Removable Panel Patents (Class 312/265.6)
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Patent number: 7448702Abstract: A mounting assembly of a computer enclosure includes a chassis (90), a front panel (10) slidably mounted to the chassis (90), a pair of locking members (30) attached to the front panel (10), a pair of sliding members (50) fixedly attached to the chassis (90) and a pair of pressing members (70) movably mounted to the chassis (90) for unlocking the locking members (30). Each sliding member (50) has a sliding portion (53). Each locking member (30) defines a sliding groove (31) therein. The sliding portion (53) of the sliding member (50) is engaged in the sliding groove (31) for securing the front panel (10) on the chassis (90).Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2005Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Assignees: Hong Pu Jim Precision Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yun-Lung Chen, Fa-Ming Jiang, Gang Su
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Publication number: 20080203870Abstract: The present invention is directed to a kitchen appliance having a front portion (26), and a front panel assembly (22) removably attached to the front portion (26). In one embodiment, the front panel assembly (22) comprises a transparent panel (30) and a colored member (32) positioned between the transparent panel (30) and the front portion (26) of the kitchen appliance wherein the colored member (32) is visible through the transparent panel (30).Type: ApplicationFiled: February 8, 2006Publication date: August 28, 2008Inventors: Louis F. Riley, Antony Sit
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Publication number: 20080169740Abstract: A monument assembly for a mobile platform. The monument assembly includes a removable wall panel enabling access to an enclosed compartment of the monument assembly. The removability of an entire wall panel enables full and unimpeded access to the enclosed compartment, and eliminates the need for a separate, smaller access panel to be incorporated within one of the walls of the monument assembly. The removable wall panel is secured along at least two of its edges to two or more adjacent wall portions of the monument assembly by fastening assemblies that can be attached and/or separated from one another using a simple hand tool, or by fastening assemblies that can be slidably engaged with one another.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2007Publication date: July 17, 2008Inventor: Walter L. White
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Patent number: 7395683Abstract: A control panel assembly for a washing machine, where the control panel can be easily assembled to the washing machine. The control panel includes a recess provided to an outer case of the washing machine and a control panel mounted in the recess. The control panel includes a first fixing part caught on an upper part of the recess and a second fixing part sliding along a bottom surface of the recess while the first fixing part is caught on the upper part of the recess.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2004Date of Patent: July 8, 2008Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Jae Kyum Kim, Geon Kim, Chi Wan Hur, Yu Beom Kang, Sang Man Je
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Patent number: 7377602Abstract: A bezel mounting assembly includes a bezel (10), a front panel (30) defining a pair of apertures (31), and a locking device (20) attached to the bezel for securing the bezel to the front panel. The bezel includes a pair of pillars (121) and a pair of blocks (11) having a pair of posts (14). The locking device includes a pair of symmetric side plates (22) defining through slots (25) for slidably receiving the posts, a pair of resilient arms (27) extending from the side plates, an operating member (23), and a pair of catches (26). The locking device is slidably attached on the blocks, with the posts engagingly received in the through slots. The resilient arms are secured to the pillars at free ends thereof. The operating member is moved vertically so as to drive the catches to engage in and disengage from the apertures of the front panel.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2004Date of Patent: May 27, 2008Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yun Lung Chen, Quan Guang Du
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Patent number: 7267138Abstract: A manifold cabinet includes an enclosure having a back wall, a top wall, a pair of side walls, at least two partition walls, a center opening and at least two outside edge openings. The partition walls have a plurality of openings and are attached within the enclosure forming a larger central chamber sized to receive a manifold and two side chambers. The center opening provides access to the larger central chamber and each of the two outside edge openings provide access to one of the two side chambers.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2005Date of Patent: September 11, 2007Inventor: Jeffrey S Paradis
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Patent number: 7249811Abstract: An apparatus for assembling/disassembling a screen of a projection television. The apparatus has a front mask, a plurality of brackets, and a plurality of lockers. The screen is placed on the front mask. The plurality of brackets are combined with the front mask so that the skirt of the screen closely contacts the front mask. Each bracket has a plurality of slot portions that have first slots, and second slots that extend from the first slots, widths of the second slots being smaller than widths of the first slots. The plurality of lockers are combined with the front mask and include guides that are inserted into the second slots and stoppers that extend from the guides. Diameters of the guides are smaller than the widths of the first slots and greater than widths of the second slots.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2003Date of Patent: July 31, 2007Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Sung-ki Min
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Patent number: 7242576Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 2, 2004Date of Patent: July 10, 2007Assignee: 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
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Patent number: 7207636Abstract: A modular cabinet structure, process, and system are provided, in which a modular cabinet structure comprises a structural frame comprising a first side and a second side, and a first end and a second end opposite the first end, wherein the frame structure comprises a removable frame component at the second end; and a face assembly; wherein the face assembly is fixedly retained within the frame structure when the removable frame component is affixed to the frame structure; and wherein the face assembly is movable in relation the frame structure when the removable frame component is detached from the frame structure. In frame-style embodiments, the face assembly comprises a central panel having a front surface and a back surface, a retaining assembly attached to the back surface of the central panel, and a face frame having a front surface and a rear surface attached to the central panel.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2004Date of Patent: April 24, 2007Assignee: I.D. Furniture Systems, Inc.Inventors: Steven J. Livingston, Peter Hans Müller
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Patent number: 7180474Abstract: A display apparatus includes a data driver that is common to a main screen and a sub screen, and the data driver applies, to the main screen, a tone voltage corresponding to display data from a CPU, and during a vertical blanking time-period of the main screen, the data driver applies, to the sub screen, a tone voltage corresponding to black data or white data, and also includes a scan driver scans the main screen and scans the sub screen during the vertical blanking time-period of the main screen.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2004Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignees: Hitachi, Ltd., Hitachi Displays, Ltd.Inventors: Yasuyuki Kudo, Toshimitsu Matsudo, Kazuo Okado, Hiroki Aizawa
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Patent number: 7137677Abstract: A refrigerator including an improved lower cover. The refrigerator comprises a main body having a storage compartment defined therein, and a lower cover mounted to the lower end of the front part of the main body such that the front part of the lower cover and the front part of the main body together form the same plane, wherein the lower cover is provided with an engaging member bent from the upper end of the lower cover toward the rear of the main body while being extended a prescribed length, the engaging member being successively formed in the lateral direction thereof, and wherein the main body is provided at the bottom part thereof with an engaging groove corresponding to the engaging member of the lower cover, the engaging member of the lower cover being engaged with the engaging groove of the main body.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2004Date of Patent: November 21, 2006Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Dae Jin Hong, Gi Joong Jeong
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Patent number: 7113407Abstract: A low profile expansion card retaining clip is disclosed. In one aspect, the present disclosure teaches a chassis component forming a part of a chassis including a panel having an aperture formed therein. The aperture maintains access to a computer component. The computer component has a bracket. A frame formed adjacent the aperture receives a portion of the bracket. A retaining clip movably couples to the frame such that the retaining clip moves between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The retaining clip oriented and designed to permit airflow through the frame. A spring member operably extending from a portion of the retaining clip, the spring member operably engages the bracket to secure the computer component to the chassis component in the engaged position and operably permits removal and installation of the computer component in the disengaged position.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2005Date of Patent: September 26, 2006Assignee: Dell Products L.P.Inventors: George T. Holt, Brandon Brocklesby
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Patent number: 7027306Abstract: A mounting apparatus for a motherboard (10) providing a plurality of apertures (14) includes a panel (20), a support plate (40) attached to the panel and a fastener (50) for fastening the motherboard to the support plate. The panel includes a plurality of catches (21) and a pair of stoppers (23). The support plate includes a plurality of latches (44) and a fixing hole (46) corresponding the apertures of the motherboard respectively, and a plurality of catch openings (43) for engagingly receiving the catches of the panel to secure the support plate to the panel. The latches are configured to allow the motherboard be slid from a first position to a second position in which the motherboard is engaged with the latches. The fastener fastens the motherboard to the support plate at the second postion. The motherboard is thus secured to the panel of the chassis.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2004Date of Patent: April 11, 2006Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yun Lung Chen, Zhou Xu
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Patent number: 6997530Abstract: An appliance cabinet side wall is secured to a front frame member by a first mechanical fastening element of a fastening system. Subsequently, a trim piece is attached along the side wall through the use of a second mechanical fastening element which is threadably connected to the first fastening element. Most preferably, a blind-type rivnut is utilized to prevent any foam, used in insulating the cabinet, from leaking. Utilizing multi-functioning mechanical fastening elements minimizes the number of assembly components, eases assembly and enables the trim piece to be easily removed and/or replaced in case of damage, or even if the consumer desires to simply utilize a trim piece of another color or design.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Maytag CorporationInventors: Jose G. Avendano, Larry Corbin
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Patent number: 6997635Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 17, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: High Tech Computer, CorporationInventors: Sheng-Ming Liu, Ching-Shih Chen
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Patent number: 6920048Abstract: A low profile expansion card retaining clip is disclosed. In one aspect, the present disclosure teaches a chassis component forming a part of a chassis including a panel having an aperture formed therein. The aperture maintains access to a computer component. The computer component has a bracket. A frame formed adjacent the aperture receives a portion of the bracket. A retaining clip movably couples to the frame such that the retaining clip moves between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The retaining clip oriented and designed to permit airflow through the frame. A spring member operably extending from a portion of the retaining clip, the spring member operably engages the bracket to secure the computer component to the chassis component in the engaged position and operably permits removal and installation of the computer component in the disengaged position.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2003Date of Patent: July 19, 2005Assignee: Dell Products L.P.Inventors: George T. Holt, Brandon Brocklesby
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Patent number: 6899407Abstract: The invention is a device for quickly detaching and reassembling a frontmask of a computer casing including a movable device. The movable device consists of an anchor, a plurality of sliding clips, two wedge-shaped push-heads, a retraction spring, a handle and some other related parts. Two wedge-shaped push-heads are located on an upper side on both ends of the movable device and have a beveled surface. To detach the frontmask of the casing, the beveled surfaces and the wedge-shaped push-heads of the movable device push the anchoring elements outwards, so that the frontmask can quickly be detached from the computer casing.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2004Date of Patent: May 31, 2005Assignee: In Win Development, Inc.Inventor: Vincent Lai
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Patent number: 6853552Abstract: A cartridge receptacle receives a cartridge that features a computer adapter card. The cartridge receptacle includes a side with first and second card guides attached to that side. The first and second card guides are dimensioned to cooperate with retaining structure on an installed cartridge to retain the installed cartridge in the receptacle while providing a gap for air flow between the installed cartridge and the side. Various embodiments of the receptacle accept various sizes and numbers of expandable cartridges. Corresponding cartridges and information handling systems incorporating receptacles for expandable computer cartridges are also described.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2002Date of Patent: February 8, 2005Assignee: Dell Products L.P.Inventor: James A. Brewer
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Patent number: 6844507Abstract: A draft protection device (2) has a wind-blocking body (20; 21) that consists of at least two panel elements (20A,20B, 20C; 21A, 21B) and partially encloses the weighing compartment of a balance (1) in which a weighing pan (15) is arranged. The wind-blocking body (20; 21) can be selectively positioned by hand in at least two different orientations. In each of the different orientations at least one opening is available for access to the weighing compartment. The wind-blocking body (20; 21) can be positioned by the user in such a way that the openings resulting from the differently oriented positions allow access to the weighing compartment from different directions.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2003Date of Patent: January 18, 2005Assignee: Mettler-Toledo GmbHInventors: Roger Leisinger, Hansjürg Rotach
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Patent number: 6837555Abstract: An end cap for preliminary attachment of a control panel to a main body of an appliance includes a generally planar body having a front side and first and second supporting sides. The supporting sides are disposed at a rear and bottom of the planar body and are adapted for securement to the appliance main body. Each of the supporting sides has a plurality of securing tabs extending therefrom. The securing tabs are adapted to extend through an opening in the appliance main body and to engage the main body to preliminarily secure the control panel to the main body.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2003Date of Patent: January 4, 2005Assignee: American Trim, LLCInventors: Robert M. Byrne, Kurt F. Hafeken, Sr., Richard J. Pfeifer
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Patent number: 6827028Abstract: A collapsible support includes at least one leg that can be stored in a cavity and at least one substantially smooth surface when assembled in a deployed condition. The collapsible support can also include at least one substantially smooth surface when assembled in a collapsed or stored condition. The collapsible support includes unique provisions for associating the legs with a base in both the collapsed condition and the deployed condition.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2002Date of Patent: December 7, 2004Inventor: E. Pryor Callaway
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Patent number: 6820875Abstract: The present invention relates to a modular cabinet for use with a gaming device. The gaming device modular cabinet includes a display cabinet removably connected to a component cabinet by a locking mechanism. The cabinets are preferably made of rolled steel, where the display cabinet is adapted to receive at least the display, while the component cabinet is adapted to receive the components for the gaming device other than the display. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention includes laminated side panels connected to the display and component cabinets. The gaming device further includes a monitor cover removably connected to the display cabinet.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2000Date of Patent: November 23, 2004Assignee: IGTInventors: Joseph R. Hedrick, Jean P. LeGras, Kehl T. LeSourd, Kirk A. Tedsen
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Publication number: 20040201336Abstract: A mounting assembly includes a bezel (10) and a chassis (60). The chassis comprises a front panel (62) defining a plurality of fixing slots (42) along one side and a plurality of mounting openings (22) along the opposite side, each mounting opening comprises a large zone (63) and a smaller zone (65) communicating with each other. The bezel extends a plurality of posts (12) provided with a pivot means and a plurality of hooks (14). The pivot means is a fixing member (24) capable of extending through the large zone of a corresponding mounting opening and sliding into the smaller zone, thereby pivotably attaching the bezel to the chassis, and the hooks can be engaged in the fixing slots thereby securing the bezel on the chassis.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 8, 2003Publication date: October 14, 2004Inventor: Yun-Lung Chen
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Patent number: 6791027Abstract: A component kit for a switch cabinet, having a frame whose open sides can be clad with elements and at least one cabinet door. To be able to vary the installation space available in the switch cabinet, it is possible to fix different wall elements and/or cabinet doors to the faame, which have different depths extending perpendicular to the corresponding sides of the frame.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2000Date of Patent: September 14, 2004Assignee: Rittal GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Walter Nicolai, Rolf Benner, Horst Besserer, Marc Hartel
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Patent number: 6788531Abstract: A panel mounting apparatus includes a chassis (10) and a panel (20). The chassis includes a front wall (11) defining two symmetrical arcuate slots (15). Two cutouts (17) are defined in the front wall at ends of the slots respectively. Two through holes (19) are defined in the front wall adjacent the slots respectively. The panel includes two posts (21) and two pins (25), respectively corresponding to the slots and the through holes of the front wall. Each post comprises a hook (23) at an end thereof. The posts are extended through the cutouts. The panel is then rotated so that the posts slide along the slots. The pins snappingly engage in the through holes of the front wall, and the hooks of the posts engage with the front wall at ends of the slots. The panel is thereby securely mounted to the front wall of the chassis.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2002Date of Patent: September 7, 2004Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.Inventor: Li Ping Chen
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Publication number: 20040150303Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2003Publication date: August 5, 2004Inventors: Hye Yong Park, Dong Ha Choi, Sung Rak Gong, Dong In Kim
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Publication number: 20040140741Abstract: A cabinet comprises a first panel, a frame supporting the first panel, and a second panel adapted to slidingly engage with the frame. At least one game apparatus is mounted to a first surface of the first panel. The cabinet is adapted to function as a wall-mounted board game cabinet in a wall-mounted configuration and as a table-mounted board game cabinet in a table-mounted configuration.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 18, 2003Publication date: July 22, 2004Applicant: DMI Sports, Inc.Inventor: Gary Giegerich
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Patent number: 6711859Abstract: A system for fixing two components together includes: (a) a boss integrally formed from one component about a boss axis; and (b) a latch integrally formed from the other component in a depending extension facilitating latch movement in an engaging plane and exerting a spring force urging the latch toward a first position. The latch is oriented about a latch axis in the engaging plane. The latch is in the first position when the components are situated in an initial position with the latch axis and the boss axis separated a first distance. The latch axis and the boss axis are separated a second distance less than the first distance when the components are urged together to an installed orientation with the latch held from the first position by the boss bearing against the latch with the engaging plane crossing the boss axis.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2001Date of Patent: March 30, 2004Inventors: Michael Ray Bell, Kechuan Liu
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Patent number: 6666055Abstract: A lockout apparatus for a number of expansion slots in a printed circuit board includes a lockout mechanism for the expansion slots. Each lockout mechanism includes a lockout member movable between a first position in which its respective expansion slot is blocked, and a second position in which its respective expansion slot is open. Only a single expansion slot is available for use at any one time. In another embodiment, add-on card installed into expansion slots may be retained in the expansion slot when the next expansion slot is filled.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2002Date of Patent: December 23, 2003Assignee: Gateway, Inc.Inventor: Michael Janicek
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Patent number: 6662609Abstract: A lockout apparatus for a number of expansion slots in a printed circuit board includes a lockout mechanism for the expansion slots. Each lockout mechanism includes a lockout member movable between a first position in which its respective expansion slot is blocked, and a second position in which its respective expansion slot is open. Only a single expansion slot is available for use at any one time. In another embodiment, add-on card installed into expansion slots may be retained in the expansion slot when the next expansion slot is filled.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 1999Date of Patent: December 16, 2003Assignee: Gateway, Inc.Inventor: Michael Janicek
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Patent number: 6658677Abstract: A system for replacing furniture panels which includes a frame secured to a piece of furniture and a panel which may be inserted or otherwise slid into the frame and secured therein is disclosed. The panel has front and rear surfaces having different appearances and either surface can be exposed. This allows the decor of the furniture to be easily and quickly changed at will.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: P. J. Kids, LLCInventor: Stewart Paul
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Patent number: 6657861Abstract: A distribution cabinet (1) for accommodating weak-current distribution installations, in particular for arranging outdoors, having a base box (2), an outer cabinet body (3) with at least one door (4), a cabinet cover (5), and an inner installation frame (6), the installation frame (6) being made up of profile sections (50), of which the cross-sectional shapes has two insertion pockets (51a,b), of which the insertion directions (52a,b) run at right angles to one another.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2002Date of Patent: December 2, 2003Assignee: Krone GmbHInventor: Günter Irmer
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Patent number: 6654069Abstract: A frame assembly for electrical devices for covering an area where a device is to be located includes a substantially rectangular frame having frame openings, a substantially rectangular mounting plate having plate openings corresponding to the frame openings, and the frame being socketed with the mounting plate by latches provided on a lower edge of the frame and cooperating with holes provided on the mounting plate.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Simon, S.A.Inventor: Joaquin Aubert Capella
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Publication number: 20030164664Abstract: A modular currency bin has a pair of spaced end walls, a rear wall extending therebetween, and at least one support wall extending between the end walls and abutting the rear wall. At least one divider wall extends vertically parallel to and intermediate the end walls to define a multiplicity of compartments. One of the end walls has a pair of outwardly angled flanges extending along its side margins and the other of the end walls has inwardly angled flanges extending along its side margins and defining a channel therebetween configured and dimensioned to receive the outwardly extending flanges of another currency bin. Bins may be assembled in side-by-side relationship by interengaging the end wall flanges, and in vertically stacked relationship by interengaging end covers with the end wall flanges of the stacked bins.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2002Publication date: September 4, 2003Inventors: Robert A. Allexon, Douglas R. Magee
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Patent number: 6604798Abstract: An enclosure for electronic and/or electrical components is disclosed, including a housing having a rear wall and longitudinally extending side walls. A longitudinally extending track is provided which includes a base leg and a pair of branch legs extending laterally therefrom. Each of the laterally extending legs is spaced apart by a gap from at least one side wall of the housing. A mounting bracket is slidable to and fro along the track, the bracket including at least one leg in sliding contact with a bearing region of the track and at least one opening for receipt therein of a fastener. The opening is positioned to direct the fastener inserted therein into engagement with a fastener engaging region of the track, whereby the at least one leg of the bracket bears against the bearing region of the track to prevent movement of the bracket relative to the track.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2000Date of Patent: August 12, 2003Assignee: Integra EnclosuresInventor: Patrick Cooney
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Publication number: 20030132686Abstract: An end cap for preliminary attachment of a control panel to a main body of an appliance includes a generally planar body having a front side and first and second supporting sides. The supporting sides are disposed at a rear and bottom of the planar body and are adapted for securement to the appliance main body. Each of the supporting sides has a plurality of securing tabs extending therefrom. The securing tabs are adapted to extend through an opening in the appliance main body and to engage the main body to preliminarily secure the control panel to the main body.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 24, 2003Publication date: July 17, 2003Inventors: Robert M. Byrne, Kurt F. Hafeken, Richard J. Pfeifer
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Patent number: 6592194Abstract: An improved, multifunction office furniture system having a novel interlocking connecting mechanism which permits the easy assembly of a variety of different structural components in a variety of different configurations to form highly efficient work areas. The system includes uniquely configured, vertical support columns to which a number of different types of structural components can be quickly and easily connected and provides a highly versatile work station system which is very attractive, is easy to assembly, disassemble and adjust, and yet, is structurally sound and durable in use. Because of its novel construction, the system is capable of readily accommodating changing work conditions in the users' facilities.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2000Date of Patent: July 15, 2003Inventors: Robert R. Lininger, Julian Vochelli, Michael G. Haber, Timothy Skinner
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Patent number: 6572206Abstract: An end cap for preliminary attachment of a control panel to a main body of an appliance includes a generally planar body having a front side and first and second supporting sides. The supporting sides are disposed at a rear and bottom of the planar body and are adapted for securement to the appliance main body. Each of the supporting sides has a plurality of securing tabs extending therefrom. The securing tabs are adapted to extend through an opening in the appliance main body and to engage the main body to preliminarily secure the control panel to the main body.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2001Date of Patent: June 3, 2003Assignee: American Trim, LLCInventors: Robert M. Byrne, Kurt F. Hafeken, Sr., Richard J. Pfeifer
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Publication number: 20030067254Abstract: A dishwasher door assembly includes a frame, an inner door panel and a decorative outer door panel. The door is assembled by snap-fitting the inner door panel to the frame and then further snap-fitting the decorative outer panel over the frame. Thereafter, mechanical fasteners are inserted in aligned openings formed in the outer door panel, frame and inner door panel. This overall arrangement enables a consumer to select between various decorative outer door panels available to a retailer such that an outer door panel of a desired color and/or style can be sold with the overall dishwasher. The overall door assembly is preferably formed from plastic so as to be lightweight, yet structurally sound.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 5, 2001Publication date: April 10, 2003Applicant: Maytag CorporationInventors: Darrin S. Manke, Stephen D. Schober
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Patent number: 6543071Abstract: Furniture pieces designed to span maturity of user from post-crib to adulthood by use of interchangeable panels. Furniture is comprised of a frame with interchangeable panels and backing panel that are connected by means of an attachment system. Interchangeable panels are of finishes with themes consistent with various age categories.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2001Date of Patent: April 8, 2003Inventor: Mary Jane Lenner
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Publication number: 20030057811Abstract: An end cap for preliminary attachment of a control panel to a main body of an appliance includes a generally planar body having a front side and first and second supporting sides. The supporting sides are disposed at a rear and bottom of the planar body and are adapted for securement to the appliance main body. Each of the supporting sides has a plurality of securing tabs extending therefrom. The securing tabs are adapted to extend through an opening in the appliance main body and to engage the main body to preliminarily secure the control panel to the main body.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 24, 2001Publication date: March 27, 2003Inventors: Robert M. Byrne, Kurt F. Hafeken, Richard J. Pfeifer
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Patent number: 6536984Abstract: A fastening bracket system for connecting two abutting members at a fixed angle includes a locking bracket having a flange and attached to one member and a channel bracket having a channel and attached to the other member. The channel or the flange, or both, is tapered. The flange is inserted into the channel until it becomes locked. Multiple locking brackets and channel brackets may be used in series to form longer joints. A method of assembling a joint from two abutting members at a fixed angle includes the steps of attaching at least one locking bracket having a flange to one of the members and at least one channel bracket having a channel to the other member, either the flange or the channel being tapered; positioning the members in the desired angle; and inserting the flange into the channel until it is locked, thereby locking the brackets together and securing the two members in position.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2000Date of Patent: March 25, 2003Inventors: James G. Ring, Kevin L. Brinkman
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Publication number: 20030042824Abstract: Media storage devices for, and methods of storing data media in, a data storage system are provided. The data storage system may comprise a data exchange device configured to exchange data stored on data media and a media handling system configured to transfer the data media between the media storage device and the data exchange device. Briefly described, in one of many possible embodiments, the media storage device comprises a housing configured to receive the data media. The housing includes a first elongate alignment groove adapted to slidably engage with a corresponding first elongate reference rail located adjacent an opening in the data storage system such that the media storage device may be inserted and removed by slidably engaging the first elongate reference rail and the first elongate alignment groove.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 23, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventors: Paul Clinton Coffin, Robert L. Mueller, Gregg S. Schmidtke
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Publication number: 20020185944Abstract: A detachment and assembly structure of a master computer's faceplate comprises a frame body, a faceplate, and a control rod. One side of the faceplate uses retaining bodies to retain retaining holes of the frame body. The control rod is pivotally disposed at the other side of the frame body. A rejection portion, a receiving groove, and a wrench portion are disposed on the control rod. The other side of the faceplate uses projective poles to match the receiving groove so that the faceplate can be assembled at the front end of the frame body. The wrench portion is used to turn the control rod to let the projective poles come off the receiving groove and the rejection portion shore up the projective poles so that the projective poles can come off the frame body. The retaining bodies can thus be separated from the retaining holes, thereby accomplishing detachment operation.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 28, 2001Publication date: December 12, 2002Inventor: Feng-Ming Chen
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Patent number: 6485119Abstract: The present invention discloses an accent panel incorporated with an aperture in the panel that allows access to a support member attached to a bezel. A person's hand may fit within the aperture and grasp the support member to allow easy transport of the computer. The panel may be installed and removed easily without the need for tools. A user of a computer equipped with an accent panel of the present invention may be able to match the color of the front of his or her computer to his or her surroundings while still allowing access to a support member to allow easier transport of a computer.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2000Date of Patent: November 26, 2002Assignee: Gateway, Inc.Inventors: David R. Davis, David D. Williams, Daniel C. Castillo, Dirk O. Cosner, Jorge A. Moriel, Michael J. Calvillo
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Patent number: 6480391Abstract: A cage for an electronic component includes two spaced apart cast walls, and a roof member and a floor member connected to the two spaced apart cast walls. The walls are substantially identical, and the roof member and the floor member are each formed of a damped metallic laminate panel.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2000Date of Patent: November 12, 2002Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: William Michael Monson, John Lee Colbert, Steven Dale Greseth, Mark G. Clark
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Patent number: 6434018Abstract: A modular chassis for housing pluggable computer module includes pre-assembled and pre-wired bottom functional section having desired computer components mounted thereto, a pre-assembled and pre-wired inner functional section for receiving the pluggable modules, and a pre-assembled and pre-wired top functional section having desired computer components mounted thereto. The inner functional section is supported within and electrically interconnected to the bottom functional section and is removable from the bottom functional section. The top functional section cooperates with the bottom functional section to at least partially enclose the inner functional section and retain the inner functional section therein. The top functional section is electrically interconnected to the inner functional section. The top functional section is removable from the inner functional section and the bottom functional section.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2000Date of Patent: August 13, 2002Assignee: Rittal Corp.Inventor: Eike Waltz
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Publication number: 20020105253Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus in which a consumer, without technical skill or special tools can quickly and easily change or add a color to the computer case of their personal computer. Because of the large number of available color panels, it is necessary to provide an aftermarket kit in which the consumer can customize the computer case. Advantageously, this permits the consumer to have a computer in green, blue, red, violet, etc. Also, advantageously, the consumer merely needs to remove a plurality of hole plugs and then install the color panels using supplied attachment feet or mounting plugs.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 2, 2001Publication date: August 8, 2002Inventors: Elizabeth B. Diaz, Peter K. Lee
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Patent number: 6426870Abstract: A portable electronic device comprises, in one embodiment, one or more risers that protect an upper surface of the housing from being scratched. Additionally, the risers serve as bumpers to reduce damage to the device if it is dropped or bumped. Another embodiment of the present invention incorporates support members made from metal or metal alloy parts that are selectively attached to the laptop housing. These metal support members provide structural support for the housing and therefore aid in preventing the housing from twisting and bending. To further strengthen the housing, a metal frame is used in the upper and/or lower surface of the housing. The frame also serves to protect the enclosed electronics from electromagnetic interference.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2000Date of Patent: July 30, 2002Assignee: Hewlett-Packard CompanyInventors: Glen A Oross, Dennis R Esterburg
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Patent number: 6419330Abstract: A structure that provides for enhanced access to a chamber defined therein. The structure includes a top member and a support assembly for supporting the top member and together defining the chamber. The invention includes a panel removably connected to the structure and a securing device for removably securing the panel to the structure. The securing device is hidden from view when the panel is connected to the structure. Removing the panel provides for access to the chamber.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 1999Date of Patent: July 16, 2002Assignee: Nova Solutions, Inc.Inventor: John N. Lechman