Seating Arrangement Patents (Class 52/8)
  • Patent number: 11110970
    Abstract: A reconfigurable vehicle may include a vehicle frame body and a removable floor. The removable floor may be configurable based on a use case for the reconfigurable vehicle. The removable floor may be configured for passenger transport, goods transport, or both. The removable floor may include a rotating assembly. The rotating assembly may include a wheel and a catch element. The removable floor may include one or more connection interfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2021
    Assignee: Great Wall Motor Company Limited
    Inventors: Alexander Stimpson, Dereck Wonnacott, Mark Crawford
  • Patent number: 11008768
    Abstract: A theater including at least one screen at a front end; a display apparatus suitable for displaying a visual content on the screen(s); and a back wall arranged facing the screen(s). The theater further includes a certain number of platforms having seats fastened on each of them, with each of the platforms being a projecting platform, presenting a width that is less than 70% of the width of the theater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Assignee: Oma Cinéma
    Inventor: Pierre Chican
  • Patent number: 11002999
    Abstract: Described herein is a mechanism for automatically correcting perspective of displayed information based on the orientation of the display device. A user can identify a screen orientation where the displayed information does not need perspective correction. The system can monitor changes to the display orientation, and when the orientation changes, the system can measure the distance to a user's eye or calculate the distance based on measured data. Based on the distance, a correction factor can be calculated. An area in the display where corrected information will be displayed is identified. The currently displayed information is corrected based on the correction factor and displayed in the identified display area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2021
    Assignee: Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLC
    Inventor: William Murdock Wellen
  • Patent number: 10719004
    Abstract: A dome screen for preventing generation of a missing part of a star projected on the dome screen is provided. A dome screen 10 capable of projecting an image includes a dome portion 11 and a sheet portion 12. The dome portion 11 has a plurality of holes and is formed in a hemispherical shape. The sheet portion 12 is arranged on an outer side of the dome portion 11 so as to overlap with the dome portion 11 and has light reflectivity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2020
    Assignee: Konica Minolta Planetarium Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroaki Ueda
  • Patent number: 10676952
    Abstract: A wind turbine system includes a wind turbine generator having a rotor and a nacelle mounted atop a tower structure. The tower structure is mounted to a foundation structure and includes a plurality of tower sections, each including one or more tower section flanges. The wind turbine system further includes one or more connector rings. Each of the one or more connector rings is disposed proximate two adjacent tower section flanges and includes a plurality of pad eye adaptors each having an opening formed therein. The wind turbine system further includes a plurality of tensioned cables, with each coupled to one of the pad eye adaptors at a first end and the foundation structure at a second end. The plurality of tensioned cables are coupled to the tower structure at different or multiple connector ring heights based on site conditions to yield the desired lateral stability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2020
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Biao Fang, Srikrishna Mantravadi, Nikolina Kourteva Kristeva, Ingo Paura, Norman Arnold Turnquist, Todd DarVel Andersen, Pascal Meyer, Gregory Edward Cooper, James Henry Madge
  • Patent number: 10656514
    Abstract: Fulldome image projection systems are adapted to facilitate projection of images onto a dome screen to create an immersive virtual environment. According to one example, an image projection system may include a fulldome screen formed at least substantially as a spherical cap. A plurality of sidewall projectors may be positioned within the screen and spaced from each other in a generally circular shape. The plurality of sidewall projectors may be oriented in an angular projection configuration. At least one zenith projector may be oriented to project images toward at least a portion of a zenith of the fulldome screen. Other aspects, embodiments, and features are also included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2020
    Assignee: LADUMA, INC.
    Inventors: Jonas Helgren, Collin Zito
  • Patent number: 10604953
    Abstract: Methods and compositions for creating an immersive experience within wellness studios, rooms and enclosures, and methods of physically organizing a wellness center or studio and conducting the business of a wellness center or studio. In some embodiments the invention concerning enclosures for conducting wellness activities, such as yoga, pilates, meditation and the like. In preferred embodiments the enclosure comprises at least one interior space and at least one mirrored wall that reflects images projected from one or more projector component into a curved, projection wall opposing the mirrored wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2020
    Inventor: Nicole Drakulich
  • Patent number: 9797151
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an arrangement of cinemas in multiplex cinemas, comprising: at least one first row (1) of contiguous cinemas (1a) provided with a projection screen (P) and with stadium-type seating (G) arranged on an inclined surface (15). The cinemas (1a) of the first row have a trapezoidal layout with: a larger end (11) where the projection screen (p) is arranged, a smaller end (12), and two oblique sides (13, 14). The present invention also relates to an arrangement for a cinema room for a multi-screen cinema, in which each of the cinema rooms has a film projector (1), a screen (2) and tiers of seats (3) with multiple rows of seats (3a, 3b, . . . , 3n) arranged to different heights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2017
    Assignee: VALLESVIU, S.A.
    Inventor: Pere Maria Sallent Puigcercos
  • Patent number: 9670686
    Abstract: The invention relates to a grandstand having seat rows and/or standing space rows which rise in a stepped manner, wherein the grandstand has at least one first tier with at least one seat row and/or standing space row and at least one second tier with at least one seat row and/or standing space row, wherein the center of the second tier is arranged offset forward in the horizontal direction relative to the center of the first tier, wherein the gradient of at least one tier is greater than 45 degrees and/or the multiplicity of seats or standing spaces permits lines of sight proceeding from the head of a visitor in the respective seat or standing space and ending on a line which runs along the longitudinal extent of the grandstand at a viewing distance (b) of approximately 0 to approximately 15 m and/or at least one tier with a multiplicity of seat rows and/or standing space rows is arranged such that the magnitude of the distance of the foremost space row from the playing field edge in the horizontal direction
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Assignee: INTER+-POL Freie Forschungs- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft für unfassbare Formate experimentelle Projekte, ungesehene Filme, dicke und dünne Bücher, grenzlose Räume, angewandte Streitkultur und Ideen aus ferner Zukunft mbH
    Inventors: Lars Ruhmann, Timothy Pape, Mark Hofler, Tim Schierwater, Harald Kloft, Frank Bruckner
  • Patent number: 9551161
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to an entrance to a theater of the type normally used to show motion pictures. The motion picture theater entrance has distinctive outer walls separating a vestibule from a lobby. The vestibule has a curved image projection wall located inside said vestibule and is connected to a viewing area by a curved walkway. The entrance also may include border lighting along the upper and or lower edges of its walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation
    Inventors: Wilhelm Oehl, David Herman, Vincent Voron, Donald Burlock, Pascal Sijen, Christopher Roy Kukshtel
  • Patent number: 9085913
    Abstract: The invention relates to a grandstand having a plurality of seat rows and/or standing space rows which rise in a stepped manner and are accessible via at least one access route which bridges the height difference between the seat rows and/or standing space rows, the gradient of the seat rows and/or standing space rows and the gradient of the access route enclosing an angle of from approximately 20° to approximately 90°, with the result that the gradient of the access route has a first component which runs parallel to the direction of the space rows and runs towards the space rows.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2015
    Assignee: INTER+-POL FREIE FORSCHUNGS- UND ENTWICKLUNGSGESELLSCHAFT FUR UNFASSBARE FORMATE, EXPERIMENTELLE PROJEKTE, UNGESEHENE FILME, DICKE UND DUNNE BUCHER, GRENZENLOSE RAUME, ANGEWANDTE STREITKULTUR UND LDEEN AUS FERNER ZUKUNFT MBH
    Inventors: Lars Rühmann, Tim Schierwater, Timothy Pape, Mark Höfler
  • Patent number: 9021746
    Abstract: A bleacher system has a support structure that includes multiple cross members at spaced intervals, but includes no longitudinal rails. The support structure further includes an axle carrier sub-frame mounted between two of the cross members. One or more tiers are mounted on the support structure. Each tier includes multiple girders at spaced intervals, each girder supporting a plurality of seat supports and a plurality of foot board supports, with seat planks or seats then secured to the seat supports and foot planks secured to the foot board supports in each tier. The bleacher system may be provided with front and/or rear jacks for use when the bleacher system is in a deployed position. The bleacher system may also include a hitch tube to facilitate attachment to a vehicle when the bleacher system is in a transport position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Century Industries, LLC
    Inventor: Robert D. Uhl
  • Patent number: 8973308
    Abstract: A seating system with a platform and a table mounted on the platform. Four folding swivel seats are mounted and arranged in an arcuate arrangement around the table wherein each folding swivel seat has a seat portion, a back and a center of the seat portion. Each folding swivel seat is a seat distance wherein the seat distance is at least 8 inches to no more than 24 inches. Adjacent folding swivel seats are separated by a distance from the center of adjacent folding swivel seats. Two folding swivel seats are separated from a projection of a table flat portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: 4Topps LLC
    Inventors: Joseph Bellissimo, Billy Dean Prim, Gerald Leroy Mayse
  • Publication number: 20140318028
    Abstract: A cinema structure (1) comprises an auditorium (12) defined between a floor (2), a ceiling (3), front and rear walls (5,8) and side walls (10), which is of length (L) similar to its width (W) and of height (H1) approximately half its width (W). A screen (14) which is substantially the width and height of the auditorium (14) is located adjacent the front wall (5). Rows (17) of seats (18) are tiered upwardly rearwardly at an angle of approximately 22.5°. The front row (17a) of seats (18) is located on the floor (2), while the second and subsequent rows (17) of seats (18) are mounted on corresponding plinths (20). The rearmost plinth (20a) is located adjacent the rear wall (8) and is spaced apart downwardly from the ceiling (3) a height (H2) of approximately 2 metres. A projector (24) in a projector housing (23) is located centrally on the rearmost plinth (20) within the auditorium (12), and a lens port (22) of the projector (24) is located at a level of approximately 0.5 metre below the ceiling 3.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2012
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Applicants: IMAGE LIMITED
    Inventor: Thomas Anderson
  • Patent number: 8869461
    Abstract: A stadium and arena seating system is provided which preferably utilizes pre-cast concrete tread surfaces and metallic or other non-concrete vertical risers therebetween. The pre-cast concrete treads have non-concrete front embeds embedded within the front of the treads respectively, and an integrally formed upwardly extending concrete lip portion for shedding water from the upper adjacent riser that eliminates the need for a non-concrete rear embed. The front embeds may comprise a metallic or other non-concrete material similar to the vertical risers. The vertical risers are arranged in a shingled fashion overlapping the upwardly extending concrete lip portion of the treads to provide water and debris shedding. In a further aspect, the upwardly extending concrete lip portion may optionally be formed with a plurality of pre-formed mounting holes through which fasteners for fastening a lower portion of the riser may be received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Dant Clayton Corporation
    Inventors: Jason Ferry, Roger Ray, Jared Hinton, Brian DeHart
  • Publication number: 20140311046
    Abstract: A mixed-class service multiple-tier theater that allows different patrons attending the same movie to experience differing levels of service depending on how much they wish to pay. There are two tiers for seating. The upper tier would be for regular, stadium style seating, while the lower tier would be for VIP seating with fully reclining seats. The lower and upper tiers are completely separated, each offering its own ingress/egress access, with a balcony overhang from the upper tier cantilevered over the lower tier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventor: Enrique Ramirez Magaña
  • Publication number: 20140283460
    Abstract: An event structure is disclosed. The event structure includes a structural perimeter supported by an underlying ground surface and a plurality of structural zones that are connected to one or more of the underlying ground surface and the structural perimeter. A first structural zone of the plurality of structural zones is a main floor of the event structure. Two or more second structural zones of the plurality of structural zones are two or more spectator areas of the event structure that are arranged at an elevated vertical distance with respect to the main floor. At least one spectator area of the two or more spectator areas includes one or more levels. At least one level of the one or more levels arranged over an immediately lower and adjacent level of the one or more levels extends further inwardly toward a center of the main floor than the immediately lower and adjacent level of the one or more levels at a distance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2014
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Applicant: Rossetti Associates
    Inventor: Matthew Rossetti
  • Patent number: 8814367
    Abstract: A 3D image cinema system having at least one projection room for viewing 3D images or 2D images is divided into forward and rearward viewing directions for the projection of an image on a front screen and a rear screen which are provided in a front end and a rear end of the projection room, respectively. Further, a front direction chair and a rear direction chair having a different viewing direction are provided on a front step and a rear step between the projection room and the front and rear screens where the theater can be easily installed in a general building and the 3D and 2D image has as much as 1.5-2 times wider viewing as a prior image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Inventor: Hae-Yong Choi
  • Publication number: 20140235362
    Abstract: An entertainment venue can include one or more theaters, including a toroidal or other immersive display screen (which immerses the audience in a contiguous projection surface), a moving stage, and an audience area. Audience seating in the theater faces outwardly in an “inverted-theater-in-the-round” arrangement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2014
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: DreamLight Holdings Inc., formerly Known as A Thousand Miles, LLC
    Inventors: Steve Fox, Albert Vass
  • Patent number: 8782959
    Abstract: A riser assembly according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, a first skin. A second skin is spaced from the first skin. A core is disposed between the first skin and the second skin. A framework is disposed between the first skin and the second skin. A portion of the framework is positioned laterally outside the core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Stageright Corporation
    Inventors: Kenneth Edward Staten, Orley David Rogers
  • Patent number: 8713856
    Abstract: A seating system with a platform and a semicircular table mounted on the platform. Four folding swivel seats are mounted and arranged in an arcuate arrangement around the semicircular table wherein each folding swivel seat has a seat portion, a back and a center of the seat portion. Each folding swivel seat is a seat distance wherein the seat distance is at least 8 inches to no more than 24 inches. Adjacent folding swivel seats are separated by a distance from the center of adjacent folding swivel seats. Two folding swivel seats are separated from a projection of a table flat portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: 4Topps, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph Bellissimo, Billy Dean Prim, Gerald Leroy Mayse
  • Publication number: 20140041314
    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: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Applicants: S. COHEN & CO. - TRUST COMPANY LTD.
    Inventor: Yossi AMIR
  • Patent number: 8640388
    Abstract: A support structure for a rostrum includes a first A-frame; and at least a second A-frame, nestable and retractable into the first A-frame. The support structure may have an open central area and the second A-frame may be substantially the same as, but smaller than, the open central area of the first A-frame. At least one support means is connected to each A-frame for supporting a load, wherein the support is connected to an upper portion of one A-frame. The support extends from the upper portion of the one A-frame and is co-operable with an upper portion of another A-frame. The support structure may be telescopic and configured to be expandable and retractable between a retracted, stored position, and an extended, in use position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Steeldeck Industries Limited
    Inventor: Giles Favell
  • Patent number: 8640387
    Abstract: A water harvesting sports arena system includes a stadium seating area, a playing surface operating as at least a part of a water catchment arrangement, and a water reservoir, which may be a segmented tank, positioned below the playing surface to receive and store water passing through the playing surface. A water discharge arrangement is associated with the water reservoir so that water is dischargeable from the water reservoir for consumption or other uses. The stadium seating area is advantageously impervious to water so as to direct water toward the playing field for capture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: ATOPIA Research
    Inventors: Jane Harrison, David Turnbull
  • Patent number: 8590247
    Abstract: A ceiling anchoring device with a locking rail system is disclosed. The device comprises an anchor having a shaft, a head attached with an end of the shaft, and a rail system. The rail system comprises rod and pin insertion rails, a turning space, and a locking rail. A rod having a perpendicular pin is inserted into the rod and pin insertion rails and pushed along the shaft until the rod and pin enter the turning space in the shaft. The rod and pin can then be turned one-quarter turn and be lowered into the locking rail, whereby the rod and pin are retained in the shaft of the anchor. A plug and cap are inserted into the turning space to secure the rod and pin within the locking rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventor: Duke Ellington Cooke
  • Publication number: 20130242263
    Abstract: A cinema structure (1) comprises an auditorium (3) having a flat planar screen (10) onto which images of a motion picture is projected by a projector (12) located adjacent a rear wall (5) of the auditorium (3). Seating (14) comprising rows (15) of seats (16) are supported on tiered plinths (18) which are tiered at an angle ? of approximately 25°. A front row (15a) of the seats (16) is formed in two parts, namely, a left-hand part (44a) and a right-hand part (44b) on a front plinth (18a), which is also formed in two parts, namely, a left-hand part (42a) and a right-hand part (42b). The left and right-hand parts of the front row (15a) and the front plinth (18) define central gaps (45,43, respectively) in order to accommodate the projected beam of the motion picture uninterrupted from the projector (12) to the screen (10). The rows (15) of seats (16) are pitched at a horizontal pitch (P1) of 1,300 mm, and each plinth (18) is at a vertical height (h1) of approximately 600 mm above its adjacent plinth (18).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2011
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: IMAGE LIMITED
    Inventor: Thomas Anderson
  • Publication number: 20130219803
    Abstract: The invention relates to a grandstand having a plurality of seat rows and/or standing space rows which rise in a stepped manner and are accessible via at least one access route which bridges the height difference between the seat rows and/or standing space rows, the gradient of the seat rows and/or standing space rows and the gradient of the access route enclosing an angle of from approximately 20° to approximately 90°, with the result that the gradient of the access route has a first component which runs parallel to the direction of the space rows and runs towards the space rows.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2012
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicants: angewandte Streitkultur und Ideen auf ferner Zukunft mbH
    Inventors: Lars Rühmann, Tim Schierwater, Timothy Pape, Mark Höfler
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8490335
    Abstract: The removable seats system has a first vertically movable platform defining opposite upper and lower sides, a seat member comprising at least one seat and first and second complementary male-female engagement members respectively provided on the first platform and on the seat member. The seat member may be removably installed in an operative position on the upper side of the first platform through a releasable engagement of the first and second male-female engagement members with one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Gestion Laforest Inc.
    Inventor: Pierre LaForest
  • Publication number: 20130167452
    Abstract: A transportable large capacity theatre includes a primary theatre body with laterally spaced apart first and second long sides, opposing first and second ends attached to the long sides, and a roof over the long sides and ends, the body defining an enclosed interior chamber. The roof, the long sides and the ends may be defined by a plurality of laterally extending inflated tubes, and the long sides of the primary theatre body may have a substantially vertical orientation relative to a surface on which theatre may be supported for at least a major portion of the height of the respective long sides. The theatre further includes a seating section, a display screen positioned in the interior of the primary theatre body and viewable by a viewer seated in the seating section, and a projection system in the interior of the primary theatre body and in communication with the screen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2011
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Inventors: G. Eric Jacques, Denis G. Tremblay, Paul Kucera, Brian J. Bonnick
  • Patent number: 8474190
    Abstract: A portable modular seating assembly (PMSA 10) that is designed to be temporarily or permanently located on a sport field such as a soccer field. The PMSA (10) is comprised of a left structure (12), a right structure (34), a front structure (60), an inner reinforced panel 80 and a central support structure (96). The front structure (60) is attached to the front edges of the left structure (12) and the right structure (34). Between the two structures (12,34) is attached a set of stairs (82). The stairs are bordered by a passage (87) that is attached between the two sets of stairs (82). The PMSA (10) can also be designed to incorporate an indicia viewing structure (110) that can include a removably attached tarp (134) that is attached during periods of inclement weather or bright sunlight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventor: Derek J. Sanderson
  • Patent number: 8474191
    Abstract: A motion simulator theater equipped with a passenger carrying apparatus. Passengers move into a boarding space where they board the passenger carrying apparatus, while the passenger carrying apparatus is in a first or boarding position. The theater may be designed so that when in the boarding space, the passengers see no indication that they are in a motion simulation theater. After the passengers have boarded, the carrying apparatus is moved into a second or viewing position, where passengers view 2D or 3D visual images displayed on a screen. This movement may be achieved by lifting or lowering the passenger carrying apparatus from cables or chains attached to a lifting system near the top of the theater. In this design, the movement is substantially vertical. The passenger carrying apparatus typically has multiple rows of seats, which may tilt front to back.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Falcon's Treehouse, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Cecil D. Magpuri
  • Patent number: 8371071
    Abstract: A stepped structure (100) comprising a plurality of separate run portions (1), wherein at least one of said plurality of separate run portions (1) comprises upper and lower sheets (20) each sheet having a forward longitudinal end portion (14, 24) bent downwards and a rear longitudinal end portion (12, 22) bent upwards, and a core material (30) between said upper and lower sheets (10, 20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Intelligent Engineering (Bahamas) Limited
    Inventors: Stephen John Kennedy, Neil Little
  • Publication number: 20130019539
    Abstract: A portable seating system includes portable removable seating units mounted to a stage type deck. A self retaining nut is mounted to an underside of the decks and the seating units are bolted to the self retaining nut. A method of securing the seats to a deck includes positioning the seating units at a desired position at the initial set up and drilling a hole in the deck at a location where the seat is to be secured. A mounting plate including a self retaining nut is mounted on an underside of the deck with the nut aligning with each hole. The seating unit is then secured with bolts extending from the top of the deck and extending through the holes to engage the self-retaining nut.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2011
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Applicant: SICO INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Stephen Douglas Gardner
  • Publication number: 20130019540
    Abstract: A bleacher seating system provides a seatback locking and release mechanism that allows for rapid simultaneous repositioning of the seat back portions in each row of seating to aid in setting up and collapsing sets of seating rows. The locking and release mechanism may be actuated to substantially simultaneously unlock all seat back portions in a row from a single location. The bleacher seating system may be readily set up or collapsed by a single operator, such as by manually or remotely unlocking and locking the seat back portions in rows so that the seat backs may be pivoted between raised and lowered positions. In addition, deck nosemount clamps allow for increased walking space behind the seats and a particularly compact seating storage configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2012
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Applicant: IRWIN SEATING COMPANY
    Inventor: Tyler N. Magnus
  • Patent number: 8347556
    Abstract: A spectator venue having a performance area and spectator area is disclosed. The spectator area is generally divided into to portions, a stationary seating area and a dynamic seating area, both of which overlook the performance area. In the performance area, a spectator event occurs, such as a sports game or music concert. In the dynamic seating area, a plurality of seats are provided on a series of dynamic seating platforms. The dynamic seating platforms move along a track to various viewing locations during the course of the spectator event to provide multiple vantage points of the performance area from each seat. The distance and timing of movement of the dynamic seating platforms is based on various criteria, including occurrences during the spectator event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Inventors: Thomas R. Stelmaszek, Shin Takeda
  • Publication number: 20120269360
    Abstract: The seats in a seating venue, e.g. a large sports stadium, are designated into a plurality of distinct sound triggers. Sensors detect predetermined movement of participants at the sound triggers and generate signals which are sent to a broadcast device which broadcasts different, predetermined sounds in response to signals received from different sound triggers. Groups of people at a large seating venue can move together to generate a single sound, e.g. a musical instrument sound. By coordinating the sequential movement of different sound triggers, musical compositions are broadcast.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Inventor: Daniel Patrick Burke
  • Patent number: 8266842
    Abstract: A stadium and arena seating system is provided which utilizes concrete tread surfaces and metallic or other non-concrete vertical risers therebetween. The concrete treads have front and rear embeds embedded within the front and rear ends of the treads respectively. The embeds comprise a metallic or other non-concrete material similar to the vertical risers. The vertical risers are arranged in a shingled or other self-sealing fashion between the embeds of the treads to provide water and debris shedding. In certain embodiments, an overlapping vertical riser may be used which provides water shedding without the need for embeds within the concrete tread surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Dant Clayton Corporation
    Inventors: Bruce C. Merrick, Brian DeHart
  • Patent number: 8225555
    Abstract: A motion simulator theater equipped with a passenger carrying apparatus. Passengers move into a boarding space where they board the passenger carrying apparatus, while the passenger carrying apparatus is in a first or boarding position. The theater may be designed so that when in the boarding space, the passengers see no indication that they are in a motion simulation theater. After the passengers have boarded, the carrying apparatus is moved into a second or viewing position, where passengers view 2D or 3D visual images displayed on a screen. This movement may be achieved by lifting or lowering the passenger carrying apparatus from cables or chains attached to a lifting system near the top of the theater. In this design, the movement is substantially vertical. The passenger carrying apparatus typically has multiple rows of seats, which may tilt front to back, optionally with actuators behind the seats to create the impression of forward movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Falcon's Treehouse, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Cecil D. Magpuri
  • Publication number: 20120131861
    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: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Inventors: Lee Hosking, Michael Edward Beaven
  • Publication number: 20120131860
    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: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Inventors: Lee Hosking, Michael Edward Beaven
  • Publication number: 20120006412
    Abstract: A water harvesting sports arena system includes a stadium seating area, a playing surface operating as at least a part of a water catchment arrangement, and a water reservoir, which may be a segmented tank, positioned below the playing surface to receive and store water passing through the playing surface. A water discharge arrangement is associated with the water reservoir so that water is dischargeable from the water reservoir for consumption or other uses. The stadium seating area is advantageously impervious to water so as to direct water toward the playing field for capture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2011
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Applicant: ATOPIA Research
    Inventors: Jane HARRISON, David TURNBULL
  • Publication number: 20110277390
    Abstract: A stadium and arena seating system is provided which utilizes concrete tread surfaces and metallic or other non-concrete vertical risers therebetween. The concrete treads have front and rear embeds embedded within the front and rear ends of the treads respectively. The embeds comprise a metallic or other non-concrete material similar to the vertical risers. The vertical risers are arranged in a shingled or other self-sealing fashion between the embeds of the treads to provide water and debris shedding. In certain embodiments, an overlapping vertical riser may be used which provides water shedding without the need for embeds within the concrete tread surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventors: Bruce C. Merrick, Brian DeHart
  • Patent number: 8056974
    Abstract: A foldable seat for a bleacher seating arrangement includes a seat or seat structure fixedly disposed at a deck portion and a seat back pivotally disposed at a rear portion of the seat portion. The seat back is pivotable between an upright position, where a person may sit at the seat structure and may lean back against the seat back, and a folded down position, where the seat back may lay generally on top of or at least partially over the seat structure. The seat back may be pivotally mounted relative to the deck portion and may be substantially freely pivotable between the upright and folded down positions. The bleacher seating arrangement may include a plurality of deck portions that may be retracted to a nested position when the seat backs are in their folded down position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Irwin Seating Company
    Inventor: Larry R. Conner
  • Publication number: 20110167736
    Abstract: A modular seating riser for stadia, a set of structural modules for building the same, a kit and an assembly therefor, as well as to a method for building the same, are provided. More particularly, a set of structural modules for building a structurally sound modular seating riser on which seats of a bleacher-type stadium can be mounted are provided. The structural modules are an elongated metal extrusion. The set of structural module includes a first module having a female tensioned catch-connector provided along a lateral edge thereof, and a second module having a male tensioned catch-connector provided along a lateral edge thereof. The male and female tensioned catch-connectors have complementary configurations for mating and interlocking together, and forming, when interlocked together, a structural permanent joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Applicant: GROUPE CANAM INC.
    Inventor: Richard Vincent
  • Patent number: 7905546
    Abstract: A foldable seat for a bleacher seating arrangement includes a seat or seat structure fixedly disposed at a deck portion and a back portion or backrest pivotally disposed at a rear portion of the seat portion. The back portion is pivotable between an upright position, where a person may sit at the seat structure and may lean back against the back portion, and a folded down position, where the back portion may lay generally on top of or at least partially over the seat structure. The back portion may be pivotally mounted to a mounting frame or element fixedly secured relative to the deck portion and may be substantially freely pivotable between the upright and folded down positions. The bleacher seating arrangement may include a plurality of deck portions that may be retracted to a nested position when the backrests or back portions are in their folded down position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Irwin Seating Company
    Inventor: Larry R. Conner
  • Patent number: 7905060
    Abstract: A tiered seating system includes a series of tiers each including a block pair, a riser, brackets securing the riser to the block pair, and concrete. The block pair includes a lower block and an upper block. The riser is spaced from the front surface of the block pair. The system includes two rows of brackets. The first row is secured between the upper block and the lower block, and is secured to the riser between the bottom and the top of the riser. The second row is secured only to the upper block, and is secured to the top of the riser. The concrete fills the gap between the riser and the blocks and form a layer over the upper block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Stadium Savers, Ltd.
    Inventor: William H. Brunner
  • Patent number: 7900402
    Abstract: A telescopic seating system generally includes an innermost lower riser assembly and successive outer elevated riser assemblies. Each elevated riser assembly includes a dual deck surface and a telescopic leg assembly. Each elevated riser assembly supports a toothed belt drive system which provides the interface between each adjacent elevated riser assembly and the motive force to extend and retract the riser system. In operation, electric motors of the toothed belt drive system on each elevated riser assembly are driven by a controller to extend and retract the telescopic seating system between a fully extended position, a half-deployed position and a storage position. The half-deployed position utilizes the dual deck surface to provide half the seating capacity of each riser at twice the rise between each seating row to thereby accommodate particular venues.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Stageright Corporation
    Inventors: Kenneth Edward Staten, Orley David Rogers
  • Publication number: 20100300006
    Abstract: A dome shape theater has a reflective floor. Audience members may sit or stand on a central platform viewing area surrounded by the screen. Audience members may access the viewing area via a tunnel passing under the reflective floor, by a movable bridge, or by passageways between divided sections of the reflective floor. A compound curved screen may alternatively lower from above to surround the viewing area. A 2D/3D projection system may be used to create images on the screen. Integrated special effects located throughout the theater can be synchronized with the media presentation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2010
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Inventor: Cecil Magpuri
  • Publication number: 20100213745
    Abstract: The invention relates to a folding armchair for conference halls, formed by a seat (1) and a backrest (2) articulated to one another and the assembly being arranged by means of articulations (9) between the seat (1) and side supports (5), rotation devices (10) being incorporated in the articulations (9), which rotation devices allow a free rotation in the direction of the swinging of the seat (1) towards a use position, but which in the direction of swinging towards an upward folded position determine a progressive damping of the rotation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Applicant: FIGUERAS INTERNATIONAL SEATING, S.A.
    Inventor: José Figueras Mitjans