Rotatable About Vertical Axis Patents (Class 52/65)
  • Patent number: 11603210
    Abstract: A transportation system and method serve passenger-conveying VTOL air vehicles (AVs) at a vertiport. The vertiport has a flight deck including at least one landing pad, a passenger terminal, and a dynamic partition arrangement that defines a capsule for receiving one of the AVs at a time. The dynamic partition arrangement assumes a first open state in which it is open to the flight deck and closed to the passenger terminal and a second open state in which it is closed to the flight deck and open to the passenger terminal. A robotic system includes a handling robot that automatically approaches and docks with the AV after landing, and conveys the AV between the landing pad and the capsule via an opening provided by the first open state of the dynamic partition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2023
    Assignee: FLYON Aerosystems Ltd.
    Inventors: Oren Tal, Reuven Tal
  • Patent number: 11280588
    Abstract: Ready armor modular protective systems that can be rapidly deployed in an urban environment. Exemplary armor systems include a container, and a wall assembly that fits inside of the container when in a collapsed configuration. The wall assembly includes a first end section, a second end section, a constraint mechanism, and first and second locking mechanisms. The first end section has a first space frame unit, and the second end section has second and third space frame units. A locking mechanism prevent relative vertical displacement from occurring between adjacent second and third space frame units. The constraint mechanism keeps the first and third space frame units at a fixed distance from one another. The constraint mechanism, when coupled with the first and third space frame units, keeps the locking mechanism from being removed from the second end section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2022
    Assignee: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AS REPRESENTED BY THE SECRETARY OF THE ARMY
    Inventors: Omar Esquilin-Mangual, Catherine S Stephens, Omar G Flores, Andrew B Edwards, Erik M Chappell
  • Patent number: 11072939
    Abstract: The invention relates to an eatery having at least one table element and at least one seating element, a moveable and accessible platform on which the at least one table element and at least one seating element are arranged, is provided. At least one elevation device for raising the platform is arranged in the area below the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2021
    Inventor: Hamza Mutevelic
  • Patent number: 10775138
    Abstract: Ready armor modular protective systems that can be rapidly deployed in an urban environment. Exemplary armor systems include multiple space frame units. Adjacent space frame units can be coupled together with vertically adjustable coupling mechanisms. Coupling mechanisms (e.g. slot and pin connecting mechanisms) can facilitate relative displacement between adjacent space frame units when the units are connected. In this way, a wall of connected adjacent space frame units can be placed and/or moved along an uneven or irregular surface (e.g. having bumps or a grade) and the adjacent space frame units can remain in parallel and/or vertical orientation relative to one another. Suspension mechanisms can help to facilitate or enable rapid deployment of a ready armor modular protective system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AS REPRESENTED BY THE SECRETARY OF THE ARMY
    Inventors: Omar Esquilin-Mangual, Catherine S Stephens, Omar G Flores, Andrew B Edwards, Erik M Chappell, Carey D Price
  • Patent number: 10589964
    Abstract: An elevator car (6) comprises at least one movable wall panel (16, 18), which is movable between a closed position, in which the at least one movable wall panel (16, 18) constitutes a portion of a sidewall of the elevator car (6), and at least one open position providing an opening (24) which allows access to areas outside the elevator from inside the elevator car (6). The at least one movable wall panel (16, 18) includes a first movable wall panel (16) constituting or supporting a car operation panel (7b).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2020
    Assignee: OTIS ELEVATOR COMPANY
    Inventor: Juan Cortes
  • Patent number: 9506241
    Abstract: A building with rotating housings has a main structure and multiple housing units. The main structure has a structure body, a housing track extending spirally upward outside of the structure body, and a temporary track moveably mounted in the structure body. When changing positions of the housing units, braking devices of all the housing units are released temporarily to make the housing units slide down by gravity along the housing track for a distance of one housing unit, and the housing unit at the lowest position slides to the temporary track. Then the temporary track and said housing unit are moved upward. Finally the braking device of said housing unit is released temporarily to make said housing unit slide down to the housing track to be the highest housing unit. The housing units can change their positions, heights, and angles at regular or predetermined timeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2016
    Inventor: Yi-Chen Kuo
  • Patent number: 9239105
    Abstract: A power transmission system for a people mover, including a transmission housing; a main shaft extending at least partially through the transmission housing for rotation with respect thereto; a plurality of gears located inside the transmission housing, the plurality of gears adapted to rotate the main shaft; and a flexible coupling adapted to secure the transmission housing to a structural support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2016
    Assignee: Kone Corporation
    Inventors: Glen Collison, Thomas Nurnberg
  • Patent number: 8973309
    Abstract: A tower structure including a central, vertical mast and a plurality of tensioned elongate elements arranged to support the mast against buckling, the plurality of tensioned elements together defining a generally hyperboloid structure and including a first plurality of elongate elements which define a multiplicity of junctions therebetween, a second plurality of junction-to-mast joining elongate elements which join at least some of the multiplicity of junctions to the central, vertical mast; and a third plurality of junction-to-junction joining elongate elements which are connected at a plurality of mutually spaced fixed locations therealong to the at least some of the multiplicity of junctions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignees: S. Cohen & Co.-Trust Company Ltd.
    Inventor: Yossi Amir
  • Patent number: 8966830
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for the protection of living beings and objects from being buried in bulk material, a method for assembling said device and uses employing this device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Südzucker Aktiengesellschaft Mannheim/Ochsenfurt
    Inventor: Johann Trenkler
  • Patent number: 8850749
    Abstract: The present invention relates to adjustable desks and chairs for audiovisual classrooms. It comprises a turntable, at least a desk and at least a chair. The turntable is installed on the floor of an audiovisual classroom. The desk is installed on the turntable. The chair is installed on the turntable and in proximity to the desk. The turntable can rotate the desk and the chair together to any desired angle, thereby increasing the convenience of using an audiovisual classroom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: National Central University
    Inventor: Li-Hua Sui
  • Publication number: 20140259899
    Abstract: Systems for using one or more rotating roofs on a building to track the sun or for other reasons such as for changing the lighting, or views, or for using the rotating roofs as a mobile sculptures are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Alain Poivet
  • Patent number: 8813431
    Abstract: A liquid-resistant control systems enclosure may include a shell, a shaft and at least one shell anchoring member. The shell may include a top, a shell wall connected to and extending downwardly from a perimeter of the top, and a sleeve. The shaft may extend upwardly through a surface pad and may be adapted to pass through the sleeve. The sleeve may include a sleeve wall extending downwardly from an inner perimeter of an opening in the top. The sleeve may matingly engage the shaft to move the shell between a raised position and a lowered position. The shell may be moveable between a latched position and an unlatched position. The shell may be adapted to be positioned in the latched position when the shell is in the lowered position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Delta Flow Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas F. Smaidris
  • Patent number: 8756872
    Abstract: A hunting blind rotates 360 degrees to provide a hunter with unobstructed views. A rotatable enclosure rotates atop a base that is affixed to the ground for stability. The rotatable enclosure contains a seat rigidly affixed to a back wall, a top rotatably affixed to the back wall, and right and left side walls hingedly affixed to the back wall. Either the right or left side wall serves as a door to allow the hunter access to enter the blind. The other side wall is rigidly connected to the seat to add stability to the enclosure. The hunter can place the blind pre-season in the middle of a field, for example, which can increase shot opportunities by providing the hunter with an expansive field of view. The component parts of the blind are generally lightweight, and the blind can therefore be easily transported and assembled in the field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Inventor: Jeffrey K. Preg
  • Patent number: 8752339
    Abstract: The present disclosure is generally directed to a system and method of operation for a convertible door system including a door accessible compartment having a moveable dividing wall that substantially divides the compartment into a first and a second sub-compartment. A first door assembly, configured to allow access to the first sub-compartment, is disposed between a first of two opposing sidewalls and the moveable dividing wall. A second door assembly, configured to allow access to the second sub-compartment, is disposed between a second of the two opposing sidewalls and the moveable dividing wall. A first and a second hinge assembly are adapted to rotationally join the first and second door assembly to respective opposing sidewalls. A third hinge assembly is adapted to rotationally join the moveable dividing wall to either the first door assembly or the second door assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Gregory A. Tubbs
  • Patent number: 8745929
    Abstract: A pivoting shelter comprises a support member, such as a support post, and a pivot affixed to the support member. The pivoting shelter has a shelter member attached to the pivot such that the shelter member is capable of rotating relative to the support member about a rotational axis. The pivot is attached to the shelter member so that the rotational axis is substantially perpendicular to a primary plane of the shelter member and at a position along the side of the shelter member other than the center of a side. For example, the rotational axis may be located substantially at a corner of the shelter member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Inventor: Mansen W. Way
  • Patent number: 8726578
    Abstract: A partition system includes a first pilaster and a door coupled to the first pilaster and rotatable from a closed position to an open position. The door is configurable in a first configuration wherein the door is rotatable from the closed position to the open position in a first direction and prevented from rotating in a second direction from the closed position, the second direction opposite the first direction. The door is further configurable in a second configuration wherein the door is rotatable from the closed position to the open position in the second direction and prevented from rotating in the first direction from the closed position. The door is coupled to the first pilaster to define a seam and prevents a line of sight from being established through the seam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: The Mills Company
    Inventors: Mark A. Thielke, Thomas S. Persick, Midchi K. Odya
  • Patent number: 8650812
    Abstract: An array of photovoltaic panels is supported in rows and columns spaced from one another using a foldable bi-directional span of support members. The support members include a plurality of support joists and support rails braced at an incline. Each support rail is tubular and generally rectangular, having a lower wall section with a T-slot channel for acceptance of the head of a bolt for adjustable attachment with the support joist. Also, the support rail may have a C-slot channel for retaining electrical wires. Clips are used to secure each panel to upper wall portions of underlying support rails. Each clip has a generally U-shaped gasket and is retained to a corresponding support rail through a threaded hole in a top wall of the support rail that receives a bolt or similar threaded fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Northern States Metals Company
    Inventor: Paul R. Cusson
  • Patent number: 8584428
    Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments of multi-component spin hardware for connecting structural framing members to other structural framing members while allowing desired portions of the framing members to pivot, selectively displacing the framing members to variable positions. The spin hardware generally includes a top bracket, a bottom bracket, and a counter bracket assembly. The spin hardware bracket assemblies can be installed along a vertical axis to provide maximum flexibility and creativity while pivoting structural framing members in any number of configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Inventor: Timothy Pulver
  • Patent number: 8584409
    Abstract: A stairway barricade assembly includes a pair of barricade panels and a pair of barricade hinges carried by the pair of barricade panels, respectively, and adapted to pivotally attach the pair of barricade panels, respectively, to the stairway. Each of the barricade panels includes an outside panel portion adapted for positioning outside the stairway handrail, an inside panel portion extending from the outside panel portion and adapted for positioning inside the stairway handrail and a handrail slot between the outside panel portion and the inside panel portion. The handrail slot is adapted to accommodate a corresponding handrail of the stairway. The barricade panels are selectively pivotal between a closed position in which the inside panel portions block the stairway and an open position in which the inside panel portions unblock the stairway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Inventor: Victor Hibbard
  • Patent number: 8584404
    Abstract: A modular building is produced from base elements that include skeleton structural elements, from which a skeleton structure is formed, and planar elements with at least wall, floor, and ceiling elements attached to the skeleton structure. The skeleton structure elements are detachably connected to each other to form the skeleton structure and the planar elements are detachably connected to the skeleton structure and to each other. A method for producing a modular building that is produced from base elements, with a skeleton structure and planar elements, which include at least wall, floor, and ceiling elements being produced and/or provided as the base elements. The skeleton structure elements are detachably connected to each other to form the skeleton structure and the planar elements are detachably connected to the skeleton structure and/or to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Inventor: Bernd Heidenreich
  • Patent number: 8555557
    Abstract: A passive indoor/outdoor stadium structure configured to reduce energy demands from the stadium structure includes a moveable roofing system and a micro-climate cooling system. The moveable roofing system covers an interior space of the stadium and has an open position and a closed position. The roofing system includes a fixed half-dome roof and a revolving half dome roof retractable beneath the fixed half dome roof, both the fixed half dome roof and the revolving half dome roof having an outer half dome clad with a plurality of solar hoods positioned in an overlapping arrangement. The micro-climate cooling system for cooling the indoor/outdoor stadium includes a full circulation mode for cooling a stadium volume when the roofing system is in the closed position, and a micro-climate mode for cooling a portion of the stadium volume when the roofing system is in the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Qatar Football Association
    Inventors: Lee Hosking, Michael Edward Beaven
  • Patent number: 8505245
    Abstract: The invention can be efficiently used for intensively learning different disciplines, including foreign languages, and for forming and automating operational skills of professionals in different field of activity. It makes it possible to obtain a technical result and a high-quality intensive training. The use of a training aid is developed according to a synergetic theory in the form of a synergetic training device and makes it possible to provide a synergetic variant of intensive training. The synergetic training device is embodied in a dynamic technical device consisting of several soundproof booths which comprise training facilities and technical means using a sensor system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventors: Miroslav Valerjevitsh Bobryshev, Irina Evgenjevna Bobrysheva
  • Publication number: 20130171002
    Abstract: A wind turbine includes a vertically standing hybrid tower adapted to support a horizontally oriented rotor. The tower includes a fixed base portion and a separate rotatable upper rotor swept portion adapted to be secured to the base portion and rotatably yawed into the wind. The interface between the base and upper tower portions includes a bearing system defined by a pair of vertically spaced ring bearings adapted to encase and secure a downwardly depending spindle of the upper tower portion for rotatable support thereof within a vertically oriented cup-shaped opening in the base portion. Pluralities of contact rollers situated between inner and outer races of the ring bearings are each mounted on a single spindle and preloaded in angular orientation relative to the vertical axis of the tower.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2011
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicant: Clipper Windpower, LLC
    Inventors: Richard A. Himmelmann, Stephen E. Tongue
  • Patent number: 8474193
    Abstract: A modular accessory system is supportable on a vertical surface such as a wall, an office divider, or the like and includes a support member or base that supports decorative panels and/or functional panels to provide a desired appearance and/or functions for use in an area. The panels are repositionable, and some may be oriented in two or more different orientations on the support base. Engaging members are provided at spaced intervals along each panel, with additional engaging members provided at spaced intervals along the support base. The engaging members along the support base releasably engage the engaging members on the panels to support them on the support base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Raspberry Med, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd A. Sutton, George J. Simons, Jr., Jacob R. Simons, Noel J. Bodkins
  • Patent number: 8387315
    Abstract: A microclimate cooling system for an indoor/outdoor stadium includes a partially rotatable roof, the rotatable roof having a first position environmentally sealing an interior of the stadium. and a second position exposing a portion of the interior to the atmosphere, a field surrounded by the stadium, and a tiered seating positioned adjacent a first side of the field. The system further includes a raised concrete barrier adjacent a second side of the pitch opposing the first side of the field, a first wall adjacent a third side of the field, and a second wall adjacent a fourth side of the field, the first and second walls perpendicular to the tiered seating extending between at least a portion of the tiered seating and the raised concrete barrier. The system further includes a plurality of air handling units for supplying cooling air to the tiered seating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Qatar Football Association
    Inventors: Lee Hosking, Michael Edward Beaven
  • Patent number: 8336261
    Abstract: A moveable roofing system for covering an interior space includes a fixed half-dome roof fixed to and supported by a first support structure, a rotatable half-dome roof rotatable about and supported by a second support structure, the second support structure being concentric to the first support structure, and, wherein the rotatable half-dome roof is configured to rotate about the second support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Qatar Football Association
    Inventors: Lee Hosking, Michael Edward Beaven
  • Publication number: 20120317897
    Abstract: A pivoting shelter comprises a support member, such as a support post, and a pivot affixed to the support member. The pivoting shelter has a shelter member attached to the pivot such that the shelter member is capable of rotating relative to the support member about a rotational axis. The pivot is attached to the shelter member so that the rotational axis is substantially perpendicular to a primary plane of the shelter member and at a position along the side of the shelter member other than the center of a side. For example, the rotational axis may be located substantially at a corner of the shelter member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Inventor: Mansen W. Way
  • Patent number: 8327589
    Abstract: A modular accessory system is supportable on a vertical surface such as a wall, an office divider, or the like and includes a framework that support panels and/or functional modules to provide a desired appearance and/or functions for use in an area. The panels and modules are repositionable, and some may be oriented in two or more different orientations on the framework. Engaging members are provided at spaced intervals along each panel and module, with additional engaging members provided at spaced intervals along the framework. The engaging members along the framework releasably engage the engaging members on the panels and modules to support them on the framework. In addition, brackets may be coupled to the framework in either a vertical or horizontal orientation, such as alongside any panel or module, to support accessories thereon. Electrical wiring may be routed through the framework to supply certain panels, modules, or accessories.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Raspberry Med, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd A. Sutton, Noel J. Bodkins
  • Publication number: 20120304551
    Abstract: A hunting blind rotates 360 degrees to provide a hunter with unobstructed views. A rotatable enclosure rotates atop a base that is affixed to the ground for stability. The rotatable enclosure contains a seat rigidly affixed to a back wall, a top rotatably affixed to the back wall, and right and left side walls hingedly affixed to the back wall. Either the right or left side wall serves as a door to allow the hunter access to enter the blind. The other side wall is rigidly connected to the seat to add stability to the enclosure. The hunter can place the blind pre-season in the middle of a field, for example, which can increase shot opportunities by providing the hunter with an expansive field of view. The component parts of the blind are generally lightweight, and the blind can therefore be easily transported and assembled in the field.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Inventor: Jeffrey K. Preg
  • Publication number: 20120247034
    Abstract: The invention relates to an enclosure for a pleasure pool, which is completely or partially in the form of a rotunda and which comprises a plurality of rotary angular roof elements. The aforementioned rotary angular roof elements form an angular portion of the rotunda and rotate about the same vertical axis, each element comprising a frame framing at least one cylindrical filler panel. The frame includes a lower circular edge that rests on the ground and an upper edge from which at least two sections extend towards the rotation shaft, which sections join so as, together with the upper edge, to form a frame for an angular portion of the roof-forming filler panel. The roof elements are mounted to rotate about the same vertical axis in order to move between an open position and a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2010
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Inventors: Frédéric Wystup, Yoann Ledriant, Jean-Pierre Charpentier
  • Patent number: 8215066
    Abstract: A revolving canopy roof for a stadium includes a fixed half dome and revolving half dome. The fixed half dome has an outer layer clad with a plurality of shading tents, the plurality of shading tents comprising a plurality of triangular shading panels, an inner layer clad with a plurality of triangular ethylene tetraflouroethylene panels, and a plurality of bracing elements connecting the outer layer to the inner layer. The revolving half dome includes an outer layer clad with a plurality of shading tents, the plurality of shading tents comprising a plurality of triangular shading panels, an inner layer clad with a plurality of triangular ethylene tetraflouroethylene panels, and a plurality of bracing elements connecting the outer layer to the inner layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Qatar Football Association
    Inventors: Lee Hosking, Michael Edward Beaven
  • Publication number: 20120159870
    Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments of multi-component spin hardware for connecting structural framing members to other structural framing members while allowing desired portions of the framing members to pivot, selectively displacing the framing members to variable positions. The spin hardware generally includes a top bracket, a bottom bracket, and a counter bracket assembly. The spin hardware bracket assemblies can be installed along a vertical axis to provide maximum flexibility and creativity while pivoting structural framing members in any number of configurations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Inventor: Timothy Pulver
  • Patent number: 8201362
    Abstract: The present invention provides a foldable enclosure intending as a building or portion of a building that may be transported to a desired site in a folded configuration and then expanded into its intended form. The enclosure has a floor and two wall or roof support section extending upwardly from opposed sides of the floor section. A first roof section spans across the gap between the wall or roof support sections. At least a second roof section in provided that is pivotally mounted to the structure to overlie the first roof section in transit and fold out to extend outwardly substantially in plane with the first roof section in the expanded form. Similarly, second floor sections may be pivotally mounted to lie adjacent the wall/roof support sections in transit and extend outwardly substantially in plane with the first floor section when expanded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: SmarTech Designs Pty Limited
    Inventors: Arnold Alford, John Demartins, Razvan Gornoviceanu
  • Patent number: 8122678
    Abstract: A multi-component spin hardware is provided for connecting structural framing members to other structural framing members while allowing desired portions of the framing members to pivot, selectively displacing the framing members to variable positions. The spin hardware generally includes a top bracket, bottom bracket and counter bracket assembly. The spin hardware bracket assemblies can be installed along a vertical axis in infinite locations providing maximum flexibility and creativity while connecting structural framing members in infinite configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Inventor: Timothy William Pulver
  • Patent number: 8104232
    Abstract: A rotatable building structure that comprises: a vertically extending building having one or more floors; a fixed core support for supporting the building, located substantially centrally beneath the building; a rotatable annular drive system for rotating the building, located lower than the building and with its centre substantially aligned with the vertical centerline of the building, the system having an upper surface and a planar lower surface; and a fixed outer support, located beneath the annular drive system, the support having a planar upper surface that contacts the planar lower surface of the annular drive system; wherein at least one of the lower surface of the annular drive system and the upper surface of the fixed outer support is a bearing material, permitting rotation of the annular drive system over the fixed outer support, such that the annular drive system is rotated via a planar to planar bearing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: James Nicholas Cooper
  • Patent number: 8037644
    Abstract: An arrangement for the cooling of computer data centers. More particularly, the arrangement eliminates the problems present in the uneven or inadequate cooling of computer racks due to unwanted airflows, which are encountered between so-called hot aisles and cold aisles present in a computer data center. Specifically, this problem is solved through the provision of partitions which, under normal circumstances, prevent the unwanted airflows by standing in a vertical orientation, yet which, in the event of a fire, collapse from the vertical orientation to a horizontal orientation, thereby avoiding interference with water sprays from sprinkler heads, and thus complying with fire codes and ordinances. Moreover, also employed is a method of preventing the unwanted air flows by utilization of the novel arrangement comprising the fire-code-compatible, collapsible partitions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: Shawn A. Hall
  • Patent number: 8033061
    Abstract: A sales and presentation area has an essentially annular region rotatably mounted in the horizontal direction, divided into ring segments able to be moved individually in the vertical direction, and set into horizontal rotational movement via drives during use of the ring segments by customers. A changing section along the path of the moving annular region is kept inaccessible for customers from the exterior of the annular region. A lifting and lowering device is provided beneath the changing section. The ring segments slide over the lifting and lowering device in the course of the rotational movement of the annular region and rest on the lifting and lowering device during a standstill of the annular region for moving the ring segments in the vertical direction. The ring segments may be pushed in the radial direction into rooms below the sales and presentation area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Inventor: Guenter Hrazdjira
  • Patent number: 8033060
    Abstract: A personal observatory structure includes a base having an open top, and a hemispherical dome having a center point. The dome is shaped to be mounted on the base and to selectively enclose the open top. The hemispherical dome includes a first dome segment and a second dome segment pivotally connected to the first dome segment. The second dome segment has an outer radius smaller than the inner radius of the first dome segment. The first dome segment and second dome segment are connected together by pivotal connectors for movement about a pivot axis. One of the domes can be pivoted from a lowered position, in which the dome segments together enclose the open top of the base, to a raised position which exposes the interior and nests one dome segment within the other. The pivot axis may be a horizontal pivot axis that extends through the center point, and the dome segments may be shaped generally in the form of a quarter sphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: 1537636 Ontario Inc.
    Inventors: Wayne J. Parker, Farhat Hanna
  • Patent number: 8015758
    Abstract: Disclosed is a noise insulation device for aircraft, comprising a first opening that is delimited by a series of conducting surfaces whose inner edge is oriented towards the interior of the noise insulation device from a horizontal cross-sectional perspective and whose outer surface is directed towards the side, a roof, and a second opening which is located opposite the first opening and is delimited by walls. The inventive noise insulation device is characterized in that the size of the second opening can be modified by making changes to the walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Gesellschaft fur Larmschutz mbH
    Inventor: Thomas J. Meyer-Bretschneider
  • Patent number: 7958679
    Abstract: A system for connecting wall modules in a variable and a flexible fashion includes a flexible angle connector and a flexible spacing connector. The flexible angle connector and the flexible spacing connector can be used together at the same wall module joint as part of joints means. The flexible connectors provide the ability to angle wall modules at virtually any angle or degree of curvature. In addition, the flexible connectors can be configured to block light, air and sound. The flexible connectors can be used to provide a virtually endless wall/angle alignment in a given interior or exterior space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: DIRTT Environmental Solutions, Ltd.
    Inventors: Geoff Gosling, Mogens Smed
  • Patent number: 7770336
    Abstract: A multi-tiered rotary workstation comprises at least two rotary work spaces supported at different levels, with associated workstation floors, substantial increasing the amount of work space available within a fixed floor space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Martinrea International Inc.
    Inventor: Federico Guillermo Jaekel
  • Publication number: 20100126080
    Abstract: A rotatable building structure that comprises: a vertically extending building having one or more floors; a fixed core support for supporting the building, located substantially centrally beneath the building; a rotatable annular drive system for rotating the building, located lower than the building and with its centre substantially aligned with the vertical centreline of the building, the system having an upper surface and a planar lower surface; and a fixed outer support, located beneath the annular drive system, the support having a planar upper surface that contacts the planar lower surface of the annular drive system; wherein at least one of the lower surface of the annular drive system and the upper surface of the fixed outer support is a bearing material, permitting rotation of the annular drive system over the fixed outer support, such that the annular drive system is rotated via a planar to planar bearing system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2007
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Inventor: James Nicholas Cooper
  • Patent number: 7665685
    Abstract: A modular rotating carousel assembly for storage and unspooling of pipe or cable is provided that comprises a plurality of triangular subassemblies; each triangular subassembly comprises a base member and at least one pair of connecting members; the connecting members are connected together at one end to form an apex and are connected at the other end to the base member; the base members of the plurality of triangular subassemblies are rotatably connected together to form a first circle; wherein the apexes of the connecting members extend outwardly from said first circle; and a plurality of rotating caster members is positioned beneath the rotatable connection of a plurality of said base members. Additional sets of triangular subassemblies are built up on concentric circles until the desired size of carousel is formed. A drive mechanism is provided that includes a motor that rotates a perimeter drive chain that engages sprocket pads spaced about the circumference of the carousel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: DeepFlex, Inc.
    Inventors: Marbert G. Moore, III, Thomas E. Gaffney
  • Publication number: 20100024312
    Abstract: A sales and presentation area having an essentially annular region, wherein the annular region is rotatably mounted in the horizontal direction, divided into ring segments able to be moved individually in the vertical direction, and set into horizontal rotational movement via drives during use of the ring segments by customers, a changing section along the path of the moving annular region which is kept inaccessible for customers from the exterior of the annular region, a lifting and lowering device which is provided beneath the changing section and over which the ring segments slide in the course of the rotational movement of the annular region and on which the ring segments rest during a standstill of the annular region for moving the ring segments in the vertical direction, and rooms below the sales and presentation area, into which the ring segments may be pushed in the radial direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Inventor: Guenter HRAZDJIRA
  • Publication number: 20090205264
    Abstract: A rotatable building structure (10) contains a vertical central core (14) for supporting suspended floor units (12) surrounding the core. An annular platform (22) extends from the core at corresponding floor units for providing accessibility to and from the central core. The floor units contain a drive mechanism (38, 40, 42) for rotational displacement. The wind load on the exterior side of each floor, and/or horizontal wind turbines that turn around the core but is a separate part of the floor itself, solar panels situated as a roof cover on top of each floor and a wind tool (46) deployable from the floor unit provides alternative wind power assist for rotating the floor units.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2007
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Applicant: Rotating High Towers S.A.
    Inventors: David Fisher, Laura Micol Fisher
  • Publication number: 20090205265
    Abstract: A multi-component spin hardware is provided for connecting structural framing members to other structural framing members while allowing desired portions of the framing members to pivot, selectively displacing the framing members to variable positions. The spin hardware generally includes a top bracket, bottom bracket and counter bracket assembly. The spin hardware bracket assemblies can be installed along a vertical axis in infinite locations providing maximum flexibility and creativity while connecting structural framing members in infinite configurations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2009
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventor: Timothy W. Pulver
  • Patent number: 7536831
    Abstract: There is disclosed an apparatus having a base, a shaft, a swivel joint assembly and plural stories. The base is fixed relative to the ground. The shaft extends vertically through the apparatus. The shaft is mounted to the base. The swivel joint assembly is mounted in the base coaxially with the shaft. The swivel joint rotatably connects fixed utility lines extending into the base with corresponding utility lines secured within the apparatus. Each of the plural stories defines an enclosed living area and is rotatably supported, at least in part, via the shaft. Each story has a drive mechanism adapted to rotate the story about the shaft at a speed controllable within the story.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: 3sixty Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Frank W Ratliff, Albert E Johnstone, III, David A. Berg, Michael L Rogers
  • Publication number: 20090107055
    Abstract: A portable container is provided which comprises a passing room(s) allowing entry into a second area into a first area, the passing room having at least two openings with a walkway in-between. Barrier device(s) can be located in the walkway but not connected to the first or second opening. A control room(s) can also be provided, the control room being connected to the passing room(s).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2008
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Applicant: MODULAR SECURITY SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventor: Robert Rhett SLAGEL
  • Patent number: 7377079
    Abstract: The invention relates to two panel elements which are flexibly connected to one another, at least one profiled lateral edge being provided on each of the panel elements for the flexible connection which, as connecting edges, have a suitable bearing and contact surface for an adhesive strip connecting the panel elements, so that the swivel axis is in the area of the adhesive strip. To prevent a transparent effect in the joint area, the connecting edges have a further profiling which enters a form-locking connection when the connecting edges are turned on one another. Furthermore, the invention comprises the method and the facility for producing the flexibly connected panel elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Assignee: W. Lehbrink GmbH & Co. KG, Maschinenfabrik
    Inventor: Hans-Jürgen Burow
  • Patent number: 7163109
    Abstract: A portable, modular apparatus for displaying fixtures and suites of fixtures in a commercial setting. The displayed fixtures can be cabinets, cabinets or the like and allow for display in a finished look to allow consumers to view the fixtures in a finished setting. A method of displaying fixtures and suites of fixtures in a commercial setting wherein the portions of the display are preassembled prior to in-store set up, thereby allowing quick and easy in-store set up of the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignees: MasterBrand Cabinets, Inc., Czarnowski Exhibit Service Specialists
    Inventors: Andrew D. Wells, Rollin D. Weary, III