Patents Issued in April 26, 2016
  • Belt buckle
    Patent number: 9320325
    Abstract: A belt buckle includes a buckle base having a plurality of raised portions at a base panel thereof for engagement with the bottom wall of the belt, a clamping plate pivotally connected to the buckle base and having a series of teeth for engagement with the top wall of the belt, a frame member pivotally connected to the buckle base, and a prong member pivotally coupled to the frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: RACER SPORTING GOODS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Shyan-Wei Chen, Ya-Chi Chen
  • Fastener
    Patent number: 9320326
    Abstract: A fastener assembly attaches items to fabrics and textiles. The fastener has particular application for easily attaching racing bibs (i.e., athlete numbers) to athletic garments, and obviating the need for safety pins. In one embodiment, a female portion that passes through the fabric or textile releasably connects with the male portion that fastens the item to the fabric or textile. In another embodiment, the female portion has a cover to facilitate passage through the fabric or textile. In a third embodiment, the male portion passes through the fabric or textile, and includes a barb or a hook to do so.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Robert P. Greenspoon
  • Knitted slide fastener
    Patent number: 9320327
    Abstract: A knitted slide fastener in which a stable knitted mode of a knitting structure is maintained, and a fastener element row is strongly attached to a warp knitting fastener tape. A fixing chain knitting yarn of the fastener element row in the fastener element attaching portion and knitting yarns configuring a ground structure are knitted with independent single structures, respectively. Needle loops which are connected to each other in a longitudinal direction of the fixing chain knitting yarn mounts each of element legs of the continuous fastener element row, sinker loops which are connected to each other in the longitudinal direction of the fixing chain knitting yarn go under a sinker loop of a second warp knitting yarn which configures the ground structure and cross each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: YKK Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshito Ikeguchi, Norio Uozumi, Hidenobu Kato
  • Textile fastner
    Patent number: 9320328
    Abstract: In one example, a textile fastener may include a pegging member, and a receiving member. The receiving member may include a flange portion configured to support at least a portion of the textile, and an opening disposed within the flange portion configured to receive the pegging member. In some cases, the pegging member may be configured to apply a friction force between the textile and the receiving member when the pegging member is inserted into the opening. Magnetic interaction between the pegging member and the receiving member may maintain the friction force between the textile and the receiving member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Margaret A. Sinclair
  • Irregular finger ring configuration
    Patent number: 9320329
    Abstract: A jewelry arrangement that is configured to fit on a finger. The arrangement can include a first jewelry portion and a second jewelry portion. The first jewelry portion may be attached to the inner surface of the second jewelry portion. The second jewelry portion may be positioned away from the user's skin. The first jewelry portion may contain at least one element which may contact a user's skin. In one exemplary embodiment, the elements are semi-cylindrical, rounded or arc-shaped. In an other exemplary embodiment, the elements are cylindrical. Another exemplary embodiment may contain a combination of different elements that together create a non-uniform surface. In yet another exemplary embodiment, there may be a ring crown attached to the second jewelry portion. This ring crown may also form part of the non-uniform surface created by the first jewelry portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Barry Nisguretsky
  • Beading board device for a tablet computer and tablet computer program for use with same
    Patent number: 9320330
    Abstract: A beading board for arranging cylindrical beads in a pattern displayed on an electronic display device. The beading board includes a frame configured to receive the electronic display device, and a board including a plurality of bead receivers. The board is cooperatively received by the frame and configured to be supported over the electronic display device such that the electronic display device is viewable through the board. A system and method for generating and displaying a beading pattern on the electronic display device is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: EK SUCCESS LTD.
    Inventors: Cory Cooke, Ross Exley, Matt Sweeney
  • Swivel umbrella sheathing handle
    Patent number: 9320331
    Abstract: The present invention is related to road accessories, in particular, to umbrellas and especially to the folding ones. The proposed umbrella has a sheath connected by a joint, with a fixing device, to a shaft connected to a system of ribs and a canopy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventors: Edouard Gorouvein, Maksim Gorouvein
  • Portable storage apparatus that includes an integrated arrangement for converting the apparatus to a bed or a chaise
    Patent number: 9320332
    Abstract: A portable apparatus including a storage and a support arrangement that is convertible to a resting platform defined as a back pack or a suitcase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Zeev Zuckerman
  • Automatic head care device and automatic head care method
    Patent number: 9320333
    Abstract: Provided is an automatic head care device that can reliably care a person's rear head. The automatic head care device includes a rear-head care unit, the rear-head care unit including contact units, each unit having a rotation gear rotating a plurality of contacts around a central axis of the rotation gear, a third arm rotatably holding the contact units, a cylindrical rack held between the contact units to be movable in an axial direction of the cylindrical rack, the cylindrical rack moving in the axial direction to rotate the rotation gears in opposite directions, and a motor for oscillating the contacts of the contact units by moving the cylindrical rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Osamu Mizuno, Soichiro Fujioka, Tohru Nakamura, Toshinori Hirose
  • Hair removal apparatus
    Patent number: 9320334
    Abstract: A hair removal apparatus adapted to remove hair can be manually, electrically, or battery operated, and is configured to fit comfortably from various parts of the body utilizing a threading member. The hair removal apparatus within the palm of a user's hand such that the user may accurately guide the hair removal apparatus over the desired hair-removal region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: SWEET TEA INNOVATIONS, LLC
    Inventor: Kathleen Wilson-Thompson
  • Grooming devices and methods therefor
    Patent number: 9320335
    Abstract: Devices and/or methods for treating facial hair are provided in order to soften the feel thereof. The devices and/or methods generally alter the structure of the tips or ends of the hair follicles to enhance their feeling of softness. Some devices and methods employ a high speed impacting principle to split the ends of the hair follicles. Some devices and methods aim to reduce the thickness of hairs near the tips through abrasion. Some devices and/or methods employ both crushing/impacting and abrasion in order to soften the feel of a subject's facial hair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: L'Oreal
    Inventors: Joseph W. Grez, Gerald K. Brewer
  • Method and apparatus for applying polish to nails
    Patent number: 9320336
    Abstract: A device for applying decoration to a nail. The device includes an elongated member having a first end having a mounting feature thereon, the mounting feature configured to maintain the first end of the device in a fixed position, and a generally opposite, free-floating end configured to be coupled to a nail decoration, the free-floating end configured to provide controlled movement of the decoration. The elongated member is configured to inhibit unintentional movement thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Young Nails, Inc.
    Inventor: Habib Salo
  • Heated cosmetic sampler with incorporated applicator
    Patent number: 9320337
    Abstract: A system for a heating packette with incorporated product applicator. One or more outer surfaces of the packette comprise printed heating elements, printed circuit elements and a means of connecting to a power source. The packette is designed to be used away from the home, and without connecting to a power grid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: ELC MANAGEMENT, LLC
    Inventors: Herve F. Bouix, Christophe Jacob
  • Cosmetic container with applicator and pivoting mechanism for the applicator
    Patent number: 9320338
    Abstract: The invention relates to a cosmetic container for a liquid or paste-like cosmetic product or the like, having a reservoir for the cosmetic product and having an applicator for applying the cosmetic product to the skin and/or hair. The applicator is supported on the cosmetic container in pivoting fashion and, by pivoting around a pivoting axis, can be pivoted between an idle position inside the reservoir and at least one use position outside the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: GEKA GMBH
    Inventor: Werner Fischer
  • Cosmetic applicator system comprising a magnifying cap for a non-functional applicator head
    Patent number: 9320339
    Abstract: A cosmetic applicator system that comprises a magnifying cap that produces a magnified image of a non-functioning applicator head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: ELC MANAGEMENT LLC
    Inventors: Francis Corbellini, Herve F. Bouix
  • Hair appliance holder
    Patent number: 9320340
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to the field of holders for the storage of hair care appliances and similar articles wherein the hair-care appliances are stored (held) for immediate use. A thermal barrier clip for use with flat irons is also disclosed for use with the holder so as to improve safety and increase the lifespan of the flat iron. A hair dryer hook is also disclosed which allows for storage of a hair dryer with a diffuser attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Robert Christenson
  • Interior cradle for a portable electronic device
    Patent number: 9320341
    Abstract: A storage device for portable electronic devices is provided. The storage device includes a luggage item provided with an interior cradle. The interior cradle is adapted to securely and adjustable hold a portable electronic device, such as a laptop computer. The interior cradle comprises a height adjuster for selectively changing the position or depth of the stored device within the bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: eBags, Inc.
    Inventor: Bernard H. Majeau
  • Bottle, retaining device and associated elements for carrying containers and other items
    Patent number: 9320342
    Abstract: An improved bottle, retaining device and associated elements for carrying items is disclosed. The retaining device is adapted for holding a container (or containers) or other items; the retaining device being adapted to affix the container by way of the retaining device to a person or a personal item so ready access is provided for the held container/item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Amphipod, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith S. Willows, June A. Angus, Antonio Del Rosario
  • Multiple-loop support strap and method for hanging a hammock
    Patent number: 9320343
    Abstract: A multiple-look support strap is adapted for hanging one end of a hammock from a fixed structure. The support strap cooperates with a like strap to hang an opposite end of the hammock from a second fixed structure spaced apart from the first. The support strap comprises an elongated length of flexible strap folded upon itself to form first and second overlying strap sections. The strap sections are integrally joined together at a first end of the support strap, and a least one of the first and second strap sections terminates at an opposite second end of the support strap. A plurality of strap loops are formed with the first and second strap sections between opposite ends of the support strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Eagles Nest Outfitters, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter G. Pinholster, Jr., Paul C. Pinholster, Brendan Garvey
  • Feminine hygiene article holder
    Patent number: 9320344
    Abstract: A holder for a feminine hygiene article is secured on the user's body and retains an unused personal item in an inconspicuous position under the user's outer clothing. The holder is formed as a pouch, or pocket having a front panel and a back panel attached to the front panel. A belt formed from two accordion-style folded non-resilient portions is detachably secured to the holder body and to the user's waist, hips or thigh. One of the belt portions has an adhesive tab that is securable to a free end of the second portion, while an unwanted length of the first portion is detached along tear-off perforation lines. An adhesive strip near the open upper end secures the holder body to the user's body or undergarments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Judith Barbier
  • Secure cell phone holder
    Patent number: 9320345
    Abstract: A carrying case wearable by a user includes a pouch having an inner surface and an outer surface, the inner surface defining an interior carrying chamber, the inner surface and the outer surface defining an opening to provide access to the interior carrying chamber; a belt connected to the pouch, the belt sized to wrap around a pair of belt loops on a waist of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Giddy Up, LLC
    Inventor: Joanna G. Newton
  • Attachment strap
    Patent number: 9320346
    Abstract: An attachment strap incorporating an elongated strap segment extending away from an attachment head. The attachment head includes a crossbar extending between raised lateral sidewalls. The strap may be passed under the crossbar between the lateral sidewalls. The strap segment includes an array of raised or lowered profile elements disposed at positions along the length. The crossbar includes a complementary raised or lowered profile element adapted to matedly engage the strap profile elements in reversible inserted relation and to hold the strap in place within the attachment head following insertion of the strap behind the crossbar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher A. J. Iannello, Martin J. Nilsen, Michael B. Grimm
  • Sweeper device for RV slide-outs
    Patent number: 9320347
    Abstract: A sweeper device for RV slide-outs for safely and conveniently reaching hard-to-reach areas that needs to be swept. The sweeper device for RV slide-outs includes support members hingedly connected to one another for a user to effectively reach tops of RV slide-outs while standing upon a ground; hinge members interconnecting the support members; a handle assembly being attached to one of the support members; and a work member assembly being removably disposed to at least one of the support members for sweeping off the tops of RV slide-outs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Piotr Skarzynski
  • Finger mounted toothbrush
    Patent number: 9320348
    Abstract: A finger-mounted toothbrush having a body and a plurality of cleaning members, the body having a proximal end, a distal end opposite to the proximal end, and a length separating the proximal and distal ends, the body also defining a proximal opening at the proximal end and having an inner surface defining a cavity extending from the proximal opening to a terminal location along the body length, wherein the cavity is sized for an average-sized human finger, the body further having an outer surface spanning from the proximal end to the distal end. The plurality of cleaning members project outwardly from the outer surface of the body, substantially span the body length, and define a plurality of cleaning member voids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Julienne Sabet
  • Cosmetic brush
    Patent number: 9320349
    Abstract: A cosmetic brush is provided, including a large brush having a large diameter; a small brush having a small diameter inserted into a center in the large brush; a large brush body connected to a lower end of the large brush; and a vertical operating member that operates the small brush so as to protrude to the center of the large brush by lowering the large brush body. According to the present cosmetic brush, by simultaneously including the large brush having the large diameter and the small brush having the small diameter inserted into the large brush, there is an effect of being able to selectively use the large brush and the small brush depending on the form of the makeup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Jae Kwang Hwang
  • Portable surface extender
    Patent number: 9320350
    Abstract: A portable surface extender for temporarily extending the surface of a desktop or such similar surface. The extender is a slender panel having gripping members on at least on side. The gripping members attach to a desktop. Alternatively, a panel is attached to a desk by way of a conjoining adaptor, which has two opposing groups of gripping members. One group of members grips a desk or tabletop, whereas, an opposing group of members grips a panel or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Bernard Fryshman
  • Portable desk device
    Patent number: 9320351
    Abstract: A portable desk device for storing items and providing a workplace surface. The device includes a desktop having a circular shaped cutout in which objects can be placed. The cutout can be used as a drink holder or for storing items, such as writing utensils. The desktop can further include a storage compartment located beneath the desktop surface, wherein books, magazines, electronic devices, and the like can be stored. The device further includes a foldable frame that supports and removably attaches to the desktop. The frame includes a pair of U-shaped side rails having a pair of vertical legs connected by a horizontal rail. The U-shaped side rails are connected by a crossbar. The frame further includes a hinge disposed in the horizontal rails so to allow the frame to be folded in a compact configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Todd Sorrell
  • Articulating support arm
    Patent number: 9320352
    Abstract: An articulating support arm includes a base, at least first and second links, a control head and a platform. The base, first and second links and control head are pivotally connected in a four bar linkage configuration. The control head has a forward end pivotally connected to the platform and the platform is movable from a forward fully extended position wherein the control head is forward of the base to a rearward fully retracted position wherein the control head passes below and to a position rearward of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Nicholas Leonard Blackburn
  • Cover for outdoor furniture
    Patent number: 9320353
    Abstract: A composite cover for covering an item of furniture comprising a sheet of material laid on a support which is, one embodiment, is on an array of elastic cords and is in another embodiment is a fan array of panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventors: Olaf Dietrich Elze, Shaw Finlay Sterling
  • Shoe storage apparatus
    Patent number: 9320354
    Abstract: The invention provides a shoe storage apparatus capable of saving space when stored, wherein a shoe storage apparatus includes a leg to be disposed on an installation surface, and an upper panel which has a base end portion to be supported by the leg and a tip end portion on the side opposite to the base end portion, and is disposed at a distance from the installation surface in a state where the base end portion is supported by the leg, and on which one shoe of a pair of shoes can be placed, and the upper panel is constituted to be detachable from the leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: KABUSHIKI KAISHA YOSHIKAWAKUNI KOGYOSHO
    Inventor: Toshiyuki Yoshikawa
  • Bottle rack
    Patent number: 9320355
    Abstract: A bottle rack includes a plurality of first frame bodies, a plurality of second frame bodies and a plurality of connecting rods. Each of the first frame body includes a first assembling portion and a second assembling portion. The first assembling portion and the second assembling portion of the first frame body are embedded into the second assembling portion of another one of the first frame bodies and the first assembling portion of still another one of the first frame bodies respectively. Each of the second frame body includes a third assembling portion and a fourth assembling portion. The third assembling portion and the fourth assembling portion of the second frame body are embedded into the fourth assembling portion of another one of the second frame bodies and the third assembling portion of still another one of the second frame bodies respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Chao-Lung Lee
  • Tamper-resistant and easy-access utility pedestal
    Patent number: 9320356
    Abstract: A protective device for housing utility equipment is tamper-resistant and allows easy access to the equipment for maintenance. A slidable mounting unit is normally stored and operative inside the durable main body in an in-use position, but may be lifted up, with the utility equipment attached, from the main body for access to the equipment. The mounting unit is locked inside the main body by a lock that is difficult to access with any cutting or impact tools, to prevent or limit vandalism and opening of the system. The lock may be located in a space beneath the mounting unit and accessible through multiple small and narrow hand-holes that tend to allow only a person's hands, with a key or key-card, to reach the lock. A pivotal antenna/mast system may be included in a way that allows only an authorized user to lower the antenna/mast for maintenance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Mark E. Ralstin
  • System and method for single person mounting of wall-mounted cabinets or shelves
    Patent number: 9320357
    Abstract: The system and method invention herein disclosed and claimed is a system and method for single-person mounting of wall-mounted cabinets or shelves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Jiaxing Tian
  • Seat reclining apparatus
    Patent number: 9320358
    Abstract: A seat reclining apparatus includes a first and second plates and a lock mechanism which locks/unlocks relative rotation therebetween. The first plate includes an engaging protrusion on a side engaged in a holding portion, and a protrusion-corresponding recess formed on the other side of the first plate recessed at a position corresponding to the engaging protrusion. The engaging protrusion includes a pressure receiving portion on a peripheral edge thereof and engages with an inner peripheral surface of the holding portion to receive a force therefrom when a load is exerted on a seatback frame in the locked state. The first plate includes an annular bridging portion connecting the peripheral edges of the engaging protrusion and the protrusion-corresponding recess; the annular bridging portion including a thin-wall portion, and a thick-wall portion corresponding to the pressure receiving portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: SHIROKI CORPORATION
    Inventor: Noriaki Maeda
  • Backrest translation mechanism
    Patent number: 9320359
    Abstract: A backrest translation mechanism includes a holder mounted on a sofa seat, a swing locating member, a backrest mount, a slider, and a positioning pin. The swing locating member has a first end pivoted on the holder, several locking slots with downward openings arranged at regular intervals along its length direction. The locking slots are adapted for engaging with and unidirectionally locking up the positioning pin, one side of each locking slots is provided with an inclined surface inclined towards an opposite direction of the first end. The slider is slidably set on the swing locating member and has a retaining slot and a limiting slot. The positioning pin is accepted by the retaining slot and the locking slot jointly, and the positioning pin is restricted to be out of the locking slot by the limiting slot. The mechanism has multiple using positions for adjusting the translation of the backrest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: DONGGUAN WEIHONG HARDWARE AND PLASTIC PRODUCTS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Wei Lu
  • Armrest assembly
    Patent number: 9320360
    Abstract: An adjustable armrest for a chair is disclosed herein and comprises an assembly of a mounting plate, a support column, an anti-rotation feature, and two arms. The adjustable armrest's mounting plate is positionable laterally and rotationally about the support column when the anti-rotation feature is disengaged, and is restrained when the anti-rotation feature is engaged. The anti-rotation feature restrains the position of the mounting plate by restraining the rotation of the two arms and is preferably controlled via an actuator button.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Nathaniel David Bauer
  • Apparatus and method for testing a climate controlled vehicle seat
    Patent number: 9320361
    Abstract: A climate controlled seat test apparatus is provided. The test apparatus may have a pump arrangement configured to alter a pressure within a vicinity of a climate controlled portion of a vehicle seat. A controller may be programmed to detect airflow obstructions or losses within the climate controlled portion of the seat. The climate controlled portion may include a blower motor. The controller may detect airflow obstructions and/or losses based on a change in current consumed by the blower motor caused by the pump arrangement altering the pressure within the vicinity of the climate controlled portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David William Gaines, Anton Crainic
  • Mattress corner lifting device
    Patent number: 9320362
    Abstract: A mattress corner lifter that includes a base and a lifting mechanism supported by the base. Also, a platform is rotatably supported at the top of the lifting mechanism. The lifting has a compressed state, an extended state and an intermediate state between the compressed and extended states. In the compressed state the mattress lifter pushes up with a force of less than 25 lbs, but in its intermediate state the force with which the mattress lifter presses up increases as the mattress lifter extends, until it reaches a maximum of at least 40 lbs, and wherein at the extended state the mattress lifter resists compression with a force of at least 40 lbs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: THREE60 LLC
    Inventor: Jeffery Allen Shea
  • Temperature sensing playpen assembly
    Patent number: 9320363
    Abstract: A temperature sensing playpen assembly includes a base frame that may be positioned on a support surface. A child may be positioned within the base frame. A wall is coupled to and encloses the base frame. A pad is positionable on a floor of the base frame so the pad may cushion the floor of the base frame. A canopy frame is removably positionable on a top of the base frame. An umbrella is coupled to the canopy frame. A control panel is coupled to the base frame. An alarm is coupled to the control panel. The alarm is operationally coupled to the control panel. A pressure sensor is coupled to the pad. The pressure sensor is operationally coupled to the control panel. A temperature sensor is coupled to the canopy frame. The temperature sensor is operationally coupled to the alarm so the alarm emits an audible alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Mary Margaret Beaver
  • Helmet dispensing system
    Patent number: 9320364
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides systems and methods for the dispensing and collection of objects in urban environments. More particularly, the disclosure provides systems and methods for dispensing and collecting helmets. The disclosure provides a self-sufficient, high-capacity, helmet dispensing system. In some embodiments, the system includes solar panels that provide the system with the requisite power needed to power the system. In some implementations, the system includes a vandal resistant return mechanism for the helmets. The system may also include communication modules, which may transmit system information to a backend server.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: HelmutHub Corporation
    Inventors: Charles Mills, Jessica Artilles, Jose Avedillo, Kathryn Barnes, Ignatius Chen, Danielle Hicks, Shen Huang, Ron Perez, Laura Ware, Stephanie Whalen, Breanna Berry, Arni Lehto, Angela Chu, Manas Menon
  • Product dispensing system with sound reducing features
    Patent number: 9320365
    Abstract: A product dispensing system having a frame with a front end and a rear end, and including an upper support deck extending between the front end and the rear end, a lower support deck positioned below the upper support deck, the lower support deck extending between the front end and the rear end and defining a product display area, a guide extending from proximate the upper support deck to proximate the lower support deck, and a stop positioned proximate the product display area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: WestRock MWV, LLC
    Inventors: James Fortuna, Caleb Loftin, Joseph Snead
  • Product storage unit and method of arrangement
    Patent number: 9320366
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to an arrangement, a method of arranging, and a storage unit for product packages. The storage unit includes a shelving unit, a divider, and a display case. The arrangement includes product packages arranged around a central axis such that a side surface of the product package faces away from the central axis and a second product package is arranged around the central axis such that a spine surface of the second product package faces away from the central axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Spanx, Inc.
    Inventors: Vincent Bertault, Robert Kemp
  • Snap-in pusher
    Patent number: 9320367
    Abstract: A retail merchandise pusher system that includes a front fence configured to attach to a shelf, and a plurality of single-piece track and divider assemblies. Each single-piece track and divider assembly has a divider attached to a track, and is configured to attach to the front fence by means of a connector. The retail merchandise pusher system also includes a pusher assembly for each of the plurality of single-piece track and divider assemblies. Each pusher assembly is configured to slide along its respective track. The pusher assembly has a pusher paddle, and a spring to bias the pusher paddle towards the front fence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Southern Imperial, Inc.
    Inventor: Kyle Chambers
  • Magnetic display unit
    Patent number: 9320368
    Abstract: A shelf display unit having one or more magnetic connectors allowing the display unit to be releasably attached to a shelf for the display of products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: THE PROCTER & GAMBLE CO
    Inventors: Martin Jay Marotti, Ralph Albert Sagel, Raymond Charles Bell
  • Display fixture having a display hook
    Patent number: 9320369
    Abstract: A display fixture includes a cross support mounted to a display structure. The cross support includes a cross bar having a plurality of holes extending through at least a top of the cross bar. The holes are spaced apart from each other across a length of the cross bar. The display fixture also includes at least one display hook having three downwardly depending mounting members. The at least display hook is mounted to the cross bar by engaging two of the three downward depending mounting members with two holes in the cross bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Target Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Erin L. Zobel, Jason W. Johnson
  • Method and apparatus for suspending a package in an elevated position
    Patent number: 9320370
    Abstract: One embodiment provides a method and apparatus for suspending air conditioning duct works from a support structure comprising unistrut type support beams which apparatus includes a plurality of support brackets arranged and configured for being slidably interlockable with the interior of the unistrut beam members. Multiple support rods can be used to support a frame member even where the support rods are not symmetrically located along the length of the support beam as the support bracket can be slid/moved inside the support beam until lining up with its respective support rod. Additionally, the entire support framework can be moved relative to the plurality of support rods by sliding the framework relative to the support brackets. In such manner the location of the supporting frame member can be changed without moving the support rods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Jay G. Bianchini
  • Methods for mounting footballs
    Patent number: 9320371
    Abstract: Methods of attaching a football to a wall mount assemblies including connection with or without partially elastic augmentation bands. The augmentation bands interact with seams running from one pole to another pole on a ball. The ball may be a football. A football may be connected to the wall mount assembly via a lace engagement component that engages the laces on the football. The various wall mount assemblies provide an illusion that the ball is floating near the flat surface without support. A wall mount component connected to the flat surface by a set of fasteners is out of the line-of-sight of an observer as the wall mount component is behind the ball and the connection between the ball and the wall mount component is designed to be difficult to see.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Thomas W. DeLoach, Jr.
  • Stack of interfolded absorbent sheet products
    Patent number: 9320372
    Abstract: A stack of interfolded absorbent sheet products comprises a plurality of absorbent sheets each of which is itself folded at least twice about axes that are perpendicular to one another. Each sheet comprises a first fold that is offset from a line parallel to the first fold bisecting the sheet, and a second fold approximately bisecting the sheet in a direction perpendicular to the first fold. Each sheet is folded such that offset portions of the sheet are positioned interiorly of the sheet when folded. The absorbent sheets preferably have an embossed surface relief of a predetermined pattern or design. Each of the absorbent sheets within the stack comprises at least one pair of panels sandwiched between a pair of adjacent panels of another of the absorbent sheets in the stack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: SCA HYGIENE PRODUCTS AB
    Inventors: John S. Formon, Frederick R. Albrecht
  • Blank and methods of constructing a food holder from the blank
    Patent number: 9320373
    Abstract: A food holder for retaining a food product is provided. The food holder is formed from a continuous blank of the sheet material. The food holder includes a top tray including a center panel, a side panel, and an end panel coupled together along a plurality of fold lines. The food holder further includes a bottom tray including a center panel, a side panel, and an end panel coupled together along a plurality of fold lines. The bottom tray is rotatably coupled to the top tray along a hinge line. The top tray is rotatable relative to the bottom tray from an open position to a closed position. The food holder further includes a moveable section including a portion of at lest one of the top tray side panel and the bottom tray side panel. The moveable section facilitates movement of the top tray relative to the bottom tray for retaining the food product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignees: Graphic Packaging International, Inc., Havi Global Solutions LLC
    Inventors: Bradley John Burke, Rachel K. Mortenson
  • Main body
    Patent number: 9320374
    Abstract: A device for retaining solid portions of a food product that contains solid and liquid components. The device comprises an opening, angled side walls, and an angled bottom surface that acts as a bottom surface. The device fits into a liquid container, such as a soup cup. The angled sidewalk cause a wedging effect that keeps the invention from dropping down to the bottom of the liquid container. The bottom surface contains a perforated region that allows the liquid element of the food product to flow through to the bottom of the liquid container, but retaining the solid portions. By retaining the solid portions of the food product proximate the mouth of the liquid container, the user is able to consume the solid portions of the food product without a utensil. In addition, the design of the invention forces the solid elements into the user's mouth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Jeff Phipps