Portable Patents (Class 160/351)
  • Patent number: 6953076
    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: June 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: Zipwall LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Whittemore
  • Patent number: 6944993
    Abstract: A modular office panel comprises a panel that has outer peripheral frame members made of formed tubes. The tubes have outer edge walls, side walls, and inner edge walls that are positioned to the interior of the frame. The inner edge walls are formed of side flanges that overlap in the center and which are welded together to enclose the tube and make it rigid. A fabric retainer channel is welded to the inner edge wall of each frame tube and has wall portions that extend outwardly from outer sides of the tube and side walls spaced from and generally parallel to the side walls of the tube. The fabric retainer channel side walls have edge portions extending inwardly back toward the tube side walls and which inwardly turned edge portions include teeth for retaining fabric in place. The fabric retainer channel has a base wall with tabs that extend inwardly from the inner wall and which are used for holding a central divider wall in place within the periphery of the panel formed by the frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Rosemount Office Systems LLC
    Inventors: Larry M. Jilk, Danny A. Thompson
  • Patent number: 6942004
    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: November 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Zipwall, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Whittemore
  • Patent number: 6922949
    Abstract: A furniture system is particularly adapted to support group activities in open plans, and the like. A plurality of columns support an overhead framework on the floor of a building in a freestanding fashion at a predetermined elevation, generally above average user height. A plurality of individual panels are provided, wherein each panel is constructed to permit easy, manual, bodily translation of the same by an adult user. A hanger arrangement is associated with the overhead framework, and cooperates with connectors on the panels to detachably suspend the panels at various locations along the overhead framework. The panels are manually reconfigurable between many different arrangements to efficiently and effectively support different group activities. Preferably, the panels are capable of providing a partitioning function to visually divide at least a portion of the workspace, and/or a display function to facilitate group communications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Paul T. Cornell, Robert J. Luchetti, Gregg R. Draudt, Kurt S. Bodden, Linda K. Zimmer
  • Patent number: 6896028
    Abstract: A portable privacy screen assembly includes a frame assembly having a tubular frame, a wheel set adjacent one bottom corner of the tubular frame and a base plate adjacent an opposite bottom corner of the tubular frame. The wheel set and base plate support the tubular frame in a generally upright condition. A screen is releasably supported by the tubular frame and has opposed major surfaces. At least one of the opposed major surfaces is a dry-erase marker erasable writing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Leef Inc.
    Inventor: Gareth J. Brennan
  • Patent number: 6889477
    Abstract: A modular wall panel assembly includes a generally rectangular preassembled frame having a generally horizontal lower channel member and a base rail secured to the lower channel member in parallel spaced relation thereto. Two opposed floor glide assemblies are secured to the base rail and each includes an upwardly directed threaded stem configured at their upper ends to be rotated by a suitable rotary tool. An aperture is provided in the lower channel member in registry with each stem. The frame can thus be leveled on a floor by inserting a rotary tool vertically through the apertures and rotating the threaded stems as desired. Thereafter, decorative or other panels may be conveniently installed on the frame to substantially conceal the floor glides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: HNI Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Mark A. Kottman
  • Patent number: 6880297
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: Robert M. Johnston
  • Patent number: 6857460
    Abstract: A portable paintball bunker for temporary deployment atop a playing surface of a paintball game field to provide a shelter for a player from being hit by a paintball shot from a paintball marker of an opposing player. The bunker includes an open perimeter frame assembly formed of straight tubular frame members including one central upright frame member, two diagonal upper edge frame members and two lower ground-supported frame members and connecting fittings for attaching ends of the tubular frame members together to define two substantially upright planar right triangular shaped perimeter frames having a common upright central edge therebetween defined by the central upright frame member. A flexible cover is also provided including two substantially right triangular panels having a common upright margin, each panel extending over one of the perimeter frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Inventor: Todd Mowry
  • Patent number: 6805185
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Donald P. Gravel, Douglas L. Hancey, Vladimir Zila
  • Publication number: 20040188041
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2003
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Inventors: Ronald A. Cameron, Yvonne Marsh
  • Publication number: 20040140066
    Abstract: A portable privacy screen assembly includes a frame assembly having a tubular frame, a wheel set adjacent one bottom corner of the tubular frame and a base plate-adjacent an opposite bottom corner of the tubular frame. The wheel set and base plate support the tubular frame in a generally upright condition. A screen is releasably supported by the tubular frame and has opposed major surfaces. At least one of the opposed major surfaces is a dry-erase marker erasable writing surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Publication date: July 22, 2004
    Inventor: Gareth J. Brennan
  • Patent number: 6761000
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Assignee: Bordbusters B.V. i.o.
    Inventors: Eric Cornelis Johannes Hendrikus Heijting, Jan Kemperman, Alexander Richardus Maria Hubers, Theodorus Hermanus Klaassen
  • Patent number: 6749001
    Abstract: The invention provides a combined decorative and utility unit, which has a decorative screen assembly as its basic element. The screen assembly can be combined with other appliances to achieve a variety of utility purposes such as sun blinds, screen windows, window privacy partitions, decor wall panels, and decorative storage units. The screen assembly has a laminar member, preferably having a graphic display, attached to frame members. Relative positions of the frame members may be adjusted by a cam arrangement to vary tension in the laminar member. The screen assembly can be horizontally attached to a wall to work as a decor wall panel, or vertically attached to a wall as a divider or a poster. When combined with supporting elements, the screen assembly can stand on the ground to work as sun blinds or window privacy partitions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Inventor: Robert Anthony Peppett
  • Patent number: 6712118
    Abstract: A knockdown portable exhibition frame assembly as an alternative delineation system used for display purposes at trade shows and special events. Fabric sheet material with an enlarged portion is slipped into a horizontal channel at the top and attached to the bottom channel providing a flat taut wall providing a area for display of graphics and products. Horizontal members are releasably attached to vertical posts to form a frame for the fabric sheet material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Inventor: Jeffrey Mark Nussdorf
  • Publication number: 20040050504
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2002
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventor: Wen-Ling Chen
  • Patent number: 6701996
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Inventor: Wen-Ling Chen
  • Patent number: 6684929
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: 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
  • Patent number: 6681532
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Knoll, Inc.
    Inventors: Allen Lee Palmbos, Mark Joseph Consolla, P. Ramsey Madsen, William J. Pokletar
  • Patent number: 6676113
    Abstract: A control barrier is provided having a barrier wall with one or two support assemblies attached thereto. The barrier wall has a front face with a display recess, wind ports, and tenons and mortises formed thereon. The barrier wall also has a set of projecting arms having either pins or ports to allow a series of control barriers to be connected together. The support assemblies are positionable between a support position and a standing position. Preferably, the support assemblies include a leg and a foot. The leg is extendable and/or rotatable to allow the foot to be positioned between a support position and a standing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: Off the Wall Products, LLC
    Inventors: Marc E. Christensen, Eric M. Simon
  • Patent number: 6659159
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: Skyline Displays, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Fritsche, Dan Berg, Jason Johnson
  • Patent number: 6651725
    Abstract: An air charged appliance includes an air chamber and an air sac, made in various shapes for different uses. The air sac is placed in the air chamber and filled up with air to become inflated together with the air chamber, but the both are made separately from each other. The air chamber is not easy to break and able to endure bumping so the air charged appliance can be used for a long period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Inventor: Tien-Chih Hong
  • Patent number: 6631751
    Abstract: A garden, patio or other screen or other vertical frame structure has a frame formed of elongate extruded plastic members, which include vertical frame elements, and a panel in the frame. The vertical frame elements have hollow interiors and downwardly open bottom openings. Metal L-shaped support members have vertical portions extending upwardly through the bottom openings into frictional engagement in the hollow interiors of the vertical frame elements, and horizontal portions extending forwardly and rearwardly of the screen from the vertical portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Inventors: Harold G. Coles, Lynn A. Pedersen
  • Patent number: 6629386
    Abstract: A furniture system is particularly adapted to support group activities in open plans, and the like. A plurality of columns support an overhead framework on the floor of a building in a freestanding fashion at a predetermined elevation, generally above average user height. A plurality of individual panels are provided, wherein each panel is constructed to permit easy, manual, bodily translation of the same by an adult user. A hanger arrangement is associated with the overhead framework, and cooperates with connectors on the panels to detachably suspend the panels at various locations along the overhead framework. The panels are manually reconfigurable between many different arrangements to efficiently and effectively support different group activities. Preferably, the panels are capable of providing a partitioning function to visually divide at least a portion of the workspace, and/or a display function to facilitate group communications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2003
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Paul T. Cornell, Robert J. Luchetti, Gregg R. Draudt, Kurt S. Bodden, Linda K. Zimmer
  • Patent number: 6619003
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Quanex Corporation
    Inventors: John Paul Von Arx, Charles Joseph Librande
  • Patent number: 6612077
    Abstract: A display board which comprises a thin panel member adapted to be supported on an office wall partition to closely overlie a cover of a partition. The display board is preferably coupled to an internal frame of the partition by a mounting bracket which extends laterally inwardly over the top of a cover into engagement with the internal frame. With an inner surface of the display board lying on an outerface of the cover coupling to the framework to merely provide for support against vertical downward movement of the display board can be sufficient. Mounting separate brackets which extend from the framework outwardly above a cover are advantageously provided for ease of connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: Inscape Corporation
    Inventor: David A. Parshad
  • Patent number: 6612670
    Abstract: The present invention is to provide an elevated screen which can be a simple screen or combined with a desk or a table. The elevated screen includes a screen base which sets a inner space in the center, and there is a elevating device in the inner space, and a rotating shaft of the elevating device is set at an outside surface of the screen base to be operated by users, and a bottom of the spacing board is connected to the elevating device in the inner space to be driven up and down by the elevating device, and a top of the spacing board forms a cover, wherein, the inner space of the screen base has various type to match the shape of the spacing board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Inventor: Yu-An Liu
  • Publication number: 20030150568
    Abstract: A storage sleeve comprised of a plurality of side panels defining and open-ended hollow box-like structure appropriately sized for placement in a conventional cooler container and surrounded by a coolant. At least one of the plurality of side panels includes a mesh-like section to readily facilitate heat transfer therethrough. When the storage sleeve is placed within the cooler container and at least partially surrounded by a solid coolant such as ice, the box-like structure as defined by the plurality of side panels prevents the coolant from occupying the storage area. At the same time, the mesh-like section accommodates heat transfer between the storage area and the coolant itself.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Fred L. Hileman
  • Patent number: 6598649
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Assignee: Best-Rite Manufacturing
    Inventors: Gregory C. Moore, Michael J. Mackie
  • Publication number: 20030131952
    Abstract: A garden, patio or other screen or other vertical frame structure has a frame formed of elongate extruded plastic members, which include vertical frame elements, and a panel in the frame. The vertical frame elements have hollow interiors and downwardly open bottom openings. Metal L-shaped support members have vertical portions extending upwardly through the bottom openings into frictional engagement in the hollow interiors of the vertical frame elements, and horizontal portions extending forwardly and rearwardly of the screen from the vertical portions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventors: Harold G. Coles, Lynn A. Pedersen
  • Patent number: 6585028
    Abstract: A modular building system is disclosed for forming at least one dissassemblable, freestanding screen, the system comprising at least two elongate supports each having an upper end and a lower end, a foot for each of the support members to hold the support members stably in a vertical position and plurality of building blocks adapted to be threaded in vertical progression on the support members, stackable one upon another to form a screen. There is thereby provided a versatile building system for screens, particularly those to be used to partition room space, which are adjustable in height and easily disassembled for reconfiguration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Inventor: Richard Verdicchio
  • Patent number: 6581667
    Abstract: A removable debris shield and method to internally protect a portion of a vessel, such as a pressure vessel, during fabrication. Pliant material sufficient to span a desired interior portion of the vessel has a hem located around the periphery of the material and having at least one opening. A hoop is removably inserted through the opening into the hem to extend the material across the desired interior portion of the vessel. In one embodiment, a spreader bolt spreads the hoop to force it tightly against the walls of the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Assignee: Babcock & Wilcox Canada Ltd.
    Inventor: Thomas Waring
  • Patent number: 6564850
    Abstract: A sliding door includes two or more door panels, and one or more resilient couplings having the side stops slidably engaged in the side channels of the door panels for resiliently coupling the door panels together and for allowing the door panels to be adjusted relative to each other. The door panels each includes less than 78% by weight of a foamable material, and more than 20% by weight of wood chips or particles mixed within the foamable material, and less than 2% by weight of a vulcanizing agent, for allowing the door panels to be adjusted to different weights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Inventor: Chang Than Chen
  • Publication number: 20030051832
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: Charles R. Plockmeyer
  • Patent number: 6533019
    Abstract: A partition panel for office systems includes a rigid panel frame having a generally rectangular perimeter and a generally rectangular opening therethrough. The panel frame has a base configured to abuttingly support the panel frame freestanding on a floor surface. The panel frame includes a row of openings configured to support hang-on accessories. The partition panel also includes at least four H-shaped connectors, each of which is secured to said panel frame adjacent each side of the rectangular opening. A rigid sheet is secured to the frame by the connectors, and spans at least a substantial portion of the rectangular opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathan J. King, Alan E. Rheault, John S. Malnor, Joel T. Ruiter
  • Patent number: 6532703
    Abstract: A portable screen door for positioning in an apartment doorway. The portable screen door includes a frame having a first side bar, a second side bar, a top bar and a bottom bar. A screen extends between and is attached to the first side bar, the second side bar, the top bar and the bottom bar. The screen extends along each of the bars. A first support holds the frame in a doorframe. The support is elongated and has a first end and a second end. The first side bar of the frame is hingedly coupled to the support. At least one biasing member removably biases the support against the doorframe. The biasing member is removably extendable from one of the ends of the support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Inventor: Alan K. Barrens
  • Publication number: 20030029583
    Abstract: The invention provides a lightweight, temperature-resistant debris shield suitable for used within a closed vessel. The invention has no small parts, and can be readily assembled and disassembled in a confined space without tools after passing through a tight passage such as a pressure vessel manway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2001
    Publication date: February 13, 2003
    Inventor: Thomas Waring
  • Patent number: 6516571
    Abstract: A screen apparatus includes a perimeter frame with a notch and arcuate foot in one of the bottom corners that are adapted to receive a raised floor device, such as a raised power outlet. A covering covers the frame but the notch is not covered. The covering is preferably a light-passing translucent sheet of performance fabric which is adapted to pass light sufficient for a viewer to see a person behind the screen, but which scatters and blocks sufficient light to provide privacy by hiding details of the person's work from the viewer. The screen apparatus also includes bowed frame members extending horizontally between some of the outer frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas Overthun, George J. Simons, Jr., Thomas B. Eich, James N. Ludwig, David M. Gresham
  • Patent number: 6513566
    Abstract: A balcony and a shield including first and second shielding sections. The sections define corresponding first and second shielding screens. The shield includes a mounting rod defining a rod attachment section and a rod spacing section. The rod attachment section is sized so as to extend from the footrail to the handrail of the balcony banister. The rod spacing section extends from the rod attachment section and is adapted to extend upwardly away from the handrail. A securement component secures the rod attachment section to both the handrail and the footrail. A linking component securely links the first shielding section to the rod spacing section above the second shielding section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Inventions N.L. Inc.
    Inventor: Normand Larin
  • Patent number: 6510572
    Abstract: A bed curtain divider for individuals sharing a bed, the bed curtain includes a substantially flexible barrier for shielding light rays from an individual on lying on the bed, the barrier comprising a first section having a first releasable attachment for attaching to a wall proximate a head portion of the bed, a second section operably adapted to maintain a first edge of the barrier intermediate the first corner and the second corner in tension, and a third section proximate the head portion of the bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Inventor: David A. Horowitz
  • Patent number: 6508295
    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: June 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignee: Zipwall, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Whittemore
  • Publication number: 20030000659
    Abstract: A modular building system is disclosed for forming at least one dissassemblable, freestanding screen, the system comprising at least two elongate supports each having an upper end and a lower end, a foot for each of the support members to hold the support members stably in a vertical position and plurality of building blocks adapted to be threaded in vertical progression on the support members, stackable one upon another to form a screen. There is thereby provided a versatile building system for screens, particularly those to be used to partition room space, which are adjustable in height and easily disassembled for reconfiguration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Inventor: Richard Verdicchio
  • Patent number: 6499528
    Abstract: An adjustable window covering apparatus that allows a user to install an adjustable window covering apparatus without the use of measuring tools, levelers or drills. The adjustable window covering apparatus includes a frame that is adapted for engaging a floor of a building proximate the window such that the frame is positioned in front of the window. A covering member is coupled to the frame. The covering member has an area for covering the window. The covering member is adapted for inhibiting viewing into the building from outside the building when the frame is positioned proximate the window of the building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Inventor: Althea L. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20020189171
    Abstract: A display board which comprises a thin panel member adapted to be supported on an office wall partition to closely overlie a cover of a partition. The display board is preferably coupled to an internal frame of the partition by a mounting bracket which extends laterally inwardly over the top of a cover into engagement with the internal frame. With an inner surface of the display board lying on an outerface of the cover coupling to the framework to merely provide for support against vertical downward movement of the display board can be sufficient. Mounting separate brackets which extend from the framework outwardly above a cover are advantageously provided for ease of connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventor: David A. Parshad
  • Patent number: 6481169
    Abstract: A prefabricated furniture system for open building plans and the like includes a freestanding portable partition system having individual partition panels detachably interconnected side-by-side to define individual workstations. A post and beam furniture system is also included, having horizontal beams interconnected to define an overhead framework, and vertical support columns with lower ends abuttingly supported on the building floor surface, and upper ends connected with the overhead framework adjacent one end thereof. A connector system connects the overhead framework to the upper ends of the partition panels at a location spaced inwardly from the opposite end of the overhead framework, such that the horizontal beams at that end of the overhead framework extend over and protrude outwardly from the partition panels and are supported thereby in a cantilevered fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: James Ludwig, Kurt R. Heidmann, Dean K. Hubbard
  • Patent number: 6453826
    Abstract: A desk arrangement is provided which includes freestanding furniture units, namely, a stationary cabinet and a movable table. While the movable table is movable relative to the cabinet, the cabinet and table are connected together by an intermediate link top which permits relative movement therebetween but interconnects the cabinet and table to define a single interconnected furniture unit. The link top is both slidable and pivotable relative to the cabinet and table to permit sliding and pivoting of the table between a closed position directly adjacent to the cabinet and an open position spaced outwardly therefrom. The link top can define an auxiliary worksurface and also defines a bridge between the cabinet and table to which cabling can be connected. This arrangement thereby permits flexible repositioning of the table while also permitting power and/or communications cabling to be routed therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Tim Fookes, Bret Marschand, Bryan Roels, Jeff Tayler, Linda E. Chesser, William F. Schacht
  • Publication number: 20020124975
    Abstract: A stealth blind system for providing a lightweight and foldable blind that allows an individual to approach wildlife without being seen. The stealth blind system includes a covering having an outer sleeve forming a desired shape, a wire member positioned within the outer sleeve, an upper bracket attached to an upper portion of the wire member, and a lower bracket attached to a lower portion of the wire member. The brackets are formed for allowing removable attachment to a vertical structure such as a pole, tree, bow, or stand. The wire member is formed into a looped structure from a resilient material such as spring steel. The covering is comprised of a camouflage material to conceal an individual behind the covering.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2001
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventors: Bill R. Kendrick, Manuel B. Montoya
  • Publication number: 20020117273
    Abstract: A collapsible automobile shades comprising a pleated screen which can be selectively moved between an opened position and a collapsed position. The shade can be mounted to either an automobile's visor, to shade the vehicle from sunlight which would otherwise enter the car through the front windshield, or to a side window of the vehicle, to shade the vehicle from sunlight which would otherwise enter the vehicle through a side window of the vehicle. The shade includes a mounting assembly to mount the shade to the visor or the side window. It is also preferably provided with a closure, such as a strap which extends around the shade, to maintain the shade in the collapsed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2002
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Inventor: Sunny Huang
  • Publication number: 20020108725
    Abstract: Improved panels suitable for use in bulkhead and partition systems. In one embodiment of the invention, the panels are seamless, one-piece members integrally formed from a single resinous material. In other embodiments, the panels include depressions that obviate the need to fill the panels with foam or other supportive filler material. In still other embodiments, the panels have no fasteners extending through panel so the panels are substantially impervious to moisture. Other embodiments have grooves or similar mounting means disposed around their peripheral edges to which edging such as supports or flexible seals may be mounted. In yet other embodiments, the grooves are arranged so as to permit worn out seals to be quickly and easily replaced without the need to remove mechanical fasteners.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Inventors: Chad Nelson, Roger Nelson, Matt Nelson
  • Patent number: 6430880
    Abstract: A modular display panel and edge latching system therefor which employs concealed movable latching mechanism that can be actuated between adjacent panels set up, for example, on a floor to lock the panels into vertical alignment and against any tendency of floor unevenness to cause adjacent panels to become misaligned vertically. The components in the latching mechanism which create vertical position locking are actuated by the insertion of actuators typically carried as downward projections on other panels which rest on top of directly floor supported, underlying panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: Idea Development Company
    Inventor: Matthias D. Kemeny
  • Publication number: 20020088564
    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: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2002
    Publication date: July 11, 2002
    Inventor: Yu Zheng