Patents by Inventor Barbara J. Thoman

Barbara J. Thoman has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 5247752
    Abstract: A Foldable Dryer which includes a stem that defines a vertical axis, a plurality of hangers which radiate outwardly from the stem, and a one-piece dilator ring with plural holes for receiving each hanger. A central hinge is located towards the base of the stem and connects the hangers to the stem. The holes in the dilator ring are generally frusto-conical and arranged in a circular pattern around a central hole that receives the stem. The dilator ring is slideable with respect to the stem and hangers. This allows the top portions of the hangers to unfold outwardly from the stem, while being compact and limiting the amount of necessary pieces, moving or stationary. When the hangers are unfolded and the dilator ring is in its low position, the hangers approximate the shape of an inverted cone. The dryer may be supplied with a base and/or be hung from it's uppermost end. It may also be attached to a vertical surface with suction cups or other fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1993
    Inventors: Kaj Gyr, Barbara J. Thoman