Patents Assigned to Patten Partnership Ltd.
  • Patent number: 5947178
    Abstract: A foldable cover of simple structure and light weight is provided. The cover consists of multiple cover sections which are connected by hinges so that they may be folded together. Each of the cover sections has a hole in its surface through which a cable extends, such that when the cable is pulled, the cover sections are folded together at one side of the opening. The cable is initially pulled from a height above the cover sections so that the first pair of cover sections are caused to buckle upwards and then fold together. Further pulling on the cable causes the remaining pairs of cover sections to buckle and fold one pair at a time. When the cover is being extended, a tension is maintained on the pulling cable so as to control the falling speed of the cover sections as they unfold. Hinges and wheels that are used on the cover and around the holes exhibit a low rotational friction, so that the cover may be opened and closed easily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: Patten Partnership Ltd.
    Inventor: Roger W. Patten