Patents Represented by Attorney Thomas Raffin
  • Patent number: 7997545
    Abstract: This invention is to an apparatus and method using a pivoting support structure to support mail boxes, newspaper tubes, information signage or decorative materials near a road while being less susceptible to damage from passing vehicles. The invention may be attached to a post, pipe or other vertical structure. Even after the apparatus is installed, the invention has an inherent flexibility to change the original starting position of the mail box relative to the road. Furthermore, the invention acts as a self-centering hinge allowing the support structure to swing in excess of 90-degrees to 180-degrees depending upon installation even while supporting single or multiple mailboxes and/or decorative or aesthetic items. The invention then automatically returns the mail box to its original starting position through the cooperative effort of a spring, gravity and inherent hinge design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Inventor: Rodney W. Holland