Portable Patents (Class 160/351)
  • Patent number: 8006739
    Abstract: An architectural mesh sunscreen panel having at least a first portion including a first architectural mesh assembled from a plurality of first interwoven helically-wound spiral units and first connector rods; and a second portion including a second architectural mesh assembled from a plurality of second interwoven helically-wound spiral units and second connector rods. The first architectural mesh defines a first shading characteristic that is different from a second shading characteristic defined by the second architectural mesh.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Cambridge International Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas Costello
  • Patent number: 8002013
    Abstract: A device for altering the airflow pattern from a ceiling vent diffuser. The device comprises a flexible member that is secured to a diffuser vane by a spring-biased hook and one or more tabs. A release button on the outer surface of the device is depressed to pivot the hook out of engagement with the vane. The device is complementary shaped to a region of the diffuser. When installed, the device blocks the openings in that region and substantially prevents air from flowing out of the openings. One or more devices may be installed in selected regions to block airflow from those selected regions. A plurality of devices may be utilized to completely prevent airflow from the diffuser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Airvisor Inc.
    Inventors: Chad A. Brown, Robert G. Dickie
  • Publication number: 20110186247
    Abstract: A vehicle mounted privacy screen comprising a screen panel, at least one removable attachment member associated with each of at least two opposed portions of the screen panel and a connection member extending from the screen panel that connects the screen panel to the removable attachment member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2010
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Inventors: Benjamin D. Wild, James F. Weintre
  • Publication number: 20110168335
    Abstract: A mobile partitioning wall including a plurality of independently displaceable wall elements. Each wall element has vertically movable connecting profiles and a control unit to control at least one drive of the connecting profiles. In a braced position the connecting profiles are braced between the floor and the ceiling, and in an open position, the connecting profiles are disposed at the wall element. When unlocking the mobile partitioning wall the wall elements are sequentially transferable from the bracing position into the open position. The control units are connected in parallel to an electrical voltage source in such that, in the braced position the control units are charged with a working voltage. A signal element is able to transmit a first unlocking signal for unlocking a first wall element and after unlocking a first wall element the signal element generates a second unlocking signal for a second wall element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2009
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Inventor: Harald Hoopmann
  • Patent number: 7974004
    Abstract: A screen includes: the four arm members have first connection sections, one at each of the first and second support section side extremities, each of the first and second support sections includes at either extremity thereof a second connection section which receives the first connection section, an attachment and detachment of each of the arm members to and from the screen main body is carried out by an attachment and detachment of the first connection section to and from the second connection section, each of the four arm members has a third connection section at the support rod side extremity, the support rod has fourth connection sections which receive, one each, the four arm members, and an attachment and detachment of the arm members to and from the support rod is carried out by the third connection sections and fourth connection sections coming into engagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Masato Maruyama
  • Publication number: 20110093095
    Abstract: Various apparatuses, methods and systems for directionally controlling a movable partition are provided. In one embodiment, an apparatus may include at least one roller assembly coupled to a portion of a movable partition. A roller element of the roller assembly may be configured to maintain contact with an adjacent surface (e.g., a floor) while the partition is displaced along a desired path even though the adjacent surface may exhibit unevenness, undulations or other substantially nonplanar surface features. In one embodiment, the apparatus may be configured to maintain a substantially constant force between the roller element and the adjacent surface. In another embodiment, the apparatus may be configured to maintain a force between the roller element and the adjacent surface substantially within a specified range. A steering actuator may also be used to select, or change, the orientation of the roller assembly with respect to the partition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2010
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Applicant: WON-DOOR CORPORATION
    Inventors: E. Carl Goodman, D. George Field, Kevin D. Banta
  • Patent number: 7874090
    Abstract: At least two upright subassemblies, each with a base, radial positioning members; an outer tubular member, an inner tubular member slidably received in the outer tubular member; a plunger for selective engagement with aperture(s) in the outer tubular member, upper and lower horizontal bars secured to the radial positioning members, and a flexible display secured to each set of upper and lower horizontal bars, the radial positioning members for selective positioning between selected convex, concave, in-line and right angle positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Inventor: Rodger H. Flagg
  • Patent number: 7866366
    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 firm 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: May 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Molo design, Ltd.
    Inventors: Todd P. MacAllen, Stephanie P. Forsythe
  • Patent number: 7866369
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a vertical structure containing a movable panel, which can become a comfortable seat, when needed. A plurality of such structures, in side-by-side relationship, create a useful space divider and/or partition screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Inventor: Maurizio Domolato
  • Patent number: 7849562
    Abstract: An arrangement in a screen for substantially continuous adjustability and parking of the screen in a desired position, including an upper hinge and a lower hinge. The lower hinge includes a conical element for achieving a braking effect against pivoting of the parts in relation to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Inventors: Dag Göranson, Örjan Göranson
  • Patent number: 7849618
    Abstract: A sign system is disclosed in which a flexible sign panel is supported by light weight frame numbers such as fiberglass ribs joined together with a pivot connection. A sign panel of flexible material has a center section disposed between a pair of opposed sign panel portions. The center portion of the sign panel engages a cross member with the sign panel portions being folded over on either side of an upright support member. Free ends of the sign panel member are secured with a stretchable elastic cord, ribbon or the like, to a mounting member having a socket for receiving one end of the vertical support member. By engaging the mounting member and stretching the elastic cords, the mounting member is disposed over one end of the vertical support and one released, engages the vertical support holding the sign panel portions in a display position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Dicke Tool Company
    Inventor: Grant D. Dicke
  • Publication number: 20100288450
    Abstract: In one aspect, the present invention is directed to a septum apparatus (10), for concealing a site from passersby, the apparatus comprising: a first pole (40), comprising a plurality of segments (50), each storing a folded sheet (52); a second pole (20), comprising means for connecting thereto the end of each sheet (28), the second pole being foldable or telescopic, thereby providing a compact structure; each of the poles comprises a stand (42, 22), for retaining the pole thereof (40, 20 correspondingly) upright; and each pole (40, 20) comprises fixing means (12 or 46, 26), for fixing the pole thereof to the ground; thereby providing a septum compact in storage, simple in mounting and dismounting. The apparatus may further comprise a case (80), for storing therein the parts thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2009
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Inventors: Naftali Bruck, Yair Bruck
  • Publication number: 20100263807
    Abstract: A freestanding modular wall according to the present invention includes at least two base members, a vertical post securely attached to each base member, a bottom horizontal bar between each pair of posts, a plurality of substantially rectangular panels, a horizontal bar above each panel or each horizontal row of panels, and a vertical bar between each pair of panels or each vertical column of panels. Each vertical post forms at least one vertical slot for receiving the ends of horizontal bars and the vertical edges of panels, and each vertical bar forms slots on both edges for receiving the vertical edges of panels and the ends of horizontal bars. Likewise, each horizontal bar forms slots along at least one edge for receiving the ends of vertical bars and horizontal edges of the panels. Each panel forms two faces, two vertical edges and two horizontal edges. Each panel is of a substantially standard depth and each panel face is selected from one to three substantially standard sizes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Steven F. Kinder
  • Patent number: 7789927
    Abstract: A portable partition system includes an air permeable nonwoven sheet material as the primary isolation material. An elongated support member with an attachment device are used to erect the sheet material. The attachment device includes a head with opposed separable clamping surfaces having a hook material provided thereon. The sheet material is inserted between the clamping surfaces so as to be engaged directly by the hook material on opposite sides of the sheet material upon erecting the system into a portable partition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul F. Tramontina, Richard P. Lewis, Jeffrey J. Krueger, Charles H. Goerg, Frances W. Mayfield, Ann L. McCormack, Jacqueline B. Martin, David Lilley
  • Patent number: 7752813
    Abstract: A partitioning system is disclosed and includes walls, stands and table tops. In use, each wall has: upper and lower ends; sides spaced apart from one another along a horizontal longitudinal axis; faces spaced apart from one another along a horizontal lateral axis normal to the longitudinal axis. Further, each wall, in use, defines: a longitudinal slot extending from one side to at least partially divide at least one of the faces; and a channel for said slot, said channel extending from the lower end of the wall, between the faces, to said slot to define a void in said wall. Each stand, in use, has: a ground-engaging base; an upright extending from the base within a channel; and a support arm extending transversely from the upright through the slot for which the channel is provided. Each table top is supported in use by one or more support arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Unifor S.p.A.
    Inventor: Cesare Picchio
  • Publication number: 20100059187
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a child safety net. The device may act as a barrier to prevent items, such as a basketball, from inadvertently exiting a playing area. As a result, the device may prevent a child from chasing after a ball and running into traffic. Further, the device is useful in eliminating the need to spend time chasing a ball even in a safe environment, such as a park. The device is particularly suitable for use at the end of a driveway. The device has a lightweight net which is easily installed at any location. The net may be easily rolled up for storage and transportation. The base of the device is weighted and has a plurality of female slots for receiving a plurality of posts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Kenneth Moore
  • Publication number: 20100038042
    Abstract: An apparatus releasibly attachable to a wall or overhead support surface includes a horizontally elongated roller assembly which accommodates a spirally wound compliant sheet, and a track member which rotatably supports the roller assembly. The track member is supported by at least two clamps which permit releasible connection to the track member. The sheet has a meaningful appearance when deployed downwardly to a display state having a vertically elongated rectangular contour.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2008
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Inventor: Rocky E. Criss
  • Patent number: 7658219
    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: May 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: Zipwall, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Whittemore
  • Publication number: 20100018560
    Abstract: A door assembly for use in a shelter, wherein the shelter comprises an outer frame assembly comprising a plurality of intercoupled members forming a coverable structure and a cover for covering the outer frame assembly, wherein the door assembly comprises a door frame comprising a plurality of intercoupled members; and a retractable door arrangement coupled to the door frame, wherein the retractable door arrangement comprises a door comprised of flexible material that can be extended to enclose the shelter or retracted to provide an opening into the shelter; wherein the door assembly does not rigidly connect to the outer frame assembly of the shelter during normal usage thereof. In addition, a shelter system comprising the outer frame assembly, the cover and a door frame comprising a plurality of intercoupled members and a retractable door arrangement is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2008
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Inventors: Arthur J. Milano, JR., James Grevas
  • Patent number: 7634885
    Abstract: Wall element 2, especially for constructing a partition wall, for example in an exhibition, has a first connecting device with a least one first connecting element 12 to establish a connection with at least one other wall element 2?. the first connecting device is configured such that one wall element 2 can be connected with another wall element 2? without tools. The wall element includes an essentially frame-like basic body 18 and a second connecting device for releasable connection of at least one flat face element 30, 32, 34 to the basic body. the second connecting device is configured so that the face element 30, 32, 34 can be connected-with the basic body 18 without tools. The wall element 2 allows the partition walls to be largely assembled without tools. This saves time and assembly costs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2009
    Inventor: Manfred Hoffmann
  • Publication number: 20090288787
    Abstract: A cargo net for vehicle enabling stored luggage to be prevented from being damaged by vibrations transmitted from a floor of a luggage compartment. A cargo net 1 comprises a first partition member 2 and a second partition member 3 having one end 3a thereof connected with one end of the first partition member 2, so that it is detachably attached to a luggage compartment 5 of a vehicle 4. The first and second partition members 2, 3 are formed into a pouched shape, each including an openable and closable portion 12 near the center of the luggage compartment 5. The cargo net 1 can hold the luggage 21 stored in the second partition member 3 without being contacted by the floor 5a of the luggage compartment 5, the stored luggage 21 can be prevented from being damaged by the vibration of the vehicle 4 from the floor 5a.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2008
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Applicant: HONDA ACCESS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Atsushi YOSHIDA
  • Publication number: 20090255638
    Abstract: Disclosed is a portable wall-partition that includes a wall panel that having a first edge and a second edge transversely connected to the first edge. A swivel wheel mechanism is connected to a central position of the first edge. At least one end panel that has an intermediate portion and a hinged connection connecting the intermediate portion of the end panel to the second edge of the wall panel are also included in the portable wall-partition. Alternatively, the portable wall-partition can include a plurality of wall panels. Each of the plurality of wall panels has a lower edge and a transverse side edge; and each of the plurality of wall panels is connected at its transverse side edge to a successive wall panel. A swivelable elongate wheel frame is connected at its midpoint to a midpoint of the lower edge. A first wheel is connected to a first end of the elongate wheel frame, and a second wheel is connected to a second end of the elongate wheel frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2009
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Applicant: MooreCo., Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Hardt, II
  • Patent number: 7600554
    Abstract: A multi-segmented, highly-portable highly-stable accident barrier device for obscuring accident sites to prevent on-looking by passersby, traffic congestion, and residual collisions, the device consisting of two telescopic poles with stabilizing feet and a mesh tarpaulin extended therebetween, the tarpaulin having a plurality of loops along each side edge adapted to slidably attach around the poles, a plurality of ventilation slits for passage of wind therethrough, a hook and hook fastener along its bottom edge, reflective designs, as well as additional extension screen sections, also having hook and loop fasteners along each edge and ventilation slits, for removable attachment to the tarpaulin. A method for using the device is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Inventors: Felicia M Wright, Emmitt Bruce Clore
  • Publication number: 20090173460
    Abstract: Embodiments described herein provide a cover, and a method for using the cover with a surface. One embodiment of the cover comprises a flexible, substantially planar member. A plurality of reinforcing members is attached to the flexible, substantially planar member. The plurality of reinforcing members is arranged on the flexible, substantially planar member so that the flexible, substantially planar member can reliably support a load. A plurality of manipulation members is operatively associated with the plurality of reinforcing members. The plurality of manipulation members is accessible to a lifter so that the lifter can apply force to the plurality of reinforcing members and can move the load reliably supported by the flexible, substantially planar member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2008
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Applicant: Midwest Canvas Coporation
    Inventor: Gary Handwerker
  • Publication number: 20090139669
    Abstract: A Shadeline™ personal shade is described. The shade may include a visor attached to an arm. The visor may be at least semi-transparent, and may be configured to inhibit incident light from passing through the visor while allowing sufficient light to pass through the visor such that a user can see through the visor. The arm may be flexible, such that the visor may be positioned to inhibit incident light from different source directions. The shade may further include a clamp, such that the shade may be attached to another object such as an article of furniture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Applicant: LES JARDINS
    Inventor: Claude Robin
  • Publication number: 20090126880
    Abstract: Devices and methods are disclosed which relate to the transportation of loads. A strong and flexible platform has a plurality of ball casters attached to its underside to carry a load by dragging the platform along the ground. The plurality of ball casters on the bottom allow it roll while the flexible platform allows it to match the contour of the ground surface. The platform is outfitted with a removable rigid frame, handles, and grommets. A wagon attachment can be attached on top of the platform to transport loose loads such as leaves and other yard waste, and a rigid tub can be inserted into the wagon attachment for denser loads such as soil and sand. The platform can be pulled by hand, animal or vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2007
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Inventor: Bradley Christian West
  • Publication number: 20090090475
    Abstract: The invention relates generally to partitioning devices and methods for partitioning space. A device is presented comprising: at least one partition body; at least one motility assembly operably adapted to at least one partition body; and at least one interconnect, where the at least one interconnect is used to interchangeably link the at least one partition body in multiple configurations with another partition body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2007
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Applicant: First Principles, Inc.
    Inventor: Keith A. Raniere
  • Patent number: 7503372
    Abstract: A roof worker protective netting apparatus includes a plurality of posts. A plurality of upper loops is provided. Each of the upper loops is attached to one of the posts and adjacent to a respective top end of the posts. A flexible mesh panel has a top edge, a bottom edge, a first side edge and a second side edge. Each of a plurality of upper hooks is attached to the panel and is positioned adjacent to the top edge of the panel. The upper hooks are each removably couplable to one of the upper loops. Each of a plurality of straps is attached to the panel and positioned adjacent to the bottom edge. Fasteners are extendable through the straps and into a roof to removably secure the straps to the roof when the panel is positioned adjacent to and extends upwardly from a lower edge of the roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Inventor: Chris J. Jones
  • Patent number: 7503373
    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: July 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Assignee: Zipwall, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Whittemore
  • Publication number: 20090020241
    Abstract: A barrier comprising a body member. The body member has a first side, a second side, a front side, a rear side, and one or more cavities within the body member. The body member further has a first overlap portion and a second overlap portion. The first overlap portion extends from the first side adjacent to the front side and spaced apart from the rear side. The second overlap portion extends from the second side adjacent to the rear side and spaced apart from the second side. The second overlap portion is shaped to mate in an overlapping manner with the first overlap portion of an adjacent body member. A barrier wall comprising two or more barriers is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2008
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Inventor: Daniel S. Bowlware
  • Publication number: 20090008047
    Abstract: A stump grinding debris containment structure capable of absorbing the impact of propelled stump debris, constructed of a light-weight frame having pivotal support members and automatically foldable canvas panels which are further secured by a joint plate and various optional structures for additional stability, such as spiked or beveled members and eyelet appendages
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2008
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Inventor: Gary Mayworm
  • Publication number: 20090000750
    Abstract: Disclosed is a portable wall-partition that includes a plurality of panels and at least one hinge that connects each of the plurality of panels to a neighboring panel. A foot is positioned on a lower edge of each of the plurality of panels. The foot includes a first extension and a second extension. Each of the extensions includes a distal end thereof. The first and the second extensions are connected to each other at a proximal end (opposite the end having a wheel) to form a vertex. The foot also includes a spring located at or near the vertex. The spring biases the first and the second extensions toward each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2008
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Inventors: John C. Hardt, II, Greg Moore, Chao-Ken Chen
  • Publication number: 20080236768
    Abstract: Is a portable, extendable (in two dimensions, length and height) and retractable screen which is easy to deploy, collapse and store into a convenient storage rack (mounted on vehicle or kept separately within the vehicle). The PSS (Portable Safety Screen) is designed for fast deployment by 1 (one) person with aerodynamic features which allow for the rush of oncoming air (sudden increase in ambient pressure) to pass through the screen while maintaining the integrity of the screen. The Portable Safety Screen (PSS) design includes the ability for additional counter-weights (stored on the mounting system or kept in storage case) to be affected (increasing the stability of the screen in high wind) (caused naturally or by passing vehicles).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventor: Matthew Sean Blair
  • Publication number: 20080223533
    Abstract: The present techniques include a field armor system comprising hollow structures designed to be filled with field materials, such as soil, sand, rocks, or clay. At least one face of the structures is made from a projectile resistant plastic composite. The projectile resistant plastic composite panel may be made from a ceramic plastic composite, a fiber plastic composite, or interspersed layers of both. In one embodiment, the hollow structure comprises four connected panels that may be collapsed when empty. In another embodiment, the hollow structure may comprise hollow bricks designed to interlock to form a protective wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2007
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Inventors: Norman Andreasen, John L. De Cristofaro, John Anthony Dispenza, Leon Klafter, Richard Thomas LaGrotta
  • Publication number: 20080217028
    Abstract: A method and arrangement for providing an incineration prevention kit (10) for protecting an article (12) from wildfire and including multiple panels (20) constructed from flame retardant sheeting releasably interconnectable together into a protective sheath (25). At least one of the panels has an interconnected strap handle (30) that together with the panel, forms a closed loop (38). At least one of the multiple panels has an interconnector receiver (40) in the form of a grommet that is configured to be interconnected with the closed loop at least in the installed configuration (18). The strap handles (30) are formed by one or more elongate straps (32) interconnected with the panel (20) at a plurality of spaced apart connections (34) along the strap's length and the elongate straps (32) are arranged in a shape substantially the same as a perimeter (22) shape of the panel (20).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Inventor: Samuel O'Neal Crumpton
  • Publication number: 20080173779
    Abstract: A screen assembly configured to be coupled to a partition panel such that a screen of the screen assembly is movable between a retracted position and an extended position relative to the partition panel. The screen assembly includes a bracket having a mounting portion directly securing the bracket to the partition panel and a guide portion coupled to the mounting portion and forming a generally U-shaped channel. A screen is movably received in the channel for guided movement between the retracted and extended positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2007
    Publication date: July 24, 2008
    Applicant: ACCO BRANDS USA LLC
    Inventors: Steven J. Beno, Mikael Backstrom, Martijn Loerakker, Jonathen Shearer
  • Patent number: 7398612
    Abstract: Collapsible structures are provided that have one or more support frames, each having a foldable frame member that has a folded and an unfolded orientation, with the frame member defining a periphery for the support frame. Where more than one support frame is provided, the support frames can be hingedly coupled to each other. The frame member(s) can be used, for example, to support panel pieces, objects and coverings, among others. In some embodiments, one or more objects can be coupled to and supported by the support frame(s). In other embodiments, a covering may be placed over the support frame(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 7350772
    Abstract: A foldable foam-based divider device includes a plurality of panels, each panel including a middle foam plate and front and back semi-rigid paper plates mounted on and sandwiching the middle foam plate, the middle foam plate further including at least one outwardly extending connecting tab and at least one tab-receiving recess with adjacent ones of the plurality of panels connected to one another in accordion-like fashion with the connecting tab extending into the tab-receiving recess and being secured therein by connection of the front and back semi-rigid paper plates to the connecting tab. The plurality of panels is movable between a closed position with the plurality of panels forming a folded stack of generally parallel panels and an opened position wherein the plurality of panels forms an extended wall operative to selectively divide an area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Inventor: Christian Legrand
  • Patent number: 7316257
    Abstract: A portable screen assembly which is easily assembled and highly compact when disassembled is provided. The assembly includes a collapsible base having at least three leg members and a central support pole. The assembly includes top and bottom frame members in parallel relation supported via the central support pole supporting a screen. The screen is held in place with the frame members via flaps, sleeves, or hooks and eyelets, and is completely removable and preferably wrinkle resistant. Side supports are optionally included to provide additional support for the top and bottom frame members. The frame members and side supports are optionally telescoping members or frictionally fitting or threaded separable members. The top portion of the central support pole preferably includes a top cap which is part of a mounting mechanism for mounting the top frame member. In the preferred embodiment, the mounting mechanism allows for keystoning of the screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Inventors: Ronald A. Cameron, Yvonne Marsh
  • Patent number: 7261140
    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: July 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: Zipwall LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Whittemore
  • Patent number: 7252106
    Abstract: A sunshade apparatus configured to inhibit the sun's rays, constructed with a plurality of flexible panels, having the ability to form a three-dimensional shape that provides a compact collapsible structure, and minimum assembly. The sunshade three-dimensional structure has the capability to easily adapt to an object or stand on its own.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Inventor: Carl J Conforti
  • Patent number: 7249624
    Abstract: A post and beam furniture system having a plurality of horizontally-extending beams having a longitudinally-extending T-shaped first channel and a longitudinally, T-shaped second channel, and a plurality of vertical posts each having a lower portion thereof adapted to be abuttingly supported on a floor surface of an office space, and an upper portion thereof adapted to be connected with the horizontally-extending beams, and a longitudinally-extending T-shaped channel. The channels of the beams and posts receiving a plurality of connectors and accessories, including a multiple bracket post and beam connectors, a T-nut connector, and T-connector, an infill panel, a horizontally-extending two-part wire manager, a vertically extending wire manager, a vertically adjustable worksurface, a transactional surface, a swivel support for supporting a post thereon, and a universal utility hook.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Mark A. Zeh, James R. Yurchenco, Peter S. Macdonald, Karl H. Mueller, Jonah L. Houston, Ari T. Adler, Stephen J. Senatore, Steven L. Atkins, Ana T. Chang, Todd A. Pelman
  • Patent number: 7225852
    Abstract: A cover pad for an upright wall having an improved support for simplifying attachment of a flexible covering such as fabric. The support includes a flat substrate sized to closely conform to the assembled cover pad. A ringlike frame defined by frame elements extend along edges of the substrate. Each frame element has a first elongate part engaged with the respective edge of the substrate, and a second elongate part joined to the first part by a lengthwise hinge. The second part functions as a hinging flange which is initially in an open position generally aligned with a front face of the substrate so that a flexible covering can be secured, as by adhesive, to an exposed surface of the flange while maintaining the fabric positioned across the face of the substrate. The hinging flanges of the frame elements are folded inwardly to overlie respective edges of the substrate, thereby securing the fabric across the face of the substrate and wrapped around the edges thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony McConnell, Randolph Woellper, Harold R. Wilson
  • Patent number: 7108040
    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: September 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Whittemore
  • Patent number: 7093398
    Abstract: A wall assembly includes at least two panel elements which are configured for contiguous placement adjacent to one another. Each of the panel elements defines a hollow internal passageway. The panels are configured to permit a contiguous placement whereby the respective passageways of the panels are brought into registration with one another. A connection element is positioned within one of the passageways. The connection element is accessible through a slot defined within the sidewall of the panel wherein the connection element resides. The connection element is slidable whereby it may be displaced partially into the second panel element. The connection element is thereafter actuatable whereby its lateral dimension is increased to form a pressure fit union with the interior sidewalls of the two passageways. In its spatially expanded configuration, the connection element provides a means of interconnecting the two panel elements together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: DAW Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter J. Spransy, Ronald H. Bushman, Donald A. Kugath
  • Patent number: 7055807
    Abstract: An expandable socket holds a fence pole for a flexible swimming pool fence. The socket, being generally cylindrical, but slightly tapered, is open at a top end and has a bottom end partially closed with a rectangular opening. The socket sits within a bore within a concrete swimming pool deck or within a cylindrical sleeve adapted to be imbedded in a hole in earth. The lower end of the fence pole has a shaft, with a locking plate mounted thereon. The locking plate fits through the opening in the socket and is twisted to lock the pole in place within the socket. The socket has one or more lengthwise expansion ribs extending from a sidewall. Each rib is capable of limited pivotal outwardly and inwardly movement and has an increased taper at the distal end. When the fence pole is inserted into the socket, each rib is forced outwardly to engage an inner surface of the cylindrical sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Pool Cover Corporation
    Inventor: LeeAnn Pesta
  • Patent number: 7023339
    Abstract: The security portal (10) is dimensioned to be readily mounted and transported on a trailer (54) alone as a single security portal (10) or with a plurality of security portals to provide screening for a short term, high security event. The portal (10) includes bullet-resistant, bomb-blast proof and at least partially transparent walls (12, 14, 16, 18) and doors (22, 24, 26). Monitors (32, 34) are secured to the portal (10) for monitoring an individual within an interior (30) of the portal (10) for detecting weapons, bio-hazards, chemical toxins, illegal drugs, contraband, or other hazardous materials. The security portal also includes a security monitoring station (36) adjacent the security access door (26) and a bomb-blast enclosure (66) having a flap (68) and bomb-blast containment balloon (70) for containing hazardous materials in the event of a bomb-blast within the portal (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Inventor: Gerald D. Stomski
  • Patent number: 6996939
    Abstract: A room partition system for a room having a central connecting panel and hingeably attached, foldable lateral storage units. Each of the lateral storage units has a bottom-mounted wheel assembly, thereby allowing the partition system to be rolled to various locations within the room. The lateral storage units have a plurality of shelves and provide substantial storage volume for containment of various items of clothing and other accessories. The lateral storage units are attached by hinges to the central connecting panel, thereby allowing a user to fold the storage units partially or fully against the connecting panel. The partition system has an open position, wherein the storage units extend parallel to the connecting panel, and also a folded position, wherein each lateral storage unit is rotated upon its hinges to a position perpendicular to that of the connecting panel, thereby forming a partially enclosed area for use as an entertainment center, a study center, or a work center.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Inventor: Herbert Jackson
  • Patent number: 6960717
    Abstract: A nonrotating adjustable solar panel for optimizing cell charging of a portable message sign, comprising a movable frame, a message sign, a solar panel, a support post attached to the underside of the solar panel by a universal joint, and a mechanism for adjusting the angle and position of the solar panel comprising a pair of outwardly extending arms, a pair of threaded support rods, each rod extending through an aperture in the arm, and a handle for turning the rod. Each rod is coupled to the underside of the solar panel by a ball or universal joint. As each rod is turned, it raises or lowers a portion of the solar panel, providing tilting and pivoting, but not rotating motion for adjustment of the solar panel angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2005
    Assignee: American Signal Company
    Inventors: Donald J. Stuart, Patrick H. Ryan, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6955204
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Assignee: Iceberg Enterprises, LLC
    Inventors: Richard R. Gilbert, Ed Y. Wu, John M. Jepsen