Barrier Or Major Section Mounted For In Situ Repositioning; E.g., Rearrangeable Or Rotatable Patents (Class 52/64)
  • Patent number: 6782665
    Abstract: In a dock unit for maintenance of aircraft there is provided, in addition to an outer support which supportingly engages against a frame disposed parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aircraft in the vicinity of the end of said frame and is adjustable, a further support which is located further in and is likewise adjustable. The distance between the two supports is greater than the largest dimension of the wings of the aircraft to be maintained, measured in the longitudinal direction of the fuselage. One of the supports can therefore be temporarily retracted in order to move a wing past and below this support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Inventor: Otmar Fahrion
  • Patent number: 6772563
    Abstract: A mobile accommodation unit in container form for use as mobile hospital or mobile control or command center or the like has a box-shaped main box element and at least one secondary box element. In a transport state, the secondary box element is telescoped into the main box element. For setting up an accommodation unit of increased floor area, the secondary box element can be pulled out of a lateral opening of the main box element. In order to provide a continuous floor surface, after the secondary box element has been pulled out, the main box element has a movable floor element, which can be lifted relative to a basic floor element so as to equalize the floor levels of the main box element and the secondary box element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: Wietmarscher Ambulanz & Sonderfahrzeug GmbH
    Inventor: Peter Kuhn
  • Publication number: 20040118055
    Abstract: A structure having a first semi-rigid surface with a first curved edge, the first semi-rigid surface adapted to be rotatably secured to a reference to permit the first semi-rigid surface to assume a first position and a second position, and a first joint structure spanning the first semi-rigid surface to permit the first semi-rigid surface to be folded when in the first position and unfolded when in the second position. The structure includes a second semi-rigid surface having a second curved edge, the second semi-rigid surface adapted to be rotatably secured to the reference to permit the second semi-rigid surface to assume a first position and a second position. The first and second semi-rigid surfaces are joined together at their first and second curved edges by a second joint structure adapted to permit the first and second semi-rigid surfaces to fold approximately together when the first and second semi-rigid surfaces are in their first positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: James Reiman, Peter Heppel
  • Publication number: 20040111982
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for screening faces of a substantially rectangular equipment. The apparatus having a frame structure including a plurality of screen support frames disposed around the equipment, each face having edge screen support frames laterally spaced horizontally between two vertical edges of each face such that a corner of the equipment includes edge screen support frames disposed in perpendicular relationship secured thereto, a plurality of movable screen cover panels and stationary screen cover panels supported within the screen support frame, the movable screen cover panels being slidably moved to substantially overlap the stationary cover panels to substantially expose the faces of the equipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2002
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Inventor: Maurice Lattanzio
  • Patent number: 6745520
    Abstract: An integrated rapid access entry/egress apparatus, system, and method for controlling and directing the movement of people or objects between unsecured and secured areas using a plurality of panels is provided. Sensors detect a person's approach and entrance into the system or apparatus. An approval means alerts a processor as to whether the person is approved or not approved. The panels move to direct approved persons to a secured area and not approved persons to an unsecured area so as not to impede the flow of traffic through the apparatus or system. The apparatus accommodates bi-directional traffic and provides an effective and efficient access system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Inventors: John L. Puskaric, Frank C. Yesh
  • Publication number: 20040103593
    Abstract: A movable wall module is provided for installation into an opening formed in a building wall structure, such as a room divider wall in a commercial or residential building. The wall module comprises a frame sized and shaped for substantially nested placement into the wall opening, and to support different functional and/or aesthetic components on opposite sides thereof. The wall module is adapted for manual or power-driven displacement to selectively orient and changeably these components relative to the rooms. In one preferred form, the movable wall module may support audio and/or video components on one side and a work surface such as a desk on the opposite side. In another form, the wall module is a partial-height wall such as a kitchen countertop segment or island, and is rotatably movable to selectively and changeably position the partial-height wall relative to adjacent indoor and/or outdoor spaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2003
    Publication date: June 3, 2004
    Inventor: Rex W. Beasley
  • Patent number: 6742533
    Abstract: An outdoor shelter comprising a sheet member (10) having a generally rectangular-shaped portion and a slit (26) extending from a first corner (62) of the sheet member (10) to the central region (50) of the sheet member (10). The slit (26) defines separated opposing edges, which are equipped with complementary means (30,32) for selectively securing the edges together. The edges define a first fold line (41) when secured together by the securing means (30,32). A third securing means (38) is disposed on a second fold line (42) extending from the central region (50) to a second corner (68) of the sheet member (10) adjacent the first corner (62). The third securing means (38) is complementary to the securing means (32) to enable the second fold line (42) to be secured to one of the edges of the slit (26). By selectively securing the securing means (30,32) to each other or the third securing means (38), the sheet member (10) can be configured to achieve a variety of shelter configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Inventor: Charles J. Olson
  • Patent number: 6739100
    Abstract: A stairwell cover adapted to seal a stairwell opening such as between a first floor living space and a basement when the basement is not in use includes a housing mounted to a wall partition above the base of the stairs, a retractable cover rotatably mounted in the housing, and a pair of roller rails extending along the sidewalls of the stairwell and along which the cover rolls for movement between an retracted position providing open access to the basement and an extended position closing off the basement at the top of the stairwell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Inventor: Mark D. Lewandowski
  • Publication number: 20040093807
    Abstract: A storage structure or hangar designed primarily for housing a sailplane or other small aircraft has a substantially T-shaped pre-fabricated upper frame support anchored to the ground at several locations, a first set of frame members mounted immovably to the upper frame support in areas where the fuselage and tail and the two wings are located when the sailplane or small aircraft is in the storage structure, and a second set of frame members hingedly mounted in part to the upper frame support and partly to first set of frame members. The second set of frame members are located substantially where the front or cockpit of the plane is located and in front of the wings. Panels covering the first and second frame members and enclosing the structure are mounted to the first and second frame members. A cable, chain or like mechanism operated by a winch raises the second set of hinged frame members together with the cover panels mounted thereon to allow the sailplane to be placed into the storage structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2002
    Publication date: May 20, 2004
    Inventor: Richard Ensign
  • Publication number: 20040091513
    Abstract: A apparatus to prevent insect intrusion through window weep holes includes a long filled tube which may be placed in the open track of a window. The apparatus is most effective when the window is open. The apparatus seals the window track to prevent bugs from intruding into the interior of the building. Its size and length may vary depending on the size of the window. Its shape may vary based on the design and the materials it is made of or filled with.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2003
    Publication date: May 13, 2004
    Inventor: Michael Brian Lee
  • Patent number: 6732479
    Abstract: The present invention provides a movable defensive apparatus in which a dedicated source of power for driving a relatively heavy defensive wall and an installation space are not required, whereby entry of a mob, a runaway vehicle, and the like, can be prevented, the entry of rainwater, and the like, can also be prevented to some extent. The movable defensive apparatus includes a defensive wall (2) disposed in the vicinity of a doorway (O•I) of a site (G), such as a house, and an installation in the vicinity of a doorway (O•I), a window or the like, of a building for preventing rainwater and undesirable entry of objects, such as a mob or a runaway vehicle from entering the site (g) or a building. Also described is a piston cylinder unit (20, 20) which is operated by running water for driving the defensive wall (2) from a machine room (M•R) to a predetermined upper position along a guide device (10, 10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Nomura, Kazuo Yano
  • Publication number: 20040083660
    Abstract: A mobile elevating hut product, which has a trailer, a platform, legs connecting the platform and the trailer, and a lifter for sequentially and repeatably moving the platform to and from a raised position. The trailer enables the product to be moved to different locations and set up with the platform in the raised position. The platform in the raised position is freestanding and fully supported by the legs. The freestanding, fully supported platform is resistant to accidental and unexpected lowering caused by transient events. The platform in the raised position provides an elevated lookout perch for work, recreation, and other purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Charlie Atkins
  • Publication number: 20040074123
    Abstract: 1. Display apparatus comprising a support frame having frame members extending between nodes of the frame and elongated members for spanning the nodes to receive display panels on at least a front of the frame, characterised in that the elongated members are in the form of tapes withdrawable from reels carried by the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Adrian Pritchard
  • Patent number: 6718696
    Abstract: A convertible stadium includes an exhibition area, a seating area and an outer sidewall in which is defined in large opening, preferably located so as to provide favorable outdoor views to the occupants of the stadium. A movable wall member is advantageously position so as to be able to open or close the large opening. When the movable wall member is in a first, retracted position spectators will be provided with a view of the outdoors and a great deal of outdoor air and sunlight. When outdoor conditions are unfavorable for an intended event within the stadium, however, the movable wall member may be repositioned in order to partially or fully close the opening. Such unfavorable conditions may include undesirable sun position, an undesirable amount of wind or humidity; or unfavorable temperatures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Uni-Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Cyril Silberman, David Sadinsky, Bart Riberich, Andrew Cheng, Lennart Nielson, Terry Thompson, Timothy J. Kline
  • Patent number: 6712414
    Abstract: A low profile, expandable, mobile rigid structure with unique a unique assembly and support system, that can easily be transported by an average sized vehicle. The structure features a central structure with a central roof section, a pair of endwall assemblies, and a central floor mounted to a base. The endwalls are two pieced having a bottom endwall panel and a top endwall panel. From the side of the central structure one or more side sections are retractable and expandable to increase the size of the floor space inside. The two pieced endwalls allow for compaction of the structure for travel by translating the lower portion of the endwall from supporting the upper portion. A two pieced door allows entry into the structure when it is expanded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Inventor: Floyd L. Morrow
  • Patent number: 6698141
    Abstract: A convertible public exhibition facility includes a stadium having an exhibition area and a seating area that is situated about the exhibition area for permitting spectators to view activities taking place in the exhibition area. The exhibition facility further includes a movable natural grass activity platform that has a surface area of natural grass that is at least 10,000 square feet and that is constructed so as to have a characteristic frequency of at least 6 Hz. Situated within the natural grass activity platform is a transport mechanism that is constructed and arranged so as to be able to move the natural grass activity platform as a complete unit from a location that is outside of the stadium to a location that is within the exhibition area. Preferably, the location that is outside of the stadium is an outdoor location that provides optimal conditions for the growth of natural grass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Uni-Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Cyril Silberman, David Sadinsky, Bart Riberich, Andrew Cheng, Lennart Nielson, Terry Thompson, Timothy J. Kline
  • Publication number: 20040025448
    Abstract: The invention relates to a mobile building unit which is assembled to a building including at least one room (3) enclosed by walls (6), a roof (7) and a floor (12) for accommodating radiating equipment (5) and for treatment, therapy or diagnosing by means of ionizing radiation. The walls, the roof and floor of said building (1, 1′) serve as a radiation shielding barrier for preventing radiation at health-impairing levels from escaping to the outside of the building structure. At least two of the walls and the roof of the building, has the form of a double walled structure comprising an inner (8) and an outer (9) partition element with a space (10) therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Applicant: ELEKTA AB.
    Inventors: Tomas Puusepp, Rolf Lundberg
  • Publication number: 20040020138
    Abstract: A platform module suspendable from a structure for supporting a dynamic load with respect to a support surface of the structure including a first framing member suspended with respect to the structure. A second framing member is suspended with respect to the structure and mounted with respect to the first framing member. A deck panel is positioned between the first framing member and the second framing member and suspended with respect to the structure. At least one adjustable suspension member is attached to each of the first framing member and the second framing member, and removably mounted with respect to the structure. Also disclosed is a modular platform system including a plurality of platform modules and a method for suspending a modular platform system with respect to the structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2003
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventor: Kenneth R. Grearson
  • Publication number: 20040016183
    Abstract: A retractable enclosure system for providing outdoor comfort to individuals adjacent to a building. The retractable enclosure system includes a housing attachable to a building structure, a foldable frame attached to the housing and/or building structure, and a covering surrounding the foldable frame. The foldable frame preferably includes a plurality of support members connected to one another by a plurality of lower extension members and upper extension members. A plurality of support cables are preferably dispensed from a cable reel within the housing adjacent to the upper portions of the support members for providing additional support to the covering. The covering is preferably comprised of a netting for allowing enjoyment of the exterior surroundings while preventing the entry of insects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Stacy L. Hoffman
  • Publication number: 20040006930
    Abstract: In a dock unit for maintenance of aircraft there is provided, in addition to an outer support which supportingly engages against a frame disposed parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aircraft in the vicinity of the end of said frame and is adjustable, a further support which is located further in and is likewise adjustable. The distance between the two supports is greater than the largest dimension of the wings of the aircraft to be maintained, measured in the longitudinal direction of the fuselage. One of the supports can therefore be temporarily retracted in order to move a wing past and below this support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Publication date: January 15, 2004
    Inventor: Otmar Fahrion
  • Publication number: 20030233805
    Abstract: A roof framing system includes a first bracket and a second bracket. The first bracket attaches a first rafter and a second rafter to a ridge beam. The second bracket attaches a third rafter, through the first bracket, to the ridge beam. The first bracket and/or the second bracket includes one or more projections for interlocking with the other one of the first bracket and the second bracket such that the second bracket can be moved between a fixed position and a released position by moving the second bracket relative to the first bracket to attach the third rafter, through the first bracket, to the ridge beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Publication date: December 25, 2003
    Inventor: Edward Horne
  • Patent number: 6658798
    Abstract: A space saving system to provide stable and supported movement of an expandable room or other moveable structure relative to a vehicle or other base structure is disclosed. The space saving system provides an inner and outer nested tubular member within a floor of the base structure. Low friction bearings are used to separate and support the nested tubular members relative to one another. The inner member is fixed to the base structure and the outer member is allowed to move telescopically relative to the inner member. The outer member is vertically supported by the base structure through use of a low friction bearing. The expandable room is supported upon the outer member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: HWH Corporation
    Inventors: Marc Edward Frerichs, Paul Edmund Hanser
  • Publication number: 20030213185
    Abstract: A drop down for floor access, laterally expanding for space, stressed structure for finesse, trailer or portable building that consists of two telescoping open span box shells of space tube type construction with a novel suspension attached both near the floor and near the ceiling that allows walk through floor space between the wheels when the thin trailer floor is sitting on roadway surface in the drop down mode. A “glide-over” box shell section travels on overhead “drawer-slide” apparatus during extension-retraction and twin overhead “I” beams captivate a combination double foam weather seal and travel stop during extension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2003
    Publication date: November 20, 2003
    Inventor: Ben Steven Findley
  • Publication number: 20030208966
    Abstract: An integrated rapid access entry/egress apparatus, system, and method for controlling and directing the movement of people or objects between unsecured and secured areas using a plurality of panels is provided. Sensors detect a person's approach and entrance into the system or apparatus. An approval means alerts a processor as to whether the person is approved or not approved. The panels move to direct approved persons to a secured area and not approved persons to an unsecured area so as not to impede the flow of traffic through the apparatus or system. The apparatus accommodates bi-directional traffic and provides an effective and efficient access system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2002
    Publication date: November 13, 2003
    Inventors: John L. Puskaric, Frank C. Yesh
  • Patent number: 6640504
    Abstract: A vertically moveable swimming pool floor apparatus includes a rigid planar platform configured to fit the planform area of a swimming pool, and a plurality of hydraulically powered hoists coupled to the platform to raise and lower the platform. The hoists are controlled by a control system operated by the user. The hoists controllably actuate the platform into and out of a swimming pool cavity, such that effective depth of the swimming pool is variable in a continuous range. The platform is equipped with depth indicators to allow users to observe the effective depth of the pool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: FLG Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: James Pearlson, Raymond Pearlson
  • Patent number: 6629386
    Abstract: A furniture system is particularly adapted to support group activities in open plans, and the like. A plurality of columns support an overhead framework on the floor of a building in a freestanding fashion at a predetermined elevation, generally above average user height. A plurality of individual panels are provided, wherein each panel is constructed to permit easy, manual, bodily translation of the same by an adult user. A hanger arrangement is associated with the overhead framework, and cooperates with connectors on the panels to detachably suspend the panels at various locations along the overhead framework. The panels are manually reconfigurable between many different arrangements to efficiently and effectively support different group activities. Preferably, the panels are capable of providing a partitioning function to visually divide at least a portion of the workspace, and/or a display function to facilitate group communications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2003
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Paul T. Cornell, Robert J. Luchetti, Gregg R. Draudt, Kurt S. Bodden, Linda K. Zimmer
  • Patent number: 6629387
    Abstract: Sectional door panels include formed metal or plastic skin parts with opposed upper and lower edges configured to form pinch resistant connections between adjacent panels. The skin part edges include spaced-apart slots for receiving locating flanges formed on opposed end stiles and one or more intermediate stiles to provide for the stiles to be positively located with respect to the panel skin part during assembly thereof. Snap together hinge parts are provided with bosses cooperating with slots formed in the stiles for positively locating the hinge parts with respect to the stiles and the skin part. Mechanical fasteners connect the hinge parts and the stiles to the skin parts. The hinge parts include cooperating pin and pin receiving bore portions with the bore portions being formed in part by elastically deflectable fingers whereby the hinge parts may be snapped together during assembly of the door by stacking one panel on top of another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2003
    Assignee: Overhead Door Corporation
    Inventors: L. Blake Whitley, Charles C. Blume, James Wendall Compton, Henri M. Friloux, Robert K. Wright
  • Patent number: 6625940
    Abstract: A concrete building module includes a concrete roof having a roof beam with a beam upper surface and a beam lower surface; a lifter mounting fitting embedded in the beam upper surface and oriented to be accessible from above the roof; an upper link connection structure embedded in the beam lower surface below the lifter mounting fitting; a concrete floor having a floor upper surface; a lower link connection structure embedded into the floor upper surface below the upper link connection structure; a linking member extending between and removably connected to the upper link connection structure and to the lower link connection structure; and at least one module concrete side wall interconnecting the module concrete roof and the module concrete floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Inventor: Wallace D. Sanger
  • Publication number: 20030177716
    Abstract: An arch structure (12) comprising several struts (14) interconnected by five joints (15) to (17, 18). The two ends of the arch (16) rest on ball joints which are fixed to the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2002
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Inventor: Edward Halford
  • Patent number: 6623210
    Abstract: A guidance system for protecting a specific zone as a safety zone against flood water while protecting landscapes near the specific zone from deteriorization. According to the described flood water guidance system, a guidance plate (5, 5, . . . ) is positioned under underground in the vicinity (S′1, S′2, S″1) of an upstream side of a specific zone (SI, S2) containing property to be protected and where it is anticipated that flood water will flow, and when flood water is generated, or when there is a possibility that flood water may be generated, the guidance plate (5, 5, . . . ) is raised to a predetermined height above the surface of the earth, in order that a specific zone (S1, S2) is protected as a safety zone by diverting the flood water from the specific zone (S1, S2) by way of the raised guidance plate (5, 5, . . . ), and by guiding the flood water to a retarding basin, a drainage canal, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Nomura, Kazuo Yano
  • Publication number: 20030159364
    Abstract: A light transmission system and method for a building according to which shading surfaces are provided on the roof of the building for preventing direct sunlight from passing through a roof light, while permitting the maximum amount of indirect sunlight to pass through the roof light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Publication date: August 28, 2003
    Applicant: The Nasher Foundation
    Inventors: Renzo Piano, Duncan Campbell, Alistair Guthrie
  • Patent number: 6604327
    Abstract: A retractable trackless spa enclosure includes at least two sections, a first section being slightly smaller than a second section. The first section may be retracted into the second section in reverse telescoping fashion. Both sections are mounted on wheels so that the spa may be more easily moved. Both sections of the enclosure may also include a sliding door for access/egress. In addition, the front end panel of the front section is pivotally mounted on rollers that move within a track. The pivotal mounting allows the front end panel to be rotated in its frame, so that it can be moved to a position horizontal to the ground, thereby providing sufficient clearance for the enclosure to pass over the spa. When the enclosure is retracted, the front end panel can be moved to a position adjacent the end wall of the rear section, so that an open-ended alcove is formed. The frame of the structure is formed from extruded aluminum, and is therefore very lightweight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Assignee: Ameracover Pool Enclosures, Inc.
    Inventor: Jim Reville
  • Publication number: 20030140573
    Abstract: A portable and assembleable enclosure having a floor constructed of a first rigid panel and a second hingedly interconnecting panel, a recessed channel extending about an outer perimeter of the floor panels. A plurality of walls are each constructed of a rigid material and exhibit an annular shaped projection along a first extending side edge. A corresponding and annular shaped recess extends along a second extending side edge and receives, in engaging fashion, a first extending side edge of a succeeding wall and so that the walls may be interconnected along opposing extending edges in addition to being secured to the floor in upwardly extending fashion from within the recessed channel. A peaked roof is constructed of a first rigid panel and a second interconnecting rigid panel and which is secured to an upper perimeter extending edge of the interconnected walls. First and second pairs of triangular shaped and hinged end panels securing to opposite ends of the peaked roof panels and to enclose the structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2003
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Inventors: Dave Marcinkowski, Mary Marcinkowski
  • Publication number: 20030140577
    Abstract: A portable enclosure for temporary shelter purposes as a storage building or workshop at remote construction sites comprises a plurality of articulable frames mounted on a towable boom, which may be coupled to a towing tractor, and which has wheels at the other end so that it may be towed. Each of the frames has first to fourth frame members, with a first cylinder mounted between the boom and the first frame member to adjust the tilted disposition of that member with respect to the boom to vertical. The angle between the second and third members is adjusted by a second cylinder. The fourth member also assumes a vertical orientation. Thus, each of the first and fourth frame members of each frame is articulable to a substantially vertical orientation, and they are horizontally distanced one from the other so as to form a storage or workshop space between them.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Inventor: Roger Cote
  • Patent number: 6598351
    Abstract: A telescopic seating riser assembly capable of being configured into a variety of seating riser systems. The assembly has a plurality risers having vertically spaced substantially horizontal portions with the risers being movable between an extended position for use and a retracted position for storage. The assembly is further constructed to support deck bridging panels between spaced apart pairs of assemblies, and to utilize a method of supporting at least one deck bridging panel on a pair of spaced apart telescopic seating riser assemblies in an extended position for use and in a retracted position for storage of the assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Assignee: Stageright Corporation
    Inventor: Edwin A. Hallberg
  • Publication number: 20030131539
    Abstract: The invention relates to a support (12) for an erectable structure (10), in particular a canopy for a grandstand seating platform (98). The support (12) includes a pliable elongate main member in the form of a frame (26); a plurality of compression legs in the form of A-frames (28) mounted to the frame (26); restraint means in the form of tension wires (30) connected between the A-frames (28) and the frame (26); and an elongate tensionable element in the form of a cable (32). The support (12) is movable between a collapsed and an erect position by pivoting the support (12) about a pin joint (100), through which it is coupled to the seating platform. In a preferred embodiment, a structure 10r comprises three such supports (12r) coupled by purlins (16r) and including membranes (14r) to define a grandstand canopy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventors: Neil Keith Burford, Fraser William Smith
  • Publication number: 20030115808
    Abstract: A low profile, expandable, mobile rigid structure with unique a unique assembly and support system, that can easily be transported by an average sized vehicle. The structure features a central structure with a central roof section, a pair of endwall assemblies, and a central floor mounted to a base. The endwalls are two pieced having a bottom endwall panel and a top endwall panel. From the side of the central structure one or more side sections are retractable and expandable to increase the size of the floor space inside. The two pieced endwalls allow for compaction of the structure for travel by translating the lower portion of the endwall from supporting the upper portion. A two pieced door allows entry into the structure when it is expanded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2001
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Inventor: Floyd L. Morrow
  • Publication number: 20030101682
    Abstract: A top sheet and a bottom sheet are connected together by wing members, each having a center segment hinged to the top sheet and to the bottom sheet about parallel axes. Wings protrudes from the center segments and are biased to project out of a plane defined between the hinge axes. In a collapsed condition the top and bottom sheets are close together with the wings distorted from their relaxed positions. In the expanded condition the sheets are spaced apart and the wings return to their relaxed positions projecting out from the center segments and conferring stiffness on the structural member and resisting the return of the member to its collapsed configuration. In storage, the sheets are secured along the edges with an underlying rip cord, and may be rolled. The wings may be formed as part of metal or plastic spring members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2002
    Publication date: June 5, 2003
    Inventors: Caleb Clark Crye, Eric Owen Fehlberg
  • Patent number: 6568885
    Abstract: A machining cell capable of providing tool movement along at least one axis is provided with at least one, but preferably a pair of articulated debris shields mounted to a tool carriage that translates along an axis of motion. Each articulated debris shield occludes space vacated by the tool carriage as it translates along the axis of motion. In a preferred embodiment, the machining cell provides tool movements along x-, y-, and z-axes and has a stationary housing that supports a z-axis carrier frame slidably mounted thereto for translation along the z-axis. An x-axis carriage is slidably mounted to the z-axis carrier frame for translation along the x-axis. A y-axis spindle frame is slidably mounted to the x-axis carrier frame for vertical translation along the y-axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignee: Ann Arbor Machine Company
    Inventor: Lanny Green
  • Patent number: 6553725
    Abstract: A blind for use by hunters, bird watchers, field observers and the like has at least three upstanding walls, a top cover and a bottom pan where at least one of the walls has an opening for ingress and egress and at least one of the walls has an openable and closeable window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Inventor: Scott Washington
  • Patent number: 6550491
    Abstract: The present invention is a portable structure used for exhibition or sports (batting cage) applications including an expansion section with a plurality of expansion segments, each of which is self-contained. Each expansion segment is bounded by an upright member onto which an articulating arm is attached adjacent the tope and bottom. Each articulating arm bends at an elbow and folds flat against the upright members when each expansion segment is extended, the articulating arms straighten at the elbow and pivot in a scissor-type motion with respect to the upright members until the articulating arms are fully extended substantially straight. The expansion segments roll on rollers removably affixed to the upright members. The portable structure includes three positions, a transport position wherein large wheels or skids are suppled for easy manipulation of the device, an expansion segment wherein the expansion segments are extended or collapsed using smaller wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Assignee: World Patent Development Corporation
    Inventors: Dickie R. Bixler, Larry D. Lahman
  • Publication number: 20030056446
    Abstract: A transportable building module including structure defining a floor sub-frame (13) and at least one wall structure (16) about a room space. The building module further includes at least one roof sub-module (20). This roof sub-module is hingedly mounted to the wall structure for pivotal movement between an extended position and a retracted transport position, in which retracted transport position the height of the building module is less than when the roof sub-module is in its extended position. In separate aspects, there are disclosed a transportable building with a separate roof module, and a building with a transversely arranged roof module beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventor: Donald Stewart Napier
  • Patent number: 6526702
    Abstract: A plurality of wheeled cabinets, including single-sided cabinets (20) and double-sided cabinets (21), is movably mounted upon fixed rail assemblies (90) and (90A). Each cabinet is fitted with an extendable privacy partition (80), an automatically deployed safety-spacer assembly (110), and is capable of accepting both factory-finished and custom-fabricated furniture and fixture infill packages (24) that provide the activity spaces (23) created in between the cabinets with all of the appurtenances necessary to particularize these spaces into functionally specific rooms. A continuous conductor rail (100) supplies power, telephone, and data to the residential program deck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Inventor: Wesley C. Jones
  • Patent number: 6523308
    Abstract: A rotating-cover storage shed for storing drums of material which is potentially hazardous to the environment. The shed provides a means for containing any leaking material and also provides for protection from the weather and from unauthorized access to the stored contents. Access to the contents is easily made by rotatably opening one of a pair of rotating cover sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: Eagle Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: John G. Gillispie
  • Patent number: 6523779
    Abstract: The movable class-partitioning divider for an illustrative airliner passenger cabin comprises in particular: a device to lock said divider into a mooring adapter selected during the translation of the divider along a guide rail configured longitudinally in said cabin and unlocking it before such translation takes place; a device connecting at least one first connector, which is firmly affixed to a movable support mounted on a longitudinal rail solidly joined to the cabin, to a second connector solidly which is firmly affixed to said mooring adapter; a device operating said locking and connecting devices during translational operation; a device to preclude actuating said operating devices as long as at least the first connector is outside a given connection zone to said second connector firmly affixed to said mooring adapter. Application: passenger transportation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: Adder S.A.
    Inventor: Dominique Michel
  • Patent number: 6523319
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a drilling rig base and a lower mast section that are collapsible into a compact transportable position. The base is expandable in the field to support a drilling platform and all necessary equipment, and the telescoping mast is also expanable for supporting the crown block and cables of the drawworks. More specifically, the rig of the present invention has a base having a plurality of beams, the outer beams being collapsible to a transportable position for placing on a single truck or trailer, and the A-frame lower mast section which is collapsible to a transportable position for placing on a single truck or trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: B.F. Intent, Inc.
    Inventors: Don L. Bockhorn, Johnnie A. Parker
  • Publication number: 20030033757
    Abstract: A lift screen comprises an upright post, a lift mechanism, and a partition board. The upright post is a hollow body, the lift mechanism is disposed in the upright post; and the partition board provides at least an elongated slide plate at a facial side thereof and a lower side thereof connects with the lift mechanism. The lift screen is possible to be set up into multiple forms with multiple functions so as to offer a high mobility and more flexibility while in use and to be set up into a form with a worktable, so as to satisfy various needs and desired arrangements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Yu-An Liu
  • Patent number: 6516575
    Abstract: The device (2), which is used to lock running gear (1) guided in a rail (5) and is or can be connected to the latter, has a body (21, 22) in which a locking pin (23) is displaceably mounted and, by means of a resilient element (24), is held resiliently in a first position, so that the locking pin (23) can be brought by the action of a force from the first position, in which it can engage in a locking element (36, 53) provided in the rail (5) or connected to the rail (5), into a second position, in which it is released from the engagement in the locking element (36, 53). The locking device (2), which is constructed simply and cost-effectively, therefore permits dividing elements (90), such as sliding doors, sliding counters or folding walls, which are guided by the running gear (1), to be closed off securely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Assignee: Hawa AG
    Inventors: Karl Haab, Otto Haab
  • Publication number: 20030019166
    Abstract: There is provided an opening assembly for an extended end of a stressed membrane structure having a fixed part, said opening assembly comprising: at least a part of said end separated from said fixed part and moveable relative to said fixed part; a pivot assembly for permitting movement of said at least a part of said extended end between an open and a closed position relative to said structure; a support frame for maintaining the integrity of said part in stressed membrane condition at all times during said movement and when in said open and closed position; rolling transport means for supporting said frame and said assembly during said movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2002
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventor: Philip D. Sprung
  • Publication number: 20020189172
    Abstract: A system for adapting the height of a dividing wall between a space ceiling and a space floor, in which case the dividing wall is supported at the bottom and at the top in a non-tiltable manner, has a height adaptation component between the ceiling and/or the floor and the dividing wall, which height adaptation component comprises at least two profile parts which can be telescopically extended and which can be fixed with respect to one another in different telescoping positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2002
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventors: Uwe Kaeser, Anja Schneider