Portable Patents (Class 160/351)
  • Patent number: 8875774
    Abstract: The invention relates to the general field of construction, and more specifically, the protection of construction work sites. At least two vertical poles are positioned between two surfaces such as ceilings and floors. A center frame with one or more rotatable segments may be mounted between the vertical poles and secured to a window sill. Construction materials may be passed over the rotatable segment and through the center frame with minimal or no damage to the window sill or surrounding structure. The vertical poles may be used with a sheet material to form a protective tunnel. Construction materials may be passed through the tunnel with minimal or no damage to the surrounding environment. Debris left by the construction materials is captured within the tunnel and can be safely and conveniently removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventor: Garrett Flores
  • Patent number: 8857499
    Abstract: A partition mount system includes an integrated plunger assembly. The integrated plunger assembly is constructed and arranged to be integrated into an interior of an end of an extension pole, for example a standard telescoping extension pole. Mounting of the plunger in an interior portion of the pole in this manner provides for a sleek design that is relatively lightweight. Assuming that the pole in which the anchor is mounted is part of a telescoping pole system, the anchor and plunger do not interfere with full travel of the interior pole with respect to other poles in the telescoping system. In this manner, operation of the telescoping pole system is not inhibited by the integrated plunger assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Zipwall LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Whittemore
  • Patent number: 8851144
    Abstract: An innovative, low-density, highly-insulating modular panel for use in many applications and industries. The panel consists of a frame that may be preformed or bent and may be made of rigid or flexible material, and a panel covering comprising at least one pocket of thin, low-density shade fabric that has the capability of sufficiently stretching to surround the frame when the pocket is pulled onto it. The pocket may be then secured, along any previously open end where the frame was inserted, by various fastening devices. The panel covering pocket may have additional features added, as described herein. The panel is durable and cost-effective, and has good solar-control and insulating qualities. It is also a windbreak panel, a noise-reduction panel, an impact protection panel, a water-resistant panel, a fall protection panel, and a pollution-control panel. Two or more panels can be joined to create a structure-protecting panel assembly or system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Inventors: Jack R. Forbis, Ann R. Forbis
  • Patent number: 8789577
    Abstract: This embodiment provides for a portable, easily-assembled, modular background set that can be used in television studios, theatre stages, and tradeshow booths, to name a few, and for displays in other settings, such as retail stores, physician's offices, and the like, that is, wherever information needs to be displayed. According to this embodiment, an apparatus and method for providing said background set or display comprises a plurality of base structures; a plurality of outer and inner collapsible corrugated plasticboard sleeves; a plurality of supporting frames; a hanger system; an elastic cord stabilizing system; and a collapsible backdrop system. These components are assembled from a very compact, collapsed, disassembled state in a quick and easy manner, with no special tools, to create a professional set or display that can be used in a plurality of different venues.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Inventor: Ellen Caldwell
  • Patent number: 8783328
    Abstract: An acoustic panel assembly may have one or more panels adaptable for reflecting sound waves and a support member to which the one or more panels may be attached. The support member may be extendable and retractable. The one or more panels and the support member may be collapsible into a housing. The one or more panels may be configured in one or more substantially planar portions, one or more substantially curved portions, or a combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Jim Melhart Paino and Organ Company
    Inventor: Jimmie Ray Melhart
  • Patent number: 8776416
    Abstract: A display apparatus is disclosed that includes a screen and a frame system positioned to support the screen. The frame system includes a plurality of frame members, a hinge that couples the frame members together, and a lock that blocks relative movement of the frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Draper, Inc.
    Inventor: Shannon O. Redmon
  • Publication number: 20140166213
    Abstract: A shared space divider provides privacy on surfaces. The shared space divider comprises a hub that is placed on a portion of a surface, and at least one partitioning structure coupled to a portion of the hub. The at least one partitioning structure comprises a separator configured to partition the surface into two or more sections. The separator has a ribbon structure, an accordion structure, or a fan structure. The at least one partitioning structure is configured to extend from and retract into or, alternatively, fold out from and fold into the hub. In some embodiments, the shared space divider comprises at least one container for holding items commonly found on the surface. In other embodiments, the shared space divider comprises a clip for attaching to documents. Yet, in other embodiments, images such as advertisements are displayed on at least one of the separator and the hub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2014
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Inventor: Christi O'Connor
  • Patent number: 8701321
    Abstract: The invention is related to an automatically activated z-shaped model totem pole type display apparatus, used for visual communication, advertising and propaganda, for provision of information on products and services at points of sale and events, comprised by only four pieces, including two internal devices that form a Z-shape upon automatic activation and two external panels with the optional addition of a base and top plate for outdoor use, which apparatus may be easily assembled and disassembled by the end user, where in order to facilitate the transport and storage thereof upon disassembly, the apparatus may be flattened and folded one or more times to thereby assume what practically amounts to the shape of a folded plate and enabling the accommodation thereof in a carrying case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: PDV Total Comércio de Material Promocional LTDA
    Inventors: Fernando Gonçalves Da Fonseca, Paola Geremia Fernandez
  • Patent number: 8695755
    Abstract: A pop up device for a curtain, that is compressed to be packaged in a box, and expanded out of said box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Production Resource Group, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Orestes Mihaly
  • Patent number: 8656617
    Abstract: A variety of configurations are disclosed for modular tradeshow display systems that can be assembled without the use of tools or other specialized machinery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Nexxtshow Exposition Services LLC
    Inventor: Scott Michael Ceurvels
  • Patent number: 8640763
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a portable, protective barrier for facilitating the passage of oversized articles through a span provided between two barriers. The protective barrier is fabricated of a board having a first planar surface and an opposite planar surface defined by a peripheral edge. The protective barrier is placed between the article being transferred through the span and at least one of the barriers. The article is compressed against the protective barrier to facilitate movement of the article through the span. The article can be furniture, appliances, equipment, etc., and the barriers can be a corner, a wall, a doorjamb, a staircase, other furniture, artwork, etc. The protective barrier may include a smooth planar surface enhancing passage of the article through the span. A non-skid texture may be applied to the opposite surface to increase friction between the protective barrier and the respective edge of the span.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Inventors: Judith C. Laengle, Lynn Sciarrone
  • Patent number: 8640721
    Abstract: A portable hunting blind employs a hand-operated, spring biased clamp with a pair of compressible handles that open spring-biased clamping jaws. The clamping jaws include internal grooves for sure gripping. An elongated, bendable arm extends from one of the clamp handles. An attachment juncture formed in one of the handle ends secures the arm to the clamp. The flexible metal arm can be configured by bending as desired by a hunter to assume a desired shape. A camouflage curtain is secured to the arm, which supports it like a flag pole. When an area for deployment is reached, the clamp is affixed to an available object, such as a tree limb, support the curtain and camouflage a limited selected area. The shape of the concealed arm can be varied by bending the arm. The curtain bottom may be secured to a convenient object to prevent movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Inventor: Patrick Mulligan
  • Publication number: 20140020855
    Abstract: A portable work screen apparatus including a semi-rigid screen and at least two supports, each having an attachment device, the attachment device having a magnet for, in use, releasably connecting the screen to a surface proximal to a workpiece, wherein the at least two supports are spaced apart, such that, in use, the screen is extending therebetween and is flexed to a desired configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Applicant: BAE Systems plc
    Inventors: Mark Wayne Phillips, William Brian Spencely
  • Patent number: 8627873
    Abstract: In a spring-loaded curtain mount, the mount includes a pole interface at a proximal end, a compressive mechanism, and a head at a distal end. The pole interface is adapted to receive the end of a standard length adjustable pole or a painter's pole. The compression mechanism is disposed between the proximal end of the mount and the head. The mount includes a coupling device adapted to receive a portion of a curtain. During installation, the curtain mount is coupled to the end of an extension pole and the length of the pole is adjusted such that the combined length of the pole and mount is slightly longer than the distance between the floor and ceiling. At ground level, a portion of the curtain is attached to the head of the curtain mount. The curtain and mount are raised to the ceiling and the mount and pole are compressed between the floor and the ceiling. This compressive force operates to urge the head toward the ceiling, securing the mount in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Zipwall, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Whittemore
  • Publication number: 20130340955
    Abstract: Provided is a multiply configurable modular study carrel. Also provided is a study carrel having at least one locking post; and at least one panel affixed to the locking post. Also provided is a study carrel including a panel having a bottom edge, and a first and second panel brace; the first and second panel brace supporting the panel such that the bottom edge of the panel is perpendicular to the first and second panel braces. Also provided is study carrel having a first panel, and a second panel; the first panel having a slot in the middle of the bottom edge; the second panel having a slot in the middle of the top edge; and the slot of the first panel seated in the slot of the second panel such that the first and second panel are perpendicularly affixed to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Inventor: Lonnie Thomas Parker, III
  • Patent number: 8613407
    Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement for dividing a space into a plurality of areas, said arrangement comprising at least one frame with at least one fixing means for holding the frame in corresponding frame receiving elements, and at least one foldable defining means. The frame is formed in such a way that the arrangement essentially fits onto at least one wall of the space when it is fixed, the foldable defining means being able to be held on the frame and preventing an air flow between adjacent areas of the space separated by the arrangement. The arrangement according to the invention enables a thermal separation of two adjacent areas of a space, that can each be air-conditioned differently, without forming an area containing air which is a mixture from two regions at different temperatures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Sven Hartel, Volkhard Wendt
  • Patent number: 8613153
    Abstract: A variety of configurations are disclosed for modular tradeshow display systems that can be assembled without the use of tools or other specialized machinery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Nexxtshow Exposition Services LLC
    Inventor: Scott Michael Ceurvels
  • Patent number: 8601730
    Abstract: A variety of configurations are disclosed for modular tradeshow display systems that can be assembled without the use of tools or other specialized machinery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Nexxtshow Exposition Services LLC
    Inventor: Scott Michael Ceurvels
  • Patent number: 8601729
    Abstract: A modular panel display unit assembly, comprising: an elongated upper plate and an elongated lower plate, both arranged parallel to one another and supported by a first side rail and a second side rail secured therebetween, wherein a backer board is capturably received between the upper plate and the lower plate, and wherein one or more modular display panel units may be connected end to end together, and wherein a display panel is removably attached to a backer board secured between the upper plate and the lower plate thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Rose Displays, Ltd.
    Inventors: David E. Pitcher, Thomas P. Burrous, Rebecca C. Suciu, Alan L. Stenfors, Sidney Rose
  • Patent number: 8579007
    Abstract: An improved hunting blind having a mirrored outwardly facing surface and a camouflaged inwardly facing surface. The blind includes four panels that are hingedly connected together with invisible hinges for allowing the blind to be foldably compacted in the manner of an accordion for conveniently storing and transporting the blind. The top edge of the blind is formed with an irregular, zig-zag shaped contour for allowing the blind to blend in with a natural surrounding environment. When the blind is expanded and erected for use, the mirrored front surface of the blind is tilted forward. A game animal looking onto the front of the blind from a distance therefore sees only a reflection of the terrain surrounding the blind, thereby making the blind substantially indiscernible from the surrounding terrain and effectively obscuring a hunter positioned behind the blind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: GhostBlind Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin L. Pottmeyer, Chester W. Burdette
  • Patent number: 8561666
    Abstract: An article of flexible furniture having a core formed from a plurality of laminar panels of a flaccid material and each panel having a pair of oppositely directed major faces, adjacent faces of said panels being inter-connected to provide a cellular structure upon movement of abutting faces away from each other, a pair of supports at opposite ends of said core and connected to respective ones of said faces, said supports being self-supporting to provide rigidity to said core whereby said supports may be moved apart to expand said cellular and extend the length of said partition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: molo design, ltd.
    Inventors: Todd P. MacAllen, Stephanie P. Forsythe
  • Patent number: 8549779
    Abstract: A variety of configurations are disclosed for modular tradeshow display systems that can be assembled without the use of tools or other specialized machinery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Nexxtshow Exposition Services LLC
    Inventor: Scott Michael Ceurvels
  • Publication number: 20130240155
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a portable modesty guard apparatus. More specifically, the present invention relates to a portable modesty guard for creating a private space in a public, or other, area. The portable modesty guard provides a unique construction which allows the user to collapse, store and carry the device in a way that allows it to be set-up quickly and packed away in a lightweight, portable unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Inventor: Tina L. Kandakai
  • Publication number: 20130228294
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a slat wall formed as a three dimensional body with a predetermined height, width and thickness. The slat wall of the invention comprises a core, presenting a first and a second: face and at least one groove extending inwardly from the first face of the core and having a length extending in the direction of the width of the slat wall. An insert comprising et least one wail which defines a cavity, is arrange in said groove, and at least: one covering layer covers the first lace of the core and a part of the groove. The slat wail further comprises a slit miming through the covering layer and through the wail of the; insert, which slit has an extension in the direction of the width of the slat wall. The slat wall of the invention is easy to handle and simple to manufacture. The design of the slat wail enables the manufacturing of a receiving groove with a T-shaped profile without the need to mill out such a profile in the core.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2011
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Applicant: GREEN LITE AB
    Inventor: Kurt Aldén
  • Patent number: 8516728
    Abstract: Provided is a flexible display apparatus that includes: a flexible display apparatus including: a flexible display panel; a housing including an opening through which the flexible display panel enters and exits the housing; a cylinder disposed within the housing to coil and uncoil the flexible display panel; and a stretcher that selectively extends from the opening to support the flexible display panel, such that the flexible display panel is substantially planar when the flexible display panel is extended outside of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Samsung Display Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Youn Hwan Jung
  • Patent number: 8511365
    Abstract: An apparatus for suspending above a shooting location comprises an inflatable panel and a plurality of attachment points from which the panel may be suspended. An inflation apparatus directs air into the panel through an air inlet to inflate the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Inventor: David McIntosh
  • Publication number: 20130180674
    Abstract: A foldable welding screen includes first and second elongate members each with a first end, a second end and an intermediate point. Intermediate point includes a pivoting connection with the first ends of the first and second elongate members being pivotally connected and the second ends of the first and second elongate members being pivotally connected. A stabilizing member has a first portion that is pivotally connected to the intermediate point of the first elongate member and a second portion that is pivotally connected to the intermediate point of the second elongate member. The first portion of the stabilizing member is movable relative to the second portion of the stabilizing member. A flexible substrate is attached to the first elongate member and the second elongate member. The first and second elongate members move between an erected position and a collapsed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2013
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Inventor: Greg Fredin
  • Patent number: 8464493
    Abstract: A configuration, all components of which are man portable in some embodiments, for holding panels to protect assets against external force and impacts from airborne projectiles. An open box-like stackable frame module holds panels along a side of the frame. Multiple frames are connected to construct a protective barrier, such as a wall. Frames include provisions for connection in a vertical configuration so as to allow stacking of the frames to increase the height of the barrier. A method of installing is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Nicholas Boone, Bartley P. Durst, Toney K. Cummins, Pamela G. Kinnebrew, William F. Heard, Thomas R. Slawson, Michael J. Roth, Ryan Stinson, Reed Mosher, Jerry C. Edwards, Andrew B. Edwards, Jason D. Edwards, Shane H. Sanford, Robert A. Pilgrim
  • Patent number: 8430149
    Abstract: A folding church truck surround having a center panel, a pair of front panels, a pair of corner panels and a pair of side panels, wherein the front panels are hingedly attached to the center panel, and wherein the side panels are hingedly attached to the pair of corner panels extending from the front panels, to allow the surround to maintain both an open and closed position through the folding and unfolding of the various panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Inventor: Roy O. Gilbert
  • Publication number: 20130092331
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed for controlling inmates disposed in their cells during emergency situations. The apparatus and methods may be applied to other doors or windows to block visualization there through. For example, if a school is on lockdown, a teacher may place a window shield on the window in the door to the classroom. This may prevent a threat from seeing into a room and possibly deter the threat from even entering the classroom. The apparatus includes a flexible magnetic cover which can be used by staff as a temporary cover for prison cell or school door windows. The apparatus may include a one-way viewing portion permitting persons to look in only one direction through the window shield. The apparatus could be used in any situation where people are confined for safety and security.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Inventor: Danieray Johnsen
  • Publication number: 20130062025
    Abstract: This invention relates to a portable, self-contained tarping system for on site containers comprising a tarp, support bows, and a rack. This tarping system provides coverage for a stationary container to prevent contents from failing out of the container and also to prevent rainwater from gathering and causing run-off into surrounding land.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventor: Robert Bromberek
  • Patent number: 8371360
    Abstract: A partition mount system includes an integrated plunger assembly. The integrated plunger assembly is constructed and arranged to be integrated into an interior of an end of an extension pole, for example a standard telescoping extension pole. Mounting of the plunger in an interior portion of the pole in this manner provides for a sleek design that is relatively lightweight. Assuming that the pole in which the anchor is mounted is part of a telescoping pole system, the anchor and plunger do not interfere with full travel of the interior pole with respect to other poles in the telescoping system. In this manner, operation of the telescoping pole system is not inhibited by the integrated plunger assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Zipwall LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Whittemore
  • Patent number: 8365804
    Abstract: An inflatable separation device and method of using the device to form a gas-impermeable barrier in a structural location such as a hallway. The device also provides a safe, effective passage across the barrier to form a concealed region for decontamination protocols. The inflatable separation device includes an inflatable support frame and a cover that envelops the support frame and forms an enclosed interior space when the support frame is inflated. An inflatable perimeter sealing bladder is disposed about the cover and adapted to form a seal between the cover and exterior surfaces of a structural space when the support frame and the sealing bladder are inflated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: James A. Genovese, Patrick M. Nolan, Win Van Basten, Charles Ruppert
  • Patent number: 8365449
    Abstract: A configurable large-depth panel display uses a number of frame members and a number of corner brackets coupled to one another to create an flexible and easily customized display device. The frame members relatively uniform, having a substantially constant cross-sectional configuration which is easily coupled to the frame members. The corner brackets can be configured in a number of different ways to produce a display product with a desired configuration. More specifically, the corner brackets can be configured to attach to frame members in a manner which produce an overall framework having multiple shapes and orientations, depending upon the desired design of the overall display. Various panels, brackets and supports can be easily attached to the frame members using integral portions of the constant cross-sectional configuration. Further, more complex displays can be easily created by simply attaching different framework components to one another thus creating a single structure with multiple panel members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Skyline Displays, Inc.
    Inventors: Dixon Gimpel, Mark Fritsche, Scott Parizek, John Elliott
  • Patent number: 8365798
    Abstract: A privacy screen assembly has a first elongated support, a second elongated support, and a privacy screen having a first end operably coupled with the first elongated support and a second end operably coupled to the second elongated support, wherein the first privacy screen is positionable between a retracted position and a deployed position. A support member vertically supports the privacy screen and is positionable between a retracted position, wherein the support member is stored within an interior of one of the first elongated support and the second elongated support in a substantially linear configuration, and a deployed position, wherein a substantial portion of the support member extends from the interior of the elongated support and wherein a substantial portion of the support member exits the interior of the elongated support such that less of the support member is present in the interior of the elongated support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas G. Feldpausch, Adrian Gomez, Allen C. Hager, Kurt R. Heidmann
  • Patent number: 8322060
    Abstract: A retractable double-sided banner stand has a base, two upright posts, a crossbar, and a single banner with graphic image(s) disposed on both sides of the banner. The base generally includes a housing, two housing end cap assemblies, a single core, and a retracting mechanism. The banner is wound around the core, and the retracting mechanism unwinds and winds the banner with respect to the core. The leading edge of the banner is attached to the crossbar, which is wider than the width of the banner. The banner stand has an erect upright mode for displaying the images(s), and a collapsed mode for transporting the banner stand. In the erect mode, the upright posts are retained in the base by means of a quick-release locking mechanism, the banner extends upwardly from the base, and the crossbar engages with, and is supported by, the upper portion of each of the upright posts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Skyline Displays, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Parizek, Curtis H. Lindblom
  • Patent number: 8286720
    Abstract: A spark arrestor for processing metal workpieces includes an annular body having an upper end wall provided with a first opening and a lower end wall provided with a second opening. The annular body has a pair of generally aligned, circumferentially offset, downwardly open first recesses, each structured to be received over at least a portion of the metal workpiece. Each recess may have having a plurality of downwardly extending first shield elements. Lateral surfaces of the annular body disposed between the downwardly open first recesses have a pair of lateral second recesses which have a plurality of second shield elements extending downwardly therefrom. A torch receiving opening is provided in the annular body to facilitate insertion of the torch. The upper end wall first opening preferably has a grid structure to resist outward migration of sparks and flames from the interior of the spark arrestor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Inventor: Dennis Moyer
  • Patent number: 8281869
    Abstract: A spark arrestor for processing railroad rails includes an annular body having an upper end wall provided with a first opening and a lower end wall provided with a second opening. The annular body has a pair of generally aligned, circumferentially offset, downwardly open recesses, each structured to be received over a portion of the railroad rail and each having a first plurality of downwardly extending shield elements, extending downwardly beyond the upper surface of the rail. Lateral surfaces of the annular body disposed between the downwardly open recesses have a plurality of second shield elements extending downwardly therefrom. A cutting torch or heating torch or welding torch receiving opening is provided in the annular body to facilitate insertion of the torch. The upper and lower end wall opening, each preferably having a grid structure to resist outward migration of sparks and flames from the interior of the spark arrestor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Inventor: Dennis Moyer
  • Publication number: 20120234503
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a portable modesty guard apparatus. More specifically, the present invention relates to a portable modesty guard for producing a private space in a public, or other, area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Inventor: Tina L. Kandakai
  • Patent number: 8267147
    Abstract: A dental shield apparatus includes a first portion of flexible tubing having proximal and distal ends. A handle is operably coupled to the distal end of the first portion of flexible tubing. The dental shield apparatus includes a transparent shield. Second and third portions of flexible tubing operatively couple the transparent shield to the handle, the second portion of flexible tubing having a mass per unit length that is less than a mass per unit length of the first portion of flexible tubing. The third portion of flexible tubing includes a mass per unit length that is less than the mass per unit length of the first portion of flexible tubing. The proximal end of the first portion of flexible tubing is attached to an anchor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Inventor: Robin R. Lockwood
  • Publication number: 20120118516
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for providing a barrier between occupants of a side-by-side stroller, the apparatus including a coupler and an obstruction. Couplers may clip on to stroller fabric or frame. Or, couplers include stroller interfaces that couple to the stroller frame. Couplers include two pivotably connected arms that may be adjusted to match the angle of the stroller. Couplers may include tensioning or non-tensioning length adjustment mechanisms to match the length of the portion of the stroller to which it is attached. Obstructions may be of a fixed shape, inflatable, and/or collapsible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2010
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Inventor: Monica Macauley
  • Patent number: 8177275
    Abstract: A partition for separating the cabin compartment from the cargo area in HHR-style vehicles where the cabin compartment is characterized by a deck having a front wall and recesses. The partition comprises a frame including a panel. The frame is securable to a front wall of the vehicle deck, and includes at least one support, each of the at least one supports receivable in one of the recesses of the deck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Adrian Steel Company
    Inventors: Thomas Michael Willis, Robert H. Sautter, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20120097347
    Abstract: A sunlight blocker for blocking UV light comprising: a sunscreen; an arm extending from the sunscreen; a coiled portion extending from the arm at an opposite end of the sunscreen; and an opening within the coil. The coiled portion enables the user to adjust the position of the sunscreen. In one particular embodiment, a mesh material covers the arm and coiled portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2010
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Inventor: Shanna Sweeney
  • Publication number: 20120048482
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a self-contained protection device (1, 1a-1b) for provisionally blocking a passage (10) such as a corridor, a door, or a window, characterized in that it includes at least one longitudinally-extendable bar (2, 2a-2b), preferably a telescopic bar, the extension thereof being actuatable by an actuator (3), said bar being capable of being removably locked in an extended configuration between two wall surfaces (10a, 10b) defining said passage, referred to as locking surfaces, said extendable bar supporting one or preferably a plurality of blocking member(s) (4) to form a protection screen (5, 5a, 5b) blocking said passage, in which said blocking member(s) is or are preferably removably fixed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: LIBERVIT
    Inventor: Yvan Cardona
  • Publication number: 20120006498
    Abstract: A method and system for a barrier system configured to controllably block egress from and ingress to a predetermined area is provided. The barrier system includes a barrier panel that is removable from the barrier system and replaceable with another different barrier panel selectable by a user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Inventor: Donna Marie Potter
  • Patent number: 8091605
    Abstract: An acoustic panel assembly may have one or more panels adaptable for reflecting sound waves and a support member to which the one or more panels may be attached. The support member may be extendable and retractable. The one or more panels and the support member may be collapsible into a housing. The one or more panels may be configured in one or more substantially planar portions, one or more substantially curved portions, or a combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Jim Melhart Piano and Organ Company
    Inventor: Jimmie Ray Melhart
  • Patent number: 8066051
    Abstract: A partition mount system includes an integrated plunger assembly. The integrated plunger assembly is constructed and arranged to be integrated into an interior of an end of an extension pole, for example a standard telescoping extension pole. Mounting of the plunger in an interior portion of the pole in this manner provides for a sleek design that is relatively lightweight. Assuming that the pole in which the anchor is mounted is part of a telescoping pole system, the anchor and plunger do not interfere with full travel of the interior pole with respect to other poles in the telescoping system. In this manner, operation of the telescoping pole system is not inhibited by the integrated plunger assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Zipwall, LLC.
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Whittemore
  • Patent number: 8047257
    Abstract: An apparatus for suspending above a shooting location comprises an inflatable panel and a plurality of attachment points from which the panel may be suspended. An inflation apparatus directs air into the panel through an air inlet to inflate the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Inventor: David McIntosh
  • Patent number: 8033059
    Abstract: A paneling system for use as a wing and/or return panel for dividing large open office areas into smaller work stations. The paneling system includes a frame having top and bottom surfaces, and side surfaces. Attachment assemblies are used for removably attaching one or more paneling system to one or more of a spine wall, post, wing panel, return panel, and work surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: HNI Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: James Contois, Robert K. Nichols, Teresa Falck, Gregory Ferris, Matthew C. Brown, Ronald Hartman, Mark Roumfort, Christopher J. Mefford
  • Patent number: 8011850
    Abstract: A device for arresting a motor vehicle which is moving on a support surface includes an enclosure with is shaped and dimensioned to receive the motor vehicle. The device is releasably connectable to a helicopter, so that the device can be (1) positioned over the motor vehicle by the helicopter, (2) disconnected from the helicopter, and (3) dropped onto the support surface wherein the enclosure encloses the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Inventor: Leon Perlsweig