Telescoping Tubes Patents (Class 248/333)
  • Patent number: 10959514
    Abstract: A telescopic lifting column (1) preferably for furniture, such as height adjustable tables and beds, and comprising at least two mutually telescopic members (2,3,4) and an electric drive unit (5, 10;41,42) for adjusting the telescopic members. The lifting column comprises a telescopic cable guiding device (22;45, 58, 80, 103) for guiding at least one electric cable (29), where the telescopic cable guiding device extends between or in all essentials between the lower and upper end of the lifting column and is connected thereto so that the telescopic cable guiding device collaborates in the telescopic adjustment of the lifting column. Thus the cables may be guided in a protected manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Assignee: LINAK A/S
    Inventor: Norbert Klinke
  • Patent number: 10955683
    Abstract: An imaging incident angle tracking device, including: a light source; a first and second beam splitters or dichroic mirrors; a position sensitive detector; wherein the first and second beam splitters or dichroic mirrors are configured to direct light from the light source to a window surface through an objective lens; the first and second beam splitters or dichroic mirrors is further configured to direct the light reflected from the window surface and through the objective lens into the position sensitive detector. A positioning system, including: a baseplate; a platform; a plurality of strut assemblies connecting the baseplate and the platform; wherein each of the strut assembly includes: a linear actuator; a first flexure assembly and a second flexure assembly at the first and second ends of the strut assembly; the first and second flexure assemblies are rigid along and flexibly bendable orthogonal to the length of the strut assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2021
    Assignee: Thorlabs, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Brooker, Hongzhou Ma, Shane Patton, Eric Lieser, Brett D'Alessio
  • Fan
    Patent number: 10935034
    Abstract: A fan is disclosed. The fan includes a base mountable to a ceiling; a base motor contained in the base; a multi-section shaft operably connected to the base motor and moveable between a collapsed position and an extended position; and a fan assembly connected to the multi-section shaft and including a fan motor and at least one fan blade operably connected to the fan motor, wherein in response to a signal, the base motor raises or lowers the fan assembly by moving the multi-section shaft between the collapsed position and the extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2021
    Assignee: PHANSEE COMPANY, LLC
    Inventors: Philip Emanuel Noble, Christopher Patrick Noble
  • Patent number: 10512334
    Abstract: A height adjustment device used on furniture includes an inner tube having multiple clamp portions and multiple contact portions extending from the inner periphery thereof. Multiple grooves are defined in the outer periphery of the inner tube. A pneumatic tube is inserted into the inner tube and clamped by the contact portions. The inner tube is located in an outer tube that has a bottom cap and a top cap. Multiple ridges extend from the inner periphery of the outer tube. Each reduced opening accommodates the ridge corresponding thereto. The pneumatic tube has a piston rod and is connected to the bottom cap of the outer tube. The piston rod drives the inner tube to move relative to the outer tube. Multiple roller units are connected to ridges and roll the grooves of the inner tube to reduce friction between the inner tube and the outer tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2019
    Inventor: Tuang-Hock Koh
  • Patent number: 9746753
    Abstract: A projector includes a main body, sub-body having an optical engine system, and a telescopic electric suspension arm, of which a first end is fixed in the main body, and a second end is connected to the sub-body. When the electric suspension arm retracts, the projector is in a closed position, where the sub-body and the electric suspension arm are both placed in the main body; and when the electric suspension arm extends, the projector is in an open position, and the sub-body moves out from the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Assignee: TECHISLIVE LIMITED
    Inventor: Mo Kin Lam
  • Patent number: 9743755
    Abstract: A lifting device includes a driving unit, a moving tube, and a rolling unit. The driving unit includes an activating shaft having one end connected to an external object, a sleeve being fixed around the activating shaft and having axially extending flat surfaces, an activating cylinder connected to an opposite end of the activating shaft for driving the activating shaft to move with respect to the sleeve, and a controlling member connected to the activating cylinder for controlling the activating cylinder. The moving tube is mounted around the sleeve and connected to the external object. The movement of the activating shaft synchronously makes the moving tube move upward or downward. The rolling unit includes a plurality of rollers that are rotatably attached to the moving tube and maintain contacting the flat surfaces of the sleeve. Thereby, the lifting device lifts and lowers the external object stably.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Inventor: Yen-Chun Lin
  • Patent number: 9481999
    Abstract: A method for building and installing a ceiling suspension system including a plurality of rigid, elongated seismic joists interposed between opposing walls of a room, spaced selected distances apart along a horizontal support plane, and hangers suspended from the respective joists to support a grid from the respective lower ends thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2016
    Assignee: Martin Integrated Systems
    Inventor: Alvin Geller
  • Patent number: 9072488
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a post frame for X-ray apparatus and a ceiling type X-ray apparatus. The post frame according to the present invention comprises: a main frame comprising a fixed frame fixed to the X-ray apparatus and a plurality of movable frames received by and arranged in the fixed frame; and a bearing part provided on the main frame, wherein the main frame comprises: a guide integrated with the main frame, that protrudes inward from the main frame and has an insertion groove at both sides; and a connecting bar that is inserted into the insertion grooves and is in contact with a bearing of the bearing part. Since the welding of the guide is not required, time and cost for manufacturing the post frame are reduced. The connecting bar can be assembled easily by simply inserting it into the guide groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Assignee: Shinyoung for M Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ik-Han Kim
  • Patent number: 8701261
    Abstract: Apparatus for hanging a High Voltage Air Conditioning unit having an arm attached at its top end to a support member, a bar slidably coupled to the arm having a first horizontally extending arm at the bottom of the bar to form a J bar, and a second horizontally extending arm attached to the bottom of the J bar above the first horizontally extending arm. Clearance openings in the arm and J bar for fasteners for attaching the arm to the J bar to raise or lower the horizontally extending arms for units of different heights. Coupling sleeves coupled to the horizontally extending arms and extension member have lengths that provide for HVAC units of different widths and are adapted to be removably attached to coupling sleeves on an opposing J bar. The second horizontally extending arm and extension member provides support an HVAC unit; and the first provides to support a drain pan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Quick-Sling, LLC
    Inventor: William Joseph Crowley
  • Publication number: 20140027596
    Abstract: An extension rod working with a fixer for handheld, portable, mobile devices includes a rod body whose two ends are detachably attached with a positioning frame and a securing member that are both of an external fixer, respectively. The positioning frame holds an external mobile device, and the securing member secures the rod body and the positioning frame onto an external article, so as to suspend the mobile device. The rod body its one end coupled with a second linking portion of the positioning frame and has the other end provided with a first linking portion that is configured to engage with the securing member. The extension rod can be easily and quickly mounted on or dismounted from any nearby handrail. When the positioning frame and the securing member are detached from the two ends of the rod body, the rod body can function as an umbrella or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2012
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Chau-Lun CHANG
  • Patent number: 8474767
    Abstract: A tie-down bar apparatus and method for securing Cargo onto the bed of trailer or full-size, mid-size, or small pick-up truck comprising an adjustable telescoping support bar having a main body and two ends, the main body of the telescoping support bar has at least one tie-down ring is connected to the main body for securing one or more pieces of cargo including recreational vehicles, the main body of the telescoping support bar has two elongated arm which are positioning inside each end of the main body, to create the telescoping effect so that the support bar can be adjusted to match the size of the width of a vehicle's bed. Wherein a user will install said pair of connectors to the vehicle thereby securely attaching said telescoping support bar to the bed of vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Bike Tite, Inc.
    Inventor: John Nicholls
  • Patent number: 8453990
    Abstract: A lifting-adjusting assembly for a shaft has an outer device, an inner device and multiple positioning elements. The outer device is adapted to mount around a shaft and has a base and a mounting casing. The mounting casing is mounted around the base and has a chamber, an opening and a cone surface. The inner device is movably connected to the outer device and has a moving mount and at least one spring. The moving mount is movably mounted in the outer device and has a mounting chamber, a pressing segment and multiple positioning holes. The at least one spring is mounted in the chamber to enable the positioning holes to face to the cone surface. The positioning elements are mounted in the positioning holes of the moving mount and abut with the cone surface and the shaft to hold the lifting-adjusting assembly on the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Inventor: Kuo-Su Lee
  • Patent number: 8438972
    Abstract: A cookie support system has a lower component, an upper component, and a coupling component. The lower component includes an elongated first section having a hollow cylindrical portion configured for sipping a liquid by a user and a second section coupled to the first section and having parallel side walls with an open top portion and a bottom portion configured for receiving a cookie. The bottom portion is formed of an arcuate face coupling the side walls. The upper component includes a first section formed of parallel side walls with an open bottom portion and a top portion formed of an arcuate face coupling the side walls. An elongated second section is coupled to and protruding from the first section. A coupling component between the lower and upper components is configured to thereby open and separate the lower and upper components for positioning a cookie there between.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventor: Mark E. Cotter
  • Patent number: 8436951
    Abstract: A liquid crystal display (LCD) car monitor frame structure without blocking a driver's rear vision includes a roof mount fixed to a car ceiling, a LCD monitor, and at least one connecting member connecting the LCD monitor to the roof mount. An unobstructed space is formed between the roof mount and the LCD monitor when the LCD monitor is rotated out and pulled down to a pre-determined position for utilization by passengers. The unobstructed space accords with the view angle of the rearview mirror of a car. The rear vision of a driver will not be blocked while rear seat passengers watch the LCD monitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Equus Inc.
    Inventor: Duke Chen
  • Patent number: 8231096
    Abstract: A telescopic tube set for a bridge transport system is disclosed. The telescopic tube set includes cylindrical tubes each having an upper end, at which an upper ring is mounted, and a lower end, at which a lower ring is mounted, the cylindrical tubes having different diameters, pulleys mounted to respective inner wall surfaces of a part of the tubes, and extension/retraction lines each having an end connected to the upper ring of a corresponding one of the tubes, and an opposite end connected to the upper ring of another corresponding one of the tubes while extending around the pulley mounted to the tube interposed between the corresponding tubes. A plurality of bearings are installed at the lower ring to guide the tube, at which the lower ring is mounted, such that the tube extends or retracts straight in a longitudinal direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignees: Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Hyo Jik Lee, Byung Suk Park, Jong Kwang Lee, Ki Ho Kim
  • Patent number: 8091849
    Abstract: A suspension device for a hardware element, which includes a mobile carriage, an arm designed to support the equipment to be suspended, and means for connecting between the arm and the carriage, in which the connection means include damping means in order to damp movement of the arm in relation to the mobile carriage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Sadak Ayadhi
  • Patent number: 8047495
    Abstract: A height adjustable container system which includes a container through which at least one elongated, inner supporting member extends. The supporting member is secured at one end to a mounting system consisting of a ceiling mount and corresponding U-bracket/bolt combination. In one embodiment of the invention, an elongated inner supporting member is telescopically located within an elongated outer supporting member. A spring biased press button or mechanical stop component extending from the inner supporting member allows the outer supporting member on which the container is mounted to be vertically lowered, so that when the container is used as a planter, the plants in the container can be watered and when the container is a bird feeder, bird food can be added to the feeder. By simply pushing the container upward along the supporting member, the container is again elevated and locked in its elevated, suspended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Zenith Innovation, LLC
    Inventors: Peter S. Vosbikian, Robert Petner
  • Publication number: 20110240817
    Abstract: A telescopic tube set for a bridge transport system is disclosed. The telescopic tube set includes cylindrical tubes each having an upper end, at which an upper ring is mounted, and a lower end, at which a lower ring is mounted, the cylindrical tubes having different diameters, pulleys mounted to respective inner wall surfaces of a part of the tubes, and extension/retraction lines each having an end connected to the upper ring of a corresponding one of the tubes, and an opposite end connected to the upper ring of another corresponding one of the tubes while extending around the pulley mounted to the tube interposed between the corresponding tubes. A plurality of bearings are installed at the lower ring to guide the tube, at which the lower ring is mounted, such that the tube extends or retracts straight in a longitudinal direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Applicants: KOREA ATOMIC ENERGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE, KOREA HYDRO & NUCLEAR POWER CO., LTD
    Inventors: Hyo Jik LEE, Byung Suk PARK, Jong Kwang LEE, Ki Ho KIM
  • Patent number: 7806385
    Abstract: The Cableveyor may be able to support its own weight in the direction of gravity since the Cableveyor having the bent portion that connects between the straight-moving unit and the rotating unit is arranged so that it bends in a horizontal plane. As a result, the Cableveyor and the maintenance member do not collide, thus collision noise or dust caused by the collision can be suppressed. Moreover, since the Cableveyor is arranged to the side of the straight axis, the height size of the robot can be suppressed compared with the composition that arranges the Cableveyor on the upper surface of the straight axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Denso Wave Incorporated
    Inventor: Shigeru Takeda
  • Patent number: 7780122
    Abstract: A telescopic pipe support system is provided for supporting a plurality of pipes. The pipe support system utilizes an elongated, tubular shaft adapted to be mounted atop and below wood flooring as well as below concrete decking via a shaft receiving anchor and an auxiliary anchor, respectively. Hanger elements are removably attached along various longitudinal positions of the shaft in order to quickly and easily support construction articles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Inventor: Charles R. Herbers
  • Patent number: 7774965
    Abstract: An illuminated emergency sign comprises a main body, a rotary body, side covers, a circuit board, a LED lamp indicator, an acrylic sign panel, and a canopy. The acrylic sign panel is connected to the lower end of the rotary body. In the rotary body is disposed a LED lamp panel. The LED lamp indicator is disposed on the LED lamp panel. The rotary body is rotatably connected to the lower end of the main body. In the main body is disposed a battery. The side covers are connected to both ends of each of the main body and the rotary body. The canopy is disposed on the top of the main body. The sign panel of such an illuminated emergency sign can be rotated within 180 degrees and fixed at a proper angle under action of the friction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Je Woo Corporation, Ltd., Hui Yang
    Inventor: Sung-Keun Lee
  • Patent number: 7730690
    Abstract: A compression post assembly for a soffit, canopy or like structure utilizing a suspended grid of inverted tees to support the soffit surface forming panels comprising a main strut and a saddle coupling, the main strut having a hollow cross-section along substantially its full length between its upper and lower ends, the saddle coupling being adapted to connect the lower end of the strut to a grid tee by receiving separate self-tapping screws, one in each of the main strut and grid tee, the saddle coupling having a pair of spaced depending legs, the legs being spread apart by a distance sufficient to straddle the bulb of a conventional grid tee and having a length sufficient to engage the upper surfaces of the lower flange of the grid tee and thereby stabilize the grid tee against pivotal motion about a horizontal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: USG Interiors, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary F. Miller, Gregory L. Sallay
  • Patent number: 7624900
    Abstract: A multi-tiered hanger for holding multiple undergarments or lingerie. The hanger comprises at least two frames connected together to form a three-dimensional structure, and a hook about which the three-dimensional structure is supported. Each of the at least two frames comprises a means for receiving multiple lingerie.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Inventor: Julie McLaughlin
  • Patent number: 7552674
    Abstract: A lower component has a vertical central section and a lower section. The lower component is formed of parallel side walls. T The lower component has an open top and a closed bottom. The bottom is formed of an arcuate face. The arcuate face couples the side walls. The lower component has a horizontal upper section. The upper component has a vertical central section and a lower section. The upper component is formed of parallel side walls. The upper component has an open bottom and a closed top. The top is formed of an arcuate face. The arcuate face couples the side walls. The upper component has a horizontal upper section. Coupling components are provided between the lower and upper components. In this manner the lower and upper components may be opened and separated for positioning a cookie there between.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Inventor: Mark E. Cotter
  • Publication number: 20090101764
    Abstract: Prior to this invention, Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) have used either a piece of umbilical tape, a string of paper clips, or adhesive tape to hold medical or non-medical devices suspended or supported from the upper vertical portion of an infant warmer, incubator, or warmer-incubator combined unit. An example of a medical unit being used in this way is a surgical device called a silo, which is held in a substantially vertical orientation. An example of a non-medical device being supported or suspended from an infant warmer, incubator or warmer-incubator combination unit by the aforementioned umbilical tape, paper clips, or adhesive tape is a mobile. The device claimed in this patent application will replace the use of any locally constructed means of attaching, suspending, or supporting any medical or non-medical device from an infant warmer, incubator, or warmer-incubator combined unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2007
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventor: Harry A. Tracy, JR.
  • Patent number: 7448800
    Abstract: The invention relates to a ceiling support for a medico-technical radiation source. The inventive support comprises a telescopic element (2) consisting of several tubes (3) which fit in each other and are connected to a compensation weight device of the radiation source connected to the free end (E) of said telescopic element (2) with the aid of a first cable (12). The inventive weight compensation device comprises a cable drum (11) for winding and unwinding said first cable (12), a helical winch (15) associated thereto and connected to a sliding element (8) by means a second cable, said sliding element being displaceable against a pressure spring (6). The radius of said helical winch (15) gradually reduces according to the increasing force of the pressure spring (6) in such a way that the compensation couple of the weight remains identical aside from the respective length of the telescopic element (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: Hans Pausch GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Rainer Steger, Michael Brill
  • Publication number: 20080169401
    Abstract: A portable holder for a monitor is taught, whereby a flat-panel monitor can be suspended in a portable holder from a ceiling or from a vertical object. The holder comprises a body, a mechanism for holding a monitor and the body together, a stem with a ball-type terminus, an optional attachment, and a mechanism for suspending the monitor holder from a ceiling, using the stem, or a vertical object, using the optional attachment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventor: Geoffrey Alan Fryer
  • Patent number: 7387287
    Abstract: A fixing device which can be fixed to a surface such as a ceiling and receive a perforated section comprises a plate for fixing it to the surface and a support for receiving the perforated section. The support has a wall substantially perpendicular to the plate and at least two claws with the same orientation which cooperate with corresponding perforations of the perforated section. The wall includes a precut locking lug which can be bent into another perforation and cooperate with an edge of that perforation to immobilize the perforated section against movement in translation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignee: I.C.M. Group
    Inventors: Roland Boltz, Stéphane Quertelet
  • Patent number: 7377064
    Abstract: A banner is displayed about a tower structure, such as a water tower, by a system that enables ready substitution or replacement of the banner, without the use of high-lift equipment. The fabric banner is segmented, of wind permeable stretchable fabric, and mounted on rings that are carried on cables, suspended from a capstan atop the tower. Cable guidance pulleys, mounted on trolleys that run on a peripheral track about the top of the tower, enable the banner to be reoriented about the tower. The capstan and trolleys may be remotely controlled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Inventor: Edward A. Burke
  • Patent number: 7267314
    Abstract: An easy to install easy to adjust mounting for holding a monitor from the ceiling is disclosed. The mounting swivels to face any direction in the room, tilts to point the monitor at any angle and has an adjustable length to fit any height ceiling or desired position of the monitor. The wires or cables are easily hidden inside of the mounting, which has two slit tubes. The slits are aligned to easily insert the wires through the sides of the tubes. The height adjustment is inside of the tubes to improve the appearance of the mounting. The height adjustment is by telescoping tubes one having a pair of setscrews for engaging a channel inside of the other tube. The setscrews thereby prevent rotational changes in the tubes keeping the slots in the tubes aligned while allowing height adjustment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Inventor: Roger C. Erickson
  • Patent number: 7228669
    Abstract: A suspended table assembly includes a first support and a second support that are vertically spaced from each other. A plurality of legs is provided. Each of the legs has a first end and a second end. Each of a plurality of first brackets is pivotally coupled to one of the first ends. The first brackets are attached to the first support. A plurality of second brackets is also provided. Each of the second brackets is pivotally coupled to one of the second ends and each of the second brackets is attached to the second support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Inventor: Steven M. Yaraschefski
  • Patent number: 7121029
    Abstract: A sign system is provided. The sign system has a hoisting mechanism for moving a sign between an access or servicing position near ground level and an elevated display position. The sign system includes a first set of guide members and a second set of guide members and a drive system. Each guide member is generally tubular. The guide members of each set are connected together for telescopic movement. Each set of guide members includes an outermost guide member and an innermost guide member, one of which serves as an anchor guide member and the other of which serves as a sign supporting guide member. The sign supporting guide member includes at least one connector for connecting the sign thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Inventor: David Wilson
  • Publication number: 20040135050
    Abstract: A display supporting apparatus includes an upper engaging part mounted on a ceiling, a swivel adjusting part rotatably combined with bottom of the upper engaging part, a flange member combined with the upper engaging part to support the swivel adjusting part, a first engaging pipe extended downward from the swivel adjusting part, and a display mounting part combined with a bottom of the first engaging pipe to mount a display thereon. Accordingly, the present invention includes a display supporting apparatus to support a large-sized display in a stable manner without a separate casing for the display, and further provides swiveling, tilting and height adjustment of a display with the use of engaging pipes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Applicant: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: You-Sub Lee, Sang-Hyun Han, Sang-Hak Kim
  • Patent number: 6739096
    Abstract: A movable support system for at least one display device is disclosed having a track system and a base movably mounted at a first section to the track system. A display support assembly adapted for coupling of the display device is pivotally mounted at a second section of the base. The display device installed on the display support assembly may be selectively positioned for use in a variety of locations relative to the track system. An apparatus is also disclosed providing a movable support for a display device, including a track system providing at least one track and a support movably coupled at a first section to the track system. The apparatus also includes a display support movably coupled to a second section of the support and configured for coupling at least two display panels. Each of the display panels may be positioned for use in a variety of locations relative to the track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas G. Feldpausch, Carl V. Forslund, III, Mark A. Baloga
  • Patent number: 6575416
    Abstract: An adjustable length over-the-door hanger for hanging a wreath or other hanging objects on a door whose length can be adjusted to position the hanging object at the desired height. The hanger is made of two vertical supports that are held together and where the lower vertical support can slide along the upper vertical support to lengthen or shorten the overall length of the hanger. A track on one support is engaged by a finger on the other support thereby allowing the hanger to be locked into any one of a number of fixed positions corresponding to the desired height for the wreath to be hung on the door. This positioning allows the hanger to be easily adjusted while in place on the door. The hanger has a hook that allows it to hang over the top of the door and another hook at the bottom on which the hanging object can be hung.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: Gemmy Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew G. Avinger
  • Publication number: 20020194792
    Abstract: A movable support system for use in a work space such as an office is disclosed, having a track system above at least a portion of the office with a support movably coupled to the track system and configured to project downward into the office. A worksurface is coupled to the support so that the worksurface may be brought into use in multiple locations about the office. A movable support system for an office is also disclosed, having an overhead track system configured to project over at least a portion of the office, a support slidingly suspended from the overhead track system and configured to hang downward into the office, and at least one display device coupled to the support so that the worksurface may be brought into use in multiple locations about the office.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2001
    Publication date: December 26, 2002
    Applicant: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas G. Feldpausch, Carl V. Forslund, Mark A. Baloga
  • Patent number: 6443702
    Abstract: A motorized ceiling fan lifting and lowering apparatus for lowering a ceiling fan so that the ceiling fan may be easily cleaned. The motorized ceiling fan lifting and lowering apparatus includes a tubular member, which is elongated and has a first end and a second end. The first end is open. A shoulder is integrally coupled to an edge of the first end and extends inwardly. A lip extends upwardly from the shoulder. The lip has a threaded inner surface. The second end of the tubular member is coupled to a ceiling fan. A motor is attached to the ceiling. A shaft has a first end attached to the motor such that the motor may selectively rotate the shaft in a first direction or a second direction. The shaft is threaded and has a second end extending through the lip and into the tubular member such that the shaft threadably engages the lip. An actuator selectively actuates the motor in the first or second direction for lowering and lifting the ceiling fan. The actuator is electrically coupled to the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Inventor: Curtis O. Ross
  • Patent number: 6073892
    Abstract: A modular projector lift system for moving a projection device along a path between an extended position and a retracted position. The modular projector lift system includes a drive assembly expandable along a first axis. At least one movable support is mechanically engagable with the drive assembly at a plurality of positions along the first axis. The movable support moves the projection device between the extended position and the retracted position. A brake mechanism is optionally included for retaining the projection device at a particular location. The brake mechanism includes a plurality of rotating brake plates connected to the drive shaft of the drive assembly and a plurality of static brake plates connected to the drive assembly compressively engaged with the rotating brake plates. Adjustable limit switches are optionally provided for adjusting a location of the retracted and the extended positions along the path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Assignee: Chief Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Jay S. Dittmer
  • Patent number: 5873556
    Abstract: A ceiling fixture hangar having an adjustable elongated first support and an adjustable elongated second support. Each of the first and second supports have first and second ends. Each of the ends of the first support is securable to a ceiling joist. The first end of the second support is slidably connected between the two ends of the first support. A mounting plate is secured to the second end of the second support which is adapted to receive a fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1999
    Inventor: Kenneth H. Reiker
  • Patent number: 5779216
    Abstract: An improved power tool torque and weight balancing apparatus for use in in-line assembly processes that require power tools, such as in the assembly of automotive engines. The power tool and weight balancing apparatus consists of a pivoting mounting frame, either suspended from a rail or fixedly mounted on a four-roller trolley, attached to a balancer frame that holds an air or spring powered balancer mechanism. The balancer mechanism has a cable with a swivel connector attachment which travels inside a set of telescoping tube members and attaches to a mechanism for holding a power tool. The mechanism for holding a power tool may hold a horizontally or vertically mounted power tool and is pivotable 360 degrees for operator convenience.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Assignee: Ohio Tool Systems, Inc
    Inventors: Gregory J. Grace, David A. Lemaster
  • Patent number: 5772169
    Abstract: An acoustic ceiling compression strut system and method to help a suspended office building ceiling withstand an earthquake. The system includes two elongated tubes in a telescoping relationship and an adjustable locking connector placed between the two tubes and having a U-shape with two legs and a base. One tube is placed to abut a deck of the office building while the connector abuts the bottom of the tube. Thereafter, the second tube is lowered to abut a grid and the legs are bent around the top of the second tube thereby locking the two tubes and the connector and causing them to become a rigid strut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Inventor: William Edward Blockley
  • Patent number: 5772183
    Abstract: A lifting apparatus including a beam assembly, a lifter affixed to a surface of the beam assembly for lifting weighted objects toward or away from the beam assembly, a cable extending from the lifter, a first leg pivotally connected to one side of the lifter on the beam assembly and a second leg pivotally connected to an opposite side of the lifter on the beam assembly. The first and second legs are pivotally movable between a first position in parallel relationship to the beam assembly and a second position perpendicular to the beam assembly. Each of the first and second legs has a foot member affixed thereto opposite the beam assembly. The beam assembly includes a first beam member and a second beam member in spaced parallel relationship to the first beam member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Inventor: Michael R. Sears
  • Patent number: 5615855
    Abstract: In an integrated telescoping mast-payload assembly, the payload forms the top telescoping section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 1, 1997
    Assignee: Tri-Ex Tower Corporation
    Inventors: Edward A. Marue, Kenneth J. Pereira
  • Patent number: 5568954
    Abstract: A device for holding a door upright for painting comprises a bracket that attaches the device to the electrical junction box in a ceiling, a telescoping rigid section held by the bracket, and a pin at the end of the rigid section that engages the top edge of the door. The telescoping rigid section adjusts to different door sizes and different ceiling heights. It also moves to a retracted position from an extended position, so that the door can be easily positioned and removed. In the vertical position, only slight force is needed to hold the door there, force provided in part by the attachment of the device to the junction box. Use of the junction box obviates the need for more elaborate support systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1996
    Inventor: Robert K. Burgess
  • Patent number: 5405117
    Abstract: A monitor support assembly is provided having a pre-wired monitor support assembly supported from a ceiling rail comprising an elongate channel affixable to the ceiling rail, a support arm having an internal cavity extending completely therethrough, a roller means for slidably connecting the support arm to the elongate channel where the roller means is slidable along the elongate channel in a horizontal direction, a monitor platform affixed to the support arm for supporting a monitor and a monitor wiring assembly for providing power and data communication to the monitor wherein the support arm internal cavity is adapted to receive and guide the wiring monitor wiring assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 11, 1995
    Inventor: Greig S. Davis
  • Patent number: 5382042
    Abstract: A towing device support is disclosed. The invention features a telescoping assembly having an inner telescoping member slidably disposed within an outer telescoping member. The invention further comprises a latching arm which, in cooperation with a plurality of dimples formed upon an outer surface of the inner telescoping member, restricts the sliding movement of the outer telescoping member relative to the inner telescoping member in at least one direction. When a towing device, fitted with the invention, is lifted, the telescoping assembly contracts. When the lifting motion is stopped, the invention suspends the towing device in the air, facilitating alignment and hitching by one person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1995
    Inventors: Steven J. McPhee, Joan M. Earp
  • Patent number: 5333827
    Abstract: A mounting assembly for suspending the housing of a radio or other electrical appliance from the elevated bottom wall of a kitchen wall cabinet includes first and second concentric substantially circular members which are turnable and axially movable relative to each other and one of which is fixed to the top of the radio housing, stepped surfaces extending along respective arcs adjacent a periphery of the first member and being selectively engageable by seating elements extending radially from the second member for adjusting the axial position of the second member relative to the first member in dependence upon the rotational position of the first and second members relative to each other, and fasteners adapted to be extended from above through the bottom wall of the cabinet and then through holes in the second member into engagement with tapped bores in the first member for securing the latter to the bottom wall of the cabinet and preventing relative turning of the first and second members so that the adjus
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 2, 1994
    Assignee: Sony Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Gioscia
  • Patent number: 5315784
    Abstract: A device for rotating a hanging plant to keep it from growing lopsided. The device has counteracting coaxial tension springs of opposite hand that rotate the plant first in one direction when the plant is watered and then in the opposite direction as the plant goes from wet to dry. A weight change of 10-20% is sufficient to rotate the plant at least 1/2 turn. An indicator is responsive to changes in the length of the springs as the plant dries out and as the springs are axially unloaded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1994
    Inventor: William M. Henehan
  • Patent number: 5289796
    Abstract: The present invention provides a bird feeder with a height adjustment to allow the bird feeder to be lowered for gaining access thereto. A slide member is attached to the bird seed tray which slides up and down a support for lowering the bird feeder into a lowered position and elevating the bird feeder into an elevated position for dispensing bird seed therefrom. A deflector is provided for directing the bird seed onto the tray for dispensing thereof. A spiral shaped wire is placed upon the feeding portion of the tray in order to prevent the birds from kicking out the bird seed from the tray onto the ground. A protective cover covers the bird feeder to protect the bird seed from the weather.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 1, 1994
    Inventor: George W. Armstrong
  • Patent number: RE37559
    Abstract: In an integrated telescoping mast-payload assembly, the payload forms the top telescoping section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Inventors: Edward A. Marue, Kenneth J. Pereira