To Nonoccupant Support Device Patents (Class 297/129)
  • Patent number: 11253745
    Abstract: A chair arm exercise apparatus includes three distinct back positions with hand resistance members such as springs supported from a pair of supports spaced from the upper end of the back. The arm chair includes a base configured to rest on a horizontal floor surface, a seat, a pair of spaced apart trapezoidal shaped upright frame sides, a front upright end wall beneath and supporting a front end of the seat, a seat back pivotally supported from the frame sides behind the seat, and a seat cross member beneath the rear edge of the seat fastened to the frame sides. In a first position the back is at about 90 degrees to the seat. In a second position the back is about 80 degrees to the seat. In the third position the back is reclined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2022
    Assignee: BALANCED BODY, INC.
    Inventor: Kit W. Spelman
  • Patent number: 11109662
    Abstract: A backpack includes a support portion adapted to be supported on shoulders of a wearer and a bag portion having at least one compartment for storing one or more articles. The bag portion is pivotally coupled to the support portion and adapted to pivot between a first position and a second position relative to the support portion. In the first position, the bag portion is disposed along the support portion and abuts the support portion and, in the second position, the bag portion is disposed substantially perpendicular to the support portion and provides a seat for facilitating a seating of a child.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2021
    Inventor: Sunil Marolia
  • Patent number: 11014476
    Abstract: A seat for a utility vehicle, in particular for a military utility vehicle, comprising a seat base, a seat element comprising a sitting surface and a first stepping surface, a first pivoting mechanism for pivoting the seat element such that the seat element is pivotable from a seat position, in which the first stepping surface is facing the seat base, into a first step position, in which the first stepping surface is facing away from the seat base, a backrest comprising a backrest sitting surface and a second stepping surface, and a second pivoting mechanism for pivoting the backrest such that the backrest is pivotable from a seat position, in which the backrest sitting surface is positioned upright relative to the seat base, into a second step position, in which the second stepping surface is arranged parallel to the first stepping surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2021
    Inventor: Christian Allmann
  • Patent number: 10932549
    Abstract: A portable backpack chair with gear carrying webbing for use in efficiently carrying gear for camping, the beach or the like. The backpack chair provides a novel design that eases the ability to carry a collapsible chair, such as a beach chair, on the user's back along with accompanying gear such as a cooler, beach towel and supplies. The novel design comprises a beach chair with an pack carrier portion and support structure mounted to the bottom portion of the beach chair, and chair back and seat portions that include a plurality of rows of cross webbing fixedly connected to the chair backing and seat fabric at intervals whereby securing straps can be used to attach gear to the fabric portion by looping the securing straps through a spaces between the fabric and the webbing. The portable backpack chair allows the user to quickly and easily pack and carry a chair and gear with minimal effort.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2021
    Inventor: Matthew DeMaio
  • Patent number: 10932537
    Abstract: The invention features a shade apparatus adapted to provide shade to an individual or individuals while they are outside and in need of shade from sunlight. Aspects of embodiments of the present invention contemplate a shade apparatus that is easily portable and easily adapted to the sun's changing positions, thereby providing the individual/user with shade from sunlight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2021
    Assignee: JRJ ALLIANCE, LLC
    Inventors: John M Maurello, John Michael Maurello
  • Patent number: 10918214
    Abstract: A multifunctional folding chair and wheeled cart system and kit includes a multifunctional folding chair that easily convert into a fully unfolded configuration of a flat bed, a partially folded configuration of a reclining lounger, an upright lounger, a short beach chair, and a regular chair, and a fully folded configuration. The system also includes at least one multifunctional wheeled chair that includes, in addition to the configurations of the multifunctional folding chairs, a partially folded configuration of a wheeled cart. The multifunctional wheeled chair, in the wheeled cart configuration, is configured to hold and transport the plurality of multifunctional folding chairs in the folded configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2021
    Assignee: OME Gear Co.
    Inventors: Julie Weldon, Stacey Pierce, Robert Evans, Lynn Weirick, Jaclyn Lynch, Shawn Quinn, Alex Grube
  • Patent number: 10722039
    Abstract: A multifunctional chair apparatus that may be configured into the following separately definable and useful structures: (1) a flat-bed assembly; (2) a reclining lounger assembly; (3) a beach chair assembly having a first seat height; (4) a beach chair assembly having a second seat height; (5) a cart assembly; and (6) a compact folded assembly. The multifunctional chair apparatus may include a frame having a primary frame assembly and a secondary frame assembly being foldably connected by a central hinge assembly at a central portion of the frame. The primary frame assembly may be comprised of two or more smaller frames separated and rotatably connected by a primary hinge assembly. The secondary frame assembly may be comprised of two or more smaller frames separated and rotatably connected by a secondary hinge assembly. The hinge assemblies include lockable hinges that selectively lock at angles of 0°, 100°, 140°, and 180°.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Assignee: OME Gear Co.
    Inventors: Julie Weldon, Stacey Pierce, Robert Evans, Lynn Weirick, Jaclyn Lynch, Shawn Quinn, Alex Grube
  • Patent number: 10306996
    Abstract: A combination desk-step stool furniture piece may provide a portable and/or easy-to-use tool to help children reach elevated objects and have a desk and chair to foster their creative minds or however else they see fit to use it. The piece may include a support frame having a plurality of legs that define a footprint and an upper step and at least one intermediate step. One or more of the steps may lie substantially within the footprint. The upper step and/or the intermediate step may be textured to provide traction to facilitate use of the furniture piece as a step stool. The piece also may include a removable table top that may be attached to the upper step. The frame also may include a storage compartment for stowing the tabletop when the furniture is not being used as a desk. Other embodiments and features also are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2019
    Inventor: Michael Sima
  • Patent number: 9371081
    Abstract: A travel cooler, includes a body comprising a base, sidewalls, and a lid connected together to define an interior, insulated containment space for holding cooler items. A lengthwise dimension of the cooler extends between opposite ends of the cooler, and the body defines recessed exterior surface slots extending along a lengthwise extent of the cooler. The cooler further includes a U-shaped handle having two legs connected by a handle portion. The cooler is transitionable between a first configuration, in which the legs of the U-shaped handle extend a substantial length from the body of the cooler, and a second configuration, in which the legs of the U-shaped handle are received within the recessed exterior surface slots extending along a lengthwise extent of the cooler, the handle portion extending in close proximity to an end of the body of the cooler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2016
    Assignee: M & C INNOVATIONS, LLC
    Inventors: Matthew Alexander Vanderberg, Daniel Lee Bizzell, Ian D. Kovacevich, Chris Hoy
  • Patent number: 9283385
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a seating apparatus for the diagnosis and treatment, and more particularly, to a seating apparatus for diagnosis and treatment of diagnosing and curing urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction and defecation disorders which enables to diagnose symptoms of urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction and defecation disorders by measuring contraction pressure and contraction duration of pelvic floor muscles, muscles of perineum and anal sphincters of a user, who puts on cloth while seated, simultaneously with curing symptoms of urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction and defecation disorders throughout biofeedback exercise and training.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2016
    Assignee: UK DO-I CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Gi Bum Oh
  • Patent number: 9078530
    Abstract: An infant playpen includes a plurality of upright legs, and a first and a second upper side rail assembly supported by the upright legs. Each of the first and a second upper side rail assembly includes at least one elongated segment having an outer surface, and a plurality of positioning regions are defined on the outer surfaces of the elongated segments, each of the positioning regions being configured to locate a connection of a removable accessory on the infant playpen. An infant care system is also disclosed, which includes the infant playpen and a removable accessory installed thereon. One selected positioning region of the first upper side rail assembly can be received in a housing of the removable accessory, and a locking part of the removable accessory is displaced to a locked position that retains the selected positioning region in the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2015
    Assignee: Wonderland Nurserygoods Company Limited
    Inventors: Jerry S. Ingram, Curtis M. Hartenstine, Daniel A. Sack, Ryan N. Miller, William B. Bellows, Nathanael Saint, Andrew J. Horst, Benjamin A. Stack
  • Patent number: 9067614
    Abstract: A travel cooler, includes a body comprising a base, sidewalls, and a lid connected together to define an interior, insulated containment space for holding cooler items. A lengthwise dimension of the cooler extends between opposite ends of the cooler, and the body defines recessed exterior surface slots extending along a lengthwise extent of the cooler. The cooler further includes a U-shaped handle having two legs connected by a handle portion. The cooler is transitionable between a first configuration, in which the legs of the U-shaped handle extend a substantial length from the body of the cooler, and a second configuration, in which the legs of the U-shaped handle are received within the recessed exterior surface slots extending along a lengthwise extent of the cooler, the handle portion extending in close proximity to an end of the body of the cooler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Assignee: M & C INNOVATIONS, LLC
    Inventors: Matthew Alexander Vanderberg, Daniel Lee Bizzell, Ian D. Kovacevich, Chris Hoy
  • Publication number: 20150107149
    Abstract: A fish keeping and organization system that includes a bucket for storing a floating net assembly and a caddy for carrying the same. The bucket may include a cushioned seat on a lid portion thereof to provide a seat for a user. The floating net assembly may be removed from the bucket and allowed to float in water. The floating net assembly may include a float ring on a top portion and a weighted lower ring to allow the net assembly to become elongated when disposed in water, such as a lake. A drawstring may be included at the lower end of the net assembly for easy removal of fish kept in the net. The caddy can include wheels and a handle for ease of movement, straps for securing the bucket, and fishing pole holders for storing and moving fishing poles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventor: Sanford E. Garrett
  • Patent number: 8979188
    Abstract: The present invention is a single leg sitting device which has a collapsible leg which fits inside the seat for compact transportation or to turning the seat into a walking stick.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Inventors: Walden Blaine Crabtree, Jr., Lee Thomas Gately
  • Patent number: 8979187
    Abstract: A motor vehicle including at least one seat and/or at least one bench having a seat surface and a backrest. The backrest can be moved into a position above the seat surface in which the backrest and the seat surface lie opposite one another. In addition, the front edge of the seat surface and an edge of the backrest that lies closest to it can be connected with an additional element, for example, a roller blind or a plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: MAGNA STEYR Fahrzeugtechnik AG & Co. KG
    Inventors: Sabine Bernhard, Manuel Erlacher, Achim Schmidt
  • Patent number: 8876203
    Abstract: A chair operable between an extended configuration and a collapsed configuration includes one or more legs, a handle and a locking mechanism. The one or more legs support a seat and the handle extends away from the seat opposite the one or more legs. The locking mechanism includes a lock plug disposed in an elongate trough. Movement of the handle between the extended and collapsed configurations involves depressing the lock plug and flipping the trough to an opposite side of the lock plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Abida LLC
    Inventors: Roland A. Haertl, David E. Gilman
  • Patent number: 8851503
    Abstract: The dual-chair beach wagon includes attachable beach chairs with removable wheels that convert the beach chairs into a rolling wagon for transport of beach paraphernalia. The beach chairs have arm latches and frame brackets that allow them to be removably connected together at opposing front ends to form the wagon. When disconnected each chair serves as a standard beach chair. The removably attachable wheels attach to adjustable rear legs of the beach chairs. In preparation for beach wagon mode, the front legs can be folded up and secured with a recessed leg lock to facilitate attachment of the two chairs using the arm latches and frame brackets to form the beach wagon. A pull rod is attachable to one end of the dual chair configuration. Wheels on the pull rod attachment end of the dual chair configuration have independently pivotal axles to facilitate steering of the wagon transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Inventor: Robert L. Tyson, III
  • Patent number: 8814181
    Abstract: A cart apparatus for transporting cargo items to and from a recreational location includes a base unit and a chair unit which are selectively assemblable for transport and disassemblable upon reaching a desired destination. The base unit includes wheels for rolling over varying terrains, and a support portion for stowage thereon of cargo items. The chair unit is foldable between collapsed and opened conditions. The base unit is formed with a receiving area for selective receipt of the collapsed chair unit. When assembled, the collapsed chair unit is matedly engaged in the receiving area of the base unit with the chair unit extending outwardly from the base unit to serve as a handle for controlling rolling and tilting operation of the base unit. When disassembled, the chair unit may be opened into the use condition, and the base unit may serve as a side table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Hickory Springs Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Paul Weldon, Jeryldene Weldon, Julie Weldon, John Saladino, Rapier James, James Tate, Robert Gibson
  • Patent number: 8777306
    Abstract: A foldable chair, operable between a seating configuration and a rolling transport configuration, the foldable chair comprising a plurality of legs with a roller secured to the distal end of each leg and the proximal end of each leg secured to a column base. Extending from the column base is a column with a first and second end, the column first end secured to the column base and the second end of the column secured to a first platform or seat cushion. A second platform extends downwardly from the first platform for attaching a carrying case. Also included is a backrest rotatably secured to the first platform such that when the backrest is perpendicular to the first platform two roller elements are fully shrouded. When the backrest is rotated 90 degrees and disposed substantially parallel to the seat cushion the roller elements are exposed for rolling contact with the ground surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Inventor: Brenda D. Rahm
  • Patent number: 8740298
    Abstract: A convertible chair with upright and reclined configurations is disclosed. Embodiments of the invention include a chair that collapses to form a dolly and expands to form a chair with upright and reclined seating configurations. Alternate embodiments include a base connected to a seat with a four bar linkage. In still further embodiments, one side of the four bar linkage is extended outside the pivoting joints, the extended portion being pivotally and slidingly engaged with the base. In other embodiments, the chair is configured to maintain the occupant's center of mass near the primary weight supporting pivot linkage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Purdue Research Foundation
    Inventors: Leah Kenttamaa-Squires, Kyle Amick
  • Publication number: 20140097649
    Abstract: A convertible dual purpose device (10) has a frame (12) movable between an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration, supporting means (28) connected to the frame for supporting one or more objects, handle means (14, 16, 18, 20) at a first end of the frame, and wheel means (26) at a second end of the frame. When the frame is in the expanded configuration, the device can be positioned in a first orientation whereby the supporting means is adapted to serve as a load support for a chair, or in a second orientation whereby the supporting means is adapted to serve as a load support for a wheel barrow. When the frame is in the collapsed configuration, the device can be stored in a carry bag (42).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2012
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Inventor: James Patrick Cardona
  • Patent number: 8573454
    Abstract: A combination backpack and seating apparatus. The present invention comprises a seat member having a top wall, at least one side wall, a front wall, and a rear wall defining a seat volume. A back support is rotatably connected proximal to the rear wall of the member and is rotatable between an angled position that is inclined relative to the sitting surface and a horizontal position substantially adjacent to the sitting surface. The invention comprises a foldable support assembly that is configurable to a generally planar folded state and an expanded state, wherein in the folded state the support assembly is rotatable between a first position that is generally parallel to the sitting surface. The invention further comprises an enclosure detachably connected to the back support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Inventor: Rafael Alberto Talavera Tolentino
  • Patent number: 8567860
    Abstract: A multipurpose folding chair is disclosed. The chair includes a frame that may be configured for a variety of applications. Locking mechanisms may secure leg portions, a backrest portion, and a footrest portion of the chair in multiple positions relative to a seat of the chair. The chair may be configured to receive a container such as a backpack. In the container receiving configuration, a shoulder strap of the container may be used to carry both the container and the chair. The chair may be equipped with wheels to facilitate portability. The chair includes an integral lumbar support element to support the back of the user. The chair may be optionally equipped with a footrest, armrests, and/or a headrest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Inventor: Ambert Jue
  • Patent number: 8544941
    Abstract: A rolling car seat includes a car seat having back and seat portions configured to receive a seated child. A length-adjustable handle assembly is operatively coupled to the back portion and selectively movable between a retracted configuration not extending above a back portion upper end and an extended configuration extending above the back portion upper end. The rolling car seat includes a wheel assembly having a pair of spaced apart wheels operatively coupled to said the back portion and selectively movable between a withdrawn configuration adjacent said back portion rear surface and a deployed configuration displaced from the back portion rear surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Inventors: Kathy Coote, Omar Coote
  • Patent number: 8534754
    Abstract: Bicycle apparatus for use with a bicycle that, includes a bicycle seat post, the apparatus including at least one bicycle seat support member (14), a pair of locking members (28,30) mechanically linked to the bicycle-seat support member (14), and a lock (32) adapted to lock the locking members (28,30) to each other, wherein in a first position the bicycle seat support member (14) is securable to a bicycle seat post of a bicycle for use as a bicycle seat support, and in a second position the bicycle seat support member (14) is arranged for locking the bicycle by being locked with the locking members (28,30) and the lock (32).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Ino Vision Ltd.
    Inventor: Oren Livne
  • Patent number: 8517462
    Abstract: A configurable seating device comprising a first portion, the first portion including a strap, wherein the strap is configured to securably engage a structure, a second portion hingedly connected to the first portion, and a third portion hingedly connected to the second portion, wherein the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion hingedly move from a first position to a second position, wherein, when in the first position, the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion are in a substantially vertical alignment, wherein, when in the second position, the second portion supports a user in a seated position a distance above the ground and the third portion extends from the second portion in a direction which elevates the second portion the distance above the ground is provided. Furthermore, an associated method is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Multiseat, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard R. Birch
  • Patent number: 8505999
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a body structure, a cargo surface, and a vehicular seat assembly. The body structure defines a floor. The vehicular seat assembly includes a left leg member, a right leg member, a support member, a seat back, and a cover panel. The support member is attached to the left and right leg members. The seat back is pivotally coupled with the left and right leg members. The seat back is pivotable between an upright position and a cargo support position. The cover panel is coupled with the support member and is movable between a stowed position and a bridging position. When the seat back is in the cargo support position with the cover panel in the bridging position, the support member provides underlying support for the cover panel, and the cargo surface, the cover panel, and the seat back cooperate to provide a generally planar load support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kelly Michael Whalen, Grey Burchfield Parker, Todd Alan Morris, Eric Dustin Daume, Brooks G. Marquette, Matthew W. Wolfe
  • Publication number: 20130181489
    Abstract: A safety brake type rollator that will prevent the misuse of rollators by seated users by using a braking system that locks the rollator wheels when the user sits down on the rollator seat, and releases when the user stands up. The cables that run from the hand brakes of the rollator to under the rollator seat are stretched by the user sitting down on the rollator seat, so locking the wheels. According to a further embodiment, whenever a user sits on the seat the braking system pulls the hand brakes into the locked position, so engaging the wheel brake mechanisms. According to this further embodiment, the hand brakes must then be disengaged from the locked position when the user stands up from the seat for the rollator to be mobile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2012
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Applicant: MEDICAL DEPOT INC.
    Inventors: Michael Serhan, Doug Francis
  • Patent number: 8356823
    Abstract: A wheelbarrow convertible to an adjustable-tilt chair includes a pair of spaced-apart elongated rails, a wheel and axle assembly operably attached adjacent the distal ends of the elongated rails, two support legs, a hopper having two side walls, a bottom member, a front panel, and a seat panel. A pivot rod is rotatably attached to the pair of rails and to a first underside portion of the hopper bottom. Additionally, a brace is hingedly attached at one end to a second underside portion of the hopper bottom, the brace including an elongated rod at an opposite end which adjustably engages with at least one adjustment bracket having a plurality of notches communicating with apertures for engagement with the elongated rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Inventor: Paul Berginc
  • Patent number: 8336959
    Abstract: A vehicle mounted printer station is made up of a printer secured to a support surface tray that includes an adaptor capable of attaching the tray and printer to the top of a vehicle seat. The support surface is preferably a rectangular shaped plate with front, back and side edges along with top and bottom surfaces. The bottom surface is attached to the adaptor, the adaptor includes at least one attachment rod for securing the support surface to the vehicle seat. The attachment rods are sized to be received into receptacles provided in the top of a vehicle seat designed for the vehicle headrest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: LEM Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: William D. Cottrell, Kenneth B. Wiseman, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20120292952
    Abstract: The dual-chair beach wagon includes attachable beach chairs with removable wheels that convert the beach chairs into a rolling wagon for transport of beach paraphernalia. The beach chairs have arm latches and frame brackets that allow them to be removably connected together at opposing front ends to form the wagon. When disconnected each chair serves as a standard beach chair. The removably attachable wheels attach to adjustable rear legs of the beach chairs. In preparation for beach wagon mode, the front legs can be folded up and secured with a recessed leg lock to facilitate attachment of the two chairs using the arm latches and frame brackets to form the beach wagon. A pull rod is attachable to one end of the dual chair configuration. Wheels on the pull rod attachment end of the dual chair configuration have independently pivotal axles to facilitate steering of the wagon transport.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventor: ROBERT L. TYSON, III
  • Publication number: 20120274103
    Abstract: A convertible chair with upright and reclined configurations is disclosed. Embodiments of the invention include a chair that collapses to form a dolly and expands to form a chair with upright and reclined seating configurations. Alternate embodiments include a base connected to a seat with a four bar linkage. In still further embodiments, one side of the four bar linkage is extended outside the pivoting joints, the extended portion being pivotally and slidingly engaged with the base. In other embodiments, the chair is configured to maintain the occupant's center of mass near the primary weight supporting pivot linkage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2012
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicant: Purdue Research Foundation
    Inventors: Leah Kenttamaa-Squires, Kyle Amick
  • Patent number: 8297669
    Abstract: A ball hopper comprising a frame, a divider, a plurality of elastic members and a seat, wherein the frame further comprises a lower, middle and upper portion and at least one rigid connector joining the lower, middle and upper portion, and wherein the divider separates the frame into a lower compartment and an upper compartment, and wherein the plurality of elastic members are removably secured to the lower portion of the frame. The ball hopper provides a method for collecting, distributing (while a user is standing or sitting) and transporting balls by pressing the ball hopper over an object, such that at least one of the plurality of elastic members allows the object to enter the lower compartment. Further, the ball hopper may be utilized as a seat, such that the divider forces collected balls towards the top of the ball hopper for easy removal from the lower compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: BallCollectors, LLC
    Inventor: Christopher Howard Matthews
  • Patent number: 8297642
    Abstract: The dual-chair beach wagon is a rolling cart that can be converted into separately usable beach chairs after a user has finished transporting items with the beach wagon. The cart comprises opposing beach chairs designed with wheels. Beach chairs are removably connected together at opposing ends to form a wagon. When disconnected each chair serves as a standard beach chair. The beach chairs include reconfigurable legs equipped with retractable wheels. In preparation for beach wagon mode, the front legs can be folded up into a recessed locked position to facilitate attachment of the two chairs to form the beach wagon. A rotatable platform joins the axle of one of the chairs to facilitate wagon transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Inventor: Robert L. Tyson, III
  • Patent number: 8256834
    Abstract: A portable chair with ice chest assembly operative to interconnect with one another to create an easily-accessible beverage display, for use in display and marketing purposes, sporting events, and the like, and thereafter be collapsed to assume a space-efficient and easily transportable device. The portable chair comprises a foldable chair member operative to transition from a compact configuration to an open configuration defining supporting legs, a back rest and a seating portion. An expandable ice chest member is operative to be received upon the seating area defined by the portable chair and further preferably includes a lid member that can engage with the back rest of the portable chair. A covering may further be provided to extend about the assembled portable chair with ice chest thereon to create a compact, aesthetically pleasing beverage display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Innovative Displayworks, Inc.
    Inventor: Nathan Linder
  • Patent number: 8182030
    Abstract: A child carrier luggage assembly for facilitating transportation of a child while traveling includes a wheeled luggage bag and a seat assembly coupled to the front of the luggage bag. The seat assembly includes a seat member hingedly coupled to the front of the luggage bag and a strap assembly coupled between the seat member and the front of the luggage bag. A pedestal member is hingedly coupled to the seat member such that the pedestal member extends outwardly from the seat member to support the seat member when the seat member is in an open position. Alternatively, the seat assembly is coupled to a panel attached to the wheeled luggage bag using a harness assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Inventor: Craig M. Britten
  • Patent number: 8128103
    Abstract: An optionally deployable side seat for a baby stroller, to seat a second child, is secured by hand-operated connectors to nearly any baby or child stroller, without tools. The side seat faces to the side of the stroller and has a deployed position in which two wheels mounted in tandem on the side seat frame contact the pavement. For stowing the side seat remains on the stroller, and two quick-release lockable joints, in the position of arms on the side seat, are released and raised upwardly, which folds the seat bottom up against the seat back and raises up a lower frame portion that supports the wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Inventors: Marie Schutzendorf, Corbett Griffith
  • Patent number: 8109565
    Abstract: An automotive seat has a seat back and a seat bottom that are movable between a seating configuration and a work desk configuration. When moving from the seating configuration to the work desk configuration, the seat bottom pivots forwardly into a generally vertical orientation and the seat back pivots downwardly into a generally horizontal orientation. The seat bottom supports an end of the seat back when the seat bottom and the seat back are in the work desk configuration. The back surface of the seat back faces upwardly to provide a work surface when the seat bottom and the seat back are in the work desk configuration. Sufficient space is provided beneath the seat back when in the work desk configuration to accommodate a person's legs underneath the seat back.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignees: Bright Automotive, Inc., Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: John E. Waters, Daniel A. Friedman, David B. Busch, Rollin Nothwehr, Jonathan Peter Cansfield, Emery Jay Zadina
  • Patent number: 8091957
    Abstract: A seat comprising a component that is cushioned on one side and is disposed on a seat base. A pivot/rotation mechanism is operatively connected to the seat base and the component for displacing the component, in a positively guided manner, in a position into which the cushion side faces downwardly, and in which at least one further auxiliary utility is accessible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: MAN Nutzfahrzeuge Osterreich AG
    Inventor: Christian Allmann
  • Patent number: 8042784
    Abstract: The present invention includes a frame that is quickly and easily assembled and disassembled. The frame may be used for supporting a portable forced air heater, or other similar equipment. Handles, supports, and optionally a wheel assembly is assembled to two core members using snap lock buttons. In a preferred embodiment, the portable forced air heater includes a maintenance clock for measuring and recording operational parameters of a portable forced air heater, and for notifying a user that maintenance is required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignees: Pinnacle Products International, Inc., SP Elemech
    Inventors: Steve McCalley, Kyu Sam Hwang
  • Patent number: 7967386
    Abstract: An armrest assembly for an automobile seat, in which an armrest protrudes from a foldable seatback such that a passenger rests his/her arm on the armrest when the seatback is folded, and comes into contact with the seatback when the seatback is folded out in order to take a seat. The armrest assembly includes an armrest, which is installed on a seatback of the seat via links so as to protrude from the seatback, an external force transmitting device, which is coupled with at least one of the links, and transmits external force to the coupled link such that the armrest protrudes from the seatback, and a pressing unit, which installed on one side of the seatback such that the external force is applied to the external force transmitting device when the seatback is folded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Seon Chae Na
  • Publication number: 20110062751
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a reconfigurable seating arrangement (10) for car, bus, trains, or the like, comprising first (1) and second (2) frame section elements connected with a backrest part (IA) and a seat part (2A), respectively. A connection and reconfiguration device (3) connects said first frame section element (1) with said second frame section element (2) so that the seating arrangement (10) can be reconfigured between a first functional state wherein the seat part (2A) and the backrest part (IA) form a seat having a backrest, and a second functional state wherein the lower part of the seat part (2A2) forms vertical support to wheelchair (20) or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Publication date: March 17, 2011
    Applicant: Cha Be Di AB
    Inventor: Håkan Andersson
  • Patent number: 7874612
    Abstract: A vehicle mounted printer station is made up of a printer secured to a support surface tray that includes an adapter capable of attaching the tray and printer to the top of a vehicle seat. The support surface is preferably a rectangular shaped plate with front, back and side edges along with top and bottom surfaces. The bottom surface is attached to the adapter, the adapter includes at least one attachment rod for securing the support surface to the vehicle seat. The attachment rods are sized to be received into receptacles provided in the top of a vehicle seat designed for the vehicle headrest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: LEM Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: William D. Cottrell, Kenneth B. Wiseman, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20100327635
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a body structure, a cargo surface, and a vehicular seat assembly. The body structure defines a floor. The vehicular seat assembly includes a left leg member, a right leg member, a support member, a seat back, and a cover panel. The support member is attached to the left and right leg members. The seat back is pivotally coupled with the left and right leg members. The seat back is pivotable between an upright position and a cargo support position. The cover panel is coupled with the support member and is movable between a stowed position and a bridging position. When the seat back is in the cargo support position with the cover panel in the bridging position, the support member provides underlying support for the cover panel, and the cargo surface, the cover panel, and the seat back cooperate to provide a generally planar load support surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2009
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Inventors: Kelly Michael Whalen, Grey Burchfield Parker, Todd Alan Morris, Eric Dustin Daume, Brooks G. Marquette, Matthew W. Wolfe
  • Patent number: 7832797
    Abstract: A foldable chair that is convertible to either a seat or a table that includes a laterally extending wedge shaped frame, a backrest, a leg, and a seat. The chair includes two chambers for respectively receiving the backrest and the leg. The backrest and the leg are pivotally connected to the seat. The chair includes a locking structure for securing the backrest and leg in either of a retracted or extended state. In the retracted state, the backrest and leg are flush with the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventor: Takeshi Miyakawa
  • Publication number: 20100278626
    Abstract: A collecting apparatus having a seat, and method of use thereof, wherein the collecting apparatus comprises a plurality of selectively positionable elastic members secured to a plurality of securing points on a lower portion of a frame or a removable base section connected to the frame. The elastic members are secured to user-selected securing points so that the distance between the elastic members can accommodate objects of different sizes. The collecting apparatus is pressed on top of a ball or similar object, causing the elastic members to separate and allow the ball or similar object to enter and be retained within the frame. Upon entering of the object within the frame, the elastic members retract to their original position, therein preventing the object from falling back out. Objects can be retrieved by lifting the seat or reaching through an aperture formed by a seat opening and a frame front opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Inventor: Jeff Beavin
  • Patent number: 7775587
    Abstract: A compact portable chair with attachable combination padded seat and backrest. The chair further includes a backrest framework hingeably joined with the seat framework. A back support framework is rotatable between an upwardly extended position for establishing a backrest and a laid-over position to parallel with the seat framework. Back and front leg support frameworks are hingeably joined to the underside of the seat framework and are rotatable inward and upward to parallel positions with the seat framework. The four legs are individually adjustable by means of a sliding sleeve and button locking system. The compact portable chair is further mountable onto a person's back by means of a detachable pair of shoulder straps connected to the backrest and seat frameworks. The chair further has cup holders included with a pair of armrests that are detachable. A further embodiment includes an attachable backpack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Inventor: William Fischer Reed
  • Patent number: 7770966
    Abstract: A passenger seat assembly and method for converting the seat assembly between a three-seat configuration and a two-seat configuration includes a seat assembly base and first, second, and third seats mounted on the seat assembly base. The first and third seats define outboard seats and the second seat defines an inboard seat disposed between the outboard seats. The seat back of the inboard seat includes an upper portion movably mounted to the lower portion. The seat bottom is removable and repositionable between the three-seat configuration and the two-seat configuration to form a convenience area between the outboard seats. A power console movably mounted on the seat assembly base supports the seat bottom of the inboard seat and provides at least one power outlet for supplying electrical power. In particular, the inboard seat is convertible between a seating configuration and a non-seating configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: BE Aerospace, Inc.
    Inventor: Glenn A. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20100187868
    Abstract: Bicycle apparatus for use with a bicycle that, includes a bicycle seat post, the apparatus including at least one bicycle seat support member (14), a pair of locking members (28,30) mechanically linked to the bicycle-seat support member (14), and a lock (32) adapted to lock the locking members (28,30) to each other, wherein in a first position the bicycle seat support member (14) is securable to a bicycle seat post of a bicycle for use as a bicycle seat support, and in a second position the bicycle seat support member (14) is arranged for locking the bicycle by being locked with the locking members (28,30) and the lock (32).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2008
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Inventor: Oren Livne
  • Patent number: RE43847
    Abstract: A support including a frame having a tension member coupled to the frame is disclosed. The frame has a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. The tension member is disposable in a first position to provide support for an arm of a user and a second position to be carried on a shoulder of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Kelsyus, LLC
    Inventors: Brian Edward Le Gette, David Reeb, Alan Tipp, Justin Saul Werner, Inna Alesina