Pivoted Link Patents (Class 248/462)
  • Patent number: 11945374
    Abstract: A steering-wheel computer bracket includes two foldable support assemblies. Each foldable support assembly comprises a fixed portion, a movable portion, and a support element. An end of the movable portion is hinged to a side of the fixed portion and can be flipped to have an angle with respect to or to attach to the side of the fixed portion, the other side of the fixed portion serves as a mounting surface; an end of the support element is rotatably connected to the other end of the movable portion, the support element is capable of being flipped, along with the movable portion being flipped, to attach to a side of the fixed portion or to have an angle relative to the side of the fixed portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2023
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2024
    Inventor: Hao Wang
  • Patent number: 9140406
    Abstract: A support for a variably positioning a platform which is adapted to hold a book or electronic display for convenient viewing, the support having a pair of swing arms pivotally connected together end to end and to an upright standard, with the platform connected to an outer end of one swing arm with a two orthogonal pivot connections to a platform mount and a pivot connection between the mount and platform. This creates five axes of independent pivoting movement of various components available to position the platform. A friction element for some of the pivot connections allows tightening of an adjustment screw to increase or decrease the friction to stabilize the platform in a selected position without tending to loosen the screw and the associated pivot connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2015
    Inventor: David F. Simon
  • Patent number: 9027900
    Abstract: A bipod mount for positioning a PDA device for ease of use by a recumbent person comprises a rigid post with slidably adjustable clamping jaws thereon for engaging upper and lower edges of the PDA device. The rigid post is held in a structure including a pair of friction hubs affixed to upper ends of a pair of arms that can be splayed due to the use of the friction hubs. At the second end of the arms are pivotably mounted foot members. The assembly is collapsible to a small size for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Inventor: Thomas R. Prohofsky
  • Patent number: 9022341
    Abstract: An apparatus to support a device includes a first base; a first support; a first base-support hinge adapted to rotatably couple the first base and the first support along a first axis of rotation; a first swivel slidably connected to the first support and having a first cut-out adapted to receive a first portion of the device; a second base; a second support; a second base-support hinge adapted to rotatably couple the second base and the second support along a second axis of rotation; and a second swivel slidably connected to the second support and having a second cut-out adapted to receive a second portion of the device spaced apart from the first portion of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Inventor: Rambod Radmard
  • Publication number: 20150115123
    Abstract: A foldable and portable music stand (100) comprising: a music platform (102) for placing a music score and a music book; a pole comprising a main pole (106), a second pole (108), and a third pole (110); a foldable arm; and a support stand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2013
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventor: Wai Ho NG
  • Patent number: 8783641
    Abstract: A foldable supporting bracket for a portable electronic apparatus includes a supporting arm, a holding element, and two load-bearing bars. The supporting arm has a first pivot shaft at one terminal thereof and the holding element has a second pivot shaft at one terminal thereof. The two load-bearing bars are separated to each other and pivotally arranged between the first pivot shaft and the second pivot shaft to form a hollow containing region. The supporting arm and the holding element are pivotally connected to the two load-bearing bars via the first pivot shaft and the second pivot shat, respectively, so that the supporting arm and the holding element are flipped toward the hollow containing region. Accordingly, the supporting arm and the holding element are folded in the hollow containing region and then levelly arranged to the two load-bearing bars, thus reducing occupied space and increasing carry convenience.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Cooler Master Development Corporation
    Inventors: Ben-Tien Lin, Ching-Feng Shih, Chun-Che Chang, Wen-Ping Tu
  • Patent number: 8770538
    Abstract: A supporting structure for an electronic device is provided to reduce the thickness or volume of device structures in conventional skills. The supporting structure includes a connecting arm having a first end and a second end which are substantially pivoted to a side region of a sliding and/or rotating module and an edge portion of a substrate module, respectively. With the connecting arm being rotated in response to the movement of the sliding and/or rotating module, the rotation or combination type can be provided between the first and second ends of the connecting arm and the side regions of the sliding and/or rotating module and the edge portion of the substrate module, thereby improving difficulties of the internal structure and design of the assembly of conventional supporting structure and electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: First Dome Corporation
    Inventors: An Szu Hsu, Chien Cheng Mai, Way Han Dai
  • Patent number: 8763976
    Abstract: An example includes a mount for use with an electronic device. The mount includes a base that is configured to be located between an airplane tray table and a seat when the airplane tray table is in an upright and locked position, and an electronics mount to hold the electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Arctic, LLC
    Inventor: Anton Jachim
  • Patent number: 8668257
    Abstract: A foldable bracket of a chair contains a positioning rod, a first rotating rod, a connector, a second rotating rod, and a supporting plate. The positioning rod is connected with the chair. The first rotating rod is rotatably coupled with the positioning rod. The connector is joined with the first rotating rod. The second rotating rod is rotatably coupled with the connector, and the supporting plate is connected to the second rotating rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Inventor: Yao-Chuan Wu
  • Publication number: 20130248676
    Abstract: A supporting component comprising a bottom base, a top base, a supporting plate, and a supporting unit is disclosed. An accommodating groove is at a lateral surface of the bottom base. The top base is pivottably connected to the bottom base around a first pivot. The bottom base is movably disposed at the accommodating groove. The supporting unit is pivottably connected to the top base around a second pivot, and the supporting unit is pivottably connected to the supporting plate around a third pivot. When the top base pivots around the first pivot from a closing position to an opening position, the top base pushes the supporting unit so that the supporting unit pushes the supporting plate to stick out from the accommodating groove. Therefore, the supporting component is at a supporting state automatically.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: INVENTEC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shih-Hsuan Wang, Ming-Hsien Hsu
  • Patent number: 8523133
    Abstract: The present invention includes a collapsible book holder adapted to hold a book in an open position. The present invention preferably is adapted to be folded into a flat or substantially flat position where it may be conveniently placed in a pocket or purse, or placed in a book as a book mark.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Inventor: Bernard R. McKellar
  • Patent number: 8286930
    Abstract: The invention provides an angle-adjustable display with an adjusting unit related to a body of the display in shape. The angle-adjustable display comprises a display body, a connecting rod and an adjusting unit. The connecting rod, at each of its two ends, respectively connects to the display and the adjusting unit. As the adjusting unit rotates along a rotating axis of the connecting rod as a rotation shaft, the adjusting unit contacts a surface in a contact position. A distance between the rotating axis and the surface is variable by rotating the adjusting unit along the rotating axis, and would change in the rotation of the display body, and the inclination of the display can be adjusted by rotating the adjusting unit along the rotating axis to change the contact position in opposition to the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Hannspree, Inc.
    Inventor: Wen-Hung Huang
  • Patent number: 8186640
    Abstract: A portable drawing apparatus configured to act as an easel and/or desk includes a pair of upper support members each pivotally connected to a respective lower support member, and also each pivotally connected to a respective rear support member. In an operational configuration, the rear support members can project rearwardly in a plane substantially normal to a plane defined by two mutually parallel upper support members. A lower cross frame and upper cross frame are each connected to respective lower support members, and upper support members, and each further connected to the non-removable portion. A hinged lateral member, when configured in a locked position, defines the apparatus width. In a collapsed configuration, the distal portions of the upper and lower support members are configured to point in the same direction and form a bundle whose length is substantially less than that of the apparatus length in operational configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: MEGA Brands International
    Inventor: Vic Bertrand
  • Patent number: 8162281
    Abstract: A folding presentation pad easel, particularly suited for a classroom or teaching environment, utilizes a support spine and a leg element with additional legs to form a rigid triangular base, a supporting column, and a telescopic support, with pivotal supports therebetween. Superior stability is provided as well as a minimum required floor space to the rear of the easel, a feature which is particularly desirable in a classroom. When the easel is folded it has a set of wheels and a handle in which can be used for mobility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventor: C. Robert Logue
  • Patent number: 8152113
    Abstract: An adjustable supporting mechanism suitable for being connected to a body of an electronic apparatus, upholding the body on a plane, and adjusting the relative position of the body and the plane is provided. The adjustable supporting mechanism includes a base, a bearing, an elastomer, a rotating shaft, and a supporting stand. The base is capable of being connected to the body. The bearing is fixed on the base. The elastomer is fixed on the base. The rotating shaft fits the bearing and contacts the elastomer. The rotating shaft is capable of rotating with respect to the base and the elastomer. When the rotating shaft rotates, the elastomer applies a resistance on the rotating shaft for resisting the rotation of the rotating shaft. The supporting stand is fixed to the rotating shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Compal Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Ku-Feng Chen, Hung-Ta Liao
  • Patent number: 8074953
    Abstract: The present invention includes a collapsible book holder adapted to hold a book in an open position. The present invention preferably is adapted to be folded into a flat or substantially flat position where it may be conveniently placed in a pocket or purse, or placed in a book as a book mark.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Inventor: Bernard R. McKellar
  • Patent number: 8020818
    Abstract: A stand includes a connecting member, a first supporting member pivotably connected to the connecting member and rotatable along a first direction, two second supporting members pivotably connected to the connecting member and rotatable along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and two blocking members pivotably connected to the second supporting members respectively, opposite to the connecting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chia-Shin Chou, Zhen-Xing Ye
  • Publication number: 20110073741
    Abstract: A collapsible easel with three legs is provided. First ends of the three legs are attached at an apex. The legs are moveable with respect to one another about the apex. The legs are moveable between collapsed and opened positions. The legs are disposed substantially adjacent one another in the collapsed position. The second ends of the legs are spaced a distance away from each other in the opened position. The legs form an upright pyramidal configuration when in the opened position. The easel is supported by a collapsible reinforcing member joining two of the legs. The reinforcing member has first and second arms joined by a pivoting mechanism. The easel is also reinforced by a collapsible bracing assembly comprising alpha, beta, and gamma support members attached to the set of three legs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventors: George Kepes, Fang Jianping
  • Patent number: 7857277
    Abstract: A portable drawing apparatus configured to act as an easel and/or desk includes a pair of upper support members each pivotally connected to a respective lower support member, and also each pivotally connected to a respective rear support member. In an operational configuration, the rear support members can project rearwardly in a plane substantially normal to a plane defined by two mutually parallel upper support members. A lower cross frame and upper cross frame are each connected to respective lower support members, and upper support members, and each further connected to the non-removable portion. A hinged lateral member, when configured in a locked position, defines the apparatus width. In a collapsed configuration, the distal portions of the upper and lower support members are configured to point in the same direction and form a bundle whose length is substantially less than that of the apparatus length in operational configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: MEGA Brands International S.A.R.L.
    Inventor: Vic Bertrand
  • Patent number: 7823857
    Abstract: A collapsible easel for holding items to be displayed, the easel having a top assembly and a base assembly. The base assembly includes two front legs and a rear leg, each leg pivotally mounted to the top assembly with cushion members forcing part of the top assembly to provide a slight restriction against pivoted movement of the two front legs. A V-shaped spring assembly is pivotally mounted on the rear leg, and is removably attached to each front leg. Insertion of portions of the spring assembly into apertures in the front legs, allows the easel to stand in a tripod configuration. Removal of portions of the V-shaped spring assembly from the apertures in the front legs allows the legs to be folded together. In another embodiment, a collapsible brace assembly connects the rear leg to the front legs. The collapsible brace assembly comprises a pair of lateral struts extending between and engaging each of the front legs and a bracket connecting the lateral struts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Swank Audio Visuals LLC
    Inventors: Michael John Stengel, Trung Q Do
  • Patent number: 7770862
    Abstract: A rotatable support mechanism is attached to a body of an electronic device for upholding the body on a plane and adjusting relative positions between the body and the plane. The rotatable support mechanism includes a base, a rotatable disk, and an elastic stopper. The base attached to the body of the electronic device has an axle. The rotatable disk has a holder and a groove. The axle passes a sidewall of the groove. The rotatable disk rotates around the axle as an axis. The sidewall of the groove has at least an opening. The elastic stopper mounted to the axle has an elastic shell fragment and does not rotate with the disk. As the disk is rotated, the elastic shell fragment enters and passes through the opening to exert a resistance force to the disk. Therefore, the electronic device is upheld vertically or horizontally by the rotatable support mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Compal Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Ku-Feng Chen
  • Patent number: 7722007
    Abstract: A foldable easel strut assembly is provided for supporting the easel when the easel is in use, and for moving the legs of the easel to a storage position when the easel is to be stored. The invention comprises an easel support board to which a rear leg assembly is pivotally connected. A pair of forward struts are pivotally connected at a first end to the support board. A pair of rear struts each have a first end pivotally connected to a second end of a corresponding forward strut, and a second end of each rear strut is pivotally connected to the rear leg assembly. Each rear strut includes a stop flange that abuts an upper edge of a corresponding forward strut when the rear leg assembly is pivoted away from the support board to a maximum position. In an embodiment, two front legs are pivotally connected to the support board, and the rear leg assembly comprises a rear leg member that pivotally folds against a bracket, and the bracket folds against the support board, when the easel is in its storage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Swank Audio Visuals, LLC
    Inventor: Michael John Stengel
  • Publication number: 20090294597
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an erectable and/or collapsible floral easel for holding a floral object, and more particularly but not by way of limitation, to an erectable or collapsible floral easel for holding a floral object. In one aspect, the present invention relates to a floral easel for holding and/or supporting a floral object. In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to methods of shipping a floral easel, methods of using a floral easel, methods of storing a floral easel, and methods of placing a floral object on a floral easel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2009
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventor: Donald E. Weder
  • Publication number: 20090289166
    Abstract: Disclosed is an articulated lectern with panels joined by hinges, with the panels employing a kickstand and keeper holes to adjust height and angularity. The lectern can be made of solid panels or frame panels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Inventor: Asher Hopfer
  • Patent number: 7543790
    Abstract: Improved portable easel (10) comprising two functional sections, base (12) and arm holder (16) fastened together with locking hinge mechanism (14) formed by adjustable clutches (14A,14B). The arm holder comprises a plurality of members with an elbow-shaped bend (52A, 52B), containing a plurality of openings in the distal end attached to the hinge mechanism (14) and a plurality of openings in the proximal end, such that proximal openings are at right angles. This hinge mechanism permits the curved holder to fold down over the base and the legs for compact storage and up for a range of angles. Adjustable length arms (22) are attached to arm holder with adjustable clutches (18), allowing arms to freely pivot in a plane until locked in position. Adjustable support legs (20) are pivotally fastened within angled cutouts (42) in the base. Sliding, adjustable, artwork holders (24) are attached to the arms with adjustable clamps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Inventor: Will Andrew Starcher
  • Patent number: 7374144
    Abstract: The purpose of this invention is to provide an easel assembly reversibly transformable between a deployed position suitable for supporting at least one planar item thereon and a collapsed position suitable for transport and storage. The easel assembly includes a pair of support members. Each support member is pivotally interconnected for selective movement between a folded position where said support members are generally parallel and a deployed position where said support members divaricate. In addition, each support member is integrally connected to a base member which is constructed and arranged for removable, pivotal interconnection at the end opposite the support member. The connected base members are constructed and arranged for positioning on a planar surface when the easel assembly is in the deployed position, thereby distributing any downward load of the easel assembly along the planar surface to resist tipping and maintain the stability of the deployed easel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Inventor: James B. Wonderling
  • Patent number: 7364129
    Abstract: A portable, collapsible stand includes first, second and third substantially rectangularly shaped and rigid panels hinged together so as to be movable between a closed position and an open position. Flexible straps extend between the panels to prevent them from fully opening. Hooks located adjacent the top edge of the first panel allow the stand to be suspended from a horizontally arranged support such as the handle of a piece of luggage or the back of an airplane seat. When so suspended, the panels are in partially opened positions with respect to each other so that the first panel can function as a desk, computer support or a head rest. The second panel includes a plurality of openings formed therein for holding a drinking cup or a pen or other writing utensil. In lieu of suspending the stand, rigid rods or bars movable into position between the panels can maintain them in their open position. Feet at the bottom of the third panel allow the stand to sit on a desk or table or other horizontal surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Inventor: Robert Levari, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20080073475
    Abstract: A recipe stand for flippably mounting recipe pages thereon includes at least one information card with information printed thereon which moves between a stowed position in which typically at least part of the information is hidden from sight and an exposed position in which the information is visible for simultaneous viewing with the recipes. The information typically includes measurement equivalents or ingredient substitutions. The stand may include a multi-ring binder which is openable for use and closable to a size which fits on a standard bookshelf. The stand may include multiple panels which are foldable between an erect position and a collapsed position. In one embodiment, a binder mechanism on which the pages are mounted is rotatably mounted on the stand between a forward position for displaying the fronts of the pages in an upright position and a reversed position for displaying backs of the pages in an upright position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Publication date: March 27, 2008
    Inventor: Tanya Gartrell
  • Publication number: 20080042037
    Abstract: The purpose of the introduction of the new “HIS REST” book rest is to bring to the present and the future the most advanced book rest of our day. In the past book rests have been cumbersome and awkward, not providing ease of use and multitasking usability. “HIS REST” book rest can be used flat, on a table or lap, or opened it can sit on any flat surface and hold any material to be viewed, up at an angle suitable for the comfort of the person viewing. It can also be “hung” on the back of any flat or curved seat or bench, giving the user a hands free book rest at a comfortable viewing level. This book rest opened and turned upside down, becomes an easel of many uses, such as displaying photos, art, or flip-charts used in meeting presentations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: Larry Morrison Orr
  • Patent number: 7172167
    Abstract: The invention provides a reading stand. The reading stand may include a base including a base member case. Further, the reading stand may include a reading lid disposed upon the base member case, the reading lid including a reading platform having a front side and a backside; and at least one page holder adjustably mounted on the reading platform so as to assist in retaining a document on the front side of the reading platform. Further, a support member is provided. The support member extends from the backside of the reading platform, and is adapted to engage with the base so as to support the reading lid upon the base. For example, the support member may be in the form of a side support clip that substantially vertically supports the reading lid upon the base for side reading.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: Phifer Incorporated
    Inventors: Beverly C. Phifer, M. Scott Clark, Thomas G. Grammer
  • Patent number: 6764055
    Abstract: A book holder for releasably retaining a book or document thereon including a base having a vertical support arm extending from the base. The vertical support arm includes a channel extending substantially along a length thereof. A pivoting support arm pivotally connected to said vertical support arm. The pivoting support arm includes a channel extending substantially along a length thereof. The book holder further includes a locking wheel for releasably securing the pivoting support arm to the vertical support arm. A book platform is moveably connected to an end of the pivoting support arm for selectively retaining the book or document thereon in a position able to be easily viewed by a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: David S Lee
  • Publication number: 20040135053
    Abstract: The Portable Case Easel with Presentation Components is unique in that the easel is formed from the case and the presentation components are secured inside the case. The case is in two sections which can form a table top easel by standing on end and separating at the base, secured by arms and stabilized by folded down cut away support members. A shelf and clamp are available for securing display items. To form a floor easel, the inner portions and head portions of the two sections are telescoped out of the outer portions. This exposes the compartments containing a foldable, corrugated backboard to support displays or writing, a paper cartridge to expel paper across backboard, and a screen assembly for projected images. Storage of writing materials, video and audio equipment is available in head portions. Collapsed back into case form provides an ease of conveyance and secures the presentation components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: James Frederick Henson
  • Patent number: 6719259
    Abstract: An easel board support is installed on an easel supporting leg for suspending and supporting objects and the height thereof is adjustable. The easel board support comprises a sleeve and a board support body. The sleeve is capable of being inserted by an easel supporting leg and have two pivotal ears each having through hole. A part of the sleeve at an inner side of the pivotal ear has a slot. An elastic press is formed between the two slots. By a large contact surface between the press piece and the supporting leg, the board support is positioned stably; and by the resisting effect between a resisting block and the sleeve, the board support will not fall downwards. The press can be replaced by a receiving groove formed between the two pivotal ears and a cambered pressing block installed in the receiving groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Inventors: Jason Huang, Pao Pei-Chih
  • Patent number: 6648193
    Abstract: A steering wheel book holder designed to be releasably attachable to a steering wheel without requiring special tooling or manual dexterity and designed so as to be customized to a various configuration and size of steering wheels and so as to provide a sturdy and reliable support surface for supporting printed matter and allowing the latter to be ergonomically readable to an individual seating behind the wheel of a conventional vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Yvan Rioux
  • Patent number: 6279800
    Abstract: A multifunctional tray for motor vehicles including a main bracket, a hook, a movable anchor bushing, a tray and a supporting member. The supporting member is extendable. The tray may be hung on the steering wheel or the backrest of a front seat and may be adjusted to different height and angle desired through adjusting the anchor bushing and the supporting member. Users may use the tray for meal, writing or doing other work desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Inventor: Ming-Chi Lee
  • Patent number: 6280803
    Abstract: A simulated Christmas tree light display having a circular ring and a plurality of elongated legs attached to the ring. Each of the elongated legs has a first end connected to the ring and a second end positioned opposite the ring. The first end has an aperture for threading the ring through the leg and a flattened end section. The apertures are sized to allow the legs to rotate about the ring to form a variety of angled designs. Lights and other holiday decorations may be wrapped about the legs to further provide the appearance of a lighted Christmas tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Inventor: Mack L. Gordy, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6264160
    Abstract: A copy holder is provided with a document holding stand supported adjustably by a support structure to provide a stable support while allowing operator controlled, incremental adjustment through a working range to vary the angle at which the document holding stand is supported. The adjustable support structure is provided by spring clutches on either end of a shaft which can be releasably held in housings attached to the document holding stand and these points of attachment together with a back leg provide for stable support with the incremental adjustment effected by releasing the spring clutch to adjust the gripping position on the shaft relative to the point of attachment for the back leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Assignee: Formway Furniture Limited
    Inventor: John Stuart Wells
  • Patent number: 6260812
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a stand (1) which can be collapsed for transportation and storage and unfolded when in use, comprising an upper stand head (2) arranged to support sheet-like objects, in particular sheets of music, and a rod-shaped central part (4) and preferably a lower leg arrangement (5), or similar, and with the objective of providing an improved stand both as regards its haandling, use and transportation, it is proposed according to the invention that the upper stand head (2) comprises extendable stays (6, 7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Inventor: Trond Auke
  • Patent number: 6126134
    Abstract: The collapsible sheet support apparatus comprises a horizontal center beam to which a plurality of arms, which are pivotable relative to the center beam, are engaged. At least one pair of bottom arms creates legs for supporting the center beam. At least a further pair of top arms may be engaged to the center beam to allow engagement of a sheet larger than can be accommodated by the center beam to the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Inventor: Edward D. Adkins
  • Patent number: 6079689
    Abstract: A mechanical arm mechanism for moving a user surface such as an electronic monitor for a computer or television and a related keyboard or control board in an arcuate path from a stored position to one or more user positions at various selected elevations and angles of inclination. The mechanism uses at least one set of spaced apart swingable arms each of which has one end pivotally attached to a respective fixed pivot point on a support member and the opposite end pivotally attached to a respective movable pivot point on the bottom or back side of the electronic monitor with the lengths between the fixed pivot points, the moveable pivot points and the arms forming the sides of a quadrilateral which sides change their relative angular orientation as the table or board is moved in its arcuate path of travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Inventor: Karl H Beitzel
  • Patent number: 6000663
    Abstract: A support apparatus for floral designers having a work piece frame support for removably securing a workpiece thereon. The work piece frame support including at least one component for preselectively holding the workpiece in a preselected orientation. A support member, the work piece frame support being pivotally secured to the support member proximate one end thereof. A clamping mechanism operably interposed between work piece frame support and the support member for locking the work piece frame support at a preselected angular relationship with respect to the support member. The work piece frame support and the clamping mechanism being collapsible to a position substantially within the support member in order to provide for a compact arrangement when the support apparatus is not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Inventors: Paul A. Plasse, Merryl D. Plasse
  • Patent number: 5865414
    Abstract: A mechanical arm mechanism for moving a table or similar board type work surface in an arcuate path from a stored position to one or more user positions at various selected elevations and angles of inclination. The mechanism uses at least one set of spaced apart arms each of which has one end pivotally attached to a respective fixed pivot point on a support member and the opposite end pivotally attached to a respective movable pivot point on the bottom or back side of a board member with the lengths between the fixed pivot points, the moveable pivot points and the arms forming the sides of a trapezoid which sides change their relative angular orientation as the table or board is moved in its arcuate path of travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Inventor: Karl H Beitzel
  • Patent number: 5833178
    Abstract: A support apparatus for floral designers having a work piece frame support for removably securing a workpiece thereon. The work piece frame support including at least one component for preselectively holding the workpiece in a preselected orientation. A support member, the work piece frame support being pivotally secured to the support member proximate one end thereof. A clamping mechanism operably interposed between work piece frame support and the support member for locking the work piece frame support at a preselected angular relationship with respect to the support member. The work piece frame support and the clamping mechanism being collapsible to a position substantially within the support member in order to provide for a compact arrangement when the support apparatus is not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Inventors: Paul Arthur Plasse, Merryl Donley Plasse
  • Patent number: 5833201
    Abstract: A portable collapsible easel for use by an artist including a lower base member for storing artist materials and the like and a two-piece cover positionable over the open upper surface of the base member when not in use. Adjustable length support legs are connected to the base member for pivotal movement and downwardly extension from a storage position against the base member to an in-use position supporting the base member generally horizontally above the ground. The cover, having a support panel pivotally connected to a larger easel back panel, is pivotally movable in two stages form the stored or closed position to the open in-use position wherein the support panel laterally extends from, and is supported directly adjacent the lower base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Inventor: David M. Graybill
  • Patent number: 5671900
    Abstract: An adjustable article-holding stand apparatus includes a base assembly and an adjustable vertical riser assembly connected to the base assembly. A vertical-to horizontal swivel assembly has a first portion and a second portion, and the first portion of the vertical-to-horizontal swivel assembly is connected to the adjustable vertical riser assembly. An adjustable horizontal arm assembly is connected to the second portion of the vertical-to-horizontal swivel assembly, and an adjustable-length article-holding assembly is connected to the adjustable horizontal arm assembly. The adjustable-length article-holding assembly can include an auxiliary-device-adaptor assembly connected thereto. A lamp assembly is connected to the adjustable-length article-holding assembly. The base assembly includes primary base portion connected to the adjustable vertical riser assembly. An adjustable base portion is adjustably connected to the primary base portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 30, 1997
    Inventor: Daniel James Cutler
  • Patent number: 5542640
    Abstract: A device for providing support for drawing media is provided. The device has a first support member, a second support member and one panel having a drawing face. The panel is supported by the first support member and the second support member. The panel has a drawing face oriented upwardly at an angle to the horizontal. The device can include a supply tray for storing drawing supplies. The device can also include a second panel having a drawing face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1996
    Assignee: Binney & Smith, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard A. Tarozzi
  • Patent number: 5511758
    Abstract: A folding stand including two parallel supports joined by a folding brace for supporting a notebook computer, wherein the folding brace includes two bracing bars pivotably joined by a link and pivotably connected between the supports; the supports have a respective sloping top wall for supporting the notebook computer in a tilted position for comfortable operation and an elongated bottom opening for receiving one bracing bar when the folding brace is folded up to collapse the stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Inventor: Wan-Sheng Hsu
  • Patent number: 5372348
    Abstract: An inclined book holder comprises a crenelated metal strip having an inclined support bar and a roughly S shaped clamping portion adjoined therewith, a pair of lateral members selectively positionable along the support bar, and a cross member also adjustably positionable therealong. The S shaped clamping portion defines a pair of opposed clamps carrying a pair of thumbscrews engaged through respective upper and lower plates thereof. A plurality of holes are formed along the support member for the positioning of the lateral members and cross member. The pivot ends of each lateral member is releasably securable to a selected hole on the support member using a nut and bolt. The cross member can likewise be positioned on the support member with an adjustable orientation therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1994
    Inventor: Chung-Pu Cheng
  • Patent number: 5016852
    Abstract: A book stand including a spring clip formed at its base, with a spine mounted to the clip. The spine pivotally mounts da plurality of "U" shaped support channels longitudinally aligned and in a contiguous relationship relative to one another in a first position and arranged parallel in an inter-folded second position, with a foldable linkage arrangement mounted overlying the support channels to permit inter-folding of the organization along the spine, with a self-contained illumination member mounted at an upper end of the spine. The organization is inter-folded to be received within a storage and transport pouch during periods of non-use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1991
    Inventor: Bella E. Herendeen
  • Patent number: 4545555
    Abstract: An adjustable arm includes a base member with a base rotatable joint member connected thereto, a lower arm having one end connected to the base rotatable joint member with a central joint member connected to the other end thereof and also to one end of an upper arm while a head joint member is connected to the other end of the upper arm. An elongated means under tension is provided within the arms and about the joint members for maintaining the position of the head end in given angular position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1984
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1985
    Inventor: Mark B. Koch