Adhesive, Magnet Or Suction Cup Patents (Class 248/467)
  • Patent number: 11950715
    Abstract: A decorative object assembly for attachment to a vertical surface includes a substantially planar decorative block defining an upper edge and a lower edge. A flexible planar strip is made of a thermoplastic polymer, and defines an upper edge parallel to the upper edge of the block, a lower edge parallel to the lower edge of the block, and a vertical direction between the upper and lower edges. A first layer of adhesive extends vertically downward from the upper edge of the strip, for releasable attachment to the vertical surface. An attachment mechanism for attachment to the decorative block is configured on a lower vertical section of the planar strip. A gap section of the strip is vertically located between the first layer of adhesive and the lower vertical section, on which no adhesive is adhered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2024
    Assignee: Mixtiles Ltd.
    Inventors: Ziv Botzer, Nir Yaacov Beit-Av
  • Patent number: 11860441
    Abstract: An optical unit that includes a lens and a frame that is configured to support the lens; wherein the lens has a coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of a first value; wherein the frame has a CTE of a second value; wherein the first value differs from the second value; and wherein at least one of the lens and the frame comprises a flexible interface for compensating for differences between thermal expansions of the lens and of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: UNISPECTRAL LTD.
    Inventors: Peleg Levin, Eliahu Chaim Ashkenazi
  • Patent number: 11846829
    Abstract: The invention comprises a hands-free, adjustable telescoping magnifying mirror. The mirror may have a first reflective surface and a second reflective surface and can be secured to a horizontal or vertical surface using a suction cup base or can be hung over a door or ledge using a retractable hanger bracket. A telescoping rod is attached to the suction cup base. The mirror may be extended from the base by extending the telescoping rod and the mirror assembly can stand freely without falling over, whether the suction cup base is engaged or not. Additionally, one or more light sources may be disposed at a periphery of the first reflective surface or second reflective surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2023
    Inventor: Glen Robert Boehm
  • Patent number: 11576507
    Abstract: The invention comprises a hands-free, adjustable telescoping magnifying mirror. The mirror may have a first reflective surface and a second reflective surface and can be secured to a horizontal or vertical surface using a suction cup base or can be hung over a door or ledge using a retractable hanger bracket. A multi-stage telescoping rod is attached to the suction cup base and a swivel joint may be used to connect the telescoping rod to the mirror housing. The mirror may be extended from the base by extending the telescoping rod and the mirror assembly can stand freely without falling over, whether the suction cup base is engaged or not. Additionally, one or more light sources with diffuser screen may be disposed at a periphery of the first reflective surface or second reflective surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2023
    Inventor: Glen Robert Boehm
  • Patent number: 11571092
    Abstract: Disclosed are systems and devices including handholds that can be added to bath enclosures to improve safety of the user. The handhold can be securely attached to a shower surface or a bath surface. A handle is configured to provide the handhold by allowing a user to grasp thereto. A support substrate is coupled to the handle providing a rigid base. A first adhesive layer couples the support substrate to the shower surface or the bath surface and is configured to support the weight of the system upon mounting the system to the shower surface or the bath surface. A second adhesive layer couples the support substrate to the shower surface or the bath surface and is configured to support the weight of the system and a weight applied by the user after curing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2023
    Inventors: Reggie Tomerlin, Justin Leisey
  • Patent number: 11534010
    Abstract: A frame system according to one embodiment includes a mount body having an inner surface and an opposing outer surface. The outer surface has an adhesive body applied thereto. The adhesive body has an adhesive on an outer surface thereof for contacting and bonding with a support surface. The frame system further includes an outer frame element having a first opening through which an image substrate is visible. The outer frame element has a first surface against which the image substrate seats. A back plate is configured for attachment to the outer frame element and the back plate includes a second opening that receives the adhesive body. The back plate further includes a forward protrusion against which the image substrate seat. A mount space is defined between the outer frame element and the back plate in which the mount body is disposed and is configured to move in at least two directions for adjusting a position of the frame system on the support surface. At least one biasing element (e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2022
    Assignee: TRACER IMAGING LLC
    Inventors: James Alexander, Ryan Kelly, Steven M. Spiro
  • Patent number: 11529010
    Abstract: A substrate usable with a double-side adhesive strip to suspend the substrate to a wall surface. The substrate can have one or more access holes located within an outer perimeter of the substrate. Each access hole has an inner perimeter inwardly of the outer perimeter that is sized and shaped to allow a tab of the double-sided adhesive strip to be extracted through the inner perimeter, after the substrate is suspended on the wall surface. Various articles can attach to the suspended substrate, such as through magnetic attachment, a hook, or a shelf.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2022
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2022
    Assignee: AVERTECH, INC.
    Inventor: Neal H. Avery
  • Patent number: 11472343
    Abstract: The rear-view mirror assembly comprises: a housing (110); a mirror plate (120, 220, 320, 420) having a front rear-view mirrored surface (122) and a back surface (124, 224, 324, 424); a support arrangement positioned in a recess (112) of the housing (110) and provided with attachment means having a first part and a complementary second part, the first part of attachment means configured to releasably engage the second part of attachment means provided on the mirror plate rear view surface (122) for attaching the mirror plate to the housing, a release mechanism (140, 240, 340, 440) having a gripping element attached to the mirror plate back surface (124) extending to or beyond one side edge of the mirror plate (120) configured such that, in use, a force applied to the gripping means disengages the first part of attachment means from the second part of attachment means releasing the mirror (120) plate from the support arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2022
    Assignee: Volvo Truck Corporation
    Inventor: Paolo Ballarin
  • Patent number: 11395424
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a rotating mechanism and a foldable terminal. The rotating mechanism includes a guide shaft, at least two rotating parts, and at least two constant-length units. The rotating parts are disposed on two sides of the guide shaft. An arc-shaped slot is disposed on the guide shaft. An arc-shaped part is disposed on the rotating part, and the arc-shaped part is disposed in the arc-shaped slot in a sliding manner. The constant-length unit is a long strip that has a fixed length and can be bent. A positioning end of the constant-length unit is fixedly connected to or rotationally connected to a rotating part on one side of the guide shaft, and a sliding end is connected to a rotating part on the other side of the guide shaft in a sliding manner. The foldable terminal has the foregoing rotating mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2022
    Assignee: Huawei Technologies Co. , Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenji Nagai, Lexiong Peng
  • Patent number: 11304547
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed having a key having a punch pin and a flat magnet keeps the punch pin in place in a metal v-notch hanger on a back side of a picture frame while a user levels a top edge of the picture frame to mark nail locations. A deck, a turret mounted on a top end of the deck, wherein the turret protrudes from the top end of the deck and the turret is gripped by a user as a handle while hanging a picture on a wall using the apparatus; a hook hanger attached to the front side of the deck for hanging a picture frame from a wire on a back of the picture frame; and a hole through the deck for aligning a push pin to pass through the hole and mark a location for an anchor from which the picture frame hangs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2022
    Inventor: Shari Michelle Hammond
  • Patent number: 11285876
    Abstract: An attachment structure includes a support part for an in-vehicle device, a plate spring attached to the support part, and a screw screwed into the support part. The attachment base slides and is received in a space interposed between left and right plate spring pieces. The screw is fastened in this state. A screw distal end presses a front surface of the attachment base to generate an appropriate force of fitting between the attachment base and the left and right plate spring pieces and thereby the attachment base and the plate spring are elastically fitted with each other. The in-vehicle device is attached to the attachment base via the plate spring using the elastic fitting. If an external force that is equal to or exceeds a predetermined value is applied to the in-vehicle device, the elastic fitting is cancelled and the in-vehicle device drops off from the attachment base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2022
    Assignee: MURAKAMI CORPORATION
    Inventor: Naomi Sugimura
  • Patent number: 11203297
    Abstract: A holder device for a rear-view and/or display device of a motor vehicle having at least one holder plate fixed to a panel or plate-like object, and having at least one securing foot, which is or can be detachably arranged on the holder plate wherein by at least one retaining means fixed to the securing foot or at least partially surrounding the securing foot, which is or can be fixed to a vehicle component spaced apart from the holder plate, which limits a movement of the securing foot in a state in which it is at least partially detached from the holder plate in form fitting and/or force-locking manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2021
    Assignee: AUDI AG
    Inventor: Stefan Held
  • Patent number: 11028597
    Abstract: A fastener is provided and is configured for securing magnetized items to a wallboard panel. Included on the fastener is a fastener body having a first side and an opposite second side, and a counter-sunk throughbore extends from the first side to the second side. The body has a tapered peripheral edge. In addition, the first side is covered with wallboard joint tape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2021
    Assignee: UNITED STATES GYPSUM COMPANY
    Inventor: Salvatore C. Immordino, Jr.
  • Patent number: 11019910
    Abstract: A viewing apparatus that is securable (lockable) to surfaces includes a mirror, a base, and an interconnection assembly between the base and the mirror. The base includes a suction device for selectively locking or unlocking the viewing apparatus to/from a mounting surface. The suction device utilizes a lifter and an internal coupler that drives the lifter, responsive to user operation of a lock/unlock selector, to reposition a flexible diaphragm increasing or decreasing the volume of a space between an underside surface of the suction device and the mounting surface depending upon a direction of rotation of the selector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2021
    Assignee: bLkPiNa, LLC
    Inventor: Dorthea Walton
  • Patent number: 10959547
    Abstract: A flexible hook hanger comprises an elongate sheet of pliable backing, an adhesive layer and a hook element. The backing comprises first and second ends, a first zone positioned adjacent the first end, a second zone positioned adjacent the second end and a central zone positioned between the first and second zones. The adhesive layer is disposed on one side of the backing. The hook element is connected to the central zone. In one embodiment, the pliable backing comprises microstructured tape, and the adhesive layer comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive composition comprising one or more hydrocarbon block copolymers, and a polar phenolic tackifier. In another embodiment, at least one of the first and second zones includes a peel arrestor. For example, the first zone and the second zone have a first width and a second width, respectively, and the central zone has a third width that is less than at least one of the first width and the second width.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Assignee: 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY
    Inventors: Joseph A. Hoffman, Angela L. Pan, Craig D. Thompson, Chaodi Li, Michael B. Runge
  • Patent number: 10856674
    Abstract: A multi-position mounting system is provided for securing a wall panel or hanging to a vertical wall, the wall panel or hanging having a front surface facing away from the wall, a back surface opposite the front, and one or more side surfaces connecting the front and back surfaces. In one embodiment, the multi-position mounting system includes a notch disposed in the back surface of the wall panel, the notch having at least three edges, each edge defining a separate sidewall surface. The notch is configured to secure to a bracket affixed to the vertical wall, the bracket configured to separately mate with each sidewall surface of the notch, wherein mating the bracket with an adjacent sidewall surface of the notch slightly rotates the wall panel with respect to the vertical wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2020
    Assignee: Robert Ellis Art & Design
    Inventor: Robert E Wiggins
  • Patent number: 10801718
    Abstract: A lighted inspection tool includes a mirror having a reflective surface and a back surface, a plastic housing attached to the back surface of the mirror, a light mounted in the housing along a side edge of the housing, a power source housed in the housing and operatively connected to the light member, and a substantially rigid axially telescoping handle pivotably mounted relative to the mirror and the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2020
    Assignee: Ullman Devices Corporation
    Inventors: Edward S. Coleman, Qiu Jianping
  • Patent number: 10744944
    Abstract: An interior rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle includes a mirror reflective element, a mirror support element having at least one attachment surface at which the mirror reflective element is adhesively attached, and a mounting assembly having a mirror mount and a mounting arm that is pivotally attached at the mirror support element. The mirror mount includes a plastic structure with a metallic clip attached thereat. The metallic clip is configured to slide onto a mirror mounting button adhesively attached at a vehicle windshield. The metallic clip includes a stop tab at one end to limit sliding movement of the metallic clip onto the mirror mounting button and anti-backout tabs at another end to limit movement of the metallic clip at the mirror mounting button in the opposite direction, so as to retain the metallic clip and the mirror mount at the mirror mounting button without use of a fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2020
    Assignee: MAGNA MIRRORS OF AMERICA, INC.
    Inventor: Matthew V. Steffes
  • Patent number: 10687638
    Abstract: A system for hanging an object (e.g., picture frame) at a desired location on a wall without measurements includes planar marking strips, each with an elongate body attached to a proximal head. The marking strips are removably attached to a mounting surface of the object so that the proximal head protrudes from an edge of the object and the elongate body aligns with a mounting hook, recess or opening on the mounting surface of the object. Once the desired mounting location of the object on the wall surface is determined, the user presses the proximal head of the marking strip against the wall surface and withdraws the object relative to the marking strip, leaving the marking strips attached to the wall surface. The distal end of the elongate body indicates the location for insertion of a fastener to mount the object at the desired mounting location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Inventors: Bijan Ghofranian, Shauna Ghofranian, Nushaw Ghofranian
  • Patent number: 10647259
    Abstract: A rearview mirror structure for vehicle contains: a fixing mount, a rotation unit, a mirror, and a first locking bolt. The fixing mount includes a first connection tab, a second connection tab, and a fixer. The first connection tab has a through orifice, and the second connection tab has a threaded orifice. The rotation unit includes a rotatable seat and at least one abutting element, wherein the rotatable seat has a rotating portion and a connecting portion, and the rotating portion has a first aperture and at least one accommodation groove, wherein the connecting portion has a trough, and the at least one abutting element has a forcing portion with a second aperture. The mirror includes a post having a peripheral trench. The first locking bolt is screwed with the threaded orifice via the through orifice, the first aperture, and the second aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2020
    Inventor: Chiung-Yao Chen
  • Patent number: 10640045
    Abstract: A rearview assembly includes a mount configured to be operably coupled with a vehicle. A first support includes a generally linear body and extends downward from the mount. The first support defines a first axis of rotation. A second support defines a second axis of rotation and extends from a side of the first support in a direction generally orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the first support. A brace is coupled with the second support and extends below the second support. A spring clip extends around and is in abutting contact with the second support. A housing is operably coupled with the second support. The housing is rotatable about both the first axis of rotation and the second axis of rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2020
    Assignee: GENTEX CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kenneth R. Filipiak, Christopher J. Koleszar, Ulrich A. Kuester, Mark R. Roth
  • Patent number: 10624474
    Abstract: An apparatus including a first block; a first strip having a first side with a first attachment device and an opposing second side with an adhesive; and a first pin having a head portion and an elongated portion which is connected at a first end to the head portion, which projects from the head portion of the first pin, and has an opposing second end at which there is a point. The head portion of the first pin is configured to be attached to the first block in a first state, and the first side of the first strip is attached to the first block by the first attachment device and the elongated portion of the first pin projects out through a first opening in the first strip. The pin is inserted into the wall and the first strip is attached to the wall by the attachment device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2020
    Inventor: Leonid Taratuta
  • Patent number: 10470596
    Abstract: A hook assembly includes a base having a chamber, a hook portion provided on a bottom of the base, and a lean indicator mounted in the base via a second pivotal portion. The base includes an opening, a window portion, and an adhesion portion which is adhered to a surface. The adhesion portion and the opening are provided on a back plate. The base includes two first pivotal portions. A center of each first pivotal portion is spaced from the surface at a spacing. The lean indicator includes first and second faces. The first face has a feature different from that of the second face. A central axis of the second pivotal portion does not pass through a center of gravity of the lean indicator. The central axis of the second pivotal portion is spaced from each edge of the lean indicator at a distance slightly larger than the spacing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2019
    Assignee: NATIONAL PINGTUNG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
    Inventor: Chien-Ho Ko
  • Patent number: 10437390
    Abstract: A frame assembly is disclosed, which is mounted on an object surface. The frame assembly includes a frame and at least a frame fastening assembly. The frame fastening assembly includes a first fastening member, a second fastening member and an anti-skid member. The first fastening member has a first magnetic element and an adhered surface, and the adhered surface adheres on the object surface. The second fastening member has a second magnetic element, a supporting portion and a fastening portion, the second magnetic element magnetic attracts the first magnetic element, the supporting portion bears the frame and the fastening portion covers parts lateral surface of the frame. The anti-skid member is disposed on a surface of the second fastening member, wherein the surface is opposite to the fastening portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Assignee: WISTRON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Po-Liang Huang, Shih-Che Chien
  • Patent number: 10390636
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to various improved mounting devices. Some embodiments relate to a mounting device, comprising: a bracket that can be attached to or mounted on a vertical surface with one or more adhesive strips; and one or more mechanical features on the bracket that prevent or minimize an item hung on the bracket from sliding horizontally off the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Craig D. Thompson, David J. Prince, Andrew C. Stansel, Michele A. Eller
  • Patent number: 10304429
    Abstract: A mount device including: (a) a base portion comprised of a first material, the base portion having an exposed portion; (b) a magnetically attractable layer on the exposed portion of the base portion; and (c) a plurality of magnetic structures arranged about the magnetically attractable layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: One Beat Better, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Broadbelt, Kenneth Miller, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10175395
    Abstract: An improved mount for, and method of mounting, an optical structure having a grooved/relieved protruding member is provided. The mount may have the grooved/relieved protruding member extending from a surface of the optical structure, a base element for mounting the mount to another structure and an upper element extending from the base element having a first opening extending therethrough for receipt therein of at least a portion of the grooved/relieved member. The first opening defines first and second arms, each of the arms comprising a head portion and each of the head portions ending at an end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Assignee: PLX, Inc.
    Inventors: Zvi Bleier, Itai Vishnia
  • Patent number: 10173873
    Abstract: Provided is a lift point alignment device (30) including a mirror body (40) detachably attached to a vehicle body holding tool (20), the mirror body (40) including a mirror surface (42) facing upward while the mirror body (40) is attached to the vehicle body holding tool (20), and a light source (50) provided in the mirror body (40) to project light in a vertical direction toward a lower part of a vehicle (1) from the mirror surface (42) of the mirror body (40) attached to the vehicle body holding tool (20), wherein an alignment state of the vehicle body holding tool (20) with respect to lift points (2) of the vehicle (1) is allowed to be recognized based on a match state between an image of the light source (50) and an image of the lift points (2) of the vehicle (1) reflected in the mirror surface (42) of the mirror body (40) observed from a side of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Assignee: YASUI CORPORATION
    Inventor: Toshihide Horimizu
  • Patent number: 9849649
    Abstract: Provided are building panels comprising at least one magnet receptive element, methods for making such panels, and kits and methods for attaching objects to a panel without nails or screws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Assignee: UNITED STATES GYPSUM COMPANY
    Inventors: Salvatore Immordino, Vittorio A. Immordino, David D. Pelot, Kevin W. Moyer, Jr., Terry L. Rosenstiel
  • Patent number: 9801290
    Abstract: A foldable display is disclosed. In one aspect, the foldable display includes a housing comprising first and second supports and a hinge connecting the first and second supports to each other. The foldable display also includes a flexible display module connected to the first and second supports. The hinge includes a first body including a rotation portion and first and second axles engaged with the rotation portion. The hinge further includes a second body including a connection portion. First and second guide lines are defined in the connection portion and are respectively engaged with the first and second axles. The second guide line has a curved shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2017
    Assignee: Samsung Display Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Sungsang Ahn
  • Patent number: 9421911
    Abstract: A vehicle overhead console is provided which includes a conversation mirror assembly having a housing defining a storage space for storing a conversation mirror. The conversation mirror may travel between a stowed and a use position. The conversation mirror is releasably secured to the stored and use positions by way of magnetic, tab, and spring arrangements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2016
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Ricardo Juarez Favila, Bhavani Thota, Anna Hill, Justin Lee Healy, Jane Maria Aselage
  • Patent number: 9408482
    Abstract: A modular picture display system is provided. The picture display system comprises a display frame comprising a back panel, a plurality of spaced apart magnets secured to a front-side of the back panel, a front panel having a central opening and edging surrounding the opening, the front panel configured to fit over the back panel, and a plurality of spaced apart ferrous plates secured to the backside of the front panel, whereby the backside of the front panel is securable to the front-side of the back panel through magnetic cooperation between the ferrous plates and the magnets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2016
    Inventor: Bonnie Northrop Nesbitt
  • Patent number: 9374927
    Abstract: A display device includes a display panel, a frame positioned in the rear of the display panel, a back cover positioned in the rear of the frame, and a fastening part which is positioned between the back cover and the frame and connects the back cover to the frame. The fastening part includes a base part, a moving part which is movably connected to the base part and includes a first hook, a spring part having one end connected to the base part and the other end connected to the moving part, a handle part which is movably connected to the base part and changes a length of the spring part by a rotation of the handle part, and a connection part including a second hook corresponding to the first hook of the moving part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2016
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Jonghyun Byeon, Byungkil Lim
  • Patent number: 9352205
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for swim training utilizing mirrors. Waterproof, shatterproof mirrors are used to assist in getting children acclimated to a swimming pool, and to provide an instructional amusement for beginning swimmers learning to go underwater. A mirror with a handle is provided allowing an instructor to hold the mirror with one hand while holding an infant with the other to allow the infant to see itself while in the water. The handle also attaches to the side or bottom of a swimming pool, allowing the mirror to be mounted underwater to amuse swimmers to see themselves when they go underwater. A method utilizes the hand held mirror to alternatively let an infant see himself while in the water, or be used as a motivational amusement device for novice swimmers, by mounting it underwater, allowing the swimmers to see themselves when they go underwater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Inventor: Charles Edward Pemberton
  • Patent number: 9288381
    Abstract: An in-vehicle image recognizer effectively detects a moving object from an image even when a lens has grime. In a detection sensitivity adjustor (50) which adjusts detection sensitivity to be increased according to a white turbidity level (U), the detection sensitivity of a vehicle detector (70) (image recognition application execution unit), which detects the other vehicle (6) (moving object) existing in the surrounding area of a vehicle (5) with a predetermined detection sensitivity from the image obtained by an imaging unit (10) disposed in the vehicle (5) to observe the surrounding area of the vehicle (5) through a lens (12) and convert the light signal of the observed surrounding area of the vehicle (5) into an image signal, is corrected based on the attachment level M of the attached matter such as dirt or water drops to the lens (12), which is calculated by an attachment level calculator (26).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2016
    Assignees: CLARION CO., LTD., NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kota Irie, Masayuki Takemura, Shoji Muramatsu, Yasuhisa Hayakawa, Osamu Fukata, Masahiro Kiyohara, Akira Utagawa
  • Patent number: 9206827
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to workspace organization systems, and more particularly to wall-mounted systems for use in workspace organization. In one embodiment, a system configured to couple to a wall includes a mount configured to be detachably couple to the wall, the mount including a frame having opposing front and rear surfaces, and a panel detachably coupled to the mount, the panel configured to detachably support at least one accessory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2015
    Assignee: Avery Dennison Corporation
    Inventors: Dale Loree, Benjamin D. Rose, Stephen Sams, Arti Krishna, Arielle S. Boguslav
  • Patent number: 8905560
    Abstract: A magnifying spot mirror releasably attachable to a flat surface includes a circular concave mirror plate mounted on the front surface of a lenticular-shaped support body which has a convex, arcuately curved rear surface from which protrude satellite suction cups that have circular bases which lie in a convex plane and are radially spaced equidistant from the center of the support body and an optional center suction cup. Applying finger pressure to the center of the mirror causes a pair of centrally located suction cups and/or the optional center cup to hermetically grip a flat surface with the mirror parallel to the surface. Pressing on the mirror at a location offset from the center exerts a tensional unsealing force on radially inwardly located suction cups, and compressional sealing forces on outer satellite suction cups, thus re-positioning the mirror at a different orientation angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: Zlatko Zadro
  • Publication number: 20140353455
    Abstract: Systems and kits for decorating walls include a plurality of décor assemblies and a plurality of complementary fastening structures. The décor assemblies include a décor element and a releasable fastening structure providing first fastening elements. The complementary fastening structure includes a base, a pressure sensitive adhesive disposed on the base, and second fastening elements. The first fastening elements are releasably mateable with the second fastening elements to define a releasable fastening system. During use, a complementary fastening structure is releasably applied to a wall, and is connected to and supports one of the décor assemblies via the releasable fastening system. The releasable fastening system can comprise low profile hooks and loops, exhibiting relatively low holding power.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2014
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Applicant: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Thomas W. Floyd, Jacob P. Vanderheyden, Nicolas A. Echeverri, Craig D. Thompson, Sean C. McGreevy, Judd D. Olson, Joseph A. Hoffman, Nathan E. Marks, Stephan A. Hawthorne
  • Patent number: 8824166
    Abstract: A magnetic stand for a tablet device is disclosed. The magnetic stand is configured to rigidly hold a portion of the tablet device in place and to shield the magnetic field from adversely affecting nearby devices susceptible to strong magnetic fields. The shielding portion of the magnetic stand allows for significant increases in magnetic field strength when compared to similarly configured, unshielded products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew D. Rohrbach
  • Patent number: 8807509
    Abstract: The invention provides a securing device for use in securing an object to a supporting surface, and/or for restraining an object relative to a supporting surface. The securing device includes a base (20) having a loading region (28) to which a force is applied by the object. The securing device also includes a first securing member (30) and a second securing member (50) for securing the base to the supporting surface, the base (20) pivotably engaging the first securing member (30) in order for the base to be able to transmit a force to the first securing member substantially without inducing a moment about the first securing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Inventeq Technologies
    Inventor: Adriaan Retief Swanepoel
  • Patent number: 8783642
    Abstract: A method for fastening items (2) such as posters, photos or banners, which in the edge for hanging have a poster hanging bar or rail (3) manufactured from a magnetic material, to an object such as a poster roll up unit (15), which is provided with one or more magnets (5) to which the rail (3) can be connected, the magnets (5) being placed in a recess in relation to the object's surface. Poster roll up units (15) are provided with built in magnets (5) for fastening and fixing items (2) by magnetic connection between the magnets (5) and the rail (3), mounted in the item's (2) edge for hanging. Items such as posters are simply, inexpensively and efficiently mounted and fastened to objects such as poster roll up units (15), without safety risks and requirements for space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Magsee GmbH
    Inventor: Tomas Pedersen
  • Publication number: 20140151525
    Abstract: A portable holding device for mounting an item comprises a bottom component, a top component, an adhesive pad, and a mounting component. When the portable holding device is not used to mount an item, the adhesive pad may be covered by the top component. When the portable holding device is used to mount an item, the top component is unfolded to expose the adhesive pad, the adhesive pad is then attached to a desired location, and the mounting component is used to mount the item, which may be personal apparel, umbrellas, handbags, glasses, pens, and small tools.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: Acro Work International Corp.
    Inventor: Tong Hsin Cheng
  • Publication number: 20140054434
    Abstract: A frame structure may include a frame layer, having a hollow portion in a central portion of the frame layer; a transparent layer, attaching and covering the hollow portion; and a sticking layer, sticking to the transparent layer, wherein a SEBS glue (namely a styrenic elastomeric glue) is coated on the sticking layer to enable the frame layer, transparent layer and a framed object to repeatedly and seamlessly attach to any flat surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2012
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: ESHINETEK TECHNOLOGY CO.,LTD.
    Inventor: Wen-Chin Chen
  • Patent number: 8632044
    Abstract: A picture anchor may include a fastener such as a pin, nail or tack and a non-metallic bumper pad connected to the non-sharp end of the fastener. The anchor is adapted so a back surface of the bumper pad may be attached to a back surface of an object for hanging. A user may then press the object for hanging against the mounting surface, such as a drywall surface, to force the sharp end of the fastener to penetrate the surface thereby anchoring the object to the wall. The bumper pad(s) will provide a uniform space between the hanging object and the mounting surface and serve as a shock absorber to prevent the hanging object from vibrating or rattling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Inventor: Jerry Lynn Cave
  • Patent number: 8480045
    Abstract: A suction cup has a generally cylindrical neck integral with and extending outwardly from the cup portion outer surface. The neck is formed of a pair of legs separated by a slot opening to an exposed end of the neck. The neck also has a transverse bore passing through the legs along an axis that intersects the slot. Preferably the axis is normal to the slot. The suction cup may have a support or hook having a curved portion. The hook or support has a straight portion and a cross member attached to the straight portion. At least part of the straight portion is within the slot of the suction cup and at least part of the cross member is within the bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Adams Mfg. Corp.
    Inventor: William E. Adams, IV
  • Publication number: 20130161473
    Abstract: A maneuverable, attachable picture frame with detachable base. This device is in the form of individual parts which, upon assembly, provide for the support and display of pictures at any angle and in a plurality of orientations. The all direction maneuverable picture frame device may be affixed via an attachable base onto computer monitor sides, furniture, walls, or other surface, and in any position: horizontally, vertically, obliquely or upside-down. The picture frame device includes a top part, with a picture holder connected to a ball-joint connecter, and a detachable base with a first end configured to receive, support and secure the top part and a second end with an adhesive surface securing the picture frame in place. The picture frame device has a fully moveable joint connector offering greater number of maneuvering positions: horizontally, vertically or circular.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Inventor: Wahiba Gandiboyina
  • Publication number: 20130146738
    Abstract: A magnetic cone is provided for releasably affixing objects to a wall, or other such surface. The cone is dimensioned to fit in the recess remaining in formed concrete walls once the snap tie is broken and removed. The magnetic cone is preferably a snap tie cone, and therefore fits relatively snugly in the recess. It is provided with a magnet that extends the length of the longitudinal axis, and is housed within the bore of the cone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2011
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Inventor: Christopher J. Jaeger
  • Patent number: 8459606
    Abstract: A display magnetic hanger system provides a hanger support that may be repeatedly attached and removed at desired locations on a structure using a remote installation tool to install the hanger support and to install items for display on the hanger support. The installation of the hanger support is to a pre-installed magnet location marker at the desired location(s) on a structure. The desired location may be out of reach of the user desiring to display an item but the system and display item is easily installed using the long-handled remote installation tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Inventors: Tony Gaspar, Todd Evenson, Gregory Powell
  • Patent number: 8434730
    Abstract: Devices and systems for leveling wall hangings and for maintaining the wall hangings level can include magnets and magnetic targets. As an example, a magnet can be secured to one of a wall hanging and a wall, and the magnetic target can be secured to the other of a wall hanging and a wall. Interaction between the magnet and the magnetic target can aid in positioning the wall hanging. The magnetic target can include another magnet or a magnetic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Inventor: Tonya Ahlstrom
  • Patent number: 8430371
    Abstract: A quick release hook and loop device is used to attach an object to a base surface, such as a wall. It is comprised of first and second quick release sections and a strap. The quick release sections each have a nonstick side. The quick release sections are attached to each other at their nonstick sides by threading a strap through openings within the quick release sections. The other sides of the quick release sections are provided with hook or loop fastener surfaces. The device may be used to attach an object to a surface by way of hook and loop fastener bonds. The hook and loop fastener bonds may be effectively broken by removing the strap from the quick release sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Inventor: Steven G. Boelstler