Plural Leg Patents (Class 248/163.1)
  • Patent number: 8382049
    Abstract: A support device includes a support element, a plurality of legs rotatably connected to the support element which can be rotated to be changed from an unfolded state and a folded state, and a main body sleeves the support element. When the legs are rotated to be in the unfolded state, the legs cooperate with the support element to support an electronic device, and when the legs are rotated to be in the folded state, the main body sleeves on the support element receiving the legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignees: Fu Tai Hua Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chia-Te Yu, Lin-Lin Pan, Liang-Yi Lu
  • Patent number: 8360374
    Abstract: The present invention provides a frame having variable dimensions, comprising a plurality of telescoping legs arranged in first and second pairs, with each leg of said first pair being rotatably coupled together and each leg of said second pair being rotatably coupled together; and a scissor link mechanism coupled between the legs of said first and second pairs to vary a length of said plurality of legs in response to a distance between said first and second pairs varying. In one embodiment one end of each of said legs of said first pair is rotatably coupled together and one end of each of said legs of said second pair are rotatably coupled together. In this manner, the dimensions of the frame may be varied to accommodate support of a flexible body, such as a plastic bag, paper sack, fabric sack and the like to provide the same with a desired volume and/or an opening of the same with desired dimensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Inventor: John Truitt
  • Publication number: 20130019783
    Abstract: Four nylon legs were added to old Lazy Susan to allow much improved functionality of the device. Work to date demonstrates that the addition of a set of four nylon legs represents a major departure from, and adds a new dimension to, the age-old Lazy Susan. As such, this seemingly small difference between Lazy Susan and my Moby Susan may prove to be very substantial and significant. Incorporation of Moby Susan as a built-in feature in the design of future microwave ovens is suggested.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2012
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Inventor: Charles C. Wang
  • Patent number: 8353199
    Abstract: The invention is a multiple degree-of-freedom test stand for unmanned air vehicles, and is particularly useful for small or micro unmanned air vehicles. The stand is gravity balanced using springs such that no weight of any part of the stand becomes a burden to the tested vehicle when it flies while constrained to the stand. A joint and a plurality of members are used to enable multiple degrees of freedom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Arrowhead Center, Inc.
    Inventors: Ou Ma, Carlos E. Ortega, Ken Ruble, Qi Lu
  • Patent number: 8348071
    Abstract: A base assembly for air handlers having a filter. Four metallic legs each have a distal end. The metallic legs also have first through holes at first predetermined distances from their respective distal ends. The metallic legs have a rectangular or square cross section, and each distal end mounts to a floor. First and second metallic upper frames have vertical extensions to telescopically receive the four metallic legs respectively. The first and second metallic upper frames further have braces member and air filter C-shaped tracks. The first and second metallic upper frames each further have elongated male horizontal arms and elongated female horizontal arms that join whereby the air filter C-shaped tracks face each other to receive a filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Inventor: Perez Janlert
  • Patent number: 8342464
    Abstract: A stand having a stand head for holding an object, having a stand column which supports the stand head and stands with its lower end on the ground, having at least one support leg which stands with its free end on the ground and supports the stand column, having a first joint which connects the support legs to the stand column in a movable fashion, such that the inclination of the stand column can be set by means of an adjustment of the first joint, and having a detachable leg locking arrangement which locks the support leg in a defined position relative to the stand column, wherein a counterweight is attached to the lower end of the stand column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Inventor: Peter Reinke
  • Publication number: 20120318206
    Abstract: This invention is an elevated pet furniture that comprises a frame with the option to build other structures onto it for multipurpose use and enhanced comfort features, such as head- and backrest support or the like, or an elevated feeder structure not limited to the functions mentioned. The pet furniture includes a tubular frame, which allows for different pet furniture sizes, corners, elements such as legs or wheels that elevate the bed, and a cover body for which different material can be used for different functions or interior or exterior use. The fabric layer can be easily installed or removed without the use of tools, while keeping the frame intact for machine washing or changing for other functions or for inner or outer use, and additional functional elements can be inserted between the layer and the webbing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2011
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Inventor: Matthys van Leeuwen
  • Publication number: 20120318946
    Abstract: A support assembly includes a first member, a second member spaced apart from the first member, a third member securing the first and second members together, and a fourth member extending between the first and second members. The fourth member forces the first and second members apart to provide a tensile force in the third member and a compressive force in the fourth member, thereby stabilizing the support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2011
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Inventor: Donald David Schlueter
  • Patent number: 8333500
    Abstract: A one-piece stackable container restraining apparatus incorporates a flat surface and four legs. The restraining apparatus can be used on the crest of a roof or on other surfaces. The stackable feature is used to accommodate roofs of differing pitches and to create a more stable combination. In certain embodiments attachment holes are utilized for ease in transportation and movement. Additionally, the container restraining apparatus can be used on a flat surface to prevent overturning of the container during transportation, such as paint buckets transported in a truck or van. Mounting holes on each leg can be used to accommodate a variety of fixtures such as wheels or articulating pads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Inventor: Edmund Waller Melvin
  • Patent number: 8322666
    Abstract: A portable and adjustable stand includes a base assembly having at least three legs pivotally coupled to an end cap and movable between retracted and extended configurations. The stand includes a length adjustable rod having first and second rod members for selectively adjusting the height thereof. The end cap is slidably coupled to a lower end of the first rod member. A drink holder assembly is mounted atop the second rod member. An auxiliary rod member and umbrella holder may be coupled to the second rod member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Inventor: Heath Duemmel
  • Patent number: 8322067
    Abstract: A firearm steady-rest which is incorporated as part of a rifle sling. The steady-rest may be a single support arm or a folded support arm system deployed by folding it outward to provide either a V-shaped support configuration or a U-shaped support configuration whereby the upwardly extending distal ends of the support engage and support the firearm therebetween. The steady-rest may be grasped by the operator's forward extending hand to provide maximum steadying of the firearm for sighting and shooting. A gravity deploying bi-pod leg set is also provided which automatically locks into position when fully deployed by a gravity slide lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Inventor: Richard Nils Boord
  • Patent number: 8317140
    Abstract: A tripod includes three legs and a connecting apparatus. The connecting apparatus includes three screws and three nuts. Each of the screws is inserted through a related one of the legs before it is engaged with a related one of the nuts to connect the legs to one another. The legs can be retained in an opened position for use by the connecting apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Inventor: Kiosky Chung
  • Patent number: 8303041
    Abstract: A furniture base including a plurality of legs, each leg may include a top portion, a bottom portion, and at least one curve along at least a portion of its length; a central collector which may include a plurality of compartments; and the plurality of compartments and the plurality of legs may be arranged relative to one another such that one of the top or bottom portions of each leg may be positioned within each compartment, and the other of the top or bottom portions of each leg may be positioned away from the central collector; wherein, for each leg, the portion of the leg positioned within the compartment may be positioned in one of the compartments other than the compartment arranged closest to the other portion of the leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Gasser Chair Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Louis Francis Gasser
  • Patent number: 8297566
    Abstract: The present invention is directed towards ball and socket joint connectors which, when interconnected, form a flexible assembly. Each connector includes a body with a first and second end portion. An external socket engaging surface is provided at one end of the body. The other end of the body has an internal cavity. The socket engaging surface of one connector is snapped into the internal cavity of another to interconnect the connectors. The internal cavity end portion may be of a material that is less subject to creep, and which may have high stiffness. The socket end portion may be made of a softer material that allows for sufficient deflection to allow for mating but is not as subject to creep as this portion is predominantly in compression.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Day Men US, Inc
    Inventor: JoeBen Bevirt
  • Patent number: 8287181
    Abstract: A one-piece stackable container restraining apparatus incorporates a flat surface and four legs. The restraining apparatus can be used on the crest of a roof or on other surfaces. The stackable feature is used to accommodate roofs of differing pitches and to create a more stable combination. In certain embodiments attachment holes are utilized for ease in transportation and movement. Additionally, the container restraining apparatus can be used on a flat surface to prevent overturning of the container during transportation, such as paint buckets transported in a truck or van. Mounting holes on each leg can be used to accommodate a variety of fixtures such as wheels or articulating pads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Inventor: Edmund Waller Melvin
  • Publication number: 20120228442
    Abstract: A portable and modular foundation that can be utilized to support a monopole a central hub and a plurality of legs. A proximal end of each leg is removably attached to the central hub. A mounting bracket is removably attached to a distal end of each leg and connecting members are removably secured to adjacent mounting brackets to form a perimeter around the hub. The connecting members are configured to receive ballast or other stabilizing mechanisms to stabilize the foundation to allow the monopole and the attached equipment to be raised and lowered. The present invention also includes a lifting mechanism that attaches to both the modular portable foundation and the monopole to raise and lower the monopole and the attached equipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2012
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Applicant: AMERICAN RESOURCE & ENERGY, INC.
    Inventor: Michael CLIFTON
  • Publication number: 20120223193
    Abstract: A support stand having a stand base, mounting a tool support. At least first and second stand base legs extend parallel to each other below intermediate locations of the legs, and converge on each other above the intermediate locations. The parallel portions are readily pushed into soil/ground using an adult's weight. A support leg bracket joins a support leg to the top of the stand base, and accommodates adjusting the support leg for height, and rotation about a vertical axis. A first tool bracket on the support leg has upright and angular flanges which, collectively, enable rotation of the angular flange about a generally horizontal axis. A second tool bracket can be mounted to the support leg. The second tool bracket can rotate about the support leg and has second upright angular flanges which, collectively, enable rotation of the second angular flange about a second generally horizontal axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2012
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Applicant: MASTERPIECE OUTDOORS INC.
    Inventor: Jesse Trevor Hurley
  • Publication number: 20120217357
    Abstract: A method of and system for, monitoring the condition of a surface of a crushing zone (17) within a crusher (8) having an inlet through which material for crushing is delivered into the crushing zone, the method comprising: positioning a scanning device (31) at a first position to scan a first portion of the surface; and moving the scanning device (31) to a second position to scan a second portion of the surface. The method further comprises moving the scanning device (31) to one or more further positions to scan one or more further portions of the surface to assume all necessary positions for scanning the entire target surface. The scanning device (31) may be positioned externally of the crushing zone or within the crushing zone. Where the scanning device (31) is positioned externally of the crushing zone (17), the scan may be directed through the inlet to the portion of the surface being scanned. The method may further comprise supporting the scanning device (31) at the respective position on a support (30).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2010
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Inventor: Jochen Franke
  • Patent number: 8231088
    Abstract: The invention relates to an integrative three-segment tripod. The tripod has a main bracket and at least one stand leg having an upper segment, a middle segment and a lower segment. The upper segment, the middle segment, and the lower segment are each telescopically connected together. The stand leg further includes a locking unit and a safety device. The locking unit fixes the middle segment to the upper segment and simultaneously fixes the lower segment to the middle segment. The safety device is associated with the locking unit and keeps the locking unit in the fixing state when the locking unit is in the locking position. Therefore, each stand leg of the tripod can be controlled easily by a single locking unit, and the safety device prevents the rotation lever from inadvertent release.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Ningbo Weifeng Image Equipment Group Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Weiming Lu
  • Patent number: 8231086
    Abstract: A lightweight portable laptop computer stand which lifts the back of the laptop keyboard and the bottom of the display screen for improved ergonomics and increased cooling airflow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Inventor: Alan Lee Starner
  • Patent number: 8196878
    Abstract: A multiuse platform and system having a flexible shape-retaining shaft for engaging, holding and pointing devices (e.g., imaging devices like cameras or video recorders). It includes a respositionable mounting system having a flexible assembly having a first end and a second end, the assembly adapted to be repetitively positioned into a plurality of orientations by moving the assembly into a first particular orientation wherein the assembly retains the particular orientation until the assembly is moved into a second particular orientation; and a first mounting head, coupled to the first end, for engaging a first mating structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Grifiti LLC
    Inventors: Philip G. Wessells, Andrew Lee Choy, Michael E. Woods
  • Publication number: 20120137815
    Abstract: A support mechanism for a robot includes a support member, and a fixing member. The fixing member is placed on the support member, and includes a V-shaped resilient clip with a fixing groove. A robot securely configured with the support mechanism is also provided when the robot is being transported or stowed when not in service.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2011
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD
    Inventors: HUA-SHUAI WANG, YONG FENG
  • Patent number: 8186639
    Abstract: The present invention is to provide a bracket, which comprises a main body having a first end with two sides horizontally pivoted to a first end of a horizontal support element respectively and a second end vertically pivoted to a first end of a vertical support element, so that a second end of each of the horizontal support elements can be opened away from each other and a second end of the vertical support element can be extended to an inclined angle away from the horizontal support elements. Thus, when lower surfaces of the two horizontal support elements are placed on a plane (such as a desk surface), a user can place a table electronic device stably on a virtual inclined support plane formed between the vertical and horizontal support elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Inventor: Chin-Yang Wang
  • Patent number: 8176670
    Abstract: A firearm steady-rest which is provided in a folded storage form which is incorporated as part of a rifle sling. The steady-rest may be deployed by folding it outward to provide either a V-shaped support configuration or a U-shaped support configuration whereby the upwardly extending distal ends of the support engage and support the firearm therebetween. The steady-rest may then be grasped by the operator's forward extending hand to provide maximum steadying of the firearm for sighting and shooting. A gravity deploying bi-pod leg set is also provided which automatically locks into position when fully deployed by a gravity slide lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Inventor: Richard Nils Boord
  • Patent number: 8172187
    Abstract: A stand (20) from which a planter (22) can be suspended includes a hollow center post (28) having one end (48) which opens downwardly when the post is arranged substantially vertically. A plurality of openings (66) are defined about the center post, and a plurality of leg members (72) are arranged about the center post. Each of the leg members includes a foot end (76) and two post-engaging portions (94 and 84) wherein a first (94) of the post-engaging portions is accepted by a corresponding one of the openings defined about the center post and a second (84) of the post-engaging portions is accepted by the downwardly-opening end of the center post. In addition, a retainer assembly (70) cooperates between the center post and the leg members for preventing the withdrawal of the first of the post-engaging portions from the openings defined about the center post and for preventing the withdrawal of the second of the post-engaging portions from the downwardly-opening end of the center post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Felknor Ventures LLC
    Inventors: Wilson A. Felknor, Jim Ferron
  • Publication number: 20120061532
    Abstract: A combination wood and metal island leg is disclosed having at least one wood leg element and at least one metal leg element. The wood and metal leg elements are adapted for a vertical coupling to form a combination wood and metal island leg. In one embodiment, a modular leg mount assembly includes a first wood turning, a metal turning, a second wood turning, and a metal foot. The first wood turning, the metal turning, the second wood turning, and the metal foot are adapted for a vertical coupling to form a combination wood and metal leg. In one embodiment, an island table includes a platform and a multiplicity of combination wood and metal island legs mounted to an underside of the platform to provide structural support to the platform and maintain the platform securely at a predetermined height.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2010
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Inventor: Leon A. Osborne
  • Patent number: 8128054
    Abstract: A support mechanism for a portable electronic device comprises two legs and a support bracket. The legs are retractably received in the portable electronic device. When the legs are withdrawn from the portable electronic device, the contact shoulder provides linear contact of the portable electronic device on a surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignees: Shenzhen Futaihong Precision Industry Co., Ltd., Chi Mei Communication Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Jun Li
  • Publication number: 20120037768
    Abstract: A device (10), such as a ladder, scaffold, piece of furniture or a support for any other appliance has at least two legs (12;14), each of which has a slidable leg part (30;32) slidably positioned with respect to another part (18;20) of the device to form a leg having an adjustable length. A locking structure (34;36) is arranged to prevent movement of each of the slidable leg parts (30;32) with respect to said other part (18;20) of the device in a locked state of the locking structure (34;36), and to allow movement of each of the slidable leg parts (30;32) with respect to said other part (18;20) of the device in an unlocked state of the locking structure (34;36). A flexible member (38) interconnects the slidable leg parts (30;32) and is arranged such that it pulls the locking structure (34;36) into the unlocked position when strained under the action of gravity acting on at least one of the slidable leg parts (30;32).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2010
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Inventor: Henrik Seibaek
  • Patent number: 8110103
    Abstract: The present invention provides a flow-control support for a distributor plate in a composite pressure vessel. The distributor plate includes a thermoplastic polymeric disk having a top side, a bottom side, a perimeter edge and a central opening and a plurality of fluid flow passages through the disk. The flow-control support is disposed between the bottom side of the disk and an inner side of an end of a thermoplastic liner assembly. The flow-control support includes a spirally fluted upper surface that is adapted to direct fluid flowing from a supply pipe disposed in the central opening of a distributor plate that is supported by the flow control support such that the fluid swirls in a space between the bottom side of the distributor plate and an inner side of an end portion of a water treatment vessel. The swirling water insures that fluid is distributed to substantially all of the fluid flow passages through the disk during backwashing operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Enpress LLC
    Inventors: Michael P. Mormino, Douglas S. Stolarik, Richard A. Mest, Douglas M. Horner
  • Patent number: 8083497
    Abstract: An apparatus and method to support a pressure washer pump housing with a stand directly connected to the pressure washer pump housing. The stand comprises a horizontal platform connected to an underside of an engine and legs comprising vertical portions and strut portions, the vertical portions directly connected to and obliquely extending from the platform and the strut portions obliquely extending from the housing to the vertical portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Briggs & Stratton Corporation
    Inventors: Richard J. Gilpatrick, Wesley C Sodemann, Peter A. Chiello
  • Publication number: 20110299968
    Abstract: It is described a system (100) for handling a nacelle (190) of a wind turbine. The system (100) comprises a first supporting device (110) and a second supporting device (110). Each supporting device comprises (a) a crossbeam (120) extending between a left end section of the crossbeam (120) and a right end section of the crossbeam (120), the crossbeam (120) being adapted for supporting the nacelle (190) in between the left end section and the right end section, (b) a left pedestal (130) being attached to the left end section in a detachable manner, and (c) a right pedestal (130) being attached to the right end section in a detachable manner. It is further described a method for handling a nacelle (190) of a wind turbine by using the above described nacelle handling system (100).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2009
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Inventors: Henning Poulsen, Jan Emil Westergaard
  • Publication number: 20110290958
    Abstract: A display assembly 10 in the form of at least two interconnected display stands 12A, 12B. Each of the stands 12 includes a spaced pair of vertically extending support members 14 mounted on feet 16. A flexible display member 18 extends between the support members 14 and is held taut thereby. A support arrangement 20 in the form of five pivotally interconnected link members 36, extends between the support members 14 immediately above the feet 16. For adjacent display stands 12, a common support member 14 forms part of each display stand 12.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventor: Richard John Lawson
  • Patent number: 8034424
    Abstract: A shop horse pad of closed cell foam is cylindrical in shape and having a central radial opening provided therein. An axial slit is provided along the length of the pad that creates two axial edges. A strip of adhesive is arranged along at least one of the axial edges. A covering strip, of preferably cellophane, is provided on the strip of adhesive such that when it is removed, the two axial edges adhere together. In this manner, a user may simply force the pad over the horizontal work tubing of the shop horse and removes the covering strip. Thereafter, the axial edges of the pad are forced together to form a solid pad about the exterior of the horizontal tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Inventors: Ralph E. Smith, Harry C. Smith
  • Patent number: 8033514
    Abstract: A motorcycle stand includes first and second legs pivotable relative to one another between a maximum spread configuration, an intermediate spread configuration, and a storage configuration; the legs being generally parallel to one another when at the storage configuration. The motorcycle stand includes a biased plunger operatively coupled to the first leg and a pin operatively extending from at least one of the first and second legs. The second leg includes a first cavity configured to receive the plunger when the first and second legs are at the intermediate spread configuration. The first and second legs are maintained at the intermediate spread configuration when the plunger is received in the first cavity. The pin includes a distal segment for insertion in a motorcycle axle, the distal segment being neither parallel nor perpendicular to the first and second legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Inventor: Edward M. Lemus
  • Patent number: 8006946
    Abstract: A bird feeder that includes a bird feed holder having open top and bottom ends, a plurality of feeding ports disposed in a sidewall defining the holder, a plurality of perches each associated with an inlet of an associated feeding port and a removable base for engaging with the bottom end of the holder, the removable base having a closed position for sealing the bottom end of the holder so as to retain the bird feed therein and an open position in which the base is removed from the holder to enable access to the bottom end of the holder. One embodiment has a manually operated latch member supported by the base and supported for radial engagement so as to enable releasable securing of the removable base to the holder. In another embodiment a manually operated latch couples to a main body portion, the latch being supported for rotation with respect to the main body portion to releasably secure the base assembly to the housing. Also disclosed is a feeder support apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Droll Yankees, Inc.
    Inventor: James Vincent Bonnema
  • Publication number: 20110198477
    Abstract: The subject matter of the invention is a machine stand with an elongated support body and support legs arranged at the ends on the support body, the support body being designed with positive engagement means running in the longitudinal direction, such that attachments, in particular at least one machine holder, optionally displaceable in the longitudinal direction, can be attached thereto. According to the invention, this machine stand is characterized in that the support body is embodied in one piece as a double-pipe profile, with two profile pipes running parallel to one another with lateral spacing from one another, and at least one center ridge connecting the profile pipes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Applicant: Metabowerke GmbH
    Inventors: Laurenz Bergmann, Ingo Blekker, Jurgen Evers, Thomas Meelker, Klaus Raasch
  • Patent number: 7993107
    Abstract: A wind turbine includes a nacelle with any manner of associated power generation equipment. The nacelle is mounted atop a tower having a base end configured for support on a ground level foundation. A tower support system provides support to the tower and includes an axially extending circumferential sleeve mounted around the tower at a location between the base end and the nacelle. A plurality of support legs are disposed around the sleeve, with each support leg having a first end rigidly affixed to the sleeve and an opposite foot end configured for mounting to a ground level footing. The support legs extend from the sleeve with a length and at an acute extension angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the tower so as to provide a designed degree of vertical and lateral support around the circumference of the tower.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: William Francis Gevers
  • Publication number: 20110187164
    Abstract: A seating unit having a seat structure, a base, and optionally a tablet assembly is provided. The seat can turn freely through 360 degrees of rotation. One base includes three or more legs and offset casters. Alternatively, the base includes a pedestal having a tapered gas cylinder. The tablet assembly includes a support arm, a pivot assembly attached to one end of the support arm tablet, and a tablet attached to the pivot assembly. The tablet can rotate horizontally on the support arm. The tablet assembly also includes a mounting assembly attached to the other end of the support arm. The support arm can rotate relative to the seat structure. Rotation of the tablet relative to the support arm and rotation of the support arm relative to the seat structure is constrained by stops in the pivot assembly and tablet mounting assembly, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Inventors: Sean M. Corcorran, Keith Robert Machin, Cody Jay Holstege, William Carey, Larry Cheng, Elger Oberwelz, Thomas Overthun, Lukas Martin Scherrer, Joerg Christoph Student, David J. Battey, Nickolaus William Charles Deevers
  • Publication number: 20110179980
    Abstract: An embodiment of the invention provides a support trestle comprising at least a first, second, and third generally vertically disposed support elements. A first set of stretchers is connected to at least two of the first, second, and third generally vertically disposed support elements, wherein the first set of stretchers include a top first stretcher, at least one middle first stretcher, and a bottom first stretcher. A second set of stretchers is connected to at least two of the first, second, and third generally vertically disposed support elements, wherein the second set of stretchers include a top second stretcher, at least one middle second stretcher, and a bottom second stretcher. The generally vertically disposed support elements that are connected to the second set of stretchers are different from the generally vertically disposed support elements that are connected to the first set of stretchers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2010
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Inventor: James M. Sturgeon, JR.
  • Publication number: 20110174936
    Abstract: The stand has modules to form a support base with elongated support members with wheels or legs. The stand can either incorporate two spaced load supporting posts or a single post extending from a spanner module that connects between the elongated support members. When two load support members are employed the user can step between the posts. When a single post and spanner are employed the user can step as far as the spanner near the center of support. The support members diverge from their centers provide a wide stance of the wheels or legs for stability. At the upper end of the post or posts a load support platform is carried either directly on a single post or through a cross-piece on a two post configuration. T-shaped slots in the post can be utilized to attach loads to the posts and a panel extending between posts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2010
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Inventor: James Mark Cox
  • Patent number: 7982163
    Abstract: A heat gun has a body with a support mechanism mounted on the handle. The support mechanism includes at least one arm moveably mounted on the handle and which is capable of moving between a first retracted position and a second extended position. The at least one arm, when it is in its extended position, is capable of co-operating with the body to form a platform upon which the heat gun can rest on a work surface while the nozzle is placed remotely from the work surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Kwok Wah Chung, Han Jun Deng
  • Patent number: 7959116
    Abstract: A multiply configurable tripodal mounting bracket having multiple permanently bendable solid metal support rods, means for clamping a first end of each support rod in a fixed tripodal arrangement, and means for securing a second end of each support rod relative to an external surface, such as a vehicle floorboard. The mounting bracket also includes means for fixing an external device, such as a portable desk or laptop computer, to the clamp portion of the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Carnevali
  • Patent number: 7891615
    Abstract: The present invention is directed towards ball and socket joint connectors which, when interconnected, form a flexible assembly. In some embodiments, the ball and socket joint connectors are designed and constructed such that the interference fit of the ball and socket causes creep in the material resulting in more even frictions in the various ball and socket joints. In some embodiments, the ball and socket joint connectors utilize an over-molded strip around the outside of the connector to facilitate in their use for gripping. In an exemplary embodiment utilizing the aforementioned ball and socket joint connectors, a tripod apparatus uses legs comprising the ball and socket joint connectors for support and for gripping objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Joby Photo, Inc.
    Inventor: Joeben Bevirt
  • Publication number: 20100288450
    Abstract: In one aspect, the present invention is directed to a septum apparatus (10), for concealing a site from passersby, the apparatus comprising: a first pole (40), comprising a plurality of segments (50), each storing a folded sheet (52); a second pole (20), comprising means for connecting thereto the end of each sheet (28), the second pole being foldable or telescopic, thereby providing a compact structure; each of the poles comprises a stand (42, 22), for retaining the pole thereof (40, 20 correspondingly) upright; and each pole (40, 20) comprises fixing means (12 or 46, 26), for fixing the pole thereof to the ground; thereby providing a septum compact in storage, simple in mounting and dismounting. The apparatus may further comprise a case (80), for storing therein the parts thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2009
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Inventors: Naftali Bruck, Yair Bruck
  • Publication number: 20100282924
    Abstract: A stand for a mobile device such as a cell phone or MP3 music player provides an A-frame support structure having a width sufficient to support the device, a front leg, a back leg and a top and bottom. A shelf projects out at approximately a right angle from the bottom front of the A-frame support for a distance sufficient to support the device. A device resting on the lip is lifted away from the surface of a table or bar and protected from fluid or detritus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventor: David Brinson Boies
  • Patent number: 7798452
    Abstract: A multiuse platform and system having a flexible shape-retaining shaft for engaging, holding and pointing devices (e.g., imaging devices like cameras or video recorders). It includes a respositionable mounting system having a flexible assembly having a first end and a second end, the assembly adapted to be repetitively positioned into a plurality of orientations by moving the assembly into a first particular orientation wherein the assembly retains the particular orientation until the assembly is moved into a second particular orientation; and a first mounting head, coupled to the first end, for engaging a first mating structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Grifiti LLC
    Inventors: Philip G. Wessells, Andrew Lee Choy, Michael E. Woods
  • Publication number: 20100224752
    Abstract: The instrument stand, which supports an instrument on a wire rack or similar surface, includes a body, a biasing element and a hook member. The stand is capable of connecting to an instrument, and the biasing element, preferably formed by at least two legs, is also connected to the body, wherein when contacting a surface the legs bias the body in a direction opposite the surface. The hook member connects to one of either a leg or the body, such that the hook member is capable of engaging the surface to thereby oppose the bias by the legs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2009
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Inventors: Jim Best, Todd Brunner, Marco Perry
  • Publication number: 20100193648
    Abstract: A display apparatus including: a body having a display panel, and a chassis placed on a back of the display panel; and a stand having a plurality of support members that support the body by coupling to the body. At least one of the plurality of support members is different in strength from the other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2009
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Inventors: Mitsuyoshi Takao, Takayoshi Tomioka
  • Publication number: 20100154780
    Abstract: A grid support system for tracker-mounted solar panel array for rooftop applications includes a base frame having a plurality of interconnected lateral members which define a generally planar area substantially parallel with the rooftop. The system also includes a set of support legs corresponding to each one of the tracker devices. The set of support legs are secured to the lateral members and extend upward and inward toward one another to a respective tracker mounting plate. The tracker mounting plate supports a tracker device and associated solar panel(s). A plurality of ballast trays are secured to the base frame and are adapted to hold a plurality of ballast weights for applying a downward force on the base frame to stabilize and resist movement of the base frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventor: Edward J. Linke
  • Publication number: 20100147359
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are embodiments of modular racking systems for solar panels and in particular, modular solar panel racks, racking systems, arrays of racks, kits and methods of use. One embodiment of a modular solar panel rack comprises a plurality of discrete ballast holders and a plurality of panel support members each having two upright portions, a transverse portion contiguously connected between the two upright portions, the connection such that the transverse portion is non-perpendicular to the two upright portions, and a retainer attached to the transverse portion and configured to retain a solar panel. Each of the plurality of ballast holders is connected to no more than four panel support members, each ballast holder perpendicularly connected to one of the upright portions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2009
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Applicant: Appleid Energy Technologies
    Inventors: John Henry Harberts, John Edward Klinkman