Power Operated Patents (Class 211/1.51)
  • Patent number: 11915276
    Abstract: A system includes a millimeter (MM) wave radar detector, where the MM wave radar detector generates signal data associated with a person of interest (POI) within a field of view of the MM wave radar detector. The system further includes an Access Point (AP) coupled with the MM wave radar detector. The AP includes a computing device to receive and analyze the signal data provided by the MM wave radar detector to determine a movement or action of the POI within the field of view, and facilitate generation of a feedback response in response to the determined movement or action of the POI.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2024
    Assignee: CISCO TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventors: Joel Goergen, Kameron Rose Hurst, John Scott Scheeler, Alpesh Umakant Bhobe, Dylan Thomas Walker, Aaron P. Tondra
  • Patent number: 10717606
    Abstract: A system and an apparatus capable of independently driving movers are described herein. The system and apparatus includes: a track that forms a path for movers; a plurality of movers movably mounted on the track for moving along the path; and a plurality of drive elements fixedly arranged along the track. The drive elements each have a surface that is oriented to contact a driven member of the movers. The drive elements are configured to sequentially engage the driven member of a plurality of the movers to provide controlled independent motion of the movers along the track. The drive elements may be driven by rotary motors. A method of independently driving movers is also described herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2020
    Assignee: The Procter and Gamble Company
    Inventors: Clifford Theodore Papsdorf, Jason Lee DeBruler, Stephen Douglas Congleton, Mark Neil Howdyshell
  • Patent number: 10510262
    Abstract: A post guard integrated management system includes a post guard having an embedded integrated module and installed in a building, and when a collision accident occurs or a fire accident occurs in the post guard, and notifies a manager or an operator of the status and risk of the accident, and a post guard integrated management method thereof. The post guard integrated management system includes a post guard installed in a pillar of a rack and having a sensor to transmit a change in tilt and presence or absence of collision along with position information; and a management server configured to monitor presence or absence of collision and a dangerous condition of the rack or the post guard based on the transmitted presence or absence of collision and dangerous condition of the rack or the post guard and provide detected status information of all post guards to receiving terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2019
    Inventor: Yong Rok Kim
  • Patent number: 10388316
    Abstract: An operating method of a disc pick-and-place device is provided. Discs can be picked up when each flexible rod is driven to rotate and make the disc pick-and-place device enter a first operating state and then a second operating state in which the first carrying portion is located at the disc releasing position and then at the disc holding position, and the second carrying portion is located at the disc releasing position in the first and second operating states. Discs can be unloaded when each flexible rod is driven to rotate and make the disc pick-and-place device enter a third operating state and then a fourth operating state in which the first carrying portion is located at the disc holding position and then at the disc releasing position, and the second carrying portion is located at the disc holding position in the third and fourth operating states.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2019
    Assignee: LITE-ON TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jung-Fang Chang, Cheng-Wen Huang
  • Patent number: 9374952
    Abstract: A rotatable vertical growing system enhances circulation between a hydroponic network and an aquaponic network in a closed fluid circulation. The networks are interdependent and operate on a constant body of growth fluid that continuously circulates between an aquaponic vessel and a hydroponic growing container. A rotational energy and a direct pressure generated by an external fluid serve to increase the flow rate of the growth fluid during circulation. A rotatable base portion floats concentrically in the aquaponic vessel. The base portion includes a gear system that enables rotation. Protruding members extend from the rotating base portion to agitate and guide the growth fluid through the circulatory path. The external fluid discharges into the vessel to aerate the fluid, increase the flow rate of the growth fluid, and actuate the gear system. The hydroponic growing container rotates to provide uniform access to light for the plants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2016
    Inventor: John Thomas Cross
  • Patent number: 9265245
    Abstract: The present invention is a decoy with a head that rapidly rotates on a vertical axis, creating attention-attracting movement. The powered rotation is both clockwise and counterclockwise, with an arc of rotation in each direction less than 360 degrees, so that the head does not make full rotations about its axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2016
    Inventor: Robert E. Marsh
  • Publication number: 20150136713
    Abstract: A vertical lift system provides an ergonomic system for raising and lowering a lift carriage which contains non-slidable and/or slidable shelves. By having interchangeable modular raceways providing electrical, liquid, vacuum, gas and/or data delivery systems, equipment and appliances can be easily connected to these delivery systems without interfering with the up/down movement of the vertical lift carriage. The vertical lift system also includes a height adjustable work surface which can be raised/lowered based on an individual's personal preference. Some of the shelves can be manually extended or electronically controlled. The vertical lift system also allows the monitoring, processing and collecting of data from multiple pieces of equipment. The vertical lift system can connect to local and global networks and systems, such as the Internet or other communication systems or networks, other shared equipment, and can monitor alarm and environment data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2015
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventors: Rand D. Weyler, Stephenie K. Harper, Richard R. Curran
  • Patent number: 9010549
    Abstract: An apparatus for raising and lowering a carrier for supporting clothes hangers or other hanging articles within a wardrobe closet that includes a tube, brackets for rotatable mounting of the tube, a tubular motor coupled to the tube for rotating the tube, and a base that attaches to a side panel of the wardrobe closet. Two arms each lie on a plane parallel to the base and to the side panel, attach at their ends to the carrier, and are mounted on the base so that they may oscillate and pivot in the plane between two positions, raising and lowering the carrier. At the lowest position the carrier releases from the arms and drop further. Fabric straps are wound onto and unwound from the tube to raise and lower the arms as the tube is rotated. A remote control receiver or programmable device may be used to control operation of the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Inventor: Kurtis Roland Krohn
  • Patent number: 8985344
    Abstract: An elevated tiltable storage assembly for the storage and retrieval of goods. The tiltable storage assembly includes a stationary frame structure for mounting to a wall and a tiltable frame structure pivotally connected to the bottom of the stationary frame. The tiltable frame has a storage structure for holding goods. A windable strap extends between the top of the stationary frame and the top of the tiltable frame. An activatable power assembly operates to wind and unwind the strap to rotate the tiltable frame from a storage to a retrieval position to provide access to the goods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Inventor: Roger Charles Larson
  • Publication number: 20150027965
    Abstract: A product stabilizer is employed to prevent tipping or shingling of product in a packaging line. The product stabilizer utilizes a linear actuator, coupled to a plurality of arms, to ensure proper spacing between adjacent products in the packaging line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Applicant: Delkor Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew Henry Churchill, Jeremiah Joe Ericson
  • Patent number: 8939296
    Abstract: A vertical lift system provides an ergonomic system for raising and lowering a lift carriage which contains non-slidable and/or slidable shelves. By having interchangeable modular raceways providing electrical, liquid, vacuum, gas and/or data delivery systems, equipment and appliances can be easily connected to these delivery systems without interfering with the up/down movement of the vertical lift carriage. The vertical lift system also includes a height adjustable work surface which can be raised/lowered based on an individual's personal preference. Some of the shelves can be manually extended or electronically controlled. The vertical lift system also allows the monitoring, processing and collecting of data from multiple pieces of equipment. The vertical lift system can connect to local and global networks and systems, such as the Internet or other communication systems or networks, other shared equipment, and can monitor alarm and environment data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Inventors: Rand D. Weyler, Stephenie K. Strogney, Richard R. Curran
  • Publication number: 20140217140
    Abstract: A movable utility rack is provided. The utility rack presents an ergonomic and easily accessible configuration to a user. One embodiment of the movable utility rack includes a base frame and first and second spaced apart track assemblies mounted on the base frame. The first and second spaced apart track assemblies have a curved shape and each define a channel at a first radius of curvature. A first support member is carried by the first track assembly within the channel thereof, and a second support member is carried by the second track assembly within the channel thereof. A drive arrangement is operatively connected to the first and second support members to move the support members within the channel defined by each track assembly along an arcuate path that has a second radius of curvature that is substantially equal to the first radius of curvature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: ROCKFORD PROCESS CONTROL, INC.
    Inventor: Rodney Mark Kramer
  • Publication number: 20140116968
    Abstract: An apparatus for raising and lowering a carrier for supporting clothes hangers or other hanging articles within a wardrobe closet that includes a tube, brackets for rotatable mounting of the tube, a tubular motor coupled to the tube for rotating the tube, and a base that attaches to a side panel of the wardrobe closet. Two arms each lie on a plane parallel to the base and to the side panel, attach at their ends to the carrier, and are mounted on the base so that they may oscillate and pivot in the plane between two positions, raising and lowering the carrier. At the lowest position the carrier releases from the arms and drop further. Fabric straps are wound onto and unwound from the tube to raise and lower the arms as the tube is rotated. A remote control receiver or programmable device may be used to control operation of the motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Inventor: Kurtis R. Krohn
  • Publication number: 20140102993
    Abstract: A node for a solar frame including an elongate portion having a channel extending through it in which a structural element is disposed or a solid elongate portion on to which a structural element is disposed. The node comprises a fin extending radially outward from the elongate portion where at least 5% of the volume of the fin is replaced by at least a single void extending essentially in parallel with the channel or the extrusion direction of the solid elongate portion. An apparatus for transmitting torque in a solar frame having structural elements and a support. A system for solar mirrors. A node for a solar frame. A method for connecting a structural element with a strut having a strut end piece of a solar mirror support frame. A method for producing a node for solar mirror frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: WERNER EXTRUSION SOLUTIONS, LLC
    Inventors: Craig Roy Werner, John Funai, Nicholas Palladino
  • Patent number: 8646650
    Abstract: Dispensing systems and methods are disclosed that provide controlled advancement of product and provide controlled access to product stored within the system. Embodiments include a product pushing device having a track and a pusher that urges product stored on the track forward. Certain embodiments include mechanisms to limit the forward progression of the pusher along the track, such as a brake mechanism, and certain embodiments include mechanisms to block access to product located on the track. Some embodiments include mechanisms for providing a time delay in between the vending of products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Rock-Tenn Shared Services, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas A. Lockwood, Roger K. Miller
  • Patent number: 8616383
    Abstract: A saddle rack assembly includes a reciprocating assembly moveable between a deployed position and a collapsed position and a saddle rack coupled to a portion of the reciprocating assembly. The saddle rack is moveable by the reciprocating assembly between a lowered position and an elevated position when the reciprocating assembly is moved between the deployed and collapsed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Inventor: David J. Miller
  • Publication number: 20130245808
    Abstract: A motorized tie rack that, while providing convenient storage for one's necktie collection, will sanitize the neckties with an ultraviolet light. The rack includes a “clean” button which, when pressed, will rotate the necktie to the rear of the device. There, a shielded ultraviolet light will be activated for several minutes, disinfecting both sides of the necktie.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Inventors: Daniel Page Hexter, Michael Allen Barbe
  • Publication number: 20130200014
    Abstract: This structure is partially open and its inner recess forms a housing capable of housing a bottle (10) by a controlled loading and unloading opening (2a). Control is attained by a locking device (3) with a neck clamp (5) which fastening means (4) face each other by a binding lock (3c) which keeps them assembled, thus compensating the effect of certain spring means (4b) that tend to separate them till reaching the disassembly position of the above mentioned clamp (5). By the control circuit (12) the locking device (3) is operated and the binding lock (3c) allows opening the fastening means (4), disassembling the clamp (5) and releasing the neck (10a) of the bottle (10) that can be removed from the housing (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2011
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: Julio Alberto Uranga
    Inventor: Nicolas Canete Schlatter
  • Publication number: 20120325756
    Abstract: An assembly (16) to grow mushrooms. The assembly (16) includes a base (17) that supports a plurality of trays (27) that circulate about a generally central longitudinal axis. Each tray (17) has ducts (33) through which a fluid passes to heat and/or cool each tray (27).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2012
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: Beckhart Pty Limited
    Inventor: Benjamin Zahra
  • Publication number: 20120312760
    Abstract: An elevated tiltable storage assembly for the storage and retrieval of goods. The tiltable storage assembly includes a stationary frame structure for mounting to a wall and a tiltable frame structure pivotally connected to the bottom of the stationary frame. The tiltable frame has a storage structure for holding goods. A windable strap extends between the top of the stationary frame and the top of the tiltable frame. An activatable power assembly operates to wind and unwind the strap to rotate the tiltable frame from a storage to a retrieval position to provide access to the goods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2012
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventor: Roger Charles Larson
  • Publication number: 20120285904
    Abstract: A rowing boats storage rack system for rowing boats comprising at least one “L” shaped frame, a moving head beam with a roller assembly, a winch assembly, a winch control, at least one rack arm with a roller assembly, a roller linkage assembly and a safety guard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2010
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Inventor: Douglas Lumsden
  • Publication number: 20120189423
    Abstract: The present invention innovates a new way method, system and device for storage trailers, wherein, an improved storage device suitable for accommodating the trailer, comprises at list two-parts, one, is a frame connected to a wall, or to the floor for example, with a lifting, or pulling mechanism, and with an anchoring part suitable to hold the trailer fitting second part of the invention, wherein, the mechanism of the first frame enabling lifting the lower horizontal trailer, towards the wall for example, to a stand position, parallel to the wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Inventor: Eliezer Lion
  • Publication number: 20120160784
    Abstract: A forceps support device 1 for supporting forceps 60 used for endoscopic treatment, comprising a frame 2, a pair of forceps support portions 11 provided at both ends of the frame 2, forceps support means 20 provided to each of the forceps support portions 11, and drive means for pivoting the forceps support means 20. The forceps support means 20 each include a first arm 21 joined to a forceps support portion 11 pivotably in the horizontal direction, a second arm 27 joined to the forceps support portion 11 pivotably in the vertical direction, and a forceps support member 35 that spans the first arm 21 and the second arm 27, is pivotable in the horizontal direction while following the first arm 21, and pivotable in the vertical direction while following the second arm 27. The forceps 60 are supported by the forceps support members 35.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2010
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Applicant: KYUSHU UNIVERSITY, NATIONAL UNIVERSITY CORP.
    Inventors: Makoto Hashizume, Hajime Kenmotsu, Kazuo Yuge
  • Publication number: 20110174748
    Abstract: Support structure for solar panels, of the type that supports at least a polar rotation axis for at least a solar panel, the mounting of the structure including two parallel support profiles. It is characterised by the fact that the above-mentioned polar rotation axis is assembled in a flip-top frame around an axis of rotation that joins the above-mentioned parallel support profiles. Therefore, in folded position the above-mentioned polar rotation axis stays in the plane determined by said parallel support profiles with their ends contiguous to each of the profiles. Consequently, in lifted position the above-mentioned polar rotation axis remains inclined with regard to the horizontal plane and in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the parallel support profiles. It all makes the invention particularly light and of easy and quick assembly, especially adapted for its installation on building roofs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2009
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Applicant: SOLID ENGINYERIA, S. L.
    Inventors: Francisco Civit Vidal, Oscar Serret sans
  • Patent number: 7874436
    Abstract: A storage system may include a rack. The rack may include one or more saddle supports sized and configured to support at least a portion of a saddle. The rack may be sized and configured to move between an extended position and a retracted position. The rack may be sized and configured to move among a plurality of heights. The storage system may include a height adjustment device sized and configured to adjust the height of the rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Inventor: Perry Hought
  • Publication number: 20110014027
    Abstract: The present invention provides devices, apparatuses, and systems for lifting and mounting of clinical- and research-related equipment. In particular, the present invention provides a lift and mount system for mass spectrometers (e.g., for time of flight (TOF) mass spectrometers (MS)).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2010
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Applicant: IBIS BIOSCIENCES, INC.
    Inventors: Jared J. Drader, Steven A. Hofstadler, Jose R. Gutierrez, Paul J. Gleason, Andrew J. Scherer, Rex O. Bare
  • Publication number: 20100320265
    Abstract: A manipulation device (5) for either securing a twist-lock to a shipping container or releasing it therefrom or both, the device (5) comprising engagement means (20) operative to engage and rotate at least a portion of the twist-lock so as to secure the twist-lock in the shipping container or to release it therefrom; a support member (15) disposed above the engagement means (20), the support member (15) being arranged to receive and support a mid region of the twist-lock whilst allowing a lower portion of the supported twist-lock to protect below the member to be engagable with the engagement means (20), said support member (15) being in the form of a plate incorporating at least one aperture allowing the lower portion of the supported twist-lock to protect below the plate; wherein said support member (15) is selectively movable out of alignment with an axis of rotation of the twist-lock.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2007
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Inventor: Cameron Hay
  • Patent number: 7798335
    Abstract: An apparatus for organizing articles of clothing is disclosed, including a housing having first and second drums rotatably mounted thereto. A drive system is used for rotating a belt around the first and second drums. The belt includes a plurality of hooks for hanging articles thereon. In one embodiment, the apparatus mounts on a closet rod and further includes a posterior end with an adjustable telescoping sleeve to stabilize the mounted apparatus against a wall. The apparatus can include a removable battery pack mounted to the underside of the apparatus. The removable battery pack can have a light bulb mounted on it to illuminate the selection of articles on the hooks. In another embodiment, the apparatus includes a rod-mounting apparatus that has a length that prevents or minimizes entanglement of articles hanging on the apparatus with other articles hanging near the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Sharper Image Acquisition LLC
    Inventors: Edward C. McKinney, Jr., Tristan M. Christianson
  • Patent number: 7743930
    Abstract: A motor driven storage unit is configured to bring individual shelves to a standard handicapped accessible height for viewing and selection of product on shelves. The shelves are controllable and move in a continuous path that has both a front vertical path and a rear vertical path. Stationary guide tracks and complimentary tracking elements connected to the shelves are used to keep shelves stable. A connecting lever is used to attach the shelves to the chain or other transport means and along with the tracking system ensures that fill storage utilization of the shelves and the space between them can occur.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Inventor: Kurtis R Krohn
  • Publication number: 20090145862
    Abstract: A collapsible clothes hanger structure includes a frame, a transmission unit, a hanging unit, a motor and a control unit. The frame comprises a rail and a tent to cover a portion of the rail. The transmission unit and the hanging unit are disposed in the rail. The motor is linked to the transmission unit to control the hanging unit to slide along the rail. The control unit is coupled with a light sensor, a water drop sensor and a timer to collect signals and to control the motor accordingly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2007
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Inventor: YEN-TANG YANG
  • Patent number: 7445126
    Abstract: A self-adjusting goods display system maintains a proper shelf level for a display bin containing goods. An implementation has an open bin with side walls having top edges and a moveable shelf to receive a pile of goods. A light source and a light receiver are positioned on the top edges of opposing walls of the bin, and the light source generates light to be received by the light receiver. When the pile of goods is reduced so that the pile no longer obstructs the light from being received by the light receiver a signal indicates a need to raise the general level of the remaining pile contained in the bin. A controller receives the signal and controls operation of a motor to raise the height of the shelf until the remaining pile of the shelf again blocks the light, or the shelf is at a position of maximum height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: Pacific Bin Corporation
    Inventors: Peter D. Wilson, Robert H. Afflerbach
  • Publication number: 20080251478
    Abstract: The wine bottle rotation system (10) includes a wine rack formed from a pair of vertical support members (12) having a plurality of horizontal support members (14), or shelves, mounted therebetween. A plurality of rollers (18) are rotationally mounted between pairs of horizontal and vertical support members (14, 12) and are spaced apart such that a wine bottle (20) can be received between two adjacent rollers (18). Driven rotation of the rollers (18) causes the wine bottle (20) to rotate, thus preventing the settling and accumulation of free sediment (21) within the wine bottle (20) by the binding of sediment (21) to the inner glass wall of the bottle (20), decreasing the amount of free sediment (21) within the wine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2006
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Inventor: Troy D. Jaskowski
  • Publication number: 20080093313
    Abstract: A storage rack for flat-shaped stock (4) is provided having at least one rack unit (2) which has several rack compartments arranged above one another to receive the stock (4). A rack control unit controls placement of the stock in storage or its removal. The rack control unit is arranged to be vertically adjustable relative to the rack unit and has a lifting mechanism (6) for vertical adjustment. The lifting mechanism (6) has at least one bar (7, 8) extending generally in a vertical direction, allocated to the rack unit (2), and a drive wheel (9) allocated to the vertically adjustable rack control unit, and the drive wheel (9) interacts with the bar (7, 8) via a drive gear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2007
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Applicant: KEURO BESITZ GMBH & CO. EDV-DIENSTLEISTUNGS KG
    Inventor: Bernhard Huber
  • Publication number: 20080044265
    Abstract: The powered hand truck has a chassis supported at one end by a single axle with two independently operable drive wheels. A prime mover is provided generally medially on the chassis, driving the drive wheels and powering the forklift mechanism. An operator console extends from the end of the chassis opposite the wheels, with an operator platform extending beyond the base of the operator console. The forklift mechanism has a pantograph arrangement supported by a pivotally mounted column. The forklift mast remains parallel to the column at all times and includes a manually actuated upper extension. A storage rack and dolly may be installed upon a suitable transport vehicle for transporting the powered hand truck. The hand truck forks engage the storage rack dolly, with the dolly translating along the rack to allow the truck to be deployed from, or loaded onto, the transport vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventors: Steven Borntrager, James Borntrager
  • Patent number: 7261210
    Abstract: A shelving system including a plurality of movable shelves (1) installed for back-and-forth movement on a travel path through a travel support device, thereby to handle articles with respect to the movable shelves (1) opposed to a working aisle (S) by using the working aisle (S) opened between the movable shelves (1). Each movable shelf (1) includes a pair of movement detectors (19) disposed in a left-right direction (B) perpendicular to the travel direction (A) of the movable shelves (1). Absolute coordinates of each movement detector (19) are found based on detection signals from the pair of movement detectors (19) of each movable shelve (1). The amount of left-right directional deviation from the travel path (i) of the movable shelves (1) is corrected based on the amount of deviation of the absolute coordinates in the left-right direction (B).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: Daifuku Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Joji Hatanaka
  • Patent number: 7043824
    Abstract: An electric-component mounting system wherein a determining device is operated for presently required operations of working devices disposed on a common main body, to determine a cycle-time-determinant working device which determines a cycle time of the system such that the cycle time is determined by a required operating time of the cycle-time-determinant working device as calculated when the presently required operation is performed at predetermined maximum acceleration and deceleration values or a predetermined maximum operating speed, and a slowdown device determines actual acceleration and deceleration values or an actual operating speed of each of non-cycle-time-determinant working device, so as to be lower than the predetermined maximum acceleration and deceleration values or operating speed thereof, such that the presently required operation of each non-cycle-time-determinant working device can be completed within the cycle time determined by the cycle-time-determinant working device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: Fuji Machine Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinsuke Suhara, Toshiya Ito
  • Patent number: 7032762
    Abstract: The invention provides a relatively simple and inexpensive power-assisted movable rack system, movement of which is controlled by an operator. The movable rack system comprises a plurality of movable racks, each of which includes a plurality of wheels, a DC motor turning forward or backward and reciprocating the movable rack, a pair of direction switches provided at opposite positions in moving directions of the movable rack, and an actuating circuit rotating the DC motor in one direction during the operation of one of the direction switches and rotating the DC motor in an opposite direction during the operation of the other direction switch. The DC motor applies dynamic braking force, so that movable racks can be stopped with a short braking distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Kongo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kunio Miyazaki, Tomoyuki Kawano, Kazuya Tokunaga, Ichiro Ikenaga, Toshihiro Higashi
  • Patent number: 6962259
    Abstract: A dynamic showing rack mainly includes four main posts, each of which further includes a plurality of serially connected connecting posts, knuckles, and spindles. The knuckle has flat upper and lower sides, and a bearing mounted therein. The connecting post has two bevel end surfaces, and the spindle is extended through the bearing with two ends held in the bevel end surfaces of two connecting posts separately located at upper and lower sides of the knuckle, so that two connecting posts are obliquely extended from one knuckle in different directions. A motor is connected to the spindle in one of the lowest connecting posts to turn and swing the connecting post, and accordingly, all main posts of the rack to create a dynamic showing effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Inventor: Shin Hung Hu
  • Patent number: 6948629
    Abstract: A rack includes a stationary container, that includes a movable member positioned within the container by remote operation of a motor. The motor is either carried as part of the movable member or is in the container with fittings inter-connecting a drive shaft of the fixed motor with the movable member. A remote actuator is employed for starting and stopping the motor so that the movable member is controllably deployed into and out of the container. Bearings are installed between the container and the movable member to provide movement of the movable member and pivoting rods are provided on the movable member for supporting articles intended to be stored, such rods being hooks, shelves, or internal compartments or the like. A heater may be installed for drying any wet or damp articles. A device for coupling the motor to the movable member may be a lead screw mechanism and a pulley system interconnecting the movable member with the stationary or fixed container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Inventor: Grant McClay
  • Publication number: 20040238463
    Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of jewel case enclosed CDs in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired CD is moved to the top region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of inter-connected holders. In one embodiment a holder retains a single jewel case, and comprises two independent loops that are rotated with a single motor. A preferred embodiment employs inter-connectable holders that each retain two jewel cases in a side-by-side configuration. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of CD selection. The housing base preferably is detached during shipping to permit transporting the rack in a smaller volume container. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventor: Charles E. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20040232097
    Abstract: A support system including opposed flanged rollers (6) for guiding a moving shelf. Coupling members (23) co-operate with the flanged rollers to present co-axial inwardly projecting stub shafts (22). A support (27) is provided for each coupling member. The ends of a layshaft (21) are telescopically engageable with the free ends of the stub shafts, and relative rotation between the stub shafts and the layshaft and between the coupling members and the rollers is prevented. The assembly of coupling members, supports and layshaft is reduced axially, by the telescopic engagement, to locate between the opposed rollers. The assembly is expanded axially for the coupling members to co-operate with the rollers in a manner to ensure co-rotation. The supports are mounted on an underlying base (1), rotationally to carry the coupling members so that load on the rollers is transferred to the supports.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2004
    Publication date: November 25, 2004
    Inventor: Allan Grainger
  • Patent number: 6478164
    Abstract: An animated light sculpture framework is configured for enabling the framework to be quickly and easily unfolded and erected for use and to be quickly and easily folded together into a compact configuration for transport and/or storage. A head and neck portion of the light sculpture framework is vertically movable in an oscillating manner to simulate natural movement by use of a motor connected to the framework and a counterweight operably positioned between the head and neck portion and the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Inventor: Wen-Hua Pan
  • Patent number: 6394282
    Abstract: An animated light sculpture framework is configured for enabling the framework to be quickly and easily unfolded and erected for use and to be quickly and easily folded together into a compact configuration for transport and/or storage. A head and neck portion of the light sculpture framework is movable from side-to-side in an oscillating manner to simulate natural movement by use of a motor connected to the framework.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventor: Wen-Hua Pan
  • Patent number: 6290072
    Abstract: A library apparatus is capable of enhancing the dimensional accuracy of locker frame structures to allow an accessor to surely carry out the insertion/extraction of a cartridge into/from a storage unit or a deck. Each of the locker frame structures is made up of a top board, a base and sheet metal columns vertically standing between corner portions of the top board and the base. Each of the sheet metal columns is fixedly welded to the top board and the base from the inside of the locker. The library apparatus is applicable to a large-capacity external storage system storing a large number of cartridges such as magnetic tape cartridges and optical disk cartridges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Kenichi Utsumi, Toshihito Kanetsuku, Takahisa Miyamoto, Yutaka Sugai, Osamu Ohmori
  • Patent number: 6279753
    Abstract: A combination desk lamp, compact disc holder, beverage cup holder and desk organizer set includes a hollow base for supporting a desk lighting fixture mounted to the top of the base, an upright compact disc (CD) holder which is glued to the top of the base, a desk organizer and/or a beverage cup holder. The desk organizer includes a pencil holder removably disposed inside a tray which is glued to the top of the base and provided on the inside with a plurality of cone-shaped protuberances for frictional support. The tray may serve also as a beverage cup holder. The CD holder can also be provided with a beverage cup holder which attaches to the top of the CD holder via glue and a leg/aperture coupling. The top of the CD holder beverage cup holder includes a plurality of concentric interspaced raised surfaces to provide frictional support for a beverage cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: Lamps Plus, Inc.
    Inventor: Erik A. Swanson
  • Patent number: 6209405
    Abstract: A device for moving a support (2) for shelves (19), cupboards, tables or similar along a path, which support (2) is suspended in arm (1) that is pivotally connected to a base (9) about an axis of rotation (6) at one end of the arm (1), comprising: a load transmission means (13), for example a cogwheel, at the axis of rotation (6), which is connected to the base (9), at least one rotating means (16), for example a cogwheel, pivotally mounted on the arm (1) spaced apart from the load transmission means (13), an elongate rotation transmission means (14), for example an endless chain, which extends at least from the load transmission means (13) to the rotating means (16), the rotating means (16) being connected to the support (2), so that when the arm (1) is turned about the axis of rotation (6) the load transmission means (13) transmits the relative rotational movement between the arm (1) and the load transmission means (13) via the rotation transmission means (14) to the rotating means (16), so that the pos
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Inventor: Stig Milsem
  • Patent number: 6190117
    Abstract: A two way operated storage system including a container storage area in the form of a multi-rack, multi-tier rotary storage carousel, a vertical lift for transporting containers vertically to a shuttle that transfers containers to and from the storage carousel. Storage carousel is supported on two straight tracks separated by a non-supporting distance. The rotary storage carousel and the shuttle are mechanically and synchronously interlocked such that the storage system can be operated in two different directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Inventor: Robert D. Lichti