Vertical Staff Patents (Class 248/539)
  • Publication number: 20030089834
    Abstract: A device for securing a vehicle antenna to a vehicle body is described, to prevent the vehicle antenna from tilting out of the vehicle body in the mounting operation. The device includes projections which engage behind an orifice in the vehicle body for introducing the device on the side of the vehicle body facing away from the vehicle antenna.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2002
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventor: Stephen John Hough
  • Patent number: 6536733
    Abstract: A cooler (ice chest) with an integrated umbrella stand. A cooler serves as the base of an umbrella stand. A receptacle for the umbrella pole is provided on a side of the cooler. In one embodiment, the receptacle includes two hinged rings. In another embodiment, the receptacle is molded into a recess in the side of the cooler. In an alternative embodiment, a conventional cooler is converted to an umbrella stand by applying hinged rings to the side of the cooler. In a preferred embodiment, the hinged rings are die-cut from a sheet of material as a single piece and attached to the cooler with an adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Inventor: John R. Sharp
  • Publication number: 20030001066
    Abstract: A positioning mechanism is comprised of a first member having a plurality of notches, a second member having a hole that can slide within the first member, and an engagement member provided in the second member having a latched member and a flexible member, wherein the latched member is passed through the hole of the second member to engage with one of the notches of the first member in a locked position. When the engagement member is activated to compress the flexible member, which in turn moves the latched member inward, the latched member moves from the notch of the first member and the hole of the second member, thus unlocking the second member. By utilizing this, a relative positioning of telescopic members is achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Inventors: Er-Jui Chen, Ling-Chuan Chang, Cheng-Fan Yang
  • Patent number: 6443172
    Abstract: A beach umbrella is supported with a stand having a lower shaft and an upper shaft, with the upper shaft supporting a beach umbrella mast. Before attaching the umbrella mast, the tubular upper shaft serves as an impact tool against a protuberance on the lower shaft, allowing hammering of the lower shaft into composite earth. The upper shaft telescopes onto the lower shaft securing a tray in place against the protuberance after hammering is completed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Inventor: Donald U. Brumfield
  • Patent number: 6427964
    Abstract: A flag holder for use on a sign stand which includes a support member and a spring member so configure to releasably secure a plurality of flags. The support member includes a mounting surface adaptable to secure the flag holder to the sign stand, a guide pocket or flange extending from the mounting surface, and a base flange extending from the mounting surface to support the end of the staff. The spring member of the flag holder is secured to the support member and engages the flag staff. The spring member applies enough force on the flag staff to prevent displacement of the flag, yet allows the staff to be easily inserted and removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: Marketing Displays International
    Inventors: David U. Hillstrom, Yevgeniy M. Levin
  • Publication number: 20020096616
    Abstract: A mount for supporting an open umbrella from an object has a bracket adapted to be secured to a portion of the object and a holder for supporting the umbrella. The holder has a receptacle adapted to receive and support the downwardly inserted handle of the umbrella and a yoke oriented to receive the shaft of the umbrella. A spring biased pin permits rapid insertion and removal of the shaft into and from the yoke. Preferably, the receptacle is slidably engaged relative to the yoke so that the umbrella canopy can be lowered to closely shield the object. A hinge connecting the holder to the bracket permits the umbrella to be positioned at any desired angle in relation to the object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Inventors: William R. Ratcliff, Terrell W. Harrison
  • Publication number: 20020053631
    Abstract: A multi-functional adjustable umbrella base includes a base support, and a stem rotary arrangement supported by the base support for selectively rotating the supporting stem of an outdoor umbrella and for securely locking up any of its movement. The stem rotary arrangement includes an engaging member rotatably supported by the base support and coaxially connected to the supporting stem of the outdoor umbrella so as to selectively rotate the stem of the outdoor umbrella, a locking member connected to the engaging member for selectively locking the engaging member from being rotated, a paddle operatively connected to the locking member via a connecting arm, and a resilient element mounted on the base support and adapted for normally applying an urging force to the connecting member. In order to unlock the locking member, one has to step down the paddle in order to lift up the engaging portion of the locking member so as to disengage it from the engaging member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2001
    Publication date: May 9, 2002
    Inventor: Wanda Yiing Li
  • Publication number: 20020053630
    Abstract: A multi-functional adjustable umbrella base includes a base support, a reinforcing support adapted for being mounted onto a spa bathtub or a platform near a spa's edge, and a stem rotary arrangement supported by the base support for selectively rotating the supporting stem of an spa umbrella and for securely locking up any of its movement. The stem rotary arrangement includes an engaging member rotatably supported by the base support and coaxially connected to the supporting stem of the outdoor umbrella so as to selectively rotate the stem of the outdoor umbrella, a locking member connected to the engaging member for selectively locking the engaging member from being rotated, a paddle operatively connected to the locking member via a connecting arm, and a resilient element mounted on the base support and adapted for normally applying an urging force to the connecting member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2001
    Publication date: May 9, 2002
    Inventor: Wanda Yiing Li
  • Patent number: 6378819
    Abstract: An implement mounting assembly for attachment to a horizontal bar of a vehicle including a rigid mounting bracket, the mounting bracket having a U-shaped cross-section, the mounting bracket having a first generally rectangular front face and a second generally rectangular rear face, both of the faces having holes therein for receipt of bolts for connecting the bracket to a weight bar of a vehicle, and a hollow rigid receiver rigidly connected to the bracket, the receiver preferably being generally rectangular in cross-section and being oriented vertically upward when the bracket is connected to the weight bar; the rear face of the bracket preferably having a generally rectangular slot therein for placement over a supporting member which may be connected to the weight bar. Preferably the receiver has a collar located around the outside of the upper end thereof for providing additional strength to the upper end of the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Inventor: William W. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6375146
    Abstract: The present invention is a holding device that can be used easily and simply mount and hold the cylindrical post of a large protecting umbrella or parasol at various angles to a variety of openwork guardrails outside patio or on a balcony. The tightening of securing bolts of the device simultaneously anchors the holding device to the guardrails and grasps the cylindrical post within symmetrical jaws of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Inventor: Maurice Painchaud
  • Publication number: 20010048060
    Abstract: A beach umbrella is supported with a stand having a lower shaft and an upper shaft, with the upper shaft supporting a beach umbrella mast. Before attaching the umbrella mast, the tubular upper shaft serves as an impact tool against a protuberance on the lower shaft, allowing hammering of the lower shaft into composite earth. The upper shaft telescopes onto the lower shaft securing a tray in place against the protuberance after hammering is completed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2001
    Publication date: December 6, 2001
    Inventor: Donald U. Brumfield
  • Patent number: 6273391
    Abstract: A bicycle fishing pole holder comprised of a plurality of parallel rings or wire type hoops serially connected to a main shaft aligned to receive a fishing pole handle. The first end of a cylindrical mounting rod is attached to the main shaft and the second end is formed into a half round section designed to be inserted into a universal mounting bracket. The cylindrical mounting rod is bent or angled close to the second end to act as a stop which prevents the rod from completely passing through the mounting bracket The mounting rod is also angled near the first end to position the main shaft vertically and perpendicular to the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Inventor: Grady M. Engolia
  • Patent number: 6244557
    Abstract: A umbrella mounting device for a stroller for protecting the user of a stroller from harsh weather. The umbrella mounting device for a stroller includes a bridging assembly adapted for bridging between the spaced handle bars of a stroller. The bridging assembly comprises a pair of side members each adapted for engaging one of the spaced handle bars of the stroller. A holding assembly adapted for engaging a handle of the umbrella. A support member for releasably engaging said holding assembly to said bridging assembly. A plurality of band clamps for securing said holding assembly to the handle of the umbrella and said side members to the handles of the stroller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Inventor: Susan G. Maze
  • Patent number: 6237888
    Abstract: An antenna mounting system for mounting an antenna mast to a building with a roof having a plurality of exposed rafters extending in spaced-apart parallel relationship, comprises a support member for holding the mast vertically at a predetermined distance from an edge of the roof; a torsion-resistant attachment member for attaching the support member to one of the rafters; and first and second mast stabilizing arms for maintaining the mast in a stable, generally vertical position so as to resist wind effects, the first mast stabilizing are being adapted for attachment to the one rafter by the attachment member, and the second mast stabilizing arm being adapted for attachment to an other rafter spaced from the one rafter. The first and second mast stabilizing arms cooperate with the support member to provide a structurally rigid antenna mounting system. The antenna mast mounted to rafters with such a system can withstand a wind load of up to about 100 mph.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventor: Gene Coll
  • Patent number: 6213440
    Abstract: A mount for supporting an object, such as an ensign post, on the outside of a vehicle body includes a base plate (20) which carries magnetic means (20, 21) for releasably securing the mount to the vehicle body magnetically. The base plate (20) carries a pivotally mounted object-receiving holder (40, 41). The magnetic means (20, 21) disposed in a ring around the circumference of the base plate (20) and adapted to interact with the vehicle body. Adjacent magnets in the circumferential direction of the ring are arranged with alternating magnetic poles facing towards the base plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Inventor: Christer Kornback
  • Patent number: 6149111
    Abstract: A support device includes a flexible sheet material foldable to form a three-dimensional two-sided A-frame structure having at least a pair of substantially aligned predetermined holes, one above the other and a pole-like element insertable through the vertically aligned holes and supported by the three-dimensional folded structure, the pole-like element maintaining the flexible sheet material as the three-dimensional two-sided A-frame structure when folded. The flexible sheet material is preferably a die-cut and scored piece of material such as cardboard. The holes may be formed within corresponding tab-like sections of the flexible sheet material. According to an embodiment, the three-dimensional two-sided a-frame structure is a retail point-of-purchase display sign support and the pole-like element is a support for a display sign.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventor: Marc I. Epstein
  • Patent number: 6129322
    Abstract: A pump support device for use in securing a hand pump within an opening formed in an upper wall of a container, such as a drum, for dispensing the contents of the container. The pump support device includes a base member defining an internal passage within which a body portion of the hand pump is received. The base member is configured so as to overlie the opening in the upper wall of the container, and a releasable engagement member, such as a thumb screw, is interconnected with the base member for selectively fixing the pump body in position relative to the base member. A mounting arrangement is interconnected with the base member for engaging a lip of the container for selectively securing the base member in position. The mounting arrangement includes an arm extending outwardly from the base member and terminating in a downturned outer end portion located outwardly of the lip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Inventor: Tim W. Merkl
  • Patent number: 6061850
    Abstract: A portable platform for carrying to the beach a beach umbrella, umbrella support pole and pillow, all VELCRO fastened to the platform which serves to keep the pillow off the sand and to provide a cup holder and/or a box to secure small items, such as car keys and money, that may otherwise be lost in the sand. The platform may also be used to carry a stereo entertainment system onto the beach and to keep it out of the sand while the platform is placed on the beach to hold upright the umbrella support pole upon which the umbrella is fastened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Inventor: Jesse Roper, III
  • Patent number: 6054159
    Abstract: A lollipop stick and a lollipop are provided with an expandable support for supporting a lollipop stick and the lollipop in an erect orientation. The support may be formed by a plurality of slits in the bottom end of the lollipop stick so that a plurality of deflectable legs are formed between each pair of slits. The legs may be rotated away from one another to form a tripod or other such support. Thus, the lollipop can be supported in an erect condition after the initial opening of the lollipop, but prior to complete consumption. The support may be configured to present indicia, such as a logo, when support is in the condition for holding the lollipop in the erect orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Inventor: Cheryl Manzone
  • Patent number: 6019543
    Abstract: A foot for a traffic beacon, serving as routing device for road traffic, is proposed. At its lower end, the traffic beacon is coupled detachably with the foot. The traffic beacon, at least in its lower part, consists of a soft, elastic material and, at its lower edge, has a laterally protruding flange, which engages appropriately shaped recesses in the foot. These recesses are formed by clamping jaws, which can be bolted to a foot plate and, in each case, have a horizontal, inwardly protruding cross member. Nubs, protruding at the underside of the clamping jaws, press into the soft elastic material of the flange when the screws are tightened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Inventor: Wilhelm Junker
  • Patent number: 6003827
    Abstract: A universal sign holder for mounting and supporting a display sign on a sign supporting base. The universal sign holder is configured for direct connection to a conventional sign supporting base which has a plurality of outwardly extending support legs. The universal sign holder includes a mast which has a lower section and an upper section. A support platform is attached to the mast for retaining a lower edge of the display sign. An alignment bracket is provided above the support platform and is also secured to the mast. The alignment bracket is used to prevent lateral movement and rotation of the display sign relative to the mast. A retaining device is used to secure the vertical frame member against the mast and within the alignment bracket such that the display sign is secured and maintained in proper display position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: Traffix Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Jack H. Kulp, Samuel J. Bechtle, John D. McKenney
  • Patent number: 5996958
    Abstract: A combination fishing rod holder is disclosed which includes a first rod holder in the form of a support cradle for supporting a fishing rod in a generally cantilevered fishing position. The first rod holder is affixed to a standard mounted to an associated structure such as the gunwale of a boat. A second rod holder is also carried by the standard which includes an upright holder for holding the fishing rod in a generally upright, travel position when the boat is moving over the water. Preferably the upright holder comprises a plurality of vertical, spaced holder rings which receive the butt of a fishing rod. The rings are affixed to a post secured in the clamp of an adjustable mount assembly which secures the second rod holder to the standard and/or first rod holder. The post may be moved in and out of the clamp radially with respect to the fishing rod butt so that free ends of the clamping jaws penetrate the rod holder rings and engage the butt to hold it securely in place during travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Inventors: D. Calvin Baynard, David A. Baynard
  • Patent number: 5988583
    Abstract: A support assembly for supporting a plurality of inclined plates (22) arranged in an array around a central axis includes a top support bracket (25) for supporting the upper edges (40) of the plates (22) and a plurality of base brackets (26) for supporting the lower edges (62) of the respective plates (22). The top support bracket (25) has a central axis aligned with the central axis of the array, and a plurality of side edges (28). Each side edge (28) has a downwardly inclined rim (32) at a predetermined angle corresponding to the desired plate orientation and a downwardly facing groove (42) for receiving the upper edge (40) of the respective plate (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: Qualcomm Incorporated
    Inventor: Jeff J. Rhine
  • Patent number: 5971345
    Abstract: A universal antenna mounting system includes a grid-like mounting frame on which the antenna is installed. A mounting pipe is secured to a tower leg at a desired height and the mounting frame is then secured to the mounting pipe. The mounting connections are all frictional in nature and the mounting frame is adjustable in azimuth about the mounting pipe so that the antenna can be pointed in the right direction. Side struts secured to the mounting frame and the tower maintain the mounting frame at the desired azimuth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: Lucent Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Belal F. Khalaf
  • Patent number: 5961092
    Abstract: A telescopic mast is provided for deployably mounting a satellite dish to a vehicle. The telescopic mast preferably is secured to a rear surface of a truck cab or other vehicle. The satellite dish is deployable via extension of the telescopic mast. The telescopic mast includes a base tube secured to the back of the vehicle and a shaft telescopically mounted within the base tube. The shaft has a dish carrier portion adapted to carry the satellite dish. The shaft is telescopically movable between a first position wherein the dish carrier portion is higher than a roof of the vehicle, and a second position wherein the dish carrier portion is lower than the roof of the vehicle to thereby protect the dish carrier portion from exposure to wind generated by movement of the vehicle to protect the dish carrier portion from road debris. A releasable locking device selectively prevents telescopic extension and retraction of the shaft with respect to the base tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: Satellite Mobile Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Franklin R. Coffield
  • Patent number: 5954308
    Abstract: A clamp for securing a vertically disposed elongated antenna to the horizontal edge of a volleyball net has a base wall and an oppositely disposed spaced clamping wall secured together at adjacent edges by a U-shaped live hinged portion. The clamping wall extends in a tapered direction towards the base wall to define a narrowed net receiving access lot opposite to the live hinge portion. A vertically disposed shoulder extends outwardly from an outer surface of the base wall, and a vertical bore is located in the shoulder to receive an end of an elongated antenna. The clamp members are comprised of a single piece of plastic material. An elongated lift member is on an elongated horizontal free edge of the clamping wall and extends outwardly from the access slot. A plurality of serrations are formed on an inner surface of the base wall opposite to the clamping wall. The shoulder on said base wall has a vertical length greater than the vertical height of the base wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Assignee: American Sports International, LTD
    Inventors: Mark R. Lane, Neal C. Squibb, Leslie M. Arp
  • Patent number: 5909005
    Abstract: A bearing plate is formed of an electrically conductive material so as to act as an electrical grounding apparatus when mounted on the lower end of a utility pole. The bearing plate includes a generally circular base plate with a depending conical flange which will engage the ground. A pair of tabs are punched downwardly from the base plate so as to engage the ground and provide additional surface area for electrical grounding purposes. The bearing plate may be welded directly to the lower end of a hollow steel pole, or bolted to the bottom of a wood pole, or pole of other composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1999
    Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Harlan Earl Boston
  • Patent number: 5884890
    Abstract: A releasably mounted antenna assembly is provided including a first member and a second member movably coupled to the first member. A spring is situated between the first member and the second member for urging the same together for coupling to an exterior of a vehicle. An antenna is mounted to one of the members and extends upwardly therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Inventor: John A. Fraley, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5857658
    Abstract: A clamping bracket for clamping an object to a structure includes a bracket having height (H), an opening for receiving the object, two sides, and an end, said two sides having a cutout provided therein for receiving the structure; and, an adjustable gripping member attached to the sides for adjustably protruding into the cutouts so that the object is clamped between the end and the structure and the gripping member clamps the structure to the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1999
    Inventor: David Stanley Niemiec
  • Patent number: 5810318
    Abstract: An ornament for a flag includes a three-dimensional object symbolic of a person, place, thing or event and can be attached to a flag pole The ornament can be mounted on a selected position of the pole to adorn the flag and enhance its symbolism, and can be used to mount or support the flag on a wall or surface The ornament can take many forms and can be, for example, represent the Statue of Liberty, historical events, specific individuals, special holidays, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Inventor: Vincent Federico
  • Patent number: 5732927
    Abstract: A flag display assembly for a vehicle having a license plate assembly including a mast, a plurality of mast support members having a gripping collar and an arm integral with the gripping collar. The gripping collar includes an opening with an inner diameter for receiving the mast and gripping the mast. The arm of the mast support member includes a flat surface for abutment of the arm upon a surface of the vehicle license plate assembly, and includes a hole for receiving a fastener, such as a bolt, for securing to the license plate assembly. The display assembly further includes at least one flag attachment assembly preferably including an attachment member which has a gripping ring and an attachment blade which is secured to the flag directly, or to a shoe attached to the flag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1998
    Inventor: James A. Purpura
  • Patent number: 5685517
    Abstract: The present invention is essentially comprised of a deck furniture mounting stand which is removably attachable to a deck's boards. By loosening or tightening nuts threadingly engaging a pair of mounting rods, the stand may be removed from, or affixed to, respectively, a deck. The stand of the present invention includes a base portion having an upper surface, a lower, deck contacting surface, and a predetermined periphery defined by a continuous edge. A cylindrical, pole (umbrella pole for instance) receiving member having a bored hole formed therein for reception of the pole is positioned in centrally, upwardly extending relation to the upper surface. Further included are two apertures formed through the base on opposite sides of the pole receiving member to receive the mounting rods which secure the stand to the decking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1997
    Inventor: Joseph Salibra
  • Patent number: 5618078
    Abstract: A pocket stake holder is disclosed having a pocket adapted for mounting an elongated stake of substantially square or circular cross-section to a frame. The pocket stake holder includes a homing having a front member and a pair of side members that have front and back edges. The front member and side members are interconnected along the front edges of the side members to define a U-channel of substantially square cross-section to form the pocket and which includes an open back side, an upper channel opening and a lower channel opening. A pair of flanges are disposed along the back edges of the side members and include a mechanism to enable removable mounting of the flanges and the housing against a surface in order to close the open back side. Finally, a device is disposed at the lower channel opening to prevent passage of a stake therethrough while permitting fluid flow through the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 8, 1997
    Inventor: Steven C. Aberle
  • Patent number: 5601272
    Abstract: A candle holder has a base, an upright attached to one edge of the base and a candle support extending from the upright over the base. Suction cups are provided on the upright for mounting. Feet near the suction cups prevent the holder from rocking. One of a series of figures which are preferably shaped as holiday symbols is fitted into the upright. The figures preferably are removable from the upright.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1997
    Assignee: Adams Mfg. Corp.
    Inventors: William E. Adams, William Raftery
  • Patent number: 5566916
    Abstract: A U-bolt is placed around a pipe and bolted to a clamp bracket, and the clamp bracket is bolted to a support plate. A pair of spade bolts are attached to the support plate and a hinge is connected between the ends of the spade bolts. A pair of screw connect the hinge to a support surface. The clamp bracket can be pivoted relative to the support plate, and the hinge can be pivoted relative to the support plate, to allow the pipe to be secured to a support surface at any angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1996
    Inventor: Michael E. Bailey
  • Patent number: 5564665
    Abstract: An adapter for securely disposing an elongated member within a candle stick receptacle, the adapter comprises: a first support means disposed about the outer surface of the elongated member and near a first end of the elongated member, wherein the first support means is capable of providing a secure fit between the outer surface of the elongated member and an inner surface of a candle stick receptacle; and a second support means disposed about the outer surface of the elongated member and between the first support means and a second end of the elongated member, wherein the second support means is capable of providing vertical stability for the elongated member disposed within the candle stick receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1996
    Assignee: FRW Inc.
    Inventor: Mark I. Resnick
  • Patent number: 5518233
    Abstract: An anchor for anchoring the post of a basketball goal to a container. The anchor includes a portion of a vehicle tire that has been modified so that the tire has been severed transversely to provide a pair of ends and a major portion of the sidewalls of the tire have been removed to provide partial sidewalls respectively having holes therethrough adapted to receive the post of a basketball goal. A tightener extends between the pair of ends for selectively drawing the ends together to tighten the anchor around a container. A modified embodiment includes a tire of a right size to snugly fit around a container or a portion thereof and the tire is complete except for aligned holes respectively in the opposite sidewalls of the tire and adapted to receive the post of a basketball goal. A specially designed container is disclosed that is adapted to be used with the modified embodiment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1996
    Inventor: Linkwood Williams
  • Patent number: 5463974
    Abstract: A mount for displaying an item, such as a flag, message, slogan and the like, on a surface, such as a hood or trunk of an automobile includes a clip portion and an integrally formed wall having a shaped cavity therein. The clip has a first leg integrally formed with a second leg. The shaped cavity accepts the item therein, and projects outwardly from the first leg of the clip. The cavity extends through the first leg of the clip so that the item may be released from the mount upon removal of the mount from the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 7, 1995
    Inventor: Lewis Seeder
  • Patent number: 5456442
    Abstract: A mounting bracket for mounting a Global Positioning Antenna to the fusel of a fixed wing aircraft. The apparatus comprises a rectangular shaped mounting plate having a cylindrical shaped member positioned in the center of the mounting plate and extending from its bottom surface. There is an aperture extending through the cylindrical shaped member and the plate through which the antenna cable passes with the cable connecting the antenna to the receiver. The antenna mounting bracket is secured to the aircraft by inserting the cylindrical shaped member into the sextant port of the airframe so that the bottom portion of the cylindrical shaped member including a pinning aperture extends into the interior the aircraft. A quick release pin is inserted in the pinning aperture to tightly secure the antenna to the airframe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 10, 1995
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Laurie D. Sutton, Ralph M. Kleber
  • Patent number: 5453756
    Abstract: The present invention includes an improved antenna mounting apparatus for mounting a conventional antenna to a mounting structure. The antenna mounting apparatus including a pair of vertically spaced apart arms having aligned holes therethrough and a base connected to and extending between the arms. A mounting device for mounting the bracket to the mounting structure is provided with two O-ring shaped insulating members each adapted to be received in a respective one of the aligned holes in the arms; antenna connection device adapted to engage the antenna and secure the antenna to one of the spaced apart arms. A cable connection device is provided for connecting an electrical cable to the apparatus. Interconnection device are adapted to engage the antenna connection device and the cable connection device such that the antenna connection device, the interconnection device and the cable connection device all form a single structural unit extended through the aligned holes of the mounting bracket arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 26, 1995
    Inventor: Larry Lowrey
  • Patent number: 5419527
    Abstract: A candle holder has a base, an upright attached to one edge of the base and a candle support extending from the upright over the base. Suction cups are provided on the upright for mounting. Feet near the suction cups prevent the holder from rocking. One of a series of figures which are preferably shaped as holiday symbols is fitted into the upright. The figures preferably are removable from the upright.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 30, 1995
    Assignee: Adams Mfg. Corp.
    Inventors: William E. Adams, William Raftery
  • Patent number: 5292102
    Abstract: A mounting bracket for removable securement to a portion of a boat for receipt of an accessory such as a rod holder, a lantern holder, or trolling motor holder or the like. The bracket is removably securable to a gunnel and may be moved along the length of the gunnel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Inventor: Robert J. Hoover
  • Patent number: 5233938
    Abstract: A vehicle flag system includes a flag, a flag mast and a window mount. The flag mast includes a base configured to be lockingly received in a socket formed in the window mount. The mast base is formed with an axial tenon which mates with a mortise formed in the socket. A pair of spring legs project from the base parallel to the tenon and each is received within a channel formed in the socket. The spring legs include enlarged latches at their ends and the spring legs are compressed toward to the tenon when the tenon is inserted into the mortise. When the tenon seats fully in the mortise, the latches register with cut out portions of the socket wall and spring outwardly. To release the base from the socket, the latches are manually compressed toward the tenon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1993
    Assignee: Auto Flag Inc.
    Inventor: Abraham Lalo
  • Patent number: 5172885
    Abstract: A holder assembly for mounting an umbrella on any of a variety of wire baskets used on golf carts includes a hollow tube in which an umbrella handle may be inserted and retained against accidental removal, with means to readily adjust the height of the umbrella, and means to accommodate various shapes and placements of wire baskets. The assembly also may be used on various other vehicles, and it is readily installable and removable without the use of tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1992
    Inventor: Marjory K. Kreischer
  • Patent number: 5131179
    Abstract: A fishing device includes a portable fish bucket and two tripods attached on opposite sides of the bucket. Each of the tripods has two front legs pivotally connected by a first sleeve to a tube for holding a single fishing pole by its handle portion. Each of the tripods is secured by two different subcombinations to the bucket. The first subcombination includes a second sleeve slipped over an upper end of the tube and fastened by an elastic cord to a handle of the bucket. The second subcombination includes a leakproof nut and bolt arrangement connected through a lower end of the tube near to a bottom edge of the bucket. This nut and bolt arrangement allows the tube to be pivotally inclined at a selected angle from a vertical axis of the bucket. Thus, this device allows a fisher to have two unattended steady fishing pole lines in the water at the same time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1992
    Inventor: William H. McEwen
  • Patent number: 5120016
    Abstract: A device that can be fixed to a sun deck or the deck of a dock or pier by means of a T bar extending through the spaces between the floor boards or planks of a sun deck or a dock or a pier wherein said T bar is inserted into the space and rotated ninety degrees to where the T bar catches the board or planks. A threaded plug is fixed to the shaft of the T Bar to prevent the T bar from falling out of the space between the floor boards. A T flange with an inside thread is screwed onto the threaded plug, pulling the T flange onto the bottom side of the planks, locking the T flange and T bar to the planks. A fishing rod or other item is placed into the vertical tube of the T flange and is held by gravity or other means. This sun deck or dock and pier rod and tool holding device can be used to support a chair or work tools. It can be removed in the same manner that it was set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1992
    Inventor: Edward Dysarz
  • Patent number: 5040763
    Abstract: A golf cart umbrella holder comprising a unibody, saddle-shaped, flexible frame, a holding nest and interlocking sleeve which together firmly hold an umbrella staff and a series of straps which adjust to tighten the golf cart holder to most golf cart seats. The holder allows the golfer to easily insert an umbrella which provides protection to the golfer, his clubs, and personal property from sun, rain and other adverse weather conditions and at the same time is easily mounted or detached from the golf cart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1991
    Inventor: Donald R. Wilson
  • Patent number: 5039056
    Abstract: A flagpole holder for attaching a flagpole to a surface portion or axle of vehicle that allows the user to remove the flagpole without removing the apparatus from the vehicle. Various embodiments are disclosed to permit attachment of the flagpole holder to a bicycle axle and to various (vertical, horizontal and slanted) surface portions of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1991
    Inventor: Joseph A. Paxton
  • Patent number: 5024011
    Abstract: A display apparatus includes a front panel having an image area and a message area. The front panel is either detachably coupled to or integrally formed with a horizontal base which maintains the panel in a substantially upright position. A plurality of decorative appendages, such as balloons, are coupled to first ends of a plurality of connectors. The other ends of the connectors are coupled to the front panel to complete the structure. If helium balloons are used, a counterweight may be provided for preventing the balloons from lifting the apparatus off the ground or tipping the panel forwardly. In one embodiment, a pressure-sensitive sound producing device may be embedded in the panel and covered by a selected image, so that the apparatus produces an audible message when the region of the image over the sound producing device is pressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 18, 1991
    Inventor: Dane H. Collins
  • Patent number: 5020765
    Abstract: The improved U-shaped antenna mounting assembly consists of a U-shaped clip and a U-shaped bracket, the bracket overfitting the clip, the base of the clip being notched to receive in that notch the base portion of the bracket. Preferably indentations are provided in the clip and the bracket to assist in interlocking them with one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1991
    Assignee: Cellular IC
    Inventors: Jack Evans, Christopher R. Morley