Patents by Inventor William R. Youmans

William R. Youmans 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: 5495641
    Abstract: A method of turning typical doorknobs and other knobs without having to grasp the knob enables persons with hand debilities to open doors. The method involves installation of a knob cover which is round and made of a resilient material which can be slipped over the knob without tools, and will snugly remain around the knob. Multiple levers protrude from the knob cover, so that pushing any of the levers will cause the knob to be turned. Each lever is substantially U-shaped with a rounded apex, to avoid discomfort which might be caused by pointed levers. Furthermore, each lever is made of a resilient, soft material to facilitate movement of the levers by sensitive hands. Each lever extends from the cover a sufficient distance to allow a closed fist to engage and push the lever, while each lever is short enough to avoid contact with a door jam or adjacent wall when the knob cover is installed on a doorknob.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventors: Patrick E. Going, William R. Youmans