Horizontal Rod Type Patents (Class 211/123)
  • Patent number: 8616425
    Abstract: A trim panel for an interior upper surface of a roof of a vehicle includes a plurality of hanging features disposed thereon. Each of the hanging features includes a slot defined by the trim panel, and a hanging portion extending across the slot. The hanging portion is configured to support a clothes hanger thereon. The trim panel may extend laterally across a width of the vehicle, transverse to a longitudinal axis of the vehicle, and may be disposed adjacent a rear closure assembly, such as a hatchback of an SUV or other similar vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: James G. Gobart, Albert H. Butlin, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20130291416
    Abstract: Described herein is a new assembly of components which comprise a support structure for hanging or supporting bicycles or similar equipment. The rack is designed using a number of tubes that pack into themselves for an extremely compact, lightweight assembly which is very easy to transport and store. The simple design ensures long term reliability and ease of use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2013
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Inventor: Greg McPheeters
  • Publication number: 20130270207
    Abstract: The rack contains at least a column member and at least a beam. The column member contains a support element with at least a vertical chamber. The chamber has an upper section, an enlarged middle section, and a lower section sequentially in this order. The width of the lower section is smaller than the width of the enlarged middle section, but larger than the width of the upper section. The width of the beam is equal to the width of the lower section and the thickness of the beam is smaller than the width of the upper section. The beam is dropped into the chamber by its smaller thickness, turned for an angle in the enlarged middle section, and rested reliably in the lower section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2012
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Inventor: I-CHEN WANG
  • Patent number: 8550263
    Abstract: A modular rack and kit of parts for constructing a modular rack may be dimensioned to vary width and depth for different applications in different rooms. Retention accessories, including article hooks, extension cross members and shelves, each have attachment portions with mating cross-sectional profiles corresponding to the rack members engage the rack members circumferentially. The retention accessories are selectively reconfigurable for evolving storage needs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Inventor: Jack Martin
  • Patent number: 8544661
    Abstract: The present invention is an adjustable lower pole assembly for use with an upper pole of a telescopic pole assembly. In one embodiment, the lower pole assembly comprises a pole, a shroud, a spring, and an end cap. The lower end of the pole may be moved downward within the shroud against the spring creating a force in the spring that urges the lower pole upward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Inventors: Charles Melino, Sr., Charles Melino, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8528753
    Abstract: A shower rod snap-fit assembly (200) includes a shower curtain rod (101) having at least one first aperture (202) at each end of the rod. A resilient spring (201) is used for insertion into each end of the shower curtain rod (101) such that portions of the resilient spring (201) extend through the at least one first aperture (202). A base member (105) is used for attachment to a wall and has plurality of second apertures (205). In use, the shower curtain rod (101) is inserted into the base member (205) such that the plurality of second apertures (205) receive portions of the resilient spring (201) extending from the at least one first aperture (202) for holding the shower curtain rod (101) into a fixed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: WT International, Inc.
    Inventor: Patrick Woolley, II
  • Patent number: 8505129
    Abstract: We provide a tension assembly for a curtain rod, preferably a shower curtain rod. The assembly includes a tube and a plunger slidably disposed within the tube. Between the tube and the plunger is a biasing means such as a spring. The plunger includes opposite L-shaped grooves having a common axial section and opposite tangential section. The groove allows inclusion of a locking pin that is retained in the tube. The combination of the locking pin and the L-shaped grooves allows the plunger to be moved until the plunger compresses the spring, then the plunger is locked. When additional the curtain rod is put into place the plunger or rod may be rotated, releasing the plunger and allowing the spring to provide additional tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Ex-Cell Home Fashions, Inc.
    Inventors: Maurice Stafford Parker, Willie Strong, Melvin Walker, Jr., Stephen Blair Brooks
  • Publication number: 20130112639
    Abstract: A curtain rod includes a stationary rod having an end cap adjacent an end thereof; a movable rod axially movable with respect to the stationary rod having another end cap adjacent an end thereof; and a locking mechanism for securing the movable rod in a desired axial position with respect to the stationary rod, wherein at least one of the end caps is axially adjustable and comprises a contact member rotatably mounted on the at least one end cap structured and arranged to contact a wall of a window opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Maytex Mills, Inc.
    Inventor: Maytex Mills, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130112638
    Abstract: A rail for toolless installation between first and second vertical rack rails. The rail comprises a telescoping rail body having a first and second ends, and an inside surface having a shelf, wherein a latch assembly is disposed at each end of the rail body. Each latch assembly comprises a flange secured to an end of the rail, a latch arm, a release handle, and a retractable pin. The latch arm is pivotally secured to the rail body, distally extends from the flange, and is biased toward a latched position. The release handle is on the inside surface of the rail body for movement from a latched position to an unlatched position. The retractable pin distally extends from each end and is biased toward a distally extended position, wherein the pin is stepped from a first diameter portion to a second larger diameter portion for adapting to different sized holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Karl K. Dittus, Aubrey L. Hodges, Daniel P. Kelaher, Brian A. Trumbo
  • Publication number: 20130092646
    Abstract: A curtain rod structure includes a slide guide rod and a pair of decoration members coupled to two opposing ends of the slide guide rod. The curtain rod structure has two positioning portions for engagement of engaging blocks of two support units so that the curtain rod structure is secured to a wall. The positioning portions are in the form of elongate holes. Through the elongate holes, the engaging blocks of the two support units are adjustable for displacement so that the distance between the two support units can be changed for flexibility.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2011
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Inventor: FENG LIU WANG
  • Patent number: 8393020
    Abstract: Bath and shower support systems for a bath or shower enclosure have adjustable grab bars bearing on adjustable lower supports and laterally connecting to a parallel tiled wall by suction cups clamped to the tile by locking means. An adjustable length upward extending grab bar attaches to the lower grab bar with its upper extremity attaching to the tiled wall by connection means that includes a suction cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Inventor: Willie T. Grant
  • Publication number: 20130056432
    Abstract: A mounting apparatus for fixing a slide rail to either a first rack post or a second rack post with different sizes or shapes of locating holes, includes a mounting bracket secured to the slide rail, a latch member rotatably mounted to the mounting bracket, and a restoring member. The mounting bracket includes a locating pin having a first segment adapted to extending through the first rack post locating hole, and a second segment adapted to extending through the second rack post locating hole. The latch member includes an arm received in the locating pin, with first and second holding teeth. In the locking position, either the first or the second teeth extend out of the locating pin to clasp the first or the second rack post, the unlocking position is achieved against spring pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: SHU-CHEN LIN, CHEN-SHENG TANG
  • Patent number: 8387808
    Abstract: A garment hanger management device provides convenient, secure, and organized storage for garment hangers, including garment hangers having various sizes of hook portions, such as for use in a retail clothing environment. The device includes locking mechanisms with movable pins or mounting members that support a retainer element in spaced arrangement relative to a hanger support rod on which the garment hangers are hung. The pins and retainer element are positionable between a fully open configuration and a fully closed configuration, or substantially any position in between the fully opened or closed configurations, and are lockable or fixable in a desired configuration by a locking tab that is capable of engaging the pins substantially anywhere within a region along the length of the pins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Pipp Mobile Storage Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: James A. Radowski
  • Publication number: 20130015154
    Abstract: A head rail of a window covering includes a rail member, two rail lids engaging opposite ends of the rail member, and two lid fasteners to fix a rail lids. The lid fastener includes a main plate, two clip plates, and two stop plates. The lid fastener engages the rail member with the clip plates clipping the rail member and the stop plates holding the rail lid to securely fix the rail lid to the rail member. The lid fastener provides a fast and easy way to engage and disengage the rail lid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2012
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Applicant: NIEN MADE ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yu-Che Wen, Chih-Yao Chang
  • Patent number: 8342771
    Abstract: A reinforced connector assembly for a tubular grab railing has an upper tubing support that is aligned with the grab railing during use and a lower base portion bolted directly to the tubing support fastened to a wall or floor. The tubing support has an opening that divides it into upper and lower halves with a reinforcing plate hidden between them to form a three layer sandwich structure with at least one boss confined during use within the tubing. The connector assembly is a composite formed from an outer plastic resinous connector element and the hidden reinforcing plate which can be formed from steel. The reinforcing plate which provides reinforcement for the plastic components can include exposed ears on each side that frictionally engage and distend the tubing to prevent it from rotating during use. An adjustable connector assembly has two pivotally related portions to permit angular adjustment on site. A corner elbow, an end connector and an end extension are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Inventor: Eugine W. Goad
  • Patent number: 8322541
    Abstract: A method of assembling a towel rail having vertically extending, elongate, tubular supports opposed and spaced apart from each other, and spaced apart, horizontally extending, tubular beams, the method including: a) threading an elongate flexible heating element through a respective support; b) looping an appropriate length of the element through each hole of the support to form a plurality of looped sections; c) threading each looped section through a respective beam from the second end; d) inserting the second end of each beam through a respective hole of the respective support to bring an abutment surface of the second end into contact with an inner surface of the support; and e) locking the second end of each beam to the support by passing a fastener at least partially through the support to engage with a recess formed in the second end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Inventor: Andrew Keith Maclaren-Taylor
  • Publication number: 20120285914
    Abstract: A tension rod comprising in its preferred form an outer tube and an inner tube in a telescoping arrangement. The outer tube has an expansion joint structure which can engage the inner surface of the outer tube to hold it in place. A spring stem-wedge-rod structure has a wedge portion with a threaded rod extending therefrom for being threaded through a nut held in the expansion rod structure. The spring stem-wedge-rod structure has a stem extending through a coil spring, and a spring retainer is fixed both to the stem and to the inner tube. Twisting of the inner tube causes the wedge portion to effect the expansion joint structure to be fixed in the outer tube, and the coil spring provides the tension to mount the tension rod between a pair of opposing wall surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2011
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicant: InterDesign, Inc.
    Inventor: John R. Carney
  • Patent number: 8298598
    Abstract: An apparatus used to arrange and display decorative items or candy. A narrow stem comprises a plurality of holes running throughout the stem. A plurality of metal rods are inserted into respective holes in the stem. Each metal rod has is attached to a plastic petal, which also comprises a clip. A piece of candy can be attached to each clip and can be supported by each respective petal. The plurality of metal rods arranged in this manner create a visually appealing arrangement of decorative items or dispenser of candy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Inventor: Barbara A. Butts-Cornish
  • Publication number: 20120261371
    Abstract: A curtain rod assembly includes a support rod extending between the two end brackets and configured to be mounted between opposing walls of a window casement, and an extendable curtain rod support arm extending from each of the end brackets and shaped to hold one or two curtain rods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2012
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Applicant: MAYTEX MILLS, INC.
    Inventor: David Baines
  • Publication number: 20120261370
    Abstract: A pole assembly for a curtain includes a pole module, two end caps mounted on the pole module, and two connecting members each mounted between the pole module and a respective one of the end caps to connect the pole module and the respective end cap. The pole module has two opposite ends each provided with a mounting portion. The pole module has a side each provided with a guide track. Each of the connecting members is mounted on the respective mounting portion of the pole module and is secured in the guide track of the pole module. Each of the two end caps has an end portion provided with a mounting head mounted on the respective mounting portion of the pole module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2011
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Inventor: Shan-Chi Chuang
  • Patent number: 8276771
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure generally provide a rack for storing floats. A float rack may comprise a vertical support post, a plurality of slip-Ts and a plurality of float support arms. The vertical support post will typically have a top end and a bottom end. The slip-Ts are connected to the vertical support post to provide a rotating joint about the vertical support post. The float support arms are attached to the slip-Ts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: RJ Schuetz Associates, LP
    Inventors: Robert J Schuetz, Richard C Young
  • Publication number: 20120241399
    Abstract: An adjustable curtain rod assembly includes a rod member and an adjustment mechanism coupled to an end of the rod member. The adjustment mechanism is operable to adjust a length of the rod assembly and has a clutch mechanism that prevents over-extension of the rod assembly during mounting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2012
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Inventors: David J. Trettin, John DeWees, Gary E. Van Deursen, William D. Hill
  • Publication number: 20120228250
    Abstract: An adjustable rod including a center tube, and two rods which adjustably fit into the center tube, is described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2012
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Inventor: Daniel Pepe
  • Publication number: 20120223039
    Abstract: A curtain rod assembly comprising: a first end unit, a middle unit, and a second end unit. The first end unit and the second end unit are substantially identical and have a body with a first and second end, and an outer surface. Each one of the first ends has a face with a connecting rod guide. The first and second ends of the middle unit have faces with a connecting rod guide. A threaded connecting rod is screwed into the center of the connecting rod guide. If more than one middle unit is desired, then only one end will have a threaded connecting rod. The units have a plurality of partial mating transverse decorative elements on each one of the ends and on each outer surface. The transverse decorative elements help form a uniform appearance when each unit abuts another unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2012
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Inventors: Keith Malmstadt, John Vink
  • Patent number: 8240489
    Abstract: The invention relates to a traverse rod assembly for supporting a window covering. The traverse rod assembly includes a decorative arcuate member defining a channel at one end. A carrier tab is affixed within the channel, thereby maintaining the substantially vertical alignment of the decorative arcuate member even when the window covering is manipulated. By retaining a substantially vertical alignment, the decorative arcuate members more closely resemble the appearance of a traditional curtain rod, and they avoid potentially damaging contact with other decorative features of the traverse rod assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Selective Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Randy McCormack
  • Publication number: 20120187063
    Abstract: A mounting assembly is used to mount a curved rod to a mounting surface. The mounting assembly includes a base, a guide and a cover. The base is fixed to the mounting surface by inserting screws through holes in the base and into the mounting surface. The guide fits around the base and can move along a length of the base. The cover is placed over the base and secured to the guide, such that the cover can also move along the length of the base. The mounting assembly interfaces with an end of the curved rod that approaches the mounting assembly at a given angle. Movement of the cover allows the mounting assembly to interface with ends of curved rods approaching the mounting assembly over a range of angles. The mounting assembly can include a shaft that is connected to the base and interfaces with the end of the curved rod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2012
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: MOEN INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Alan M. Bauer
  • Publication number: 20120187062
    Abstract: A curtain rod structure provides both telescopic adjustment and a mechanism by which multiple curtain rods can be efficiently attached together. In at least one aspect, a curtain rod assembly includes: a rod member of a first type, wherein the rod member of the first type includes a connector element that attaches with an end-piece associated with the curtain rod assembly; a rod member of a second type, which is different than the first type, wherein the rod member of the second type connects with the rod member of the first type in a telescopic manner; and a fastener that attaches at either end to the connector element of the rod member of the first type; wherein the fastener has an associated stop mechanism to retain the fastener at a defined position when attached to the connector element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: BEME INTERNATIONAL, LLC
    Inventor: Daniel Arthur Sadler, III
  • Publication number: 20120145661
    Abstract: According to various aspects of the present disclosure, exemplary embodiments are disclosed of systems and methods for supporting hang rods and shelves from support surfaces, such as the walls of a closet or cabinet. In an exemplary embodiment, a system generally includes a pair of end brackets and a plurality of different pairs of interchangeable pieces configured to be selectively coupled to the pair of end brackets. Each pair of interchangeable pieces when selectively coupled to the end brackets, respectively, is operable for supporting a different hang rod from the support surface when the end brackets are coupled to the support surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Applicant: CLAIRSON, INC.
    Inventors: Julio A. Fernandez, Robert P. Kundinger, JR.
  • Publication number: 20120145660
    Abstract: An arch curtain rod apparatus for supporting a curtain or drapery in a curved shaped window archway comprising: a flexible rod, a center attacher, a first mounting end, and a second mounting end. The flexible rod is bendable so as to conform to the shape of the curved shaped window archway. The center attacher serves to attach the flexible rod to an apex of the curved shaped window archway and the flexible rod comprises a first mounting end and a second mounting end which serve to provide attachment points for the flexible rod to the two sides of the curved shaped window archway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2011
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Inventors: Cynthia Lee, Kerry Lee
  • Publication number: 20120123896
    Abstract: Decorative caps for various fixtures that are easy to install, customizable, and interchangeable. The decorative caps can have custom decorations thereupon and when installed are held in proper alignment by mechanical locking such that the custom decoration does not change alignment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2011
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Applicant: AMERIKAM, INC.
    Inventors: Dragan Prodanovic, Michael W. Regelbrugge
  • Publication number: 20120103924
    Abstract: A curtain pole assembly includes two poles, a connecting rod inserted between the poles, and two pressing caps each mounted on the connecting rod and each pressing a respective one of the poles. The connecting rod has two protruding blocks each inserted into a respective one of the poles and each provided with an outer threaded portion. Each of the pressing caps has an inner threaded portion screwed onto the outer threaded portion of the respective protruding block. Each of the pressing caps has a peripheral wall provided with a slit. Each of the protruding blocks of the connecting rod has a tapered shape and has a size reduced gradually and outwardly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2010
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventor: Shan-Chi Chuang
  • Publication number: 20120080394
    Abstract: An apparatus for hanging items is disclosed. The apparatus may include a first element configured to be fixed at an attachment end thereof to a surface, and to be oriented, when attached to the surface, in a direction substantially normal to the surface. The apparatus may also include a second element having a longitudinal axis. The second element may be coupled with the first element and may be configured to translate in a direction substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis away from and toward the attachment end. The second element may be configured to hang the items thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Publication date: April 5, 2012
    Inventor: Larry Shorty
  • Publication number: 20120067837
    Abstract: A suspension device includes a suspender, a suspension housing, and a positioning assembly, the suspender being mounted on the suspension housing, the positioning assembly including a suspension substrate, an elastic member, a button and wall-in screws, a first locking arm and a second locking arm being respectively extended from two ends of the suspension substrate, an assemble bore being formed on the second locking arm, a blind hole being formed on the button, the upper end of the elastic member being coupled to the suspension substrate and being arranged between the first locking arm and the second locking arm, the lower end of the elastic member being snapped into the blind hole, a socket and a through hole being formed on the suspension housing, the first locking arm being engaged with the socket, the button being successively gone through the assemble bore and the through hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2010
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Inventors: Guodong He, Yunyou Long, Guofeng Yang
  • Patent number: 8127947
    Abstract: A garment secure transport bar for supporting garment hangers on a garment transport cart. A rotating outer bar with a parallel securing bar rotates about an inner support bar. The inner support bar is fixed between two mounting brackets that attach to the top of a garment transport cart. Hangers can be hung on the bar and the securing bar rotated to secure the hangers in place and prevent them from bouncing off the cart. In an alternate embodiment, the transport bar is adjustable in length, so as to be capable of supporting garments on a variety of different size transport carts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Inventor: Ralph A. Chacon
  • Publication number: 20120024809
    Abstract: A drapery rod assembly adapted to be secured to a substantially planar surface comprising a right bracket and a left bracket. The right bracket includes a substantially gamma shaped wall portion having a slot, a mounting plate that is operatively arranged to be mounted to the surface. The mounting plate is operatively arranged to complementarily engage the slot and hold the wall portion. A substantially J-shaped extension portion that extends outward from the wall portion and terminates in a rod attachment end arranged perpendicularly with respect to the mounting plate and in parallel spaced apart relation to the surface. The left bracket is an enantiomer of the right bracket. A first and second rod, each rod includes a proximate and distal end. The distal end of the first rod is releasably engaged with the left bracket, and the distal end of the second rod is releasably engaged with the right bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Applicant: UMBRA LLC
    Inventors: Paul ROWAN, Mauricio AFFONSO
  • Publication number: 20110297633
    Abstract: A window blind includes a rod and a support unit. The support unit is disposed on an end portion of the rod, and includes an end cover, a fixing pillar, a support pillar, an inserting tube, and a metallic brace member. The end cover has an outer surface and an inner surface. The fixing pillar includes a rectangular pillar body having a pair of opposing wide faces and a pair of opposing narrow faces. The support pillar extends from the inner surface of the end cover and into the rod. The inserting tube is sleeved rotatably on the support pillar and inserted fixedly into the rod. The metallic brace member includes a ring portion, two wing portions, and two engaging portions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicant: MACAUTO INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Paul Lin
  • Patent number: 8069508
    Abstract: A rotatable shower rod system may be provided. The system may include a pair of mounting brackets coupled to a wall, the pair of mounting brackets includes a stationary portion; a rotatable portion rotatably coupled to the stationary portion, the rotatable portion rotates to at least one of a first position and a second position about an axis of rotation; and a cover coupled to the stationary portion; and a curved rod extending between the pair of mounting brackets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Inventor: Colleen O'Connell
  • Patent number: 8051781
    Abstract: A shelf for overlying a shower barrier uses a pair of shelves that are connected by a connector shelf allowing the device to telescope. Each of the pair of shelves abut a side wall and overlie a curtain rod or the top of a shower door. Each shelf has a flat upper surface and a decorative downwardly depending front surface for enhancing the aesthetics of the shower enclosure and concealing the rod or top of the door. Various devices can be used to hold the shelves against the walls including telescoping rods attached to the connector shelf and the other two shelves with a set screw holding the rods in place. A compression spring can also push on the outer shelves; or screws can pass through either screw bosses on the two other shelves and into the respective walls or a bracket can, be attached to the outer shelves and the walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Inventors: Krista K. Vind, Clayton J. Vind
  • Patent number: 8051993
    Abstract: A head rail for an adjustable roller shade has two tubes and an extension bar. Each one of the tubes is circular in section and has an adjustment slot and a fabric slot. The adjustment slot is longitudinally formed in a periphery of each one of the tubes. The extension bar is adjustably mounted in the tubes. The tubes are fastened on the extension bar with a short exposed portion of the extension bar to form a desired length of the head rail. Additionally, when the exposed portion of the extension bar is long, the head rail further has at least one connection sheath sleeved around the exposed portion to strengthen the head rail and prevent a shade fabric mounted in the fabric slot from being ruffled or twisted when the head rail is rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Inventor: Kevin Tien-Jen Tu
  • Patent number: 8042785
    Abstract: Display stand for displaying products, which comprises a support structure (2) which extends from a support base (3) with one or more columns (4), each of which is formed by at least two modular profiles (6) which can be assembled together in succession by means of first fixing means (7). Fastening means are envisaged, said means being able to be mechanically associated with the support structure (2) so as to form an overstructure with a configuration which can be modified, where required, in order to support directly or indirectly the products or services to be displayed or publicised. The fixing means (7) comprise at least one male part (13) which is mechanically constrained to a first modular profile (6) and at least one female part which is mechanically constrained to a second modular profile (6), said parts being able to be removably coupled together by means of fast-fit engaging means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Lucenti S.r.l.
    Inventor: Massimo Durello
  • Publication number: 20110253657
    Abstract: The present invention is a roller tube for rolling up a fabric blind. The roller tube consists of an elongated tube having a length, an inner surface and an outer surface. An elongated lip is formed on the outer surface of the elongated tube and extends along the entire length of the elongated tube. The lip has a height substantially equal to the thickness of the fabric blind which is to be wound onto the roller tube. The outer surface of the elongated tube has a first cross sectional diameter at the lip and a second cross sectional diameter at an angle from the first cross sectional diameter, the first cross sectional diameter being larger than the second cross sectional diameter by the height. The inner surface of the elongated tube has a circular profile. A notch is formed on the inner surface of the elongated tube adjacent the lip, said notch extending along the length of the elongated tube. The notch and lip are parallel to the axis of the roller tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2010
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventor: Philip Ng
  • Publication number: 20110192813
    Abstract: In order to facilitate mounting of a roller blind one end of the roller blind tube is fitted with a spring-loaded insert (M). To prevent this from being pushed back a grub screw may be used, but it requires tools and precise alignment. According to the invention a releasable pawl-and-ratchet structure (2, 4) is provided in the end plug (1). The release is obtained by rotating the holder (5) of the pawls (2), whereby they are directed into axial grooves (3 or 3?).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2009
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Applicant: FABER A/S
    Inventor: Kim Rysholt
  • Patent number: 7971841
    Abstract: A motorcycle saddlebag hanger is described which includes a vertically disposed support which is secured to a wall or which may be free standing. The hanger includes two identical structures formed thereon for supporting a pair of motorcycle saddlebags when the saddlebags have been removed from a motorcycle. The saddlebags are secured to the hanger utilizing the hardware which normally secures the motorcycle saddlebags to the motorcycle. The hanger may also be free standing. Further, the hanger may be a two-component hanger so that the saddlebags may be positioned in either a vertically spaced-apart manner or in a horizontally spaced-apart manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: Loren Van Wyk
  • Patent number: 7967522
    Abstract: A reinforced connector for supporting a tubular grab railing has an upper tubing support that is aligned with the grab railing during use and a lower base portion which is attached to the tubing support, and is fastened a wall or floor as a pedestal for the tubing support. The tubing support has an opening extending longitudinally thereof that divides it into upper and lower halves with the reinforcing plate held between them. The halves of the tubing support are aligned with one another to form at least one boss that is constructed and arranged to engage and support one end of a section of the grab railing tubing. The connector assembly which supports a section of grab railing is formed from dissimilar structural materials including an outer plastic resinous connector element and a reinforcing plate. The reinforcing plate extends through the support to provide reinforcement for the tubing support including each boss and the tubing itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Inventor: Eugine W. Goad
  • Publication number: 20110132858
    Abstract: A finial assembly which includes a member (1) which is for providing ornamental and/or decorative effect and which is retained threaded on a pole or rod (3) in abutment with a cap (6) that is secured to the rod (3) covering the rod-end (5). A ring (4), threaded on the rod (3), is secured to the rod (3) in abutment with the member (1) to clamp the member (1) between the ring (4) and the cap (6). Finial assemblies which each involve more than one ornamental-decorative member (21-23) clamped between an end-cap (26) and retaining ring (25), may be provided at either end of a curtain rod (24). Variation of finial-effect can be simply achieved by changing the ornamental-decorative members (21-23, 27), or their order, on the rod (24).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2009
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Inventor: Charles Edward Webster-Smith
  • Publication number: 20110120965
    Abstract: A drum for a roll-up closure, the closure having a door of hinged together slats, one end of the door adapted to be mounted on the drum, the door adapted to be wound on the drum as the drum is rotated. The drum has a wall defining its shape with a depression in the wall extending both inwardly and across the width of the drum. The cross-section of the wall defines an increasing spiral from one side of the depression to the other side of the depression. An extension of the wall extends from the one side of the depression towards the other side to partially close the depression. The partially closed depression is shaped to receive the one end of the door to mount the door on the drum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Inventor: Mike Svenson
  • Patent number: 7909185
    Abstract: A lightweight storage device for objects strung on a cord or cords includes an elongated rod having two ends and being made of lightweight material, a foot on each end of the elongated rod; and a plurality of separating elements spaced along the elongated rod where each plurality of separating elements includes a number of pegs circumferentially disposed about a plane intersecting with the elongated rod and wherein the length of each peg in each separating element is approximately the same and is of a length so that at least two of the pegs are capable of holding the elongated rod stationary and the length of each peg is such that a string of objects wrapped about the elongated rod are spaced from the ground when the lightweight storage device is placed on the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Inventor: Antoinette Erby-Jones
  • Patent number: 7900334
    Abstract: A decorative utility rod assembly that may be attached to a wall or other support surface. The rod assembly has a base rod, a cross rod, a cover plate, a set screw, and a knob or end cap. The proximal (wall) end of the base rod is threaded on its exterior surface. The distal end of the base rod forms a threaded hole. The cover plate forms a threaded hole in a central portion thereof. The cover plate is screwed onto the proximal end of the base rod to hide the wall attachments. One end of set screw is screwed into the threaded hole in the distal end of the base rod. The end cap is screwed onto the other end of the set screw. The cover plate and end cap may be made of a multitude of materials, may have a multitude of surface configurations, may be formed into a multitude of shapes, and may contain indicial of a seasonal, a vanity, an interest of the use, advertising, or decorations to match interior decoration décor. Alternative embodiments include a towel ring, a toilet paper holder, a hook, and shelving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Nifty Nob, Inc.
    Inventor: Susan C. Zimmerman
  • Publication number: 20110031198
    Abstract: An adjustable curtain rod assembly includes a rod member and an adjustment mechanism coupled to an end of the rod member. The adjustment mechanism is operable to adjust a length of the rod assembly and has a clutch mechanism that prevents over-extension of the rod assembly during mounting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2009
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Inventors: David J. Trettin, John DeWees, Gary E. Van Deursen, William D. Hill
  • Patent number: 7850023
    Abstract: A device provides for displaying and dispensing retail articles. The device includes a plurality of product support modules that are detachably coupled to one another. Each support module includes a bottom mating portion and a top mating portion, each of which may be operatively coupled to a top mating portion and a bottom mating portion of another support module, respectively. Each support module also include sidewalls that may be operatively coupled to sidewalls of another support module. All of the product support modules of the present invention have a substantially similar profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Cadbury Adams USA LLC
    Inventor: Edison Rey Silveria