Patents by Inventor Christopher S. Crowell

Christopher S. Crowell 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).

  • Publication number: 20150128462
    Abstract: A three-dimensional forming system comprising at least a first outer panel, and at least a second outer panel, the first and second outer panels connecting at terminating ends to each other, and a shape maintaining mechanism connected between the first outer panel and the second outer panel, the shape maintaining mechanism having a first member and a second member, each member with a first tab and a second tab connected thereto. The first tabs are connected to each other at one end. The second tabs are respectively attached to one of the outer panels. The shape maintaining mechanism has a first configuration in which the first ends of the first tabs connected to each other are positioned away from a first terminating end of the first and second outer panels and a second configuration in which the first ends of the first tabs connected to each other are positioned adjacent to the first terminating end of the first and second outer panels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2014
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventors: Christopher S. Crowell, Joseph Klim
  • Patent number: 8112918
    Abstract: In the present invention, a plurality of panel members are supportingly retained in a first holding plate, with each of the panel members being arcuately pivotable relative to the holding plate. In addition, a second, movable plate is cooperatively associated with the panel members for being longitudinally movable along the length of the panel members while securely retaining and being cooperatively associated with each panel member. In this way, the second, movable plate is quickly advanced from a first position in direct association or engagement with the first holding plate into a second position wherein the second, movable plate is extended away from the first holding plate substantially the full length of each panel member. When in this second position, each panel member is fixed in a locked and fully erect position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Dimensional Communications, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher S. Crowell, Joseph R. Klim
  • Patent number: 7707757
    Abstract: By providing a unique housing member within which a plurality of separate display and holding members are operatively interconnected for sequential display relative to each other in a unique, cooperative, continuous, extending manner, a unique, hands-on, visually exciting and interest generating multi-panel display and holding system is realized. In the preferred construction of the present invention, a plurality of separate and independent display and/or holding members are cooperatively interconnected to each other for sequential movement relative to each other. Furthermore, each of the display/holding members are also constructed for being automatically positioned in a precisely desired continuous array in response to the receipt of pulling or movement force applied to one of the display/holding members or to a designated lead element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Inventor: Christopher S. Crowell
  • Patent number: 7596896
    Abstract: By providing a unique, pre-formed holding member which is quickly and easily assembled into the three-dimensional diorama display, a unique, visually exciting and interest generating three-dimensional diorama display system is attained. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, a substantially flat transparent sheet of material is constructed having a desired size and shape for receiving and holding a particular photograph construction or configuration. In addition, the transparent sheet of material incorporates cooperating pre-formed score lines formed along the opposed edges of the transparent sheet, effectively establishing flanges at the opposed side edges thereof. Each of the flanges are arcuately pivoted along the associated score lines, thereby enabling the flanges to extend inwardly, towards each other, establishing two cooperating photograph edge holding flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Dimensional Communications, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher S. Crowell, Joseph R. Klim
  • Patent number: 7490425
    Abstract: By providing a housing member within which all of the required elements are pre-formed and constructed as a display system which enables any desired graphics to be inserted therein to form an integral part of the assembly, a unique, printed, visually exciting and interest generating foldable, three-dimensional display system is attained. In accordance with the present invention, the interest generating, foldable display system of the present invention is quickly and easily automatically erected from its flat, generally two-dimensional configuration into a three-dimensional display. Furthermore, the housing preferably comprises an enlarged internal cavity for receiving any desired display element. In this way, the display assembly is easily, and automatically converted from a two-dimensional, substantially flat configuration into a three-dimensional fully erected, interest generating, visually exciting display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Dimensional Communications Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher S. Crowell, Joseph R. Klim
  • Publication number: 20080178501
    Abstract: By providing a unique, pre-formed holding member which is quickly and easily assembled into the three-dimensional diorama display, a unique, visually exciting and interest generating three-dimensional diorama display system is attained. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, a substantially flat transparent sheet of material is constructed having a desired size and shape for receiving and holding a particular photograph construction or configuration. In addition, the transparent sheet of material incorporates cooperating pre-formed score lines formed along the opposed edges of the transparent sheet, effectively establishing flanges at the opposed side edges thereof. Each of the flanges are arcuately pivoted along the associated score lines, thereby enabling the flanges to extend inwardly, towards each other, establishing two cooperating photograph edge holding flanges.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventors: Christopher S. Crowell, Joseph R. Klim
  • Publication number: 20080092417
    Abstract: By providing a unique, pre-formed holding member which is quickly and easily assembled into the three-dimensional diorama display, a unique, visually exciting and interest generating three-dimensional diorama display system is attained. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, a substantially flat transparent sheet of material is constructed having a desired size and shape for receiving and holding a particular photograph construction or configuration. In addition, the transparent sheet of material incorporates cooperating preformed score lines formed along the opposed edges of the transparent sheet, effectively establishing flanges at the opposed side edges thereof. Each of the flanges are arcuately pivoted along the associated score lines, thereby enabling the flanges to extend inwardly, towards each other, establishing two cooperating photograph edge holding flanges.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2007
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventors: Christopher S. Crowell, Joseph R. Klim
  • Patent number: 6594534
    Abstract: By providing a recording/transfer system and docking station which is constructed to enable messages to be recorded, played, re-recorded, and then used, when perfected, to product a high quality audio signal which is transferrable to a one-time programmable audio generating circuit/module, an easily employed audio recording system is attained which is capable of being used by the consumer for recording perfected messages onto one or a plurality of one-time recordable audio generating modules. In the preferred construction, the record/transfer system and docking station is small and compact, thereby providing complete portability thereto and substantially enhancing its use and benefits. The record/transfer system and docking station of the present invention can be interconnected with a single, one-time programmable audio generating module, or, alternatively can be constructed for receiving a plurality of one-time programmable audio generating modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Inventor: Christopher S. Crowell
  • Patent number: 6311418
    Abstract: By providing a three-dimensional, pop-up or mechanical image forming member in planar form removably mounted to a carrier, and constructed for being easily removed therefrom and assembled or mounted with a card or display member, a completely integrated three-dimensional, pop-up or mechanical image generating system is attained enabling individuals, and small businesses to produce pop-up, three-dimensional, or mechanically-activated displays, bags, characters, greeting cards, stationery, advertising literature, and the like, that is equivalent in quality and visual presentation to commercially produced material. Preferably, a plurality of different three-dimensional, pop-up, and/or mechanical image forming members are provided with each incorporating a message receiving zone in which any desired message can be printed by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Inventor: Christopher S. Crowell
  • Patent number: 6237265
    Abstract: By providing a unique, pre-printed housing within which a pair of display members are operatively interconnected to each other to move simultaneously outwardly from the housing in an unexpected and unanticipated manner, a printed, visually exciting and interest generating advertising/promotional product is attained. In the preferred embodiment, the housing incorporates a front panel and a rear panel interconnected to each other and mounted in juxtaposed, spaced relationship defining an interior zone there-between. Each panel preferably comprises an eye-catching, visual display for generating consumer interest. In addition, an interior partition is mounted between the front panel and the rear panel, with the interior partition being affixed to one of said panels. Furthermore, an endless band is mounted about the interior partition in a manner which enables the endless band to freely slide peripherally about the partition in a continuous manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Structural Graphics LLC
    Inventor: Christopher S. Crowell
  • Patent number: 5983538
    Abstract: By providing a plurality of interconnected, arcuately cooperating panels and end closures which are foldable into an overlying, interleaved, stacked configuration and, when desired, capable of being automatically erected into a three-dimensional display system, a unique, exciting three-dimensional pop-up system is provided. In order to provide the automatic, self-erecting feature, a spring member is mounted in the display system interleaved with the panels and end closures. In addition, the outer surfaces of the panels may incorporate any desired printed indicia, in order to produce a display system having any desired message or appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Christopher S. Crowell
  • Patent number: 5836095
    Abstract: An exciting, visually distinctive display and article holding system is provided by incorporating one or more extendable portions, flaps or members on the surfaces of a bag or box structure with both the bag or box and the extendable portions, flaps, or members incorporating unique, cooperating visually exciting indicia thereon. Preferably, the display and article holding system is foldable for easy storage or, if desired, formed from heavy or thick material to enable the article holding system to form a display. In one embodiment, the display and article holding system is constructed in a multi-dimensioned size and shape consistent with an animal, character, or object being represented thereby, with the surfaces thereof incorporating indicia depicting the desired character, animal or object. In alternate embodiments, movable panels, flap members, or card-holding members are employed to provide a unique, visually exciting article holding system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Inventor: Christopher S. Crowell
  • Patent number: 5758438
    Abstract: By providing a three-dimensional, pop-up or mechanical image forming member in planar form removably mounted to a carrier, and constructed for being easily removed therefrom and assembled or mounted with a card or display member, a completely integrated three-dimensional, pop-up or mechanical image generating system is attained enabling individuals, and small businesses to produce pop-up, three-dimensional, or mechanically-activated displays, bags, characters, greeting cards, stationery, advertising literature, and the like, that is equivalent in quality and visual presentation to commercially produced material. Preferably, a plurality of different three-dimensional, pop-up, and/or mechanical image forming members are provided with each incorporating a message receiving zone in which any desired message can be printed by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1998
    Inventor: Christopher S. Crowell
  • Patent number: 5613312
    Abstract: An exciting, visually distinctive display and article holding system is provided by incorporating one or more extendable portions, flaps or members on the surfaces of a bag or box structure with both the bag or box and the extendable portions, flaps, or members incorporating unique, cooperating visually exciting indicia thereon. Preferably, the display and article holding system is foldable for easy storage or, if desired, formed from heavy or thick material to enable the article holding system to form a display. In one embodiment, the display and article holding system is constructed in a multi-dimensioned size and shape consistent with an animal, character, or object being represented thereby, with the surfaces thereof incorporating indicia depicting the desired character, animal or object. In alternate embodiments, movable panels, flap members, or card-holding members are employed to provide a unique, visually exciting article holding system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 25, 1997
    Inventor: Christopher S. Crowell
  • Patent number: 5577918
    Abstract: By providing integrated circuit constructed for recording, retaining, and delivering an audible message upon demand and securely retaining the circuit means in a housing, a unique, multi-purpose, audible message delivery system is attained for use either independently or in cooperative relationship with a plurality of alternate products. In the preferred embodiment, the integrated circuit is constructed to provide ease of message re-recording upon demand. In this way, any desired message can be substituted for an existing message whenever desired. As a result, repeated use of the audible message delivery system is realized, with the system being used independently or in association with other products, such as picture flames, medicine packages, folders, notebooks, etc. In this way, specific messages can be easily transmitted between individuals in a manner previously unattainable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Inventor: Christopher S. Crowell
  • Patent number: 5387108
    Abstract: By providing circuit means constructed for recording, retaining, and delivering an audible message upon demand and securely retaining the circuit means in a housing, a unique, multi-purpose, audible message delivery system is attained for use either independently or in cooperative relationship with a plurality of alternate products. In the preferred embodiment, the circuit means is constructed to provide ease of message re-recording upon demand. In this way, any desired message can be substituted for an existing message whenever desired. As a result, repeated use of the audible message delivery system is realized, with the system being used independently or in association with other products, such as picture frames, medicine packages, folders, notebooks, etc. In this way, specific messages can be easily transmitted between individuals in a manner previously unattainable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 7, 1995
    Inventor: Christopher S. Crowell
  • Patent number: 4799764
    Abstract: A spectral image viewing device incorporates a thin semi-transparent sheet of prismatic polytetrafluoroethylene polymer film, a viewing aperture and an image producing aperture. The device produces a visually perceptible array of spectral images when aligned with a light source. The device can be in the form of an attractive eye-catching desk-top calendar or decoration formed as flattenable pop-up cardboard structures resembling solid polyhedrons having similar polygons as top and bottom supporting panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1989
    Assignee: Structural Graphics, Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher S. Crowell
  • Patent number: 4794024
    Abstract: Attractive eye-catching desk-top decorations formed as flattenable pop-up cardboard structures resembling solid polyhedrons have similar polygons as top and bottom supporting panels. Foldably joined to the sides of each of these polygons are trapezoidal face panels extending diagonally outward with their longer parallel edges foldably joined to corresponding edges of mating trapezoidal face panels extending outward from the other polygon, forming an equatorial plane polygon similar to but larger than the top and bottom polygon panels. Internal glue tabs extending inward in the equatorial plane are urged toward each other by elastic bands, popping the flattened structures into their erect condition. Internal guide flanges formed by or cooperating with the glue tabs arrest and block the inward flexing movement of the trapezoidal face panels as the desired erect polyhedron shape is reached, stabilizing and rigidifying the structures to provide a prolonged useful life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 27, 1988
    Assignee: Structural Graphics, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher S. Crowell, Ib Penick
  • Patent number: 4774780
    Abstract: A self-erecting pop-up stationery display structure assembly bonded to an underlying stationery sheet supports a display panel positioned overlying the stationery sheet. The collapsible self-erecting support has a central panel spanning the space between the stationery sheet and the overlying display panel, with first and second end panels joined to it by respective first and second fold lines, the first being formed of resilient elastomer leaf spring sheet material with a preformed angular bend formed therein. A collapsing force causes the central panel to fold toward the stationery sheet, elastically deforming the preformed angular bend in the resilient elastomer sheet. Removal of the collapsing force releases the deformed angular bend, which returns elastically to its preformed bend configuration, positioning the display panel in a deployed position spaced from the stationery panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1988
    Assignee: Structural Graphics Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher S. Crowell
  • Patent number: D556830
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Inventors: Christopher S. Crowell, Joseph R. Klim