Patents by Inventor Thomas J. Pateman

Thomas J. Pateman 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: 6149340
    Abstract: Apparatus is provided for self-righting a signpost after it has been tipped over comprising a plate for connecting to the signpost and a complementary tray secured to the ground. Most of the apparatus is located below ground out of harm's way. The tray has upturned peripheral edges within which the plate resides. A chain is connected to the plate, extends through a hole in the tray and into the bore of a pipe for connecting to the bottom of a compression spring. When the signpost and plate tip, the plate rotates within the tray, displacing the chain and compressing the spring. Preferably a lip extending over the edge of the plate causes the plate to ride up the edge of the tray, increasing the chain's displacement. The increased tension in the chain urges the plate and signpost to right themselves. The plate and tray are complementary and square shape so that the square sides engage during tipping and prevent rotation of the signpost's orientation when it returns to the upright position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventor: Thomas J. Pateman