substantially parallel axes. The panels are pivotable between a closed position in which the panels are in face-to-face contiguous opposing relationship and an open position. Two center panels include handle members pivotally connected thereto at upper edges and wheelable members connected thereto at lower edges. The handle members and the wheelable members include recesses and projections for registering with projections and recesses, respectively, of adjacent outermost panel members. The recess and projections facilitate the stacking of identical portable displays atop each other. The handle members and the base members pivot through 180° for respectively latching and unlatching the panel members in their respective closed and open positions.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2002Date of Patent: August 10, 2004Inventors: Wallace T. Carter, Paul Bradley Forrest, Robert Grant McRorie, III
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Patent number: 6772567Abstract: A space dividing system includes a column and a series of partition panels adapted for interconnection with the column. The column includes an internal passage, and is adapted to receive wiring from a building for supplying power to a receptacle arrangement interconnected with the column. Adjacent panels are connected to the column at spaced locations, and the receptacle arrangement is exposed between the adjacent panels. The column includes a structural skeleton to which the receptacle arrangement is mounted, and a series of covers are releasably engaged with the structural skeleton for finishing the aesthetic appearance of the column. An adjustable height mounting arrangement is interconnected with the upper end of the column for connection to a ceiling to stabilize the upper end of the column. Each panel is in the form of a frame defining an opening within which a core is received.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2002Date of Patent: August 10, 2004Assignee: Krueger International, Inc.Inventors: Niels Diffrient Jr., Timothy J. Bouche, Andrew J. Kopish
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Patent number: 6761000Abstract: An infoboard having at least one board part intended for an imprint, the infoboard comprising a frame carrying the at least one board part, the frame near an underside being firmly connected with the base, which base has such a weight that the infoboard is only movable by means of a lifting crane.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2000Date of Patent: July 13, 2004Assignee: Bordbusters B.V. i.o.Inventors: Eric Cornelis Johannes Hendrikus Heijting, Jan Kemperman, Alexander Richardus Maria Hubers, Theodorus Hermanus Klaassen
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Patent number: 6754998Abstract: A space dividing system includes a column and a series of partition panels adapted for interconnection with the column. The column includes an internal passage, and is adapted to receive wiring from a building for supplying power to a receptacle arrangement interconnected with the column. Adjacent panels are connected to the column at spaced locations, and the receptacle arrangement is exposed between the adjacent panels. The column includes a structural skeleton to which the receptacle arrangement is mounted, and a series of covers are releasably engaged with the structural skeleton for finishing the aesthetic appearance of the column. An adjustable height mounting arrangement is interconnected with the upper end of the column for connection to a ceiling to stabilize the upper end of the column. Each panel is in the form of a frame defining an opening within which a core is received.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2002Date of Patent: June 29, 2004Assignee: Krueger International, Inc.Inventors: Niels Diffrient, Timothy J. Bouche, Andrew J. Kopish
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Publication number: 20040112550Abstract: A portable barrier panel for providing privacy to a screened area comprises a plurality of vertical support tubes. The portable barrier panel further comprises a plurality of elongate legs having an adjustable length. The elongate legs attached to a lower portion of the vertical support tubes, such that an angle &agr; exists between the elongate leg and the vertical support tube axis. The angle &agr; is adjustable. The portable barrier panel further comprises an elongate horizontal framing member having first and second ends that are supported by top two different vertical support tubes. The portable barrier panel further comprises an opaque curtain mounted to the horizontal framing member and at least one of the vertical support tubes.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 4, 2003Publication date: June 17, 2004Inventor: Craig S. Green
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Patent number: 6748997Abstract: An upright connector or support post usable in a space-dividing wall panel system formed from serially connected panel assemblies. The post includes a plurality of openings disposed in vertically spaced relation with one another which receive load-bearing elements such as hangers or hooks typically associated with furniture components. Dimples or deformations extend transversely along the upper and lower edges of the openings and provide increased strength at the attachment points along the post.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2002Date of Patent: June 15, 2004Assignees: Haworth, Inc., Innotec CorporationInventors: Nicholas Fricano, Richard Dixon, Mark R. Smith, Jonathan R. DeYoung, Scott J. Leenstra
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Publication number: 20040089426Abstract: The object of the invention is to improve privacy, shade, and aesthetic properties of a rigid barrier fence or wall or an outdoor patio. The preferred embodiment is a screen panel with visual and audio impairment properties that extends upward from the top of a barrier wall and effectively increases the overall wall height. Other embodiments affix a shade or aesthetic combination accessory from a barrier fence or wall, roof, or roof support member.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2002Publication date: May 13, 2004Inventor: Kenneth Scott Cosgrove
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Patent number: 6718709Abstract: A light-weight, portable display system which includes plural, hollow, plastic panels having uniquely contoured corners. The panels may be of flat or curved configuration. Most of the plastic panels are fabricated to present smooth front and rear faces. However, some panels are made with at least one slotted face for supporting shelves therein. Straight plastic connector components are designed to accept the corners of the panels, thereby connecting the panels in a manner to form a display area. Hinged plastic connectors are provided so that adjacent panels may be arranged at angles ranging from ninety to one hundred eighty degrees.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2002Date of Patent: April 13, 2004Inventors: Tim Koutras, Saro Sarkisyan, Veram Badangiz, Paul Edmunds
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Patent number: 6719363Abstract: Hinges are provided for vehicle floor systems that include an elongated, planar bridge member, and opposite first and second hinge members pivotally attached to the bridge member. The first and second hinge members are each pivotally connected to a respective edge portion of the bridge member. Each hinge member includes a base member and a planar upper panel that extends outwardly from the base member. The upper panel of each hinge member is configured to removably secure a vehicle floor panel thereto. Each hinge member is movable between a first position wherein the upper panel may be substantially coplanar with the bridge member, and a second position wherein the upper panel is transverse to the bridge member. The width of the bridge member is at least twice the pile dimension or compressed pile dimension of overlying carpet to prevent damage to the carpet when the hinge members are pivoted.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2002Date of Patent: April 13, 2004Assignee: Collins & Aikman Products Co.Inventors: Per Erlandsson, Duane Poliquin, Sture Andersson
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Publication number: 20040050504Abstract: An assembled and convertible decorating assembly includes at least three partition assemblies. Each partition assembly mainly includes several fixing elements, a pair of vertical rods, a pair of horizontal rods, a decorating element, and a pair of auxiliary horizontal rods. By several pivoting elements, this invention has the following three modes: a complete detached mode, a linear assembled mode that is a screen and an enclosed assembled mode that is an illuminating device. It is easy for storage or transportation. It can be assembled or re-arranged by the user. And, it has many functions such as a regular upright screen, an illuminating device, and an exhibition post, etc.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 12, 2002Publication date: March 18, 2004Inventor: Wen-Ling Chen
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Patent number: 6701996Abstract: An assembled and convertible decorating assembly includes at least three partition assemblies. Each partition assembly mainly includes several fixing elements, a pair of vertical rods, a pair of horizontal rods, a decorating element, and a pair of auxiliary horizontal rods. By several pivoting elements, this invention has the following three modes: a complete detached mode, a linear assembled mode that is a screen and an enclosed assembled mode that is an illuminating device. It is easy for storage or transportation. It can be assembled or re-arranged by the user. And, it has many functions such as a regular upright screen, an illuminating device, and an exhibition post, etc.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Inventor: Wen-Ling Chen
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Patent number: 6688371Abstract: A glide assembly for a space-dividing wall panel arrangement including a housing which is mounted within a lower open end of an upright support element associated with a wall panel assembly, and a stem which projects downwardly from the housing for supportive engagement with a floor. The housing includes a lock plate which defines thereon projections which wedgingly engage within correspondingly located openings in the support element. Tabs are provided on the support element which are deformed during assembly so as to engage the respective projections and prevent disengagement of the glide assembly from the support element.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2002Date of Patent: February 10, 2004Assignees: Haworth, Inc., Innotec CorporationInventors: Fred E. Rutan, Nicholas Fricano, Mark R. Smith, Jonathan R. DeYoung, Scott J. Leenstra
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Patent number: 6684929Abstract: An office panel partition includes a panel frame having at least two uprights and a horizontal structural member rigidly interconnecting the uprights. The panel frame has a first side and a second opposite side, and the panel frame defines at least four apertures on the first side thereof. The partition also includes a cover member having a major planar surface defining an exterior surface of the partition. The cover member includes at least four projections that are removably insertable into the at least four apertures to removably secure the cover member to the frame. The apertures are arranged in at least two vertically spaced horizontal rows and at least two horizontally spaced vertical columns. The apertures in a first one of the columns have different horizontal dimensions than those of the apertures located in the other of the columns. Each of the projections has a range of lateral positions when inserted into a respective one of the apertures.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Steelcase Development CorporationInventors: Douglas B. MacDonald, Steven E. Sanders, Mark T. Slager, Dean K. Hubbard, Roy W. Fink, Steven J. Throndset, David J. Battey, Robert E. Jeffers, Allen C. Hager
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Patent number: 6681532Abstract: The present invention is a door adaptable for work spaces in a modular work area environment. The door is bi-fold in design, can be attached to any flat surface, and is particularly suited for attachment to the flat end portion of the modular wall separating two adjacent modular work spaces. The door can then be used to close the entry and egress area of either adjacent modular work space areas. When not in use, the door can be folded such that it rests in a position perpendicular to the shared modular wall, such that the entry and egress areas of both adjacent modular work spaces are open.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2002Date of Patent: January 27, 2004Assignee: Knoll, Inc.Inventors: Allen Lee Palmbos, Mark Joseph Consolla, P. Ramsey Madsen, William J. Pokletar
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Patent number: 6679016Abstract: A lift screen has an upright post, a lift mechanism, and a partition board. The upright post is a hollow body, the lift mechanism is disposed in the upright post; and the partition board provides at least an elongated slide plate at a facial side and a lower side connects with the lift mechanism. The lift screen is possible to be set up into multiple forms with multiple functions so as to offer a high mobility and more flexibility while in use and to be set up into a form with a worktable, so as to satisfy various needs and desired arrangements.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2002Date of Patent: January 20, 2004Inventor: Yu-An Liu
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Patent number: 6659159Abstract: A screen mounting apparatus for mounting a graphic display screen for use with display stands or booths, such as those used in trade shows and other exhibitions. The apparatus is designed to receive, generally by adhesive affixation, a display graphics screen such that generally the entire length of one of the screen edges is affixed to the apparatus, with the length of the screen edge and the apparatus generally equaling that of the corresponding display frame segment. Additionally, the screen mounting apparatus includes an elastic portion which permits a limited degree of resilient movement when force is placed upon the screen at assembly and disassembly. The tension force required to mount the apparatus and the affixed screen to a display frame is thus distributed along the entire surface of the apparatus and screen, and not at isolated fastening points.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Skyline Displays, Inc.Inventors: Mark Fritsche, Dan Berg, Jason Johnson
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Publication number: 20030221798Abstract: A movable screen assembly is disclosed, the screen assembly having three panels with top, bottom and side frame members. At each corner of each panel is a corner connector and adjacent corner connectors are attached by a joining element. Each corner connector includes a post, a slot and a geometric region around each post. The joining element includes two end portions, each with a different geometry. One end portion is received by the slot and allows rotation around a post. The other end portion is received by another slot and does not allow rotation around a post. Each corner connector includes a base and a cover. All bases are identical but covers vary as a function of whether a caster is attached to the corner connector or whether a joining element is connected.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 31, 2002Publication date: December 4, 2003Inventors: Douglas M. Hunt, Brandon R. Reddick
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Patent number: 6648051Abstract: A foldable dry erase surface, such as a temporary wall, permits writing on the surface as is typically done with a dry erase board. The dry erase surface includes individual panels that are hinged together so that the surface formed by the panels is foldable. The individual panels have a dry erase film attached to them so that writing may occur on the panels themselves. The dry erase surface may be collapsed when not in use, or it may be expanded when it is necessary to write on or read from the surface. The dry erase surface is collapsed or expanded by pivoting the panels about the hinged connections, which is typically done by pushing or pulling an end panel of the dry erase surface.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2001Date of Patent: November 18, 2003Assignee: BellSouth Intellectual Property CorporationInventor: Randy S. Young
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Publication number: 20030201075Abstract: An upright connector or support post usable in a space-dividing wall panel system formed from serially connected panel assemblies. The post includes a plurality of openings disposed in vertically spaced relation with one another which receive load-bearing elements such as hangers or hooks typically associated with furniture components. Dimples or deformations extend transversely along the upper and lower edges of the openings and provide increased strength at the attachment points along the post.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 26, 2002Publication date: October 30, 2003Inventors: Nicholas J. Fricano, Richard Dixon, Mark R. Smith, Jonathan R. DeYoung, Scott J. Leenstra
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Publication number: 20030183348Abstract: A portable display case includes four panels with adjacent panels being connected by pivots defining substantially parallel axes. The panels are pivotable between a closed position in which the panels are in face-to-face contiguous opposing relationship and an open position. Two center panels include handle members pivotally connected thereto at upper edges and wheelable members connected thereto at lower edges. The handle members and the wheelable members include recesses and projections for registering with projections and recesses, respectively, of adjacent outermost panel members. The recess and projections facilitate the stacking of identical portable displays atop each other. The handle members and the base members pivot through 180° for respectively latching and unlatching the panel members in their respective closed and open positions.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 29, 2002Publication date: October 2, 2003Inventors: Wallace T. Carter, Paul Bradley Forrest, Robert Grant McRorie
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Publication number: 20030183349Abstract: A partition includes a top edge and vertical end edges covered by trim pieces. One or more of the trim pieces include an elongated base member made of durable material, such as metal, with side flanges defining a longitudinal channel. A strip insert is positioned in the channel where it is protected by the side flanges. When both top and end edges of a partition are covered, the end of one protrudes across an end of the other, with the side flanges of the protruding portion being radiused to prevent formation of a sharp corner. The insert can be aesthetic, such as wood, brushed metal, painted sheet, plastic, or light-transmissive glass or plastic, or the insert can be functional, such as tackable material, erasable markerboard material, a light-transmissive “light-pipe” material, or a mating “U” channel defining a hidden passageway on the base member for wire management.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 29, 2002Publication date: October 2, 2003Inventors: David M. Gresham, James N. Ludwig, Karl J. Mead, Karl Heinz Mueller
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Patent number: 6622771Abstract: An arcuately displaceable privacy screen assembly, comprising: (a) a frame sub-assembly having an internal aperture contained therein, wherein at least a portion of the internal aperture is covered with a privacy screen; and (b) at least two ground engaging wheels associated with the frame sub-assembly, wherein the at least two ground engaging wheels controllably direct displacement of the privacy screen in an arcuate path of travel.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2001Date of Patent: September 23, 2003Assignee: Xibitz, Inc.Inventor: Charles R. Plockmeyer
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Patent number: 6619003Abstract: A method of assembling a frame assembly for a partition system is disclosed. The frame assembly includes a partition panel, a fabric covering the panel, and a frame component. The frame component automatically and evenly tensions the fabric about the panel. The frame component provided according to this method includes a support element, a lockable element, and an integral hinge defined between the support and lockable elements. The support element defines a cavity for receiving and supporting the panel. The lockable element extends from and is moveable relative to the support element. The panel is inserted into the cavity, and the fabric is mounted to the lockable element. Next, the lockable element is moved about the integral hinge such that the fabric mounted to the lockable element is automatically and evenly tensioned about the panel. A backing strip may be mounted to the frame component to protect the fabric from the integral hinge.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2002Date of Patent: September 16, 2003Assignee: Quanex CorporationInventors: John Paul Von Arx, Charles Joseph Librande
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Patent number: 6619364Abstract: A portable screen or door for a cubicle system. The screen is collapsible and extendible and includes a temporary mounting system. The temporary mounting system permits easy installation and removal of the screen and permits installation and removal without noticeable harm to the cubicle. The screen can be used either alone or in combination with a mounting bracket that also includes a temporary mounting system.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2001Date of Patent: September 16, 2003Assignee: BellSouth Intellectual Property CorporationInventors: Mary Van Ehrlich, Stanley M. Ferrell, La Veria Baker
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Patent number: 6615551Abstract: A media wall for supporting various types of media, such as plasma screen or flat screen television sets, as well as other types of thin media, includes an upright vertical wall to which the media is mounted. The wall may include a pair of sidewalls mounted to a back face of the vertical wall, as well as a shelf extending forwardly from the vertical wall. At least one aperture may be included for enabling power or data cables to be inserted through the wall from the front to the back. A video camera support may be mounted on the vertical wall. The wall may be pivotable about a vertical axis to allow easy access to the rear of the wall for setting up and adjusting the electrical cabling used to support the media.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2001Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Assignee: Nucraft Furniture CompanyInventors: Linda Elizabeth Chesser, William Frederick Schacht, Robert J. Bockheim, Scott E. Carpenter, Michael G. Fedrigo
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Publication number: 20030155083Abstract: An office panel partition includes a panel frame having at least two uprights and a horizontal structural member rigidly interconnecting the uprights. The panel frame has a first side and a second opposite side, and the panel frame defines at least four apertures on the first side thereof. The partition also includes a cover member having a major planar surface defining an exterior surface of the partition. The cover member includes at least four projections that are removably insertable into the at least four apertures to removably secure the cover member to the frame. The apertures are arranged in at least two vertically spaced horizontal rows and at least two horizontally spaced vertical columns. The apertures in a first one of the columns have different horizontal dimensions than those of the apertures located in the other of the columns. Each of the projections has a range of lateral positions when inserted into a respective one of the apertures.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2002Publication date: August 21, 2003Inventors: Douglas B. MacDonald, Steven E. Sanders, Mark T. Slager, Dean K. Hubbard, Roy W. Fink, Steven J. Throndset, David J. Battey, Robert E. Jeffers, Allen C. Hager
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Publication number: 20030150566Abstract: A compact, foldable, transportable vehicle protector for parked vehicles. Panels are connected, side-by-side, by alternating folding lines or hinges to form a structure capable of standing freely in any position around the vehicle. The folding lines or hinges further allow the panels to fold onto each other, forming a vehicle protector that is compact, stowable and transportable. When the device is positioned around the vehicle, it protects the vehicle from dents, scratches and other damage occurring from what many consider minor bumps.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 12, 2002Publication date: August 14, 2003Inventor: Frank J. Ciano
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Patent number: 6599055Abstract: Connecting element (1) for connecting two components of a partition wall, comprising two clamping flanges (2,3) interconnected by a connecting rod (4). Said element has an asymmetric configuration due to the fact that the clamping flanges (2,3) have different cross sections. At least parts of the contour of the first clamping flange (2) are unrounded while at least certain parts of the contour of the second clamping flange (3) are rounded.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2001Date of Patent: July 29, 2003Assignee: Preform GmbHInventors: Karl-Heinz Auer, Nicole Liebrich
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Patent number: 6598649Abstract: A freestanding room divider comprising a first panel comprising a first top, a first bottom, a first right side, a first left side; a second panel comprising a second top, a second bottom, a second right side, a second left side; a first rail attached to the first bottom; a second rail attached to the second bottom; a first panel first brace and a first panel second brace for engaging the first rail, and a second panel first brace and a second panel second brace for engaging the second rail and wherein first and second braces each further comprises at least one vertical member attached to at least one horizontal member; a first pin and a second pin disposed on the first top; and a third pin and a fourth pin disposed on the second top; and a bar having a first end and second end wherein the first end engages the second pin and the second end engages the third pin connecting the panels.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2001Date of Patent: July 29, 2003Assignee: Best-Rite ManufacturingInventors: Gregory C. Moore, Michael J. Mackie
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Patent number: 6571519Abstract: A space dividing system includes a column and a series of partition panels adapted for interconnection with the column. The column includes an internal passage, and is adapted to receive wiring from a building for supplying power to a receptacle arrangement interconnected with the column. Adjacent panels are connected to the column at spaced locations, and the receptacle arrangement is exposed between the adjacent panels. The column includes a structural skeleton to which the receptacle arrangement is mounted, and a series of covers are releasably engaged with the structural skeleton for finishing the aesthetic appearance of the column. An adjustable height mounting arrangement is interconnected with the upper end of the column for connection to a ceiling to stabilize the upper end of the column. Each panel is in the form of a frame defining an opening within which a core is received.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 1998Date of Patent: June 3, 2003Assignee: Krueger International, Inc.Inventors: Niels Diffrient, Timothy J. Bouche, Andrew J. Kopish
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Patent number: 6571852Abstract: A collapsible, self-standing, rigid laser containment barrier, which includes at least two adjacent, substantially rigid laser beam absorption panels hingably attached to each other using first and second pairs of aligned hinge pins proximal top and bottom edges and near first and second sides of each laser beam absorption panel and a rigid light strip having a front face including first and second pairs of laterally extending hinge brackets. Each of the hinge bracket pairs corresponds to and is aligned with one of the first and second hinge pin pairs, and includes a hinge pin hole passing therethrough. Each of the hinge pins passes through one of the hinge pin holes to hingably attach the two adjacent laser beam absorption panels.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2001Date of Patent: June 3, 2003Assignee: Kentek CorporationInventor: Michael P. Toepel
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Patent number: 6553698Abstract: Described herein is a portable display system including a collapsible frame comprised of a plurality of box units defined by spaced hubs with pivotable members extending therebetween. In one aspect of the invention, a locking feature is provided between the members and the hub. In another aspect of the invention, a hook-type mounting between the members and the hub is described. More than one of these display systems can be mounted one to another with a clip that is provided between adjacent outward-most hubs of two different systems. A cage also is described, which permits assembly and disassembly of the collapsible unit into two separate packageable parts. A button also is disclosed which permits two parts of the display to be mounted removably to another.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2000Date of Patent: April 29, 2003Inventor: Mathias D. Kemeny
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Patent number: 6553724Abstract: A panel is provided, which is a building block, for a trade show booth. Each panel includes a support structure having rails secured to the edges. Each rail has magnetic fastening strips and metal guidance blades disposed in the lengthwise extending slots, which engage with similar structures in other panels or other rails. Separate rails have mutually engageable lobes and lobe-engaging openings to allow a plurality of panels to be placed in any trade show booth configuration.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2001Date of Patent: April 29, 2003Inventor: Robert A. Bigler
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Patent number: 6550521Abstract: A system for suspending a video projection screen includes the principles of physical independence, or a somewhat “floating system,” employing at least some thermal expansion matching, centroid expansion dimension splitting combined with front to back progressive dimensional freedom, as well as corner gussets and rear corner brackets which contribute to the overall independence of each element of the system. The system of support provide clearance space from the rear of the system and which progressively provides a final touching clearance at the projection end of the system which has the minimum spacing between adjacent acrylic members to provide a nearly seamless system. In one embodiment, an expanse of typical acrylic screen material which may be either case, such as a Fresnel, or lenticular-fresnel material, or extruded, such as a diffusion material, having a thermal expansion of about 34×10−6 inch/inch/° F.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2000Date of Patent: April 22, 2003Assignee: Visual Structures, Inc.Inventor: Ira McNabb
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Publication number: 20030070770Abstract: A portable exhibition frame assembly as an alternative delineation system used for display purposes at trade shows and special events. Fabric sheet material with tubing sewn into the hem is slipped into a horizontal channel at the top and attached to the bottom channel providing a flat taut wall providing a partially enclosed area for display of graphics and products.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 11, 2001Publication date: April 17, 2003Inventor: Jeffrey Mark Nussdorf
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Patent number: 6546675Abstract: A panel support assembly 25 comprises a post 10 having at least one elongate recess 12, rotatably supporting a respective panel receiving member 13. The panel receiving member 13 comprising a rod-like member having an internal channel 14 adapted to receive a panel 11. The recess 12 is part-cylindrical and respective panel receiving member 14 is cylindrical, partially fitting within recess 12, so as to allow relative rotation. A pair of panel support assemblies 25, with pairs of panel receiving members 13 facing each other, provides a panel fixing system for fixing a panel 11.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2000Date of Patent: April 15, 2003Assignee: Harkk PTY LTDInventor: David John Adderton