Mirror Or Picture Pivots Patents (Class 248/474)
  • Patent number: 11457721
    Abstract: A mirror assembly can include a housing, a mirror, and a light source. In certain embodiments, the mirror is rotatable within a support portion of the mirror assembly. In some embodiments, the mirror assembly includes a light pipe configured to emit a substantially constant amount of light along a periphery of the mirror. In some embodiments, the mirror assembly includes a sensor assembly. The sensor assembly can be configured to adjust the amount of emitted light based on the position of a user in relation to the mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2022
    Assignee: simplehuman, LLC
    Inventors: Frank Yang, Zachary Rapoport, Eric Beaupre, Sachin Kumar, Chetan Machakanoor, Varun Sundar
  • Patent number: 10799073
    Abstract: A faucet mountable toiletry holding assembly includes a mount that has an opening extending therethrough for receiving a faucet. A securing member is engaged with the mount and is configured to tighten the mount on the faucet. A first arm is attached to and extends laterally outwardly from the mount. The first arm has an outer end. A plurality of containers is attached to the outer end of the first arm. Each of the containers has an open top end. A second arm is attached to and extends laterally away from the mount in an opposite direction relative to the first arm. The second arm has a distal end relative to the mount. A vessel is attached to the distal end of the arm and has an open upper end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2020
    Inventor: Jonathan Ryan
  • Patent number: 10631671
    Abstract: A mirror system including a flat non-magnifying mirror and an inset magnifying mirror provides an installation that is aesthetically pleasing and has reduced susceptibility to damage, for installation in locations such as hotel rooms and hotel bathrooms. The magnifying mirror is inset in an aperture defined by the larger non-magnifying mirror and is either fixed in place by bonding to the edges of the aperture or using a backer, or is extendable from an extension arm that is recessed in a box that extends into a wall behind the mirror system when installed. The extension arm may be a swing arm, a telescoping arm or a scissor arm that is fastened to the back or a side of the box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2020
    Inventor: William Douglass Mohr
  • Patent number: 10401126
    Abstract: A ballistic presentation board includes a presentation board and a ballistic layer, the ballistic layer being attached to the back of the presentation board. The ballistic presentation board provides at least National Institute of Justice Level IIA ballistic protection. The ballistic presentation board can be attached to a wheeled stand to provide a ballistic presentation board assembly which can be pushed against a doorway during an attack to protect from gunfire, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2019
    Assignee: SAFE SPACE SOLUTION, LLC
    Inventors: David J. Kolomijez, Michael S. Georgiadis, James E. Somogyi, Joseph M. Shoemaker, Herbert C. Neides
  • Patent number: 10107484
    Abstract: A lawn mower light for providing illumination while mowing a lawn in low visibility conditions. The lawn mower light is configured to be removably mounted to a lawn mower deck and includes a base having a fastener, such as a magnet on an underside thereof configured to removably affix the lawn mower light to a lawn mower deck. The base also includes a centrally located shaft having a head portion pivotally affixed thereon. The head portion includes a lighting assembly configured to provide illumination. The lighting assembly includes a power source, an activation switch, and a plurality of light sources. One of the plurality of light sources is disposed on a center point on the head portion, wherein the remaining plurality of light sources are disposed radially therearound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2018
    Inventor: Jennifer Moyers
  • Patent number: 10016045
    Abstract: A foldaway mirror assembly has a support; an arm pivotally connected to the support, a mirror member pivotally connected to the arm, the arm having two portions that are rotatably connected so that the mirror member can be rotated and pivoted, first and second pivot connections connecting the respective support and mirror members to the arm and each comprising a click-stop mechanism for establishing a plurality of firm but movable pivot positions for the arm on the support and for the mirror member on the arm, a non-magnifying mirror on one side of the mirror member, a magnifying mirror on an opposite side of the mirror member, at least one light source mounted to the mirror member for illuminating the mirrors and a power supply in the support and electrically connected to the light source for powering the light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2018
    Assignee: E. Mishan & Sons, Inc.
    Inventor: Fred Hollinger
  • Patent number: 9783115
    Abstract: An interior rearview mirror assembly includes a mirror reflective element having a glass substrate with planar front and rear surfaces. A plastic molding is circumferentially disposed about a circumferential edge of the glass substrate without overlapping onto the front surface of the glass substrate. The plane of the front surface of the glass substrate is generally flush with an outermost part of the plastic molding, which provides a curved rounded transition from the front surface of the mirror reflective element to a side surface of the plastic molding. The plastic molding includes at least a portion of a mirror housing of the interior rearview mirror assembly. The plastic molding includes structure for attaching a rear mirror casing cap portion thereat. With the rear mirror casing cap portion attached at the structure, the rear mirror casing cap portion at least partially encases a rear portion of the plastic molding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2017
    Assignee: DONNELLY CORPORATION
    Inventors: John T. Uken, Lee Karner, Richard R. Hook, Niall R. Lynam
  • Patent number: 9717346
    Abstract: An automated reflective device for monitoring a baby in a bassinet enables viewing the interior of a bassinet, such as a baby, from an outside vantage point. A clamp detachably attaches the device to a mounting surface on the bassinet. The device includes a reflector that is oriented in a horizontal, vertical, swiveling, and telescoping direction to provide an optimal line of site into the bassinet. The reflector has a housing and a reflective panel made of a non-glass substrate overlaid with a reflective coating. The reflective panel is oriented in relation to the bassinet, so as to reflect the interior contents of the bassinet from an external vantage point. A motor powers an actuator in the housing. The actuator adjustably moves the reflector. An LED illuminates a cool-white light inside the bassinet and on the reflective surface for enhanced viewing. A remote control operates the actuator and LED.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Inventor: Sarah H Amritt
  • Patent number: 9691922
    Abstract: An adjusting device for adjusting orientation of an energy conversion board comprises a first frame member, a second frame member, a third frame member and a base. The first frame member contains the energy conversion board. The second frame member holds the first frame member. The third frame member holds the second frame member. The base supports the third frame including the other frames and the energy conversion board. The first frame member is rotatable relative to the second frame member, the second frame member is rotatable relative to the third frame, and the third frame member is rotatable relative to the base. The first rotating axis is perpendicular to the second rotating axis, and the third rotating axis is coaxial with the first rotating axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignees: Fu Tai Hua Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Ching-Feng Chen, Long-Fong Chen, Lin Chen, Li-Yun Kuang
  • Patent number: 9678300
    Abstract: An optical mount system that may be adjusted by a variety of devices and methods. In some cases, a post collar assembly may be configured to engage a collar coupling surface of a post holder body such that the post collar engages the collar coupling surface in indexed and predetermined angular positions. In some cases, a base of a post holder body may be configured to accept a secondary base element in the form of a mounting adapter which may be releasably secured the base to provide additional stiffness for the mounting of the base to a reference surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2017
    Assignee: NEWPORT CORPORATION
    Inventors: Ken Nguyen, James Fisher, Rick Sebastian
  • Patent number: 9304285
    Abstract: A self-catheterization aid for a woman that comprises a tripod. Mounted to the tripod is a mirror that can be moved and adjusted in various planes. Mounted to the mirror is a battery-powered light. The device enables a woman to appropriately position the self-catheterization device such that the mirror and light is aimed at the urethra area. This enables the woman to clearly see the inlet to the urethra which in turn facilitates self-catheterization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Inventors: Edward Glenn Barbour, Michael Eugene King
  • Patent number: 8770530
    Abstract: The present general inventive concept provides an adjustable accessory bracket assembly having an adjustment mechanism to adjust one or more axes of rotation of a bracket assembly in order to adjustably position accessory devices, such as a bracket for a mirror or other accessory device. The adjustable accessory bracket assembly can include a handle member, a push rod assembly, and a mounting member such that the handle member pivots with respect to the mounting member. In some embodiments, adjustment of a single rotation axis is provided; other embodiments may be configured to simultaneously adjust multiple axes of freedom for multi-position bracket assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Protomet Corporation
    Inventors: Jeff Bohanan, Charles Reeves
  • Publication number: 20140117195
    Abstract: A lift device includes a main body unit including a first board and two racks and a lifting unit. The two racks are separately and parallely configured on the first board in a first direction. The lifting unit includes a lifting board disposed on and parallel to the first board, and being slidable with respect to the first board in the first direction; and two abutting members disposed on the lifting board between the two blocks and each having an abutting block and a first elastic member, wherein the abutting block is slidable with respect to the lifting board in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and the first elastic member is disposed on the lifting board to abut against one end of the abutting block for enabling the other end of the abutting block to abut against the protruding portions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: SYNCMOLD ENTERPRISE CORP.
    Inventors: Hung-Yu LIN, Wei-Yi HUANG
  • Patent number: 8506099
    Abstract: A freestanding portable holding apparatus for a handheld mirror comprises a base which ensures stability and a center-mounted pole extending upward from the base having a height adjustment mechanism that allows the pole to be extended upwards or downwards as desired by the user. An upper end of the apparatus is provided with an adjustable clip to hold a variety of handheld mirrors in an inverted fashion. It is adjustable in height so that a user can see the rear of their head while looking in another stationary mirror. This feature affords the user the use of both hands while styling hair without having to constantly switch and move the handheld mirror in one hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventors: Jacklyn Abdool, Denise Abdool
  • Patent number: 8439457
    Abstract: An adjustable dressing mirror assembly includes a support, a mirror-mounting unit, and a positioning device. The positioning device includes a guiding seat connected pivotally to the support, a driving plate connected pivotally to the mirror-mounting unit, a sliding block, a movable member, a positioning rod, and a resilient member. The guiding seat includes an accommodating chamber and a plurality of positioning grooves. The driving plate and the sliding block are movable in the accommodating chamber. The positioning rod is disposed fixedly on the movable member. Engagement between the positioning rod and the positioning grooves is allowed with assistance of the resilient member during movement of the driving plate within the accommodating chamber from a rear limit position to a front limit position, and is prevented during movement of the driving plate within the accommodating chamber from the front limit position to the rear limit position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventor: Chen-Chieh Lin
  • Publication number: 20130082016
    Abstract: One embodiment is directed to a system for improving triathlon transition area efficiency, comprising a main stand member comprising a base portion and a top portion, the base portion being configured to be supported by a ground surface; and a first shoe coupler fixedly coupled to the top portion of the main stand member and configured to removably couple a first shoe to the main stand member in a manner wherein a pose is established for the first shoe such that a foot of a standing athlete may be urged into the first shoe without the use of one or more hands of the athlete to stabilize the shoe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Applicant: Triathalon Scientific, Inc.
    Inventor: Alexander Arrow
  • Patent number: 8393749
    Abstract: A free-standing and adjustable tri-fold mirror preferably includes a tri-fold mirror having first, second and third reflective surfaces, a mounting bracket statically attached to a rear side of the tri-fold mirror, a swivel device pivotally mated to the mounting bracket, a stand attached to the swivel device and extending away from the tri-fold mirror, and a base member attached to a bottom end of the stand. Advantageously, the tri-fold mirror is freely pivotal along an x-axis and a y-axis while the stand remains stationary and further while the tri-fold mirror is freely adjusted between folded and unfolded positions respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Inventor: Andrea Daicos
  • Publication number: 20120228460
    Abstract: A driving apparatus (100) is provided with: a base part (110); a driven part (130) capable of rotating; an elastic part (120); and an applying part (140) for applying to the base part microvibration for rotating the driven part around an axis along one direction (Y-axis) such that the driven part rotates while resonating at a resonance frequency determined by the elastic part and the driven part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Applicant: PIONEER CORPORATION
    Inventor: Jun Suzuki
  • Patent number: 8220880
    Abstract: An adjustable dressing mirror assembly includes a support, a rear link connected pivotally to the support, a mirror-mounting unit having an upper end pivotable forwardly and rearwardly relative to the support, a front link connected pivotally to the mirror-mounting unit and the rear link, and a positioning device. The positioning device includes: a plurality of positioning groove units formed in one of the front and rear links; a swing arm having a pivot end connected pivotally to the other one of the front and rear links, and an engaging end opposite to the pivot end; an engaging member disposed on the engaging end of the swing arm such that, by rotating the mirror-mounting unit, the engaging member is movable to engage within a selected one of the positioning groove units; and a resilient member for biasing the engaging member into the selected one of the positioning groove units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Inventor: Chen-Chieh Lin
  • Patent number: 8152124
    Abstract: An adjustable support arm for a vehicle exterior rearview mirror assembly comprising a holder base adapted for mounting to the vehicle; a holder pivotally carried on the holder base; a pivot control unit included in the holder for engaging the holder base to resist rotation of the holder on the holder base; the pivot control unit including: a compression spring disposed within a retainer opening of the holder; a bushing carried on the compression spring for engaging a bearing surface in the retainer opening; and, a retainer carried in the retainer opening and coupled to the holder base to retain the compression spring and the bushing in the retainer opening, wherein the retainer is constructed and arranged to direct the bushing laterally against the bearing surface and the compression spring biases the bushing against the retainer in sliding engagement to resist rotation of the holder on the holder base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Lang-Mekra North America, LLC
    Inventor: Michael Dean Branham
  • Patent number: 8029076
    Abstract: A jewelry storage system for storing and allowing access to and removal of jewelry pieces includes a jewelry cabinet and a stand. The jewelry cabinet defines an interior space for holding jewelry items. The jewelry cabinet includes a box frame and a door connected to the box frame wherein the door extends substantially from the top wall to the bottom wall. A plurality of jewelry storage elements are attached within the interior space. In one embodiment, a stand is configured to receive the jewelry cabinet to hold the jewelry cabinet in an upright position so that the back wall of the jewelry cabinet forms an angle from the horizontal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: For Your Ease Only, Inc.
    Inventor: Lori Greiner
  • Patent number: 7992835
    Abstract: A kinematic optical mount comprising a frame supporting an optical element; a base member having first and second surfaces and providing magnetic attraction to seat the frame against first, second, and third point contacts. The kinematic optical mount further includes threaded yaw and pitch adjustment cavities extending through the base member from the first surface to the second surface, together with threaded yaw and pitch adjustment inserts that can be inserted into the yaw and pitch adjustment cavities from either the first or second surfaces of the base member enabling adjustment of two of the point contacts from the direction of the either the first or second surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Mark A. Harland, Mark E. Bridges
  • Publication number: 20110139955
    Abstract: An aesthetically pleasing vanity display is provided. The vanity display includes a back and a bottom. First and second sides are connected to the back and to the bottom. An arm, connected to the back, is provided for selectively angling the vanity display. At least one adjustable support bar is connected to a cover bar having overhangs, and the overhangs of the cover bar are connected to the first and second sides of the vanity display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2011
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventor: Ciro Lombardo
  • Publication number: 20100213344
    Abstract: An aesthetically pleasing vanity display is provided. The vanity display includes a back and a bottom. First and second sides are connected to the back and to the bottom. An arm, connected to the back, is provided for selectively angling the vanity display. At least one adjustable support bar is connected to a cover bar having overhangs, and the overhangs of the cover bar are connected to the first and second sides of the vanity display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2009
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventor: Ciro Lombardo
  • Patent number: 7753336
    Abstract: An adjustable extending stand for panel displays has a body, a sliding panel and multiple positioning devices. The body has a proximal end pivotally mounted to a panel display, a distal end and two mounting slots formed oppositely in the body. The sliding panel is slidably mounted between the mounting slots of the body and has a distal end selective protruding telescopically from the distal end of the body to abut a plane. The positioning devices are mounted securely in corresponding mounting slots and controllably engage the sliding panel to hold the sliding panel in a determined position relative to the body. Accordingly, a length of the adjustable extending stand may be adjusted by changing a position of the sliding panel relative to the body thereby conveniently adjusting an angle of the panel display or allowing different sized panels to be displayed conveniently.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Shin Zu Shing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chi-Lung Hu
  • Patent number: 7669341
    Abstract: In one embodiment is provided an adjustment mechanism wherein the surveying pole moves about a point which is located next to or adjacent the ground surface point at which the pole is being place. In one embodiment the surveying pole moves about a point which located at the ground surface. In one embodiment the surveying pole moves about a point which is located next to the ground surface, but above the ground surface. In one embodiment the surveying pole moves about a point which is located next to the ground surface, but below the ground surface. In one embodiment a tightening means is provided which is concentrically mounted around an axial line passing through the pole. In one embodiment a biasing means is operatively connected to the tightening means. In one embodiment the biasing means is a spring. In one embodiment the biasing means is a conical spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Inventor: Kenneth Carazo
  • Patent number: 7651178
    Abstract: A jewelry storage system for storing and allowing access to and removal of jewelry pieces includes a jewelry cabinet and a stand. The jewelry cabinet defines an interior space for holding jewelry items. The jewelry cabinet includes a box frame and a door connected to the box frame wherein the door extends substantially from the top wall to the bottom wall. A plurality of jewelry storage elements are attached within the interior space. In one embodiment, a stand is configured to receive the jewelry cabinet to hold the jewelry cabinet in an upright position so that the back wall of the jewelry cabinet forms an angle from the horizontal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: For Your Ease Only, Inc.
    Inventor: Lori Greiner
  • Patent number: 7513476
    Abstract: A cosmetic pedestal mirror has a base composed of a glass disk hood with a thickness combined with a bottom board. The bottom board has an outer surface pasted with a slip-proof pad. The glass disk hood has an outer surface embedded with decorative pieces and an interior surface coated with a decorative coating layer. The glass disk hood has a through hole defined at its center to allow a bolt with a smaller diameter on a connecting rod to penetrate and cooperate with a securing element for fixing. Thereby, the cosmetic pedestal mirror has reduced manufacturing cost and improved utility and appearance and does not need electroplating treatment to eliminate environmental issues.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: Mirror King Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chih-Hung Huang
  • Patent number: 7467773
    Abstract: A support structure for a display device includes a base member fixed to a rear surface of the display device, a support member which is fixed pivotably to the base member and supports the display device in a supporting position in an opened state where the display device is inclined at a predetermined angle and capable of being stored in a closed state, a holding member fixed to the base member including a regulation portion that regulates rotation of the support member beyond the supporting position, a pressure member that presses an end portion of the support member, and a compression coiled spring that urges the pressure member toward the support member. The pressure member includes a protruded portion having a triangular cross section, and inclined surfaces contacting with the support member while pressing the end portion when the support member rotates from the closed state to the opened state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: Funai Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masuo Ogawa, Katsuhiko Makino
  • Patent number: 7421812
    Abstract: A simple structure of display device having the function of self-balance and prevent falling caused by an external force is disclosed to include a display, a base, which has a convex bottom surface and is fixedly connected to the bottom side of the display, and an adjustable counterweight structure, which has a weight that can be moved with one hand to change the center of gravity of the display device and to further adjust the viewing angle of the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: Hannspree, Inc.
    Inventors: Guan-De Liou, Chia-Pine Huang, Li-Li Lai, Stephen Tsai
  • Patent number: 7421813
    Abstract: A simple structure of display device having the function of self-balance and prevent falling caused by an external force is disclosed to include a display, a base, which has a convex bottom surface and is fixedly connected to the bottom side of the display, and an adjustable counterweight structure, which has a weight that can be moved with one hand to change the center of gravity of the display device and to further adjust the viewing angle of the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: Hannspree, Inc.
    Inventors: Guan-De Liou, Chia-Pine Huang, Li-Li Lai, Stephen Tsai
  • Patent number: 7398613
    Abstract: A simple structure of display device having the function of self-balance and prevent falling caused by an external force is disclosed to include a display, a base, which has a convex bottom surface and is fixedly connected to the bottom side of the display, and an adjustable counterweight structure, which has a weight that can be moved with one hand to change the center of gravity of the display device and to further adjust the viewing angle of the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: Hannspree, Inc.
    Inventors: Guan-De Liou, Chia-Pine Huang, Li-Li Lai, Stephen Tsai
  • Patent number: 7341356
    Abstract: A dual magnification vanity mirror adjustable in height and orientation includes an elongated stanchion curved into the shape of a C having a downwardly depending threaded support leg insertably receivable through a central hole in a base plate and removably fastenable thereto by a nut threaded onto the leg. The mirror includes a mirror frame which holds therein a pair of back-to-back mirror plates of different relative magnifications, the frame being joined by a ball-and-socket joint to a bushing rotatably mounted on a horizontal end arm of the stanchion, whereby the frame is swivelable and/or rotatable about an axis of the ball-and-socket joint to adjustable azimuth and inclination angles, orbital about a longitudinal axis of the coupler bushing to an adjustable height, and secured thereat by a screw tightened into radial bore through the bushing onto the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Inventor: Zlatko Zadro
  • Patent number: 7329016
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a foot inspection mirror and, more particularly, to a foot inspection device comprised of an assembly of mirrors positioned in such an array so as to assist diabetics and other users in visually self-inspecting all sides of an illuminated foot without unnecessary standing or maneuvering. The instant abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Inventor: Helen Shonk
  • Patent number: 7284869
    Abstract: A rear light viewing assembly and method includes a panel that has a top side and a bottom side. A magnet is attached to the bottom side of the panel. An arm is removably attached to and extends upwardly from the top side. The arm has an upper end and a lower end. A mirror is attached to the upper end of the arm so that a mirrored surface of the mirror faces away from the upper end. The panel is attached to a trunk of the vehicle. The mirror is orientated so that an image of the rear lights is reflected from the mirror to a rear view mirror of the vehicle. The rear lights are actuated and viewed by the rear view mirror to determine if they are illuminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Inventor: Michael C. Weaver
  • Patent number: 6955437
    Abstract: A mirror assembly is provided for use in “hitching” trailers to towing vehicles. The mirror assembly can be used for conventional ball and socket couplings, fifth wheel couplings and variations thereof. The mirror assembly is magnetically attached to the trailer tongue so it can be easily removed after coupling. The mirror assembly includes a telescoping stanchion mirror post and a swivel joint which can be vertically rotated. A ball joint connected to the back of the mirror allows the mirror to be turned in any of a variety of positions for precise alignment during the hitching process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Inventor: Fred H. Roberts
  • Patent number: 6834972
    Abstract: An articulated arm of the rear mirror for cars, bicycles and/or to that of an additional internal car rear mirror, suitable for efficient mounting either on the handlebar or inside the car and allowing for simple adjustment of the viewing position. The articulated rear mirror arm referred to in this invention allows for simple adjustment and arresting of the selected position by means of the articulated parts including the rod shaped structure of the carrier element, the intermediate connection element and the fixing element. The mirror is with its frame fixed to one end of the intermediate connection element, thereby forming an articulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: Phophetes, D.D.
    Inventor: Slavko Medimurec
  • Patent number: 6676100
    Abstract: A note holder for holding a notepaper, card, etc. The note holder has a foldable capability and includes a body pivotally mounted in a base. The base has an inner space for receiving the body when the note holder is folded. A slot adapted to hold a piece of paper is defined in the body and several fins are formed in the slot on the body. The fins hold the paper that is inserted in the slot in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: Synchro Ent., Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Nick Hsu
  • Patent number: 6651943
    Abstract: A stand fixing structure of a LCD monitor is disclosed. The stand structure of the LCD monitor according to the present invention includes a rear cover, a VESA cover engaged to a back surface of the rear cover, a rotation plate rotatably engaged at a bottom of a circular groove grooved on a back surface of the VESA cover and having a certain diameter, a rotatable stand having both ends hinged to the rotation plate, and a pair of opposite hooks protruded from both corner portions of a back surface of the VESA cover, whereby the stand is rotated and fixed at the hooks, and when the LCD monitor is hanged on a wall, the stand is supported by the hooks for thereby preventing the LCD monitor from being inclined in a certain direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chang-Ho Cho, Dae-Jin Kim
  • Patent number: 6412965
    Abstract: A device which enables a driver of a vehicle to monitor an infant in a rear seat by the rear view mirror of the vehicle, where the device is portable, universally applicable to passenger vehicles and non-destructive of the vehicle interior yet secure against vehicular vibration. The device consists of a non-threaded telescoping mast that is held into a selected position by a clip, and a mirror for viewing the infant which mast is positioned between the top of the backseat and the headliner secured by outward pressures from a backseat pad and an upper pivotal pad. The pivotal pad can be attached to the mast by a ball and socket for allowing 360 degrees of pivot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Assignee: Parent PRoducts Corporation
    Inventor: Dennis H. Menefee
  • Patent number: 6382802
    Abstract: A portable floor mirror system for allowing an individual to set up a mirror at a desired height and desired ambient light conditions situation that includes a tripod assembly with collapsible legs that supports a mirror assembly having a two-sided rotatable mirror which includes a triple magnification mirror on one side and a one magnification power mirror on the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Inventor: Donna M. Goodman
  • Patent number: 6378232
    Abstract: Display devices such as scoreboards having reversible display surfaces are mounted to support frames using opposing clamps each having a pivot post extending therefrom. The clamps engage one of the boards or frames with the posts being seated in openings in the other of the boards or frames. One or more latches extend between the support frames and boards to prevent rotation of the boards when in a locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Eagle Scoreboard Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Gene Creech
  • Patent number: 6322222
    Abstract: A pair of folding orthogonal mirrors is disclosed, including first and second plates, each provided on a face thereof with a surface mirror; hinges, attached to the first and second plates to movably join the two together, so that the plates are movable from an unfolded position, in which the surface mirrors on each of the plates are arranged orthogonally, to a folded position, in which the surface mirrors on each of the plates face one another. The pair of folding orthogonal mirrors is provided with a magnet assembly, attached to the first and second plates, for maintaining the plates in the unfolded position by magnetic attraction; and include means for adjusting the angle between the surface mirrors in the unfolded position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Inventor: Shigeki Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 6305809
    Abstract: A mirror for viewing the face at different magnifications selectable by the user includes a first, oval primary mirror comprised of a front mirror plate having a first magnification and a rear mirror plate concavely curved to provide a second, greater magnification, the front and rear primary mirror plates being held in a back-to-back arrangement within a bezel ring. The ring is pivotably supported within a yoke attached to the upper end of a stanchion which protrudes upwardly from a base, allowing the primary mirror to be pivoted about a horizontally disposed minor axis of the primary mirror, or about a vertical axis through the stanchion, thus presenting either the front or rear reflecting surface to a person located in front of the mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Inventor: Zlatko Zadro
  • Patent number: 6053618
    Abstract: A lightweight mirror-reflective surface mounted in a rigid frame embodying a transverse support axle. The rigid mirror-reflective surface frame and transverse support axle are rigidly attached and rotate in unison about the transverse support axle. The threaded axle extension is introduced through thimble holes located at the apex perpendicularly distant from the base of the support legs. Threaded securing knobs are torqued to a tightness about support axle to stabilize the mirror body and the support legs in the desired positions. Support legs can rotate about the mirror body support axle permitting the base of the support legs to accomodate to an uneven or nonparallel resting surface such as a bed. The device also embodies a supply shelf affixed to the support legs for the purpose of holding medical supplies. The complimentary set of support legs embodies a set of hooks for the attachment of a waste disposal container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Inventor: P. Paul Arpin
  • Patent number: 6050833
    Abstract: A glare filter for a computer monitor having a support element with a first side and a second side, and a frame with a first side and a second side. The first side of the frame is pivotably connected to the first side of the support element, and the second side of the frame is pivotably connected to the second side of the support element. The glare filter also has a filter medium secured to the frame and at least one clip for removably attaching the support element to the computer monitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Fellowes Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Howard L. Danzyger, Michael C. Thuma, James F. Caruso, Ann Marie Conrado, Brian J. Woodard, Karenann Brow
  • Patent number: 5984482
    Abstract: A mounting assembly (10) for a vehicle interior rearview mirror (12) of the automatic dimming type includes a vehicle mount (14) having a rearwardly projecting first ball portion (22), a tube (32) having a first end that receives the first ball portion and a second end including a rearwardly projecting second ball portion (38) fixed with respect to the tube and having a wire hole (40) therethrough, a ball clamp (44) within the tube for engaging the first ball portion (22), a helical spring (46) for biasing the ball clamp to a clamping relationship with the first ball portion, and a mirror socket (48) for receiving and clamping the second ball portion. The tube (32) of the mounting assembly and the first ball portion (38) are unitary in one embodiment, while another embodiment has the tube (32') and second ball portion (38') provided with flanges (52) and (54) that are biased into engagement with each other by the helical spring (46).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: Gentex Corporation
    Inventors: Wayne J. Rumsey, Daniel J. Bostwick
  • Patent number: 5969891
    Abstract: The multi-use articulation includes a stationary articulation section (10), mounted on the internal face of the rear wall of the housing (2), a moveable articulation section (20) on which the mirror plate (1) is mounted and a U-shaped connecting element (30) for torque adjustment and vibration absorption connecting both sections. The U-shaped connecting element (30) of the articulation sections has respective outwardly extending end portions (31) connected to a pair of opposite hook-shaped projections (23) of the moveable articulation section (20) so that the hook-shaped projections (23) and/or end portions (31) of the U-shaped element (30) can provide an axially tighter or looser assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Assignee: Metagal Industria E Comercio Ltda.
    Inventors: Dejail Otenio, Roberto Cermak
  • Patent number: 5900999
    Abstract: A housing for an actuator assembly for adjusting the orientation of a mirror element in a mirror assembly provides an improved electrical distribution system that eliminates loose wires, most connections, and the need for a seal between the housing and its external connections to a vehicle power supply. The housing includes a housing member supporting at least one actuator motor for driving at least one mirror element positioning member. The positioning member extends from the housing member to engage the mirror element's backing plate. The motor is powered from the vehicle power supply through the electrical distribution system which is molded with the housing member. Preferably, the electrical distribution system includes a plurality of leads that are electrically coupled at their distal ends to a plurality of external connectors, which extend out of the housing member for external connection to the vehicle power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1999
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: David J. Huizenga, Robert Lee Bingle, Desmond J. O'Farrell, David Kevin Willmore
  • Patent number: 5838507
    Abstract: A rearview mirror assembly comprises a mirror unit, a mirror unit support, and a central connection between the mirror unit and support mounting the mirror unit for pivotal movement about first and second generally intersecting perpendicular axes. A first arm is mounted on the support for pivotal movement about the first axis and connected with the mirror unit for limited pivotal movement about the second axis at a position spaced from the first axis. A second arm is mounted on the support for pivotal movement about the second axis and connected with the mirror unit for compound movement for compound movement which includes limited lateral movement with respect to the first axis and pivotal movement about an axis which is either coincident with or slightly angularly related with the first axis depending upon the position of relative lateral movement. First and second power-transmitting surfaces on the first and second arms respectively are arcuate about the first and second axis respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: Lowell Engineering Corporation
    Inventors: Ian Boddy, Keith D. Foote