With Diverse Holding Means For Occupant Patents (Class 182/135)
  • Patent number: 11856941
    Abstract: A tree stand includes an activity rail assembly rotatably attached to a chair. The activity rail assembly is rotatable among a first stowed position in which the activity rail assembly is oriented upright, a second stowed position in which the activity rail assembly is oriented downwardly, and one or more deployed positions between the first stowed position and the second stowed position. The activity rail assembly is extendable and retractable between a first position and a second position, wherein when the activity rail assembly is in the first position, a horizontal activity rail portion is closer to the chair than when the activity rail assembly is in the second position. The tree stand may further include a platform to support the chair, and, optionally, a ladder portion to support the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: ARDISAM, INC.
    Inventors: Bryant Haakenson, Michael Furseth, Scott Nickell, Blake Otto
  • Patent number: 11771080
    Abstract: A ladder stand includes a ladder portion, a platform on the ladder portion, and a plurality of support straps to hold the ladder stand against a support structure. The plurality of support straps may include upper support straps that are each connected to the ladder stand, wrap partially around the tree, and connect to each other with a connecting device, to position the tree between the ladder stand and the straps. The platform may include a blade element positioned to press against the tree when the support straps are tightened against the tree. A method of installing a ladder stand may include connecting ends of the upper support straps to each other after passing the ends around an obstruction on the tree. A user may pull on other ends of the straps to draw the straps upward along the tree until they are approximately level with the blade element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2023
    Assignee: ARDISAM, INC.
    Inventors: Bryant Haakenson, Michael Furseth, Scott Nickell, Blake Otto
  • Patent number: 11613928
    Abstract: A modular ladder having a single, central column for supporting radiating steps is shown and described. Steps are pivotally mounted on the central column to generate attachable modules. The steps fold up to a stowed position to minimize bulk when the ladder is not in use, and fold down to a nearly but not quite perpendicular position to facilitate climbing. The steps are held frictionally in the stowed position and by gravity in a deployed position when nearly perpendicular to the central mast. The ladder has a removable foot module for stability when propping the ladder on the ground. Each module bearing steps includes an integral loop for attachment of anchoring straps when desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2023
    Inventor: Curt Davidson
  • Patent number: 11564387
    Abstract: A ladder stand includes a ladder portion, a platform on the ladder portion, and a plurality of support straps to hold the ladder stand against a support structure. The plurality of support straps may include upper support straps that are each connected to the ladder stand, wrap partially around the tree, and connect to each other with a connecting device, to position the tree between the ladder stand and the straps. The platform may include a blade element positioned to press against the tree when the support straps are tightened against the tree. A method of installing a ladder stand may include connecting ends of the upper support straps to each other after passing the ends around an obstruction on the tree. A user may pull on other ends of the straps to draw the straps upward along the tree until they are approximately level with the blade element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2023
    Assignee: ARDISAM, INC.
    Inventors: Bryant Haakenson, Michael Furseth, Scott Nickell, Blake Otto
  • Patent number: 11540506
    Abstract: A tree stand includes an activity rail assembly rotatably attached to a chair. The activity rail assembly is rotatable among a first stowed position in which the activity rail assembly is oriented upright, a second stowed position in which the activity rail assembly is oriented downwardly, and one or more deployed positions between the first stowed position and the second stowed position. The activity rail assembly is extendable and retractable between a first position and a second position, wherein when the activity rail assembly is in the first position, a horizontal activity rail portion is closer to the chair than when the activity rail assembly is in the second position. The tree stand may further include a platform to support the chair, and, optionally, a ladder portion to support the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2023
    Assignee: ARDISAM, INC.
    Inventors: Bryant Haakenson, Michael Furseth, Scott Nickell, Blake Otto
  • Patent number: 10798937
    Abstract: A tree stand system is provided. The tree stand system may include a tree stand. The tree stand may include a frame post, a platform portion engaged with the frame post, and a seat portion engaged with the frame post. Further, the tree stand may include an upper engagement device and a lower engagement device each configured to engage a structure. One of the upper engagement device and the lower engagement device may define a convex edge configured to extend toward the structure to allow the tree stand to roll against the structure to select a horizontal angle that the tree stand faces. The tree stand system may further include one or more of a ladder, a hoisting apparatus, and an accessory. The accessory may include a bow holder accessory or a hunting device accessory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2020
    Assignee: HEAVEN'S TRAIL, LLC
    Inventors: Christopher Young Berry, Raeshon McNeil, Jeremy Losaw, Thomas James Philpott, Michael Morgan Starkey, Richard Steven Chomik, Douglas L. Marriott
  • Patent number: 10757930
    Abstract: An accessory support system includes a mounting plate, a deck support, and a mounting member. The mounting plate includes a tree facing side and an upper axial end in substantially perpendicular orientation relative to the tree facing side. The deck support is coupled to the mounting plate. The deck support includes a frame extending outwardly from the mounting plate and away from the tree facing side along a direction that is substantially parallel to the upper axial end. The frame defines a plurality of openings arranged along a perimeter of the frame and a central opening that is larger than the plurality of openings. The mounting member is configured to couple at least one of the mounting plate or the deck support to a tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2020
    Inventor: Mark Ellinghuysen
  • Patent number: 10753555
    Abstract: A system for hanging lights includes a multiple-light string comprising a plug, a power cord having a first power cord end electrically connected to the plug, a length of between approximately 5 and 20 meters, and a second power cord end opposite the first power cord end, a cord of lights electrically connected to the second power cord end to receive power and illuminate at least one of the lights when the plug is connected to an electrical mains, the lights strung successively along a length of between approximately 5 and 20 meters, a plug hurler comprising a throwing weight and a hurler cord having a first hurler end connected to the throwing weight and a second hurler end opposite the first hurler end, and a plug-to-hurler connector comprising a connector body connected adjacent the second hurler end and defining a plug capture orifice shaped to removably receive the plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Inventor: Derek Dee Deville
  • Patent number: 10512822
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a self belay arrangement (1) for fall arrest systems, in particular for climbing applications, comprising a locking device (10), to which a rope (11) is attachable, and a connector element (12), which is performed to be attached to a safety harness of a user and to which the locking device (10) is coupled when the user intends to climb up a climbing wall (13), a ladder or other extending structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2019
    Assignee: Safety Engineering Ltd.
    Inventors: Dimitar Mihaylov Petrov, Martin Nikolaev Tapankov
  • Patent number: 10412954
    Abstract: An accessory support system configured for use with a tree stand includes a mounting plate having first opening, a stabilizing bar, and a mounting member configured to attach the mounting plate to a tree. The first opening is disposed proximal the proximal a first circumferential end of the mounting plate. The axis of the first opening is oriented in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to at least one of the upper axial end and a lower axial end of the mounting plate. An accessory support system including at least one support member may be receivable in the mounting plate. A retaining body disposed on the support member may be utilized to store a gun and bow. The accessory support stand may be reconfigured into a modular tree stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Inventor: Mark Ellinghuysen
  • Patent number: 9937367
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a shell, a fixing arrangement, a belt pulley, a main belt, and a breaking arrangement. The shell comprises a compartment defined therein and a belt outlet thereon. The compartment has an opening facing upward. The fixing arrangement detachably buckles the shell on safety harness. The belt pulley is pivotally arranged in the compartment by an axis and defines a winding room. The main belt is coiled in the winding room and has a first end affixed in the winding room, a second end pulled out from the shell through the belt outlet, and a supporting portion provided between the first end and the second end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Inventors: Yung-Chung Huang, George J Stallings, Todd Olson
  • Patent number: 9643054
    Abstract: A secondary ascender system for use in rope climbing and with other rope climbing systems that provides a knee ascender permitting full range of motion and energy capture from two legs by encasing an interior portion of the length of an elastic cord used for tending the knee ascender within a load bearing member. The load bearing member connects a foot attachment to an ascender and transfers loads applied to the foot attachment and via the elastic cord during tending to the ascender to advance up the rope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Inventor: Michael Allen Frankhauser
  • Patent number: 9573002
    Abstract: The self-blocking descender-belay device (1) according to the invention comprises: a first lateral guide flange (6) for the rope, comprising a braking nose (4e), a second lateral guide flange (7) for the rope, which is separated from the first flange (6) by a transverse gap (8) for passage of the rope, and can be displaced between a spaced position for putting into place and removal of a rope, and a closed position in which the rope is trapped in the transverse gap (8) for passage of the rope, a cam (4d) which is engaged between the first and second flanges (6, 7) and is mobile towards and away from the braking nose (4e), and is thrust towards the braking nose (4e) by a cam return spring, the transverse gap (8) for passage of the rope extending between a rope input in the vicinity of the braking nose (4e), and a rope output opposite, the rope output having a large opening such as to permit free orientation of the rope output end between a blocking orientation in which the rope surrounds the cam (4d), and a
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: ETABLISSEMENTS SIMOND
    Inventors: Patrick Lefebvre, Mathieu Mansuy, Romain Molliex
  • Patent number: 9352190
    Abstract: A secondary ascender system for use in rope climbing and with other rope climbing systems that provides a knee ascender permitting full range of motion and energy capture from two legs by encasing an interior portion of the length of an elastic cord used for tending the knee ascender within a load bearing member. The load bearing member connects a foot attachment to an ascender and transfers loads applied to the foot attachment and via the elastic cord during tending to the ascender to advance up the rope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Inventor: Michael Allen Frankhauser
  • Patent number: 9144235
    Abstract: An adjustable climbing stand system with a fully rotating seat to enable a user to hunt for prey from a tree. The system comprises a primary platform (bottom) with a tree interface. The primary base platform receives a primary sliding platform. The primary sliding platform comprises a collapsible seat mount, and a seat with a rotating base. The system comprises a secondary platform (top) with a tree interface. The secondary base platform receives a secondary sliding platform. The primary platform is located on a tree trunk and the secondary platform is located on the tree trunk above the primary platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Inventor: Lindsey J. Irby, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9115499
    Abstract: Vertical stairs include a bearing structure 2, which is arranged between a first station “A” and at least one second station “B”, and at least one board 3, which can slide by at least one slide 31 along at least one guide 41 in a mechanical system 4, adapted to move the at least one board 3 along the guide 41. The mechanical system 4 allows the at least one board 3 to be moved along a vertical axis “Z” as a function of the distribution of the weight of at least one user “U” on at least one portion of the at least one board 3, and as a function of the direction in which the user “U” wants to move along the vertical axis “Z” between the stations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Assignee: ESPERIRE S.R.L.
    Inventor: Umberto Ernesto Bonetti
  • Patent number: 9044631
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and method for climbing, and more particularly but not by way of limitation an apparatus and method for ascending and descending a rope, for use by individuals with disabilities. The method and apparatus generally includes a combination of devices and a combination of steps which enables an individual climber to ascend and descend a rope while benefiting from the mechanical advantage of a rope assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2015
    Inventors: Mark H. Gerner, Michael Decavalcante
  • Patent number: 8863766
    Abstract: A canopy with removable blind for hunting tree stand. A bracket removably attaches to a tree with straps, and one or more supports extend upwards from the bracket to a roof, around whose outer edges a blind may removably hang. The roof folds for storage and transportation, and the bracket is composed of two bracket end plates joined by at least one bracket vertical member. The bracket may be easily assembled and disassembled for storage or transportation. Bolts or quick-remove pins attach the support(s) to the bracket and the roof. The canopy is designed for use with an existing tree stand mounted below the roof. When installed above an existing tree stand, the canopy protects the tree stand occupants from weather, and the blind hides the occupants from view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Inventor: Lewis D. Kent
  • Patent number: 8286753
    Abstract: An upper shackle assembly for a steel pump jack for a wood pole includes a u-shaped shackle component to receive the wood pole. The assembly includes a crank handle that extends through the shackle component and engages the pole to lower the pump jack down the pole. The assembly includes a brake attached to the shackle component to engage with the pole if the crank handle fails. A method for installing a steel pump jack to a wood pole includes the steps of placing a u-shaped shackle component about the wood pole. There is the step of closing a brake with the shackle component to engage with the pole if a crank handle fails. There is the step of extending the crank handle through the shackle component to engage the pole. A steel pump jack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Werner Co.
    Inventors: Brett A. Latimer, Robert D. Beggs
  • Patent number: 8240432
    Abstract: A tree stand is provided, the tree stand including a platform support, first and second clamps rotatably attached to the platform support, and a platform attached to an upper portion of the platform support. Also provided is a climbing portion adapted to allow a user to enter and leave the tree stand. In some aspects of the invention, the various components of the tree stand can be easily assembled and disassembled for transporting and setting up the tree stand. The first and second clamps include openings for fasteners, which are used to secure the clamps to a tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Jimmie D Call
  • Patent number: 7870933
    Abstract: A portable hammock (kit) with artificial limb assembly enables a user to selectively support a vertical load adjacent a select vertical support structure. The artificial limb assembly comprises a pair of compression members and first and second tension members. Each compression member has first and second compression ends. The first compression ends are drawn together such that the longitudinal axes of the members substantially intersect. The second compression ends are thus spaceable from one another. The first tension member interconnects the second member ends and receives a supportive outer surface of the vertical support structure. The second tension member interconnects the first compression ends with the vertical support structure at a superior portion thereof. The first compression ends at an opposite portion receive the vertical load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Inventor: Richard E. McInnes
  • Patent number: 7857096
    Abstract: An upper shackle assembly for a steel pump jack for a wood pole includes a u-shaped shackle component to receive the wood pole. The assembly includes a crank handle that extends through the shackle component and engages the pole to lower the pump jack down the pole. The assembly includes a brake attached to the shackle component to engage with the pole if the crank handle fails. A method for installing a steel pump jack to a wood pole includes the steps of placing a u-shaped shackle component about the wood pole. There is the step of closing a brake with the shackle component to engage with the pole if a crank handle fails. There is the step of extending the crank handle through the shackle component to engage the pole. A steel pump jack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Werner Co.
    Inventors: Brett A. Latimer, Robert D. Beggs
  • Publication number: 20100270105
    Abstract: Disclosed is a durable, lightweight, nonslip, camouflage, structurally superior climbing treestand that is inexpensive and simple to manufacture, may be easily compacted for transportation, and includes one or more of arm/weapon rests, interchangeable grips, tactile and visual indicators, safety harnesses, nonslip, adjustable belts, and receptacles for bumpers, sockets, and the like. Also disclosed is a parabolic belt capable of firmly gripping a tree trunk to prevent slippage when used in conjunction with interchangeable or permanent platform grips. Tactile and visual indicators allow a user to ensure that the belt is optimally installed even in conditions in which the user may not view such indicators. Bumpers and safety harnesses are incorporated to prevent falls from heights through trees, tree limbs, and the like. Interchangeable sockets allow the user to customize the treestand to meet the user's needs (e.g., photography, hunting, snacking, etc.).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2010
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Inventors: William Charles Hovey, Robert Matthew Pietrowicz
  • Patent number: 7802653
    Abstract: A tree stand is provided, having a frame. The tree stand may be a standing tree stand in which case the frame includes a platform on which a user may stand; alternatively, the tree stand may be a seating tree stand in which case the frame includes a seat on which a user may sit. The tree stand includes a cable dimensioned to be wrapped around a tree. The tree stand is configured so that tension in the cable may be adjusted while the tree stand supports the weight of the user. In one aspect, the tree stand employs a rotatable sleeve in one arm for adjusting the length of the cable by adjusting the tension in the cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Inventors: John M. Louk, Ronald L. Berkbuegler
  • Patent number: 7802654
    Abstract: A climbing tree stand platform includes a platform member having a back member and a front member separated by a first side member and a second side member, a first arm and a second arm that each extend angularly upward from the platform toward the back member, and a securing member connected between the first arm and the second arm. A first elasticized member having a first end is connected to the platform member toward the first side member and a second elasticized member having a first end is connected to the platform member toward the second side member. The back member of the platform member may selectively engage an upright support or tree while the securing member selectively surrounds it, thereby providing cantilevered support for the platform member. The first elasticized member and the second elasticized member are operatively attachable to a second platform member. A climbing tree stand system is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Inventors: Randy Tolliver, Robert Tolliver
  • Patent number: 7748497
    Abstract: A foldable climbing tree stand platform includes a first section having a first arm rotatably coupled to the first section and a second section having a second arm rotatably coupled to the second section. A hinge rotatably couples the first section to the second section, wherein a platform position is obtained when the first section and the second section are substantially coplanar, and a packed position is obtained when the first section and the second section are rotationally folded onto each other and the first arm and the second arm are contained therein. A securing member is connected between the arms, wherein the sections may selectively engage an upright support and the securing member selectively surrounds the upright support for providing cantilevered support when folded into the platform position. A foldable climbing tree stand system is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Inventors: Randy Tolliver, Robert Tolliver
  • Patent number: 7588123
    Abstract: A climbing tree stand includes a platform, a pair of support arms attached to the platform, and a pair of stirrup-like devices attached to the platform or the support arms and extending generally over the platform. The pair of stirrup-like devices are substantially rigid, and each comprises a molded plastic body. In one embodiment, the substantially rigid stirrup-like devices are attached to the support arms of the climbing tree stand and generally are curved downwardly towards the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Assignee: Summit Treestands, LLC
    Inventors: Ronald R. Woller, Keith Wilson, Scott Echols
  • Patent number: 7584940
    Abstract: A tree stand lock apparatus comprises a ratchet buckle part and a wire rope part. The ratchet buckle part comprises a spool with a transaxial bore, a ratcheting lever handle, a locking means and a base affixed to a hook. The wire rope part comprises a wire rope, one end of which is affixed to a hook. The lock may be employed by wrapping the wire rope around a portion of a tree stand, hooking the hook of the rope to the hook of the ratchet buckle and threading the wire rope through the transaxial bore. The ratchet buckle is operated to render the wire rope taut and the buckle is locked in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Inventor: Benjamin Ray Gee
  • Patent number: 7533761
    Abstract: A tree stand includes a planar load supporting platform having an inner end for abutting a tree trunk, a pair of two-section arms pivotally connected to sides of the platform for rotation between positions against such platform sides and erect positions in which they define armrests, a belt having a pair of ends slidable in said arms for forming a loop around a tree trunk to hold the stand on the tree, and a latch on the arms for locking the belt in the arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Inventor: Lewis Forrest
  • Patent number: 7287623
    Abstract: A tree stand with a seating section and a standing section, at least one of the sections having a frame with first and second sides, inner and outer ends, a first cable attachment arm with inner and outer ends along the first side, and a second cable attachment arm with inner and outer ends along the second side; a rotatable threaded rod mounted parallel to the first attachment arm; a releasable cable retainer including a channel for receiving the attachment arm and a threaded bore for receiving the threaded rod, the retainer being moveable along the first attachment arm upon rotation of the threaded rod; drive means for rotating the threaded rod; and a cable having a first end releasibly attachable to the connector and a second end attachable to the second attachment arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Inventor: Thomas E. Graham, Sr.
  • Patent number: 7258200
    Abstract: A tree stand includes a platform having a tree engaging end; a pair of hollow support arms pivotally connected to the sides of the platform; a belt having ends slidable in the support arms for forming a loop around a tree trunk to connect the platform to the tree; latches on the arms for locking the ends of the belt in position; and a bungee cord or spring connecting one end of the belt to the platform or support arms, whereby when one latch is released the belt is pulled into one arm to shorten the loop around the tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2007
    Inventor: Lewis Forrest
  • Patent number: 7207415
    Abstract: A removable tree stand with a novel shur lok latch. A platform extends laterally outward from the tree in a nominally horizontal position. The platform end proximal to the tree includes a mechanism for engaging the tree. Integral tubular support arms project up at an angle from both sides of the platform to a height above the platform. A support cable, including a plurality of mechanical stops, encircles the tree trunk and is inserted through both tubular support arms. The first key feature is a novel pivoting cable engagement mechanism, called a shur lock latch, on each support arm that is easily engaged and provides a positive lock that prohibits inadvertent disengagement of the support cable in both the loaded and unloaded condition. A second key feature is that the support cable is powdercoated to provide increased durability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventor: Timothy R. McGehee
  • Patent number: 7182091
    Abstract: A hunting blind and method of use thereof, comprising a cylindrical mount having a tube disposed therethrough. The cylindrical mount attaches to a tree or other suitable object via straps, bungee cords and/or a hook. The tube comprises angled holes into which support tubes supporting screen panels are inserted. The support tubes are sectioned so as to enable disassembly for packing into a compact arrangement by rolling up same within the screen panels. The screen panels have extensions that can be secured together via cords. Alternate embodiments are directed to the addition of a mesh panel above the screen panels and extensions; a ground-based stand, wherein the screen panels and extension are secured to the ground via tent stakes; and a wheelchair stand, wherein a framework on the wheelchair carries the support tubes, panels and extensions of the preferred embodiment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Inventor: Clarence Lee Maddox
  • Patent number: 7137398
    Abstract: The present invention is a device formed of waterproof or water-resistant fabric having a central section comprising a top, front and bottom, to which is joined side portions, thereby providing coverage for slipping over a tree-mounted hunting stand, including preferably both standing and seating portions thereof. The cover is pulled proximate the surface of the tree to which the stand is mounted, and extensions at the top and bottom of the cover provide an interface that prevents the incursion of water. The cover is then held in place via suitable attachment means, such as, for exemplary purposes only, bungee cords, wherein the hook ends of the bungee cords connect with apertures in the top and bottom extensions of the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Inventor: Frady George
  • Patent number: 7066300
    Abstract: An climbing tree stand apparatus for use in conjunction with a tree stand that is mounted on a tree, the apparatus comprising: a load-bearing member adapted to be graspable by a user of the tree stand; and at least one point of attachment associated with the load-bearing member, wherein the apparatus is adapted to be attached to the tree stand at the at least one point of attachment such that at least a portion of the load-bearing member extends below an underside of the tree stand. The climbing tree stand apparatus is lightweight and compact and therefore, easy to carry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventor: Michael Sylvia
  • Patent number: 7063188
    Abstract: An L-shaped tree seat frame includes a forward leg and a side leg on which a rear leg is slidably mounted and limited against relative rotation by cooperating rib and groove deformations in the sleeve of the rear leg and the top wall of the tubular side leg. Foam material filling the side leg includes pin passageways for guiding a locking pin through the sleeve and selected aligned openings in the side leg. The seat includes three spaced apart fingers which allow for a person's hand to grasp a center finger and balance the tree seat while the person's other hand positions the rear leg against the back side of a tree for locking the tree seat to a tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Inventor: Dale L. Liles
  • Patent number: 6986404
    Abstract: A climbing tree stand apparatus provides upper and lower platforms that are independently movable up the tree by the hunter alternatively sitting and standing on one or the other of the platforms. In order to adjust the angular position of a selected platform relative to the tree, an easily accessible adjustable anchor point is provided. This anchor point enables a cable associated with each platform to be lengthened or shortened in order to maintain the orientation of the platforms in a nearly horizontal position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Inventor: James J. Laborde
  • Patent number: 6959786
    Abstract: A tree stand with adjusting features allowing it to remain level in use. The invention includes two main subassemblies—a lower foot platform and an upper seat platform. The foot platform features a pivotally attached foot rest portion which can be adjusted in pitch. The seat platform includes a rotating seat with a pitch pivot located underneath. The seat's pitch is infinitely adjustable without affecting its rotation about the yaw axis. The seat platform also includes two telescoping climbing arms which the user can grasp when moving the two platforms up a tree. These climbing arms can be stowed once the stand is in position for use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2005
    Inventor: Roger A. Craft
  • Patent number: 6934983
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for hanging a hammock with opposing ends using a single vertical support, comprising: an elongated arm having opposing ends and a longitudinal axis; a butt plate fixedly connected to one end of the arm so as to be substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the arm; a suspension mechanism having a first portion, for circumferentially extending around the vertical support, and a second portion for extending downwardly from the first portion to the arm for connection thereto at first and second longitudinally spaced connection points to thereby securely support the arm, with the butt plate abutting the vertical support such that the arm extends outwardly and substantially horizontally from the vertical support; a gripper belt for circumferentially extending at least partially around the vertical support so as to securely hold the butt plate in its position abutting the vertical support; and a hammock hanging mechanism for connection of the opposing ends of the hammock to the
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Inventor: Johnny R. Johnston
  • Patent number: 6918465
    Abstract: A seat cushion, for use with an elevated outdoor hunting or observation stand, is constructed with a plurality of layers therein. The seat cushion is constructed in two or more layers in which one layer includes an envelope with a gas sealed therein. The envelope may include at least two independently sealed chambers. A second layer of the seat cushion includes a flexible foam pad above the envelope. The seat cushion may further include a reinforcing member below the envelope, which may be made of foam which is denser than the foam of the top foam layer. A portable tree seat apparatus is also described, including a frame, an attachment member for cooperating with the frame to attach the frame to a tree, and the multi-layer seat cushion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Inventor: Robert Eastman, II
  • Patent number: 6866120
    Abstract: A portable tree stand for use with non-vertical trees provides standing and seating platforms that may remain parallel and may be adjustable. Adjustments include a slidable seat platform and a slidable standing platform that may be extended to allow adequate seating and standing space to compensate for tree trunks that diverge from the vertical. Additionally, the distance, or height, between the standing platform and the seating platform maybe varied. A threaded chain tensioner tightens a chain around the tree helping hold the stand to the tree, and optionally a tree screw secures attachment to the tree trunk. An adjustable seat support post establishes a parallelogram relationship between the seat platform and the standing platform such that an angular relationship, which may be parallel or non-parallel, may be maintained between the seat platform and the standing platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Inventor: Charles Butterworth
  • Patent number: 6793040
    Abstract: A stand includes a track mounted to a columnar member such as a tree trunk. The track substantially or completely encircles the columnar member. A seat is mounted to the track for movement thereon. A platform is mounted to the columnar member beneath the seat. The seat and platform are designed to move in concert with one another about the columnar member by a user sitting on the seat with his feet resting on the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Inventor: Barry A. Ehrenfried, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6722472
    Abstract: A tree stand adapted for mounting in a tree to support a person. The stand includes a back frame and a platform attached to the back frame. A length of chain passes generally horizontally around the trunk to secure the back frame to the tree. The chain is generally rigid and self-supporting in the vertical direction but freely movable in the horizontal direction to wrap around the trunk of the tree. A hook is configured to secure the length in a loop, and a ratchet mechanism controllably decreases a circumference of the loop to secure the back frame to the tree. A pivotally mounted rest is configured for engaging the tree trunk so that the stand may be mounted on a non-vertical tree trunk with the platform in a level orientation. A seat and a post, together with the back frame and platform, are hinged together in a structure capable of folding between deployed and collapsed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Inventor: Ronald L. Berkbuegler
  • Patent number: 6622823
    Abstract: A tree climbing apparatus consisting of two movable platforms, each of which is secured to the tree trunk by a flexible strap that has a non-scratching cover that will not harm the bark of the tree. Each of the flexible straps has a construction that includes an elastic stiffener that causes the flexible strap to be self-straightening when one end of the flexible strap is removed from the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Ardisam, Inc.
    Inventor: Jay C. Engstrom
  • Patent number: 6588546
    Abstract: A relatively simple tree stand includes a generally rectangular platform with locking arms at one end thereof; teeth pivotally connected to the arms for gripping a tree trunk; a pair of support arms pivotally connected to the sides of the platform near a second end thereof, a generally V-shaped end wall pivotally connected to free ends of the tubular support arms; a catch for releasably retaining the end wall in a vertical, erect position; a belt retained by latches in the support arms for forming a first loop around a tree trunk, and a cord for forming a second loop around the trunk beneath the first loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Inventor: Lewis Forrest
  • Patent number: 6578913
    Abstract: A compact package comprised of a collapsible seat and climbing aid for advantageous use with a tree stand. The climbing aid comprises a generally H-shaped frame with two hand grips projecting orthogonally out of plane of the frame. One rectangular housing is attached to each vertical upright member of the frame and locking screws engage portions of a supporting cable to adjust the size of loop for encircling an element to be climbed. A collapsible seat has an L-shaped frame sized to fit within the vertical uprights of the climbing aid and a securing nut positions a pivotable frame of the collapsible seat in either a first stored position or a second erect position. The securing nut also fastens the climbing aid to the tree stand when the seat is in the stored position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Inventor: Richard W. Wilhelm
  • Publication number: 20030029675
    Abstract: A climbing tree stand platform including a platform member, the platform member having an inner end for engaging a tree and an outer end, and two sides opposite one another connecting the inner end and the outer end, the platform member having two pivot arm support members rigidly connected thereto and extending upward therefrom toward the inner end of the platform member, each of the pivot arm support members having a pivot arm pivotally connected thereto for pivoting toward and contacting opposite sides of the tree as a downward force is applied to the platform member, each of the two pivot arms being adapted to receive a flexible connector removably connected to each of the two pivot arm support members for extension around the tree to hold the platform member to the tree.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2002
    Publication date: February 13, 2003
    Inventor: L. Wayne Prejean
  • Patent number: 6510922
    Abstract: A stand for hunting or photography comprising: (a) a seat structure adapted to be removably positionable on a tree trunk and (b) a cover removably supportable by the seat structure in a manner effective for at least partially concealing a user when seated in the seat structure from front view, side view, back view, or a combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Inventor: John Hodnett
  • Patent number: 6397973
    Abstract: A non-climbing tree stand for hunting or other outdoor activities includes a platform and a tubular frame connected thereto and at least partly supporting the platform. A yoke is connected to the platform for engaging the tree and a cable couples the platform to the tree with the ends of the cable carrying a series of nuts securely mounted there adjacent. A cable retention bracket is detachably mounted to the tubular frame for releasably securing the cable ends using the nuts on the cables. The cable retention bracket includes keyhole-shaped openings for receiving portions of the cable. The yoke includes two sections which are oriented at an acute angle with respect to each other to partly straddle the tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: Summit Specialties, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald R. Woller
  • Patent number: RE39725
    Abstract: A tree stand, for attaching onto a tree and creating an elevated platform thereon, comprising a platform having a pair of side members, a pair of seat supports pivotally attached to the platform, a bracing system for fixing an angle between the platform and side members, and a pair of upper levelers and a pair of lower levelers. The lower levelers extend from the side members and adjust to the contours of the tree. The upper levelers extend from the seat supports and further aid adjustment to the contours of the tree. The bracing system is adjustable to adjust the angle between the platforms and seat supports. A seat assembly is mounted to the seat supports and provides height adjustment to the user. The adjustability of the upper levelers, lower levelers, and bracing system help ensure that a horizontal platform can be achieved despite trees of varying configurations and lean angles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Inventor: Anthony J. Muhich