Vibratory Patents (Class 40/613)
  • Patent number: 11790777
    Abstract: A method, computer system, and a computer program product for roadway messaging are provided. A computer receives first information of a reduction of a roadway section. The computer determines a passable road width at the reduction in the roadway section. The computer determines a size of a first vehicle. The computer determines whether the first vehicle fits through the passable road width. The computer generates a first message based on the determining of whether the first vehicle fits through the passable road width, the first message comprising a driving recommendation for the first vehicle. The computer transmits the first message for reception by the first vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2023
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Hariharan Krishna, Venkata Vara Prasad Karri, Akash U. Dhoot, Shailendra Moyal
  • Patent number: 11605316
    Abstract: Reflective decorative panel of the present invention is the light reflecting image representation device used for production of a wide range of decorative products, advertising signs, billboards, panels, etc. The panel has a module base structure with holding elements on which reflective elements are cantilever mounted. The base structure is made in the form of a plastic lattice framework with longitudinal and transversal bearing bars, and it includes coupling elements at sides of the framework for attachment with frameworks of other modules. The coupling elements are located on edge bars at four sides of the framework. The reflective decorative panel is used for decoration of any kind of outdoor festive events, stage or TV design and facilities, where high strength and reliability of the modules attachment is of great importance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2023
    Inventor: Denis Sagidullin
  • Patent number: 11217122
    Abstract: A reflective decorative panel comprises a base implemented as a module of the panel, the base having restraining members on which reflective elements are arranged. The base is configured as a lattice framework having longitudinal and transverse bearing stripes, and the restraining members comprise rods each having a restraining head and used for accommodating the reflective element. The restraining head has a tapered shape towards its free end, and the restraining members are casted integrally with the base. At edge portions of the base, support members are provided with connection slots for connecting modules. The restraining members comprise the support members, and the support members have inner longitudinal cavities in which the rods with the restraining heads are provided. The restraining head comprises a vertical slot used for putting on the movable reflective element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2022
    Inventor: Denis Sagidullin
  • Patent number: 11174629
    Abstract: A method and apparatus according to which a blast resistant shelter is assembled. The blast resistant shelter includes first and second structural members, a third structural member coupled to the first and second structural members, a first airway adjacent the third structural member, and a first blast panel pivotably mounted to the third structural member and adapted to pivot thereabout in response to a blast wave. In a first configuration, the first blast panel is detachably connected to a first portion of the blast resistant shelter and prevented from pivoting about the third structural member so that the first blast panel obstructs air flow through the first airway. In a second configuration, in response to the blast wave, the first blast panel is detached from the first portion of the blast resistant shelter and permitted to pivot about the third structural member to permit air flow through the first airway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2021
    Assignee: SOUTHERN COMFORT SHELTERS, INC.
    Inventor: Robert C. Dixon
  • Patent number: 10152903
    Abstract: Apparatuses are disclosed, including apparatuses providing a rotatable sign configured with a base, a display panel, and a support, where a portion of the support defines a horizontal axis and is secured to the panel. The base may be configured to hold the support to allow rotation about the horizontal axis, the height of the horizontal axis of the support may be equal to or lower than a midpoint of the panel height. In addition, apparatuses are disclosed that include a counterweight attached to a support, where some or all of the counterweight may be below the horizontal axis of the support when the support is in an initial rotational position, such that it is disposed to return a sign back to its vertical orientation when in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2018
    Assignee: SignsDirect Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas Dalton
  • Patent number: 9593802
    Abstract: An article of manufacture is configured for hanging signs and other objects to poles, fences, trees and other structures. The article generally includes a gripping base and a pair of elongated coiled filaments each extending from opposing sides of the base, the filaments each comprising a coiled length and a straightened tip disposed at a terminal end of the respective tip. The article is wrapped around a support structure and each of the tips is inserted through a respective aperture of a sign to be hanged and pulled through the aperture to secure the sign to the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2017
    Inventor: Coral Bergmann
  • Patent number: 9038296
    Abstract: A louver display panel system with a display panel for receiving printed or graphic material thereon, a support member to secure the display panel to a building or structure, and a louver movement control means. The display panel is rotationally secured to the support member and forms a louver structure. The louver movement control means maintains the display panel in a first position in a plane generally parallel to the exterior face of the building or structure until a wind load applied to the display panel exceeds a pre-determined value, after which the louver movement control means permits the display panel to rotate toward a second position generally parallel to the direction of the wind to reduce the wind load borne by the display panel. The louver movement control means returns the display panel to its first position when the wind load drops below said pre-determined value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Inventor: John J. Melic
  • Patent number: 7827717
    Abstract: A foldable traffic sign system comprises a relatively rigid sign panel and a plurality of folding lines disposed in the sign panel, for permitting ready folding of the sign panel into a substantially smaller configuration. In a preferred embodiment, at least one cut is disposed partially along a dimension of the sign panel, to further facilitate ready folding of the sign panel. One of the folding lines is disposed substantially horizontally across a center region of the sign panel, and at least one of the folding lines is disposed substantially vertically on the sign panel, and intersects with the horizontal folding line. The plurality of folding lines creates a plurality of sign sections, preferably six, defined by a combination of the folding lines and cuts in the sign panel. The sign system further comprises a folding sign stand, and a tote for containing both the sign panel and sign stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignees: Traffix Devices, Inc., TTB Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Guadalupe C. Garcia, Bob L. Wielenga
  • Patent number: 7743538
    Abstract: Covers for U-channel or C-channel sign posts comprise an extruded hollow plastic form having a length, the form in cross-section including a generally flat front wall and opposing generally flat side walls. Each side wall converges toward the other at an angle from the front wall to a back section having a width less than the front wall, thereby forming a generally trapezoidal interior. Each side wall is bent toward the other to form overlapping portions that make up the back section. In the preferred embodiments, the front wall further includes a co-extruded reflective, fluorescent, phosphorescent or colored lengthwise strip of material to enhance visibility, and the back section further includes an engagement mechanism between the overlapping portions including one or more sets of engaging barbs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Ideal Shield, LLC
    Inventors: Chris Parenti, Loren Venegas
  • Patent number: 7614172
    Abstract: A hoisting, retention and removal apparatus for banners or signs, having two upper embodiments to be securely fastened to any vertical surface. They are designed to be mounted level with and opposite each other placed at a distance apart based on the need at a distance larger than the maximum length of sign or banner for which it will accommodate. Two lower embodiments are mounted directly below each upper embodiment within reach of the operator when standing on the ground or platform below the banner or sign display area. Four fiber ropes, each terminating with a safety snap device, are connected each to one corner of a sign or banner, routed through sheaves in the upper frame and are held taut by means of locking cleat in each of the lower enclosures. Position and tautness are achieved by adjustment of the fiber ropes in the lower enclosures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Inventors: Louis Leon Kennedy, Stephen Donald Parker
  • Patent number: 7571561
    Abstract: A deployable temporary traffic sign system requires no roadside assembly, because the sign comprises a flexible sign panel which may be changed in size merely by folding one portion of the sign panel over a second portion of the sign panel about a crease line disposed therein. The sign itself is supported on a sign stand which is pivotally mounted to a support base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: Worldwide Safety of Nevada, Inc.
    Inventor: Guadalupe C. Garcia
  • Patent number: 6108954
    Abstract: A motion sensitive animated advertising device for mounting to a moving vehicle. The present invention comprises at least one moving element having two stable positions wherein the movement of the vehicle causes the element to shift from one stable position to the other stable position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Inventors: Nikolai N. Eiteneer, Boris N. Eiteneer
  • Patent number: 5367807
    Abstract: A support apparatus (10) having a base (14) from which a sign member (16) is suspended having a flexible member (18) in which the sign member (16) is secured (20) to the flexible member (18) and in which an adjustable engagement (26) is secured to the base (14) and spaced apart from the securement of the sign member (16) to the flexible member (18) to adjustably engage the flexible member (18) to position the sign member (16) to a desired distance from the base (14), as well as a method of using the same. It further includes a flexible member (18) in which a sign member (16) is secured to flexible member (18) and providing a support (40) for the flexible member (18) at a location spaced apart from the securement of the sign member (16) in which the sign member (16) and a portion (42) of the flexible member (18) between the support (40) and the sign member (16) are displaceable relative to the support (40).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 29, 1994
    Assignee: Academy Display, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Van Beek
  • Patent number: 4920874
    Abstract: A combination food cooking and advertising machine has a deep fat fryer, mechanical food manipulators in the fryer for dispensing, flipping and removing the food product, and motionless advertising signs which are mechanically connected to and are given motion by operation of the food manipulators. This sign has a slip-on bracket, and sign plates and drive arm that can be driven by the food cooker. A method of operation and a method of converting an existing fryer into the cooking and advertising machine are provided. The method and apparatus are particularly useful in miniature donut making and selling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 1, 1990
    Inventor: Edward M. Anderson
  • Patent number: 4872278
    Abstract: An improved figure display for use in moving vehicles or on other moveable objects having an attachment means for resiliently mounting all portions of the figure display so that they oscillate in closely spaced vertical planes. The figure display includes a means, for controlling and coordinating oscillatory movements of the figure portions with respect to each other such that the animation effect is enchanced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 10, 1989
    Inventors: Bruce E. Ross, Gail C. Ross
  • Patent number: 4756109
    Abstract: A nursery mobile having soft, laminated characters. The mobile characters have two soft outer plies of, preferably, a synthetic felt, an inner ply of a non-woven batting which has been treated with a thermoplastic resinous binder to render it heat sealable, and are heat sealed about the periphery. The mobile characters are made by assembling sheets of the plies, heat sealing with a dielectric die, and cutting the mobile character from the sheet-sized assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1983
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1988
    Assignee: Dolly, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth N. Marcus
  • Patent number: 4503631
    Abstract: A blow-through pivotal sign for preventing damage to advertising structures are the like. The blow-through pivotal sign comprises a signboard attached to a support structure to allow the signboard to rotate along a horizontal or vertical axis. The blow-through pivotal sign also comprises a mechanism for retaining the signboard in a fixed position until a preselected torque due to windload is applied as well as a wind responsive retractor for retracting the retaining mechanism to prevent damage thereto after the signboard has been deflected from the fixed position and is swinging freely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1982
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1985
    Inventor: Gerard T. Kelly
  • Patent number: 4384418
    Abstract: A shelf display is constructed for vertical elastic mounting of a product information member between upper and lower shelves. The product information member extends outwardly from the edges of the shelves so as to be viewable to a prospective purchaser moving down an aisle parallel to the shelves. The air movement caused by the normal walking of the prospective purchaser causes the sign to vibrate or quiver, and thereby further attracts the prospective purchaser's attention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1983
    Assignee: Jerry Moss, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard O. Alley
  • Patent number: 4308680
    Abstract: A scintillating display device comprising a plurality of unit panels mounted on a base panel. Each unit panel has an integral projecting support member of inverted (human) noselike profile, the frontal portion of which is constituted by a vertical ridge and two slightly bevelled side surfaces. The frontal surface is slanted downwardly and rearwardly and merges into the base panel at its bottom. A rivet, with a rivet head, is embedded in the upper part of the support member from which a reflecting disk is freely suspended so as to move and swivel freely in a breeze, whereby a scintillating effect is achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1980
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1982
    Inventor: Aharon Aboudi
  • Patent number: 4280294
    Abstract: A sign for universal mounting includes a display sheet and a frame surrounding said sheet, said frame being formed of a pair of U-shaped tubular members joined at the sides in butted relationship to provide joints at opposite sides of the sign. The sheet has rows of oppositely opening tabs or channel rails, etc. for receiving various panels with appropriate characters or numerals. The frame is apertured at top and bottom for securement thereto of channels which may be clamped to a post or vertical standard. The sides are similarly apertured for attachment of channels carrying pivot pins receivable by supports on opposite sides of the sign to pivotally mount the sign by said supports. A counterweight in the form of a channel is provided for securement by use of the aperture at the bottom of the sign for proper counterweighing of the sign when pivotally mounted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1980
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1981
    Assignee: Stout Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Keith S. Eckberg, II
  • Patent number: 4214393
    Abstract: A display sign for outdoor utilization and designed for resisting overturning under strong wind conditions incorporating a relatively enlarged flat panel for carrying an advertising message. A standard for said sign comprising uprights, with the sign being pivotally engaged in its side margins to said uprights for normal swingable action against a transversely extending pivot axis. Said axis is located for coincidence with a line passing through the upper limit of the lower third of said sign and with there being counterweights mounted fixedly at the lower end of said sign for establishing a relatively low center of gravity as well as a predetermined ratio between the lower third and upper two-thirds of said sign to prevent overturning as well as windmill movement during high wind conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1978
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1980
    Assignee: Stout Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles H. Long
  • Patent number: 4106228
    Abstract: A substantially flat, suspensible, ornamental display comprised of a plurality of identical flat, rigid members arrayed in partially overlapping relationship in accordance with a regular pattern, with the overlapping portions of the members fastened together, is readily enlarged or reduced in size by the user, resists disruption caused by air currents, and is conveniently shipped and stored. The members are assembled to leave openings between adjacent members that are similar in shape to the members, and ornamental devices are detachably suspended in the openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1977
    Date of Patent: August 15, 1978
    Inventor: Jack Gibrich
  • Patent number: 4095360
    Abstract: A display device comprises a rectangular transparent plastic envelope formed from two sheets of flexible plastic material which are seamed together adjacent their top, one side and bottom margins. The sheets also include horizontal enclosed sleeves at the top and bottom of the envelope in which tubular arms are located. Flexible coupling means are provided in engagement with the upper tubular arm while the lower tubular arm is engaged by laterally spaced tension means which permit the lower arm to turn ninety degrees with respect to the upper arm. A zipper-type closure means may be provided along the open side of the envelope to removably seal the envelope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1976
    Date of Patent: June 20, 1978
    Assignee: Dinaco, Inc.
    Inventors: James M. Dinan, Conrad Hade, Frank De Nigris
  • Patent number: 4094084
    Abstract: An optical ornament, novelty or plaything comprised of a hanging curved prism pivotally suspended for movement in air currents, as a mobile, whereby incident light (preferably sunlight) is transmitted through the prism and projected against a surface (interior walls of a building) to provide colorful, ornamental spectra thereon. The curved prism is triangular in cross-section, elongate, and curved about an axis which lies parallel to the radially innermost face, outside of the transparent member, and extends generally perpendicular thereto. The curved prism is of any transparent material and may be colored or tinted to provide color filtering. The curved prism is provided with a small finger member projecting midway from the radially innermost prism surface. When the prism is supported at or hung from this finger member the prism balances in equilibrium in a generally horizontal attitude.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1976
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1978
    Inventor: Fred Allen DaMert
  • Patent number: 4089130
    Abstract: Several embodiments of low cost advertising displays that achieve a visual or animated effect through the use of air currents or the like. In each embodiment a pair of juxtaposed pieces are supported in spaced relationship and for relative movement. At least one of the pieces is transparent in part and the pieces are formed with markings thereon which give a visual or animation effect upon relative movement between the pieces or upon movement of the viewer relative to the display. In some embodiments, the pieces are integrally connected by relatively thin strips of the same material which permit the relative movement and provide the relative support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1976
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1978
    Inventor: Robert J. Byrnes
  • Patent number: 4080747
    Abstract: A display device having a plurality of base panels. Each base panel has an arm projecting perpendicular to the plane of the base panel. The arm has a flat portion parallel to the plane of the base panel at an upper end of the arm, and slant area at a lower end of the arm. A pin is disposed at the end of the arm to suspend freely a reflecting plate, which moves about by breeze to provide an attractive shimmering effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1976
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1978
    Inventor: Taketoshi Kato
  • Patent number: 4068817
    Abstract: A suspension hanger suspending a light weight point of purchase display in a manner that will permit swinging and turning of the display by slight air currents that are normally present in the surrounding atmosphere, and which will permit simple lowering of the display in the initial installation, or thereafter, to bring it to its desired height. The suspension consists of a vertical helical spring by which the display is suspended to permit oscillation of the display about a vertical axis, the spring being of a small diameter to permit swinging of the display, and being of a material of a low modulus of elasticity so that upon the exertion of a comparatively small pulling force in excess of the weight of the display the spring is stretched beyond its elastic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1976
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1978
    Inventor: Sol J. Berger
  • Patent number: RE30822
    Abstract: A display device .Iadd.comprises a base panel .Iaddend.having a plurality of .[.base.]. .Iadd.unit .Iaddend.panels. Each .[.base.]. .Iadd.unit .Iaddend.panel has an arm projecting perpendicular to the plane of the base panel. The arm has a .[.flat portion parallel to the plane of the base panel at an upper end of the arm, and slat area at a lower end of the arm. A pin is disposed at the end of the arm to suspend freely a reflecting plate, which moves about by breeze to provide an attractive shimmering effect..]. .Iadd.terminal top end surface, a width of which is greater than the height thereof in front view. A rod, having a head, extends from the terminal top end surface of the projecting arm, to which a reflector plate is loosely and swingably fitted.Iaddend..
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1980
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1981
    Inventor: Taketoshi Kato