Connecting Panels Patents (Class 312/265.5)
  • Patent number: 8042890
    Abstract: A cabinet comprises a plurality of selected cabinet-defining components wherein components defining said cabinet integrally define at least one respective cooperating part of at least one coupling element, said components all secured respectively together exclusively by said respective cooperating parts and the coupling elements formed by said respective cooperating parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Edsal Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: James E. Collins, David J. Wojtowicz, Anthony J. Troyner, Mitchell S. Liss, Thomas St. Germain
  • Patent number: 7965499
    Abstract: A computer case including a body, a first rear window, a blocking panel, and a plurality of exchangeable modules is provided. The body has a containing opening. The first rear window is assembled to the body and is located within the containing opening, and the first rear window has a module opening and a blocking panel opening. One of the exchangeable modules is assembled to the first rear window. The blocking panel is assembled to the first rear window and is located within the blocking panel opening, and the blocking panel has a plurality of connector openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Inventec Corporation
    Inventors: Lian-Chang Du, Shou-Jen Yang
  • Patent number: 7918515
    Abstract: A modular shelving system comprises multiple panels, multiple connection bars and multiple connectors. Each panel has multiple mortises. Each connection bar is connected to at least two panels and has multiple housing channels having slots. The connectors are respectively mounted in the housing channels of the connection bars and have four shoulders and multiple arms. The shoulders are formed at right angles to each other and one shoulder is mounted in a corresponding slot. The arms are formed on, protrude from the shoulders and respectively extend into corresponding mortises of the panels and two, three or four arms may be implemented. The modular shelving system can be conveniently assembled and disassembled in various combinations for different spaces while maintaining design consistency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: Chi Yu Steel Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chi-Chung Wang
  • Publication number: 20110068668
    Abstract: An improved cabinet assembly includes a plurality of wall panels and at least two generally rectangular horizontal support members to define a parallelepiped configuration. The cabinet comprises a plurality of elongate corner posts, at least one for each corner of the parallelepiped configuration. The corner posts selectively support the wall panels in the parallelepiped configuration. Each corner post has a rectangular through bore extending a length of the corner post. Each of the at least two horizontal support members include rectangular through bores aligned with the corner post through bores at each corner of the parallelepiped configuration. A plurality of rectangular splines are provided, one for each corner of the parallelepiped configuration. Each of the splines is received in the aligned rectangular through bores at one of the corners of the parallelepiped configuration to maintain the cabinet assembly in assembled relationship.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2009
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Crosbie Wilson
  • Patent number: 7874627
    Abstract: An assembly for connecting plates is provided. A first plate has a first opening and a second opening; a metal wire is movably connected to one surface of the first plate, and the metal wire includes a bending portion corresponding to the position of the first opening; a spring connects the first plate and the metal wire; a pressing element is fixed on the metal wire and passes through the second opening of the first plate to protrude from the other surface of the first plate. The second plate has a hook. When the first plate and the second plate are assembled, the hook of the second plate passes through the first opening of the first plate, and the bending portion of the first plate prevents the hook from separating from the first opening by tension force of the spring thus to connect the first plate and the second plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Asustek Computer Inc.
    Inventors: Hsin-Hung Hsiao, Lin-Hsu Chiang
  • Publication number: 20110006654
    Abstract: A compact collapsible bar includes a rigid top frame and a rigid bottom frame. A collapsible fabric enclosure is permanently connected to the top frame and to the bottom frame. A set of rigid collapsible legs is removably connected to the top frame and to the bottom frame. When collapsed, the entire bar assembly can be stored in a compact carrying bag.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2010
    Publication date: January 13, 2011
    Inventors: Ellen Hassman, Kathleen Casey, Mark Steven Chrislip
  • Publication number: 20110006651
    Abstract: A composite plate cabinet includes plurality of supporting plates and plurality of inner barrier plates. Said supporting plates include some side supporting plates and some transverse supporting plates. The plurality of supporting plates are coupled and fixed to form a framework. The inner barrier plates are coupled between the supporting plates, in this way plurality of putting spaces are formed by the combination between the inner barrier plates and the supporting plates. The supporting plates and the inner barrier plates are totally or partially composite plates. The composite plate includes a faceplate, a base plate, a cellular inner core and inner liner elements. The cellular inner core is filled between the faceplate and the base plate. The inner liner elements are located between the faceplate and the base plate for connecting the composite plates and enhancing the structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2006
    Publication date: January 13, 2011
    Inventor: Luhao Leng
  • Patent number: 7866769
    Abstract: A storage system includes a shell having a plurality of walls and a plurality of rails. The plurality of walls are coupled to one another to form a storage chamber therebetween and to define a plurality of intersection edges. Each of the plurality of intersection edges is formed at a corresponding boundary of two adjacent ones of the plurality of walls. The plurality of rails each extend outwardly from a corresponding one of the plurality of intersection edges with an angled orientation relative to each of the two adjacent ones of the plurality of walls. A cross-sectional thickness of each of the plurality of rails increases as each of the plurality of rails extends away from one of the plurality of intersection edges. Related storage and organization systems, pillows, accessories and methods are also disclosed and provide additional advantages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Target Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Dirk Ahlgrim, Douglas Dayton, Angie Kim, Monica Kuznik, Samuel Palmer, David Weissburg, Gretchen Wustrack
  • Publication number: 20100283363
    Abstract: A ready to assemble modular article of furniture includes a plurality of panels adapted to be assembled without the use of tools. A plurality of fittings are adapted for securing the plurality of panels in assembled relationship, each of the fittings including a first component and a second component. At least a first one of the panels having a surface supporting at least one of the first components. At least a second one of the panels having a surface supporting at least one of the second components. The first and second panels are arrangeable in transverse relationship with the first and second components in alignment with each other, whereby manipulation of the first component without the use of tools causes the first component to engage the second component thereby securing the first and second panels together in transverse relationship.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2010
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Applicant: Bell'O International Corp.
    Inventors: Robert Weitz, Steve Connor
  • Publication number: 20100277046
    Abstract: A modular flat pack computer cabinet has a lower cabinet and an upper cabinet. The lower cabinet has a bottom board, multiple sideboards, a door panel and a top board. The sideboards are mounted on the bottom board to form a space and are connected to each other by multiple inserting elements mounted in the mounting recesses of the sideboards. The door panel is pivotally connected to one of the sideboards. The top board is mounted on the sideboards. The upper cabinet is detachably mounted on the lower cabinet and has a base and a monitor container. The base of the upper cabinet is mounted on the top board of the lower cabinet. The monitor container is formed on the base of the upper cabinet opposite to the lower cabinet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Inventor: Ping-Hong Kuo
  • Patent number: 7824125
    Abstract: A self-aligning coupling device for installation in a channel having an open end and a pair of substantially parallel side walls. The device includes an elongate connecting portion having a longitudinal axis, a channel abutment portion, and at least one laterally projecting lug. In use, the coupling device is installed in the channel with the channel abutment portion located at least partially within the channel and the laterally projecting lug located outside the open end of the channel. The channel abutment portion is formed such that when aligned in a first angular position within the channel it abuts the side walls of the channel to prevent rotation of the device in a first rotational direction about said longitudinal axis, while allowing rotation in a second, opposed rotational direction. The lug is formed such that in said first angular position it extends beyond at least one of the side walls of the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Rapidjoint Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Jarrod Leigh Dorney, Paul Van De Loo, Kenneth Gransbury
  • Patent number: 7798740
    Abstract: Fixing element for fixing a first and second panel to one another, which fixing element is provided on both sides with first and second insertion ends facing away from one another for insertion in a complementary cut-out in each panel, comprising at least a first snap-fit member on the first insertion end and at least one associated first bearing surface facing said snap-fit member for clamping the first panel between them, as well as at least a second snap-fit member on the second insertion end and at least one associated second bearing surface facing said snap-fit member for clamping the second panel between them. The bearing surfaces lie in the same plane in different positions, so that panels that have been fixed to one another with the fixing element are directly in contact with one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Van Zandbergen Industrieel Plaatwerk B.V.
    Inventor: Cornelis Pieter Kaufman
  • Patent number: 7682100
    Abstract: A self-tightening device for fastening two structures together includes a female component and a male component where the female component is capable of receiving the male component. The female component includes a moveable member, an energy storing mechanism and a retaining mechanism. The movable member is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. The energy storing mechanism has stored energy for causing the moveable member to move from the unlocked to locked position when the energy in the energy-storing mechanism is released. The retaining mechanism holds the energy-storing mechanism in the stored-energy state until the retaining mechanism is released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: Nectar, Inc.
    Inventor: John Andrew Duval
  • Publication number: 20100013363
    Abstract: A collapsible cabinet includes a collapsible frame comprising a plurality of shelves; and a plurality of fabric drawers each releasably disposed in the shelf.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2007
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventor: Chunsong Wang
  • Publication number: 20090295261
    Abstract: A folding chair, including a first folding support and a second folding support, the first folding support includes a first front leg, a first back leg and a seat, the upper-end of the first front leg is pivotally connected to the lateral front-end of the seat, the first front leg is pivotally cross-linked with the first back leg, the lateral side of the seat is slidably and pivotally connected to the first back leg; the second folding support includes a second front leg, a second back leg and a second horizontal bearing-rod, connection of the second folding support is similar to that of the first folding support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2005
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventor: Luhao Leng
  • Patent number: 7626816
    Abstract: An exemplary housing of a foldable electronic device includes a first cover, a second cover, a latching member, a contact member, and a resilient member. The first cover includes a lock receiving portion. The second cover includes a fixing portion. The latching member includes a pivot hole, a first transmission portion, and a lock portion configured for engaging with the lock receiving portion. The pivot hole engages with the fixing portion such that the latching member is rotatable relative to the fixing portion. The contact member includes a second transmission portion. The second transmission portion engages with the first transmission portion and is able to drive the latching member to rotate. The resilient member drives the latching member to rotate to its original position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Zi-Ming Tang
  • Publication number: 20090284111
    Abstract: Articles of breakdown furniture (e.g., a desk and a TV stand) that can be quickly and easily assembled and disassembled by a user without the need for traditional tools, in a relatively short time, and with minimal assistance. In its disassembled condition, the furniture is advantageously adapted to be packaged and transported in compact shipping containers. A removable top is detachably connected between a pair of opposing sides or legs by locking pins which slide through lock bodies affixed to the detachable top for receipt by respective pin holes formed in the sides. A back panel is connected between the pair of opposing sides by connectors which project from ends of the support panel for removable receipt by slotted brackets affixed to the sides. In the case of the desk, a removable pull-out drawer is located below the removable top to be slidably received by grooves formed along the sides.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2008
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventors: Thomas B. Hazzard, Steven Krause
  • Publication number: 20090251035
    Abstract: A ready to assemble cabinet includes a first panel that has a first side that corresponds to a base panel and a second panel that has a second panel that corresponds to the second side of that base panel. Each of the first and second panels includes at least one dimension that is unique or different from a dimension on the other panel. These unique dimensions correspond with a specific side of the base panel to prevent incorrect assembly of the cabinet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventors: Justin Cash, Thomas H. Fenton
  • Publication number: 20090251031
    Abstract: A sectional cabinet is assembled from a bottom, a top, a rear wall, a left, and a right wall. The bottom wall is provided on an upper side along rear, left, and right sides with a groove each for the lower sides of the rear, left, and right walls to insert therein, and the top wall is provided on a lower side along rear, left, and right sides with a groove each for the upper sides of the rear, left, and right walls to insert therein. Locating dowels are extended into dowel holes provided on the rear, left, and right sides of the bottom and top walls, as well as through holes provided on lower and upper sides of the rear, left, and right walls, so as to secure the rear, left, and right walls to the bottom and top walls. No tools are needed in assembling the sectional cabinet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Applicant: PROTREND CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Henry CHEN
  • Patent number: 7585005
    Abstract: A bezel has a locking mechanism that allows bezel designs to locate the bezel lock anywhere along the length of the bezel. The bezel includes a bezel frame, a first plunger mechanism, and a second plunger mechanism. Each plunger mechanism is moveably coupled to the bezel frame at opposite ends of the bezel frame and is movable between a latched position and an unlatched position. A first rod is attached to the first plunger mechanism and a second rod is attached to the second plunger mechanism. A cam lock is positioned between the first rod and the second rod. The cam lock is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the cam lock restricts movement of both rods sufficiently to stop the plunger mechanisms from moving from the latched position to the unlatched position when the cam lock is in the locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: EMC Corporation
    Inventors: Gerald J. Cote, W. Brian Cunningham, Albert F. Beinor, Jr., C. Ilhan Gundogan
  • Patent number: 7581303
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a chassis assembly to reduce electromagnetic interference is disclosed. The method includes forming a chassis having a chassis cover top portion, a chassis cover step portion, a chassis cover pre-step portion, a hemmed edge, a hemmed lip, and one or more dimpled spring fingers, by forming a first bend at the hemmed edge residing between the hemmed lip and the chassis cover pre-step portion, forming a second bend between the chassis cover step portion and the chassis cover pre-step portion, and forming a third bend between the chassis cover top portion and the chassis cover step portion. The method further including forming a fourth bends between a chassis back top portion and a chassis back. The formed chassis cover is then seated with the chassis back to create a tortuous path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: The DIRECTV Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Nancy Soule, Brian Kash, Andrew Poynot
  • Publication number: 20090200905
    Abstract: In a method and apparatus for mounting and retention of ancillary equipment to cover panels of a magnetic field generator of a magnetic resonance imaging system having a cryogenic refrigerator and/or liquid cryogen housed within at least an outer vacuum container, ancillary equipment, cables and conduits are attached to the magnetic field generator, by integrating the electronic assemblies, cables and conduits into a set of modular covers which are connected to each other on installation. The covers may be mechanically mounted directly to the OVC, enabling them to be quickly fitted either in the factory or on the user's site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2009
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Applicant: Siemens Magnet Technology Ltd.
    Inventors: Russell Peter GORE, Richard Gowland
  • Patent number: 7540575
    Abstract: A computer case retention structure includes a cover and a base. The base has a bottom plate and a guided way with a protruding hook. The cover has at least one side plate, a first and second elastic blades are disposed on the side plate. A protrusion is extended downward from a tip of the second elastic blade to slide against the guided way. For fixing the cover onto the base, the protrusion slides over the protruding hook and then stopped by the protruding hook, so that the cover is fixed onto the base without being moved relative to the base. For removing the cover, a release element disposed on the first elastic blade is pressed to bend the first and second elastic blades, separating the protrusion from the guided way. Then the cover can be removed from the base without the protrusion being stopped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Assignee: Lite-On Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Shu-Hua Mau
  • Patent number: 7529082
    Abstract: Each of attachments 50 has fixtures formed in a base part 51 for fixation to metal fixtures 80a and 80b. It also has a projecting part 52 having two surfaces formed on its side which opposes one of brackets 20. The two surfaces differ in height by an amount corresponding to the difference in height between the metal fixtures 80a and 80b. Each of the two surfaces has a fixture formed thereon. The brackets 20 each have screw holes and clearance holes formed in their portions which oppose, when their vertical locations relative to PDP 10a and PDP 10b are kept unchanged, the attachments 50 fixed to the metal fixtures 80a and 80b, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: Funai Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Naoto Maruta
  • Patent number: 7494198
    Abstract: A cabinet includes a decorative corner cover for concealing unfinished corner regions of the cabinet. The cabinet includes laterally spaced side walls that are joined by a top wall to form corner regions having an opening. The cover member includes a main body having first and second ends with the first end having a tab element that projects substantially perpendicularly from the main body portion. The tab element is preferably cylindrical and formed with a longitudinal slot that creates a radial spring. The tab element further includes a hook member integrally formed with the cylindrical element. The cylindrical element is inserted into the opening so that the hook member engages with the cabinet. The radial spring provides a biasing force that retains the cover in place. Preferably, the opening is constituted by a slot providing additional gripping surfaces for the hook member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: Maytag Corporation
    Inventor: Forrest P. Wing
  • Patent number: 7484819
    Abstract: A reveal is formed on a piece of furniture by fastening a reveal frame to a front edge of a furniture body. The reveal frame is fastened to the body by plural double-ended barbed fasteners that engage both a channel in the reveal frame and a channel formed in the front edge of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: Haworth, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenneth Frederick, Dariusz Gorniak, Adrian Farcas, Robert Steeves
  • Publication number: 20090015122
    Abstract: A ready-to-assemble (RTA) modular desktop cabinet has a multiple dowels, multiple clasp connectors, two side panels, a rear panel, a main shelf, a pedestal assembly and a top panel. The rear panel has a top board and a bottom board. The side panels are mounted parallelly and detachably mounted to the rear panel, the main shelf, the pedestal assembly and the top panel independently using dowels or clasp connectors. Further, the bottom board is hinged to the top board, so that the footprint of the folded rear panel is reduced for transport and storage. Furthermore, the RTA modular cabinet can be assembled and disassembled easily without needing tools.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2007
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Applicant: GRACE CHANCE ENTERPRISE CO., LTD
    Inventor: Wen-Te HO
  • Patent number: 7467502
    Abstract: Walls and other structures can be made from blocks assembled from relatively light-weight standard panels that fit together like a puzzle. The blocks are held together without the use of mortar. Each block is formed of six rectangular panels fitted together by sliding capturable elements into cooperating receiving grooves. All of the panels have a common thickness and each panel has two parallel faces. Three types of panels are involved in making the block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Inventor: Hamdi R Syla
  • Patent number: 7464946
    Abstract: A collapsible storage device provides an easily transportable appliance that is preferably constructed to function as an entertainment center. The various components of the collapsible storage device may be conveniently stored within the stowage unit of the device when the device is disassembled. The inclusion of wheels and a handle on the stowage unit enable simple movement when disassembled and the inclusion of a locking door provides the ability to safely secure valuables within the internal cavity of the stowage unit. The various connection methods used to assemble the collapsible storage device enable the device to be easily assembled by hand without the use of complex tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Assignee: Marco Enterprises LLC
    Inventors: Christopher A. Marklevitz, Frederick A. Marklevitz, James L. Marklevitz
  • Publication number: 20080284302
    Abstract: A modular insulation panel provides insulation to a cabinet having lateral side walls, a back wall and a top wall. A main panel assembly insulates a lateral side wall, wherein the main panel assembly includes a framed double wall structure with a space therebetween for providing insulation to the lateral side wall. An auxiliary panel assembly insulates the back wall, wherein the auxiliary panel assembly includes a framed double wall structure with a space therebetween for providing insulation to the back wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: METRO INDUSTRIES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Jeffrey C. Olson, James L. Kilgallon, Willard J. Sickles, David A. Reppert
  • Patent number: 7451535
    Abstract: A semi-frameless cabinet system including a top panel, bottom panel, two side panels, and a back panel. The cabinet may also include one or more middle shelves, drawers, or doors. Each of the forward facing sides of the cabinet include a grooved surface, wherein edging is secured to each panels such that the panels and edging form an interior space within the cabinet. The edging overlaps the outer edge of the cabinet panels, but not the inner edge, such that the edging and panels are flush within the interior space of the cabinet. As such, the cabinet employs the advantages of both framed and frameless cabinetry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: MasterBrand Cabinets, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew D. Wells, Wayne Andrew Brinkman, John Bennett Rose, II
  • Publication number: 20080246375
    Abstract: A cabinet for displaying goods that designed to minimize the opportunity for tampering. Assisting in such improved tamper resistance are: a welded steel frame around the (two) glass door, having a high flange in front in which the doors are installed from the rear of the frame and upon assembly of the case, are captured on the back side by the bottom panel and the top panel assembly with a top reinforcing channel and covering flange that prevents the top from being pried off the door frame as well as side reinforcing angle channels that prevent the end panels from being pried off of the door frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2007
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Inventor: Neil M. Berg
  • Patent number: 7431409
    Abstract: A panel interlocking structure for adjacent panels of knock down, panel-based furniture, comprising interlock assemblies and connecting panels. Each interlock assembly consists one interlock tube, at least two cubical nuts and at least two interlock bolts. To form the interlock assembly, on a predetermined lengthen rectangular face of the interlock tube, via its corresponding predrilled trans-passing holes, fasten a predetermined number of the interlock bolts into the corresponding tread holes of the cubical nuts positioned inside the interlock tube, with each groove end of the interlock bolt positioned outwardly. Each connecting panel consists one cam lock side and two connection ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Inventor: Shaobin Yang
  • Patent number: 7338141
    Abstract: A control panel assembly for a washing machine is disclosed. The structure of the control panel assembly provided with a decoration member is greatly simplified. The control panel assembly includes a control panel mounted on an outer case of the washing machine, a first decoration member penetrating the control panel and enclosing a push button, a second decoration member enclosing the first decoration member. The second decoration member supports a rear side of the first decoration member and is supported by the control panel and the first decoration member. A transparent cover covers the control panel and supports a front portion of the first decoration member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Dong Won Kang, Moon Soo Song
  • Patent number: 7306299
    Abstract: A semi-frameless cabinet system including a top panel, bottom panel, two side panels, and a back panel. The cabinet may also include one or more middle shelves, drawers, or doors. Each of the forward facing sides of the cabinet include a grooved surface, wherein edging is secured to each panels such that the panels and edging form an interior space within the cabinet. The edging overlaps the outer edge of the cabinet panels, but not the inner edge, such that the edging and panels are flush within the interior space of the cabinet. As such, the cabinet employs the advantages of both framed and frameless cabinets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: MasterBrand Cabinets, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew D. Wells, Wayne Andrew Brinkman, John Bennett Rose, II
  • Patent number: 7274573
    Abstract: A method and assembly for mounting power electronics modules in an equipment cabinet, cubicle or other like equipment space. According to the invention, the power electronics modules are mounted in the equipment space (1) with the help of mounting bases (3), such that the mounting bases (3) comprise fixture means (13, 14) for fixing the mounting base in the equipment space (1) and a mounting plate (16) fixed supportedly by the fixture means (13, 14) so that the first end of the mounting plate is situated closer to the fixture means (14) of the first end than the opposite end (11) of the mounting plate (3) from the fixture means (13) of this opposite end, whereby the mounting plate (16) becomes aligned in a slanted position in the equipment space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: ABB Oy
    Inventor: Pertti Seväkivi
  • Patent number: 7264321
    Abstract: A system for mounting doors to a cabinet assembly which includes posts at the corners of the cabinet assembly. Each corner post defines an inner wall having spaced openings. A pair of door mounting assemblies are engageable with each corner post. Each door mounting assembly includes a hinge assembly and a mounting bracket which is engageable with a pair of openings in the inner wall of the corner post. The hinge assembly includes a first section mounted to the door and a second section mounted to the mounting bracket. The hinge sections are removably engageable with each other, such that the mounting bracket and second hinge section are separately engageable with the post. The mounting bracket includes a pair of engagement members which are received within a pair of openings in the post, to secure the mounting bracket and second section of the hinge to the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: Spacesaver Corporation
    Inventors: Douglas J. Bueley, William H. Punzel
  • Patent number: 7242576
    Abstract: Quick release couplings for releasably coupling components of a computer to the computer are disclosed. The quick release coupling mechanisms are generally configured to allow tool-less placement of the components relative to the computer. That is, the quick release coupling mechanisms are configured to perform their couplings without using conventional fasteners such as screws, bolts, etc. By eliminating the use of fasteners, the components may be inserted and removed from the computer without using tools (e.g., tool-less). Furthermore, the quick release couplings are easy to maneuver thereby enabling quick and straightforward assembly and disassembly of the components to and from the computer (e.g., quick release). For example, the components may be inserted and removed by a simple pushing or pulling motion, and/or by a simple flick of a latch or handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel J. Coster, Daniele De Iuliis, Chiew-Siang Goh, Douglas L. Heirich, Steven Holmes, Jonathan P. Ive, Sung Kim, Rick Mariano, Thomas J. Misage, Dan Riccio, Tang Yew Tan, Jeremy Yaekel
  • Patent number: 7232193
    Abstract: Described is a bezel for an electronics enclosure. The bezel frame includes a frame, first and second plunger mechanisms, a shuttle, and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism has a cam disposed in a path of lateral movement of the first plunger mechanism. The cam is located between that plunger mechanism and a tab of the shuttle. The orientation of the cam determines the extent of lateral movement of the plunger mechanisms. In one orientation, the cam restricts the lateral movement of the first plunger mechanism and urges the shuttle into a position that restricts the lateral movement of the second plunger mechanism. Consequently, neither plunger mechanism is able to move far enough laterally to disengage from a mounting structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Assignee: EMC Corporation
    Inventors: W. Brian Cunningham, C. Ilhan Gundogan, Lawrence J. Feroli, Gerald J. Cote, Steven Cieluch
  • Patent number: 7192102
    Abstract: A control panel assembly of a home appliance enables a planar contact to be made during a thermal fusion of a display panel to a control panel, so that a secure adhesion between the display panel and control panel can be established regardless of design contours of the home appliance. The assembly includes a control panel having a contour according to a design of the home appliance; and a display panel attached to the control panel, wherein a planar contact between the display panel and the control panel is established through a thermal fusion technique. The display panel is provided with a triangular protrusion along rear edge, and the control panel is provided with a recess for receiving the protrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Hye Yong Park, Dong Ha Choi, Sung Rak Gong, Dong In Kim
  • Patent number: 7178886
    Abstract: Connectors for attaching a false front panel over an opening in an object comprise a post piece that is configured to attach to the object and a clip piece that comprises a base that is configured to attach to a rear face of the false front panel and at least one snap clip projecting from the base that is configured to receive the post. The post piece of these false front connectors includes a post that has a non-circular cross-section (e.g., a diamond shape), and the interior of the snap clip may also have a non-circular cross-section that is matched to the cross-section of the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Assignee: Tenn-Tex Plastics, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert C. Hightower
  • Patent number: 7175242
    Abstract: A display apparatus including: a bezel formed with a bending part on an edge thereof; an inner casing which is contact-accomodatable inside the bezel and having a combining hole having an inside wall to contact the bending part when the bezel and the inner casing are combined; and a locking member which cooperates with the combining hole and to be contact-supported by the bending part so as to combine the bezel with the inner casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kyung-kyun Lee, Kwang-sung Hwang
  • Patent number: 7170747
    Abstract: A mounting rack for aircraft has one or more rows, which are located one above the other, each having one or more compartments which are located alongside one another, for holding electronics units, with a compartment being designed for independent insertion and withdrawal of an electronics unit. The compartment in each case is associated with a first electrical plug connector, such that the first plug connector can interact with the corresponding second plug connector of an electronics unit solely as a result of the insertion of the electronics unit into the compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Lufthansa Technik AG
    Inventors: Andrew Muirhead, Henry Starke
  • Patent number: 7125196
    Abstract: A securing device for rear walls set in grooves of cabinet furniture exhibits at least one support element that can be placed in the angle area between the rear wall and a grooved sidewall and at least one other support element that can be placed in the angle area between the rear wall and a grooved shelf and/or top board. The support elements (10) exhibit contact sides that are each at a right angle to one another and diagonal to these contact sides a throughhole (12) for receiving a setscrew or a set pin. For purposes of easier handling and more reliable securing of the cabinet furniture elements, which are to be connected to one another in the corner area at an angle of 90 degrees, the at least two support elements (10) are integrated in one piece into the two legs (2) of a corner angle piece. At least one of the support elements (10) is formed at each of the legs (2) of the corner angle piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: CS Schmalmöbel GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Thomas Hinsberger, Stefan Ruppert, Edwin Müürmann
  • Patent number: 7086707
    Abstract: A cabinet for supporting electronic equipment. The cabinet has a rigid internal assembly structure and a cladding kit. The internal assembly defines a cavity into which the electronic equipment can be fitted. The internal assembly structure has height, a plurality of posts, and at least two panels. Each of the panels has a plurality of recesses formed therein. At least one post includes mounting tabs positionable within the recesses formed within the panels for precisely locating the post with respect to the panels. The cladding kit has at least two post trims connected to the internal assembly structure and at least one panel connected to the post trims. Each of the post trims has a body member, a first connector and a second connector. The first connector and the second connector of the post trim cooperate to connect the post trim to the posts of the internal assembly structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: Viasystems Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Brendan Wyatt, Barry Kiernan
  • Patent number: 7082036
    Abstract: A bezel mounting assembly includes a bezel (10), a front panel (30), and a latch (50). The bezel includes a pair of first catches (111) extending therefrom. The front panel includes a pair of first slots (35). The latch includes a pair of second slots (55) and a pair of tabs (551) extending from an edge of the second slots. A resilient member (70) attaches the latch to the front panel. When the bezel is attached to the front panel, the first catches are extended through the first and the second slots to engage with the second tabs. Simultaneity, the latch is moved with the catches abutting and applying a pushing force on the second tabs. The catches ride over and engage with the second tabs. Thus the bezel is secured to the front panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Cheng-Lung Cheng, Shu-Gang Shi, Ying-Tong Yang, Zhe Zhang
  • Patent number: 7055919
    Abstract: A lock fitting arrangement for a knock down drawer for removably fastening the front panel of the drawer to side of the panels is presented. The lock fitting is made up of a holding plate having a mounting member and a fitting member. The mounting and fitting members are orthogonal to each other. A locking assembly with a housing and a spring-loaded lock is held in its unlocked position via a tapered step against a shoulder by a biasing spring, and a lever pivotably mounted within the housing to urge the lock for engaging the tapered step with the shoulder when desired. A locking projection is mounted on a second wall and cooperates with the lock to which it is removably attached to the first wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Harn Marketing Sdn Bhd
    Inventors: Lian Lam Harn, Yan Lam Harn
  • Patent number: 7050298
    Abstract: A mounting apparatus includes a mounting frame (60) secured to a chassis (10) and receiving a data storage device (100) therein. The data storage device includes a pair of posts (102) on each of opposite sides thereof. The mounting frame includes a bottom wall (62) and two sidewalls (64, 66). A pair of channels (80) is defined in the sidewalls respectively for receiving the posts of the data storage device. Each of the channels forms a stop end (81) and an inwardly projecting resilient member (82) spacing from the stop end. The resilient member of one of the channels has a slanted portion and a vertical portion. When a corresponding post of the data storage device rides over the slanted portion, the vertical portion stops the post from escaping from the channel. Thus the data storage device is retained in the mounting frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yun Lung Chen
  • Patent number: 7014155
    Abstract: In a cabinet having vertically extending side members (5) forming part of a chassis of the cabinet, panel mounts (1), also to extend vertically in the cabinet and to have panels mounted thereupon, are mountable to the side members (5) by integral members (3) which extend parallel to the outer face of the panel mount (1) at a spacing from the outer face and in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the panel mount (1), i.e., horizontally. The integral members (3) are engaged in respective apertures in the side members (5) or in braces (7) extending between the side members (5) followed by forward or rearward movement to effect securement, retaining means such as pins or studs then being inserted in aligned bores (8, 9) in the panel mounts (1) and side members (5) to prevent return movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: APW Electonics Limited
    Inventors: John David Schnabel, John Richard Parkin
  • Patent number: 6997635
    Abstract: A latch structure for a mobile electronic device (1), for example, a personal digital assistant (PDA) is disclosed. The latch structure comprises a side flange (20) of a cover (10) and a side panel (30). The side flange (20) includes a cantilever (200) and at least a first engaging portion (205). The cantilever has a slanted face (201) and a lock (203) on a free end thereof. The lock has a first ramp (207). The side panel detachably connects to the side flange and defines a hole (301). The side panel includes a second engaging portion (303) and a third engaging portion (305). The hole corresponds to the slanted face. The second engaging portion has a second ramp (307) corresponding to the first ramp of the lock. The lock engages with the second engaging portion in a first position and disengages from the second engaging portion in a second position. The first engaging portion engages with the third engaging portion in the first position and disengages from the third engaging portion in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: High Tech Computer, Corporation
    Inventors: Sheng-Ming Liu, Ching-Shih Chen