With Means To Limit Or Inhibit Rotation Patents (Class 108/142)
  • Patent number: 11174979
    Abstract: The invention relates to a console for an operating unit of technical installations, in particular workpiece processing machines, comprising a base element (14); a stand element (16) held on the base element, the stand element having a first segment (18) and a second segment (20), the first segment being provided on the base element (14), and the second segment being angled on the first segment and having a free end; and a mounting support (22) for the operating unit, wherein an adjusting device is provided for adjusting the mounting support on the second segment relative to the free end; wherein the second segment with the first segment forms an angle greater than 180°.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2021
    Assignee: BYSTRONIC LASER AG
    Inventor: Friedemann Seibert
  • Patent number: 10857676
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes a method for replacing a photoresist (PR) bottle using a vehicle. An exemplary vehicle includes a processor configured to receive a request signal to replace a first PR bottle. The processor is also configured to transmit an order based on the request signal. The vehicle also includes a plurality of wheels configured to move the vehicle from the first location to a second location, and from the second location to the first location. The vehicle further includes a robotic arm configured to load, at the first location, the first PR bottle into a first container; load a second PR bottle in a second container; remove a cap from the second PR bottle and a socket from the first PR bottle; couple the socket of the first PR bottle to the second PR bottle; and unload the second PR bottle from the second container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2020
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Oliver Yu, Huei-Chi Chiu, Shi-Ming Wang, Li-Jen Wu, Yu Kai Chen, Sharon Yang
  • Patent number: 10730409
    Abstract: A seat assembly having a seat structure supported on a base structure and having a swivel mechanism for permitting pivoting of the seat structure, includes a seat swivel limiter that limits the swivel angle of the seat depending on the fore-aft position of the seat structure. The limiter includes a swivel stop connected to the seat structure to pivot with the seat structure and a plate connected to the base structure and arranged to be contacted by the swivel stop after the seat structure pivots through a predetermined swivel limit angle to thereby prevent further swiveling of the seat structure. In a further aspect, the swivel stop and the plate are configured to provide different swivel limit angles depending on the fore-aft location of the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2020
    Assignee: Sears Manufacturing Co.
    Inventor: Jeffrey D Linnberg
  • Patent number: 10383183
    Abstract: A microwave oven is disclosed herein that includes a cooking cavity and a magnetron. The magnetron includes a body portion having an anode, a cathode, one or more magnets, and an antenna extending from the body. The antenna directs microwaves generated by the body to the cooking cavity. The magnetron is movably coupled to a housing surrounding the cooking cavity and the magnetron. For example, in one embodiment, the magnetron oscillates along three perpendicular dimensions of mobility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: Hall Labs LLC
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Andrew Priddis, Matthew Liddle, Jedediah Knight
  • Patent number: 9834120
    Abstract: The invention provides an electrically driven stowable and deployable table mounted on a support structure, wherein the table comprises a switch mechanism operable by a user to select between a first, automatic, operation for stowing and deployment of the table, and a second, user adjustable operation for user adjustment of the deployed position of the table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Assignee: BENTLEY MOTORS LIMITED
    Inventor: David Alan Rook
  • Patent number: 9265342
    Abstract: A rotary bearing for rotably supporting an article-carrying member at a supporting column of a rotary fitting of a cupboard comprises a supporting member having a first component and a second component movably connected to each other. In a closed state of the supporting member, the first and the second component together define a cylinder envelope shaped inner surface encircling an aperture of the supporting member; and they together provide a circular track at a top face of the supporting member. In an open state of the supporting member, the first and the second component provide an access opening to the aperture that has a width of at least about the diameter of the cylinder envelope shaped inner surface. A pin is fixed at one of its ends to the first component of the supporting member, and it extends from the first component of the supporting member into the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2016
    Assignee: Vauth-Sagel Holding GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Peter Sagel, Claus Sagel
  • Publication number: 20140360412
    Abstract: A table includes a vertical support column and a base. The base includes a first floor engaging portion disposed on a first side of a vertical axis and a second floor engaging portion disposed on an opposite second side of the vertical axis. The first and second floor engaging portions are weighted such that the base has a center of gravity spaced from the vertical axis on the second side of the vertical axis. A worksurface member is supported by the vertical support column and is vertically spaced from the base. The worksurface member is rotatable relative to the base. In one aspect, the worksurface member has an overall length greater than the overall length of the base. In another aspect, a stop limits rotation of the worksurface member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2014
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Applicant: Herman Miller, Inc.
    Inventors: GIANFRANCO ZACCAI, KEVIN ROBERT YOUNG, PETER KIRWAN BATES, JOHN F. ALDRICH, ANDREW j. KURRASCH, ROBERT M. SEELEY
  • Patent number: 8833273
    Abstract: A table device comprises a base, a footing and a tabletop. The base is designed with an upper portion, which is rotatable relative to a lower portion in the horizontal plane. The lower portion of the base is arranged to abut a basis. The upper portion of the base is provided with two diametrically opposite castors abutting rollably the lower portion of the base. A friction element arranged to be able to abut the lower portion of the base, is connected to the upper portion of the base outside an axis extending between the two castors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Inventor: Adne Helle
  • Patent number: 8393847
    Abstract: An apparatus and method may comprise a platform, a rotatable structure on the platform, an arm associated with the platform, and an interface associated with the arm. The structure may be configured to hold a number of tanks. The arm may be configured to move about a plurality of axes. The interface may be configured to connect to a tank in the number of tanks. The arm may be configured to move the tank about the plurality of axes when the interface is connected to the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Robert Joseph Mecklenburg, David James Delany, Michael Francis Basch
  • Publication number: 20120279427
    Abstract: A table device comprises a base, a footing and a tabletop. The base is designed with an upper portion, which is rotatable relative to a lower portion in the horizontal plane. The lower portion of the base is arranged to abut a basis. The upper portion of the base is provided with two diametrically opposite castors abutting rollably the lower portion of the base. A friction element arranged to be able to abut the lower portion of the base, is connected to the upper portion of the base outside an axis extending between the two castors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2010
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventor: Adne Helle
  • Publication number: 20120085270
    Abstract: A veterinary table assembly having a support assembly and a table mounted to the support assembly. The table is operable to rotate with respect to the support assembly at least approximately 90 degrees between a first position and a second position. Preferably, the table is also operable to move vertically between a lowered position and a raised position. The table assembly also preferably includes a back panel mounted to the support assembly for restraining an animal on the table.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2010
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Inventors: Joseph Schroer, Perry Crow
  • Publication number: 20110053136
    Abstract: A turntable for vertical support of substantially horizontal loaded surfaces, which has an upper and a lower half, between that it includes a vertical rotatable guiding element. A braking element (6) is located within the guiding element (3), which limits the vertical downward movement of the horizontal surface to a given speed, and the guiding element (3) includes a threaded part (4) that changes the vertical downward movement to rotating motion. The upper half (1) during its downward movement is connected to the lower half (2) by a mechanical coupling for rotation transfer by engagement into the threaded part (4). The braking element (6) is allowing backward movement of the upper half (1) relatively to the lower half (2) substantially without braking after expiry of the loading. The upper half (2) during its upward movement is connected to the lower half (2) without mechanical coupling for rotation transfer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2009
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Applicant: B.B.I.P. SZELLEMI TULAJDONJOG-HASZNOSITO ES VAGYON
    Inventor: Jozsef Bereznai
  • Patent number: 7849773
    Abstract: The invention RADIAL ARM FRAMEWORK WITH INTEGRAL ROOF PITCH ANGLE SAW GUIDE is designed to accurately control the cutting of roof pitch angles 0/12-12/12 to the right or left pitch angle in ribbed metal panels 3? wide or more for hips and valleys in buildings. Roof pitch angles can easily be changed according to an integrated guide plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Inventor: Aubrey Eugene Hamby
  • Publication number: 20090320724
    Abstract: A shelf and swivel for supporting a shelf for rotation with respect to an underlying base, the shelf including an off-axis aperture, the swivel including a first member having a plurality of openings to receive fasteners for securing the swivel to the underlying base and a pair of downward projections straddling one of the openings. A second swivel member, coupled to the first swivel member for rotation about a vertical axis, is secured to a lower surface of the shelf so that the first member openings are serially accessible through the shelf aperture. A first fastener is installed through the shelf aperture and aligned first swivel member opening into the underlying base with sufficient force to embed the projections in the underlying base, thereby inhibiting movement of the first swivel member sufficiently to permit rotation of the shelf to serially expose additional first member openings to receive additional fasteners.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2008
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Inventor: William L. Walburn
  • Patent number: 7416196
    Abstract: A tugger cart is provided for transporting a load about a factory or the like. The tugger cart includes a support frame and a wheel assembly operatively connected to the support frame for supporting the support frame above a supporting surface. A bed is rotatably mounted to the support frame and is rotatable about a vertical bed axis that extends through the center of the bed. The bed may be locked in a predetermined position by a user. The tugger cart also includes a handle assembly slidably connected to the support frame. The handle assembly is movable between a first retracted position and a second extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Inventor: Edmund W. Brown
  • Patent number: 7302879
    Abstract: A miter saw with angular adjustment has a carrier (1), a turntable (3) which is able to turn relative to the carrier (1) and which forms a workpiece support surface (2), and a turntable fixing device (8) for fixing the turntable (3) relative to the carrier (1) in certain reproducible angular positions. The miter saw turntable fixing device (8) enables adjustment of the angular position relative to the carrier in a manner which is continuous and mechanically reproducible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Metabowerke GmbH
    Inventor: Laurentius Bergmann
  • Patent number: 7210415
    Abstract: A device has a base which supports a rotatable table. The device includes a three position locking system. The first position locks the table to the base, the second position releasably locks the table to the base and the third position permits free rotation of the table on the base. A lever assembly, a locking rod and a locking spring function together to provide for the three positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventor: Mark E. Brunson
  • Patent number: 7013780
    Abstract: A compound miter saw includes a unique table assembly which incorporates an orientation system for a group of wear plates and a three position lock system. The wear plates between the table assembly and the base of the miter saw have a different configuration at each end which requires them to be assembled into the table saw with any burred edge being positioned away from the table assembly. The lock system incorporated into the table assembly is movable between three positions. The first position locks the table to the miter saw. The second position permits rotation of the table with a spring loaded detent system releasably locking the table at various miter angles. The third position permits rotation of the table with the spring loaded detent system being disengaged providing free movement of the table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventor: Mark E. Brunson
  • Patent number: 6367759
    Abstract: An improved rotational cake decorating apparatus, commonly known as a Lazy Susan, used in the decoration, display and service of cakes. Said improved rotational cake decorating apparatus has a novel gripping means disposed thereon for improved rotational control. A donut shaped apparatus with a novel gripping means disposed thereon to be fixably attached to an existing rotational cake decorating apparatus. Said donut shaped apparatus with said novel gripping means provides for improved rotational control of said existing rotational cake decorating apparatus. A radial extension apparatus with a novel gripping means disposed thereon that can be removably attached to an existing rotational cake decorating apparatus. The radial extension apparatus provides a larger surface for supporting a work product such as a cake whereby the surface for supporting a cake on the existing rotational cake decorating apparatus is increased allowing for the decoration of larger cakes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: NHS Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce R. Simon
  • Patent number: 6327982
    Abstract: This invention is an adaptable computer stand designed to support a laptop computer or keyboard over a user's lap while sitting in a chair or bed. The stand includes a wide, low profile base designed to fit under a living room chair commonly found in a home. Attached perpendicularly to the base is a vertically aligned, fixed pole. Attached to the upper end of the fixed pole is an adjustable, L-shaped extension pole designed to be selectively raised or lowered on the fixed pole, rotate, and then lock in a desired position. Attached to the upper end of the extension pole is a length-adjustable, rotating extension arm. The stand also includes a planar support member used to support a keyboard or laptop computer. Attached to the bottom surface of the support member is a locking universal joint, which, during assembly, is connected to the distal end of the extension arm. The universal joint enables the support member to tilt and rotate as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Inventor: Stephen Jackson
  • Patent number: 6220184
    Abstract: The present invention is a cart assembly comprising a top portion which is adapted to be removably secured to a lower portion. The top portion includes a rotatable table, known as a lazy Susan and secured to the rotatable table is a lock device, which enables the rotatable table to lock in a fix position when desired by the user. A removing device allows for the top portion to be removably secured to the bottom portion. This will render the top portion, when removed, to act as a tray for adequately and efficiently transport the finished product and to prevent handling by the user to intrinsically reduce damage thereto. The lower portion includes a plurality of legs. The legs, preferably includes lockable wheels to provide conveyance of the assembled assembly, when the top portion is secured to the bottom portion, or solely the bottom portion. The lower portion supports the top portion and is designed to aid the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Inventor: Leon John Sack
  • Patent number: 6154956
    Abstract: A method of assembling electronic equipment using a work station which comprises a rotatable work surface, a fixed work surface and a support frame. The rotatable work surface is rotatably mounted to the fixed work surface which is, in turn, mounted to the support frame. The work station includes a locking mechanism positioned between the rotatable work surface and the fixed work surface for adjusting the rotational orientation of the rotatable work surface. The rotatable work surface and the fixed work surface are both made of an electrostatic discharge (ESD) safe material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Assignee: Micron Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Marcus S. Frohardt
  • Patent number: 6089167
    Abstract: A work station for assembling equipment comprises a rotatable work surface, a fixed work surface and a support frame. The rotatable work surface is rotatably mounted to the fixed work surface which is, in turn, mounted to the support frame. The work station includes a locking mechanism positioned between the rotatable work surface and the fixed work surface for adjusting the rotational orientation of the rotatable work surface. The rotatable work surface and the fixed work surface are both made of an electrostatic discharge (ESD) safe material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Micron Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Marcus S. Frohardt
  • Patent number: 5669316
    Abstract: A turntable for rotating a wafer carrier in order to enable the attachment of a handle to the wafer carrier. The turntable includes a platform rotatably mounted to a baseplate. In addition, the turntable includes stops which are positioned to enable 180.degree. clockwise and counterclockwise rotation of the platform to provide access to the wafer carrier for handle attachment. The platform includes carrier guides which are spaced apart to accommodate the wafer carrier. The platform further includes a platform handle which an operator manipulates to rotate the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Albert Faz, Rodolfo U. Coronado
  • Patent number: 5595128
    Abstract: The table assembly comprises a first longitudinally grooved and elongated supporting member disposed substantially vertically. A mounting device removably connects the first supporting member to a fixed structure. A second longitudinally grooved and elongated supporting member is disposed substantially horizontally and bears a table plate at its distal end. The first and the second supporting member are connected together by a brace member. A first locking device is provided between the brace member and the first supporting member for locking the brace member on the first supporting member. A second locking device is provided between the second supporting member and the brace member for locking the second supporting member in the brace member at a selected height. The table assembly is easily adjustable in a wide range of positions and foldable away for storage. It is particularly well adapted for use on locations where space is limited, such as balconies, patios, decks, verandas, mobile homes, boats, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1997
    Assignee: Dycaf Pro-Vision International
    Inventors: Yvon De Ladurantaye, Koen De Winter
  • Patent number: 5569074
    Abstract: A workstation for cleaning or machining workpieces such as foundry castings includes a rotatable workpiece support positioned above a ventilated surface of the workstation. In operation, a workpiece is mounted to the rotatable support and rotated as necessary during a cleaning process to enable a user to conveniently access various surfaces of the workpiece. The cleaning process can include chipping, grinding, sanding and polishing steps. The rotatable workpiece support can include a mechanical clamp or a turntable which can be operatively locked in a desired position. Positioning of the workpiece relative to cleaning tools will reduce worker exposure to respirable particulates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1996
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Department of Health and Human Services
    Inventor: Michael Gressel
  • Patent number: 5535684
    Abstract: A rotatable electrical equipment table comprising: a support stand having at least one leg, the upper extent of each leg being coupled to a cross bar with an upwardly extending shaft, a support plate being formed in a planar configuration, the planar plate being coupled to the upper extent of the shaft; a lazy susan having upper and lower segments formed in a planar configuration, bearings being positioned between the upper and lower segments to permit rotation of one segment with respect to the other, the lower segment of the lazy susan being coupled to the support plate; and a worktable formed in a planar configuration, the worktable being coupled to the upper segment of the lazy susan, the worktable including a pull handle to facilitate rotation to the desired position, an extension pole formed in an elongated configuration with an upper extent and a lower extent, the lower extent being coupled to the table, a multiple outlet utility box including at least one electrical socket and being affixed to the upp
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1996
    Inventor: Glenn G. John
  • Patent number: 5311622
    Abstract: A device for facilitating the transfer of an incapacitated individual from a bed to a wheelchair includes a foot support having a generally planar upper surface for receiving the patient's feet and a base disposed vertically below the foot support and having a generally planar lower surface for engaging a support floor, coupling means for rotatably coupling the foot support on the base for relative rotation about a generally vertical axis and with the upper surface of the foot support and the lower surface of the base lying in generally parallel horizontal planes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 17, 1994
    Inventor: Roy H. Allen
  • Patent number: 5079789
    Abstract: The apparatus is useful to turn an invalid patient ninety degrees from one resting position to a second resting position by standing the patient on a foot plate. A base platform supports the foot plate with a turntable mounted between the foot plate and base platform. A central bore in the foot plate, turntable and base platform permits a bolt to hold the foot plate, turntable and base platform together. An eccentric bore in the foot plate receives a long shafted bolt attached to the foot plate with a portion of the shaft descending below the foot plate to move within a groove in the base plate to permit about a ninety degree rotation of the foot plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1992
    Inventor: Joyce A. Jandrakovic
  • Patent number: 5024175
    Abstract: The present invention is a multi-machine carousel assembly which supports at least two machines for use at a work station. The invention comprises a base, pivot device, bearing assemblies, and a platform. The base supports the platform by the bearing assemblies and the platform rotates about an axis in common with the base by the pivot device. The platform is rotatable to selectively position any of the machines at a work station. The assembly has a securing device to lock the platform in a desired relation with the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 18, 1991
    Inventor: William E. Epstein
  • Patent number: 4939333
    Abstract: Disclosed is an electric apparatus comprising a housing with a door, a turntable arranged in the housing for rotating an object, a synchronous motor for driving the turntable, and a control portion for controllling the driving of the synchronous motor, the control portion having apparatus for storing the time required for the turntable to rotate once, apparatus for determining whether or not a time period which is approximately a natural number multiple of the time required for the turntable to rotate once, has elapsed since initiation of turntable rotation, and apparatus for stopping an operation for the rotation of the turntable on the basis of the determination that time, which is approximately a natural number multiple of the time required for one rotation of the turntable, has elapsed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 3, 1990
    Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Haruo Sakai, Masayuki Sakai, Satoshi Koide
  • Patent number: 4901973
    Abstract: The invention is a support base for a CRT console, the base comprising at least two stacked generally planar elements having aligned frontal margins with a corner at each end. Pivot means are provided in the corners to permit the upper element to pivot with respect to the lower element about the pivot points selectively. Anti-friction means are provided between the upper and lower elements. Restraining means assure that the upper and lower elements will pivot only at one of the pivot points. The restraining means also serve to hold down the rear of the upper element so that the console does not pitch forward and fall as the weight of the console moves forward.In one embodiment an intermediate element is disposed between the upper and lower elements and the pivot points comprise pins, one pivotally joining the lower element and the intermediate element at one corner and the other joining the intermediate element and the upper element at the other corner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1990
    Inventor: Daniel A. Ferrara, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4885446
    Abstract: A microwave oven turntable having a load-responsive mechanism for self-activating the turntable upon the placement of foodstuff thereon. The turntable includes a base assembly having a planar bottom and upwardly extending sides to form a base interior in which a drive shaft is rotatably driven by a coil spring. A tabletop is coupled to the drive shaft for rotation therewith, but the rate of rotation is determined by the cyclical motion of a governor. The load-responsive mechanism includes a resilient brake member which is aligned in a governor-locking position. The tabletop is linked to the brake member by an actuator and the brake member is sufficient rigid to maintain the actuator and tabletop in a slightly uplifted condition when in the governor-locking position. The placement of foodstuff on the tabletop, however, provides a gravitational force which displaces the brake member into a governor-releasing position in spaced apart relation to the governor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1989
    Inventor: Yiu C. Liu
  • Patent number: 4755099
    Abstract: The invention is an apparatus for supporting a load on the forks of a forklift while such load is being moved, wherein the relationship of the direction the load is moved to the direction the forklift moves is an oblique angle, the apparatus comprising:(A) a bottom member adapted with a means for attaching the apparatus to a forklift; and(B) a top member adapted for supporting a load, the top member pivotally attached to the bottom member, said top member adapted to pivot so as to support a load to be moved which must be moved in a direction which is at an oblique angle to the direction the forklift will move wherein the pivot point of the apparatus is located beyond the pivot point of a forklift when the apparatus is mounted on a forklift.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1986
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1988
    Assignee: The Dow Chemical Company
    Inventor: Shawn D. Belveal
  • Patent number: 4746781
    Abstract: A device for rotating food while cooked in a microwave oven includes a metal housing supported above the oven floor by dielectric feet, and a turntable mounted above the housing. The turntable is rotatable by virtue of a turntable shaft having downwardly extended legs forming a non-circular cross-section, insertable into a similarly configured bore within a drive shaft inside the housing. A detent, pivotally mounted beneath the housing, can be pivoted manually to a locking position in which an arm of the detent engages one of several notches formed in the turntable, to prevent further turntable rotation relative to the housing. A bearing assembly between the top of the housing and the turntable includes an annular frame, and a plurality of ball bearing-containing receptacles arranged symmetrically about the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1988
    Assignee: Northland Aluminum Products, Inc.
    Inventors: H. David Dalquist, III, Lloyd G. Keleny, Jorgen A. Jorgensen, Douglas J. Kluge
  • Patent number: 4687167
    Abstract: A computer support includes a base member to which an inner swing arm is pivotally mounted with an outer swing arm being pivotally mounted on the outer end of the inner swing arm and supporting a platform support by a lazy-susan bearing on its outer end. The pivotal connections are provided by pivot shafts over which pivot sleeves are positioned with upper and lower spaced roller bearing sets therebetween and a low-friction load bearing sleeve of substantial hardness engaging the lower end of each pivot sleeve to support same. Brake/lock means at each pivot permits retention of the arms in any desired rotational position in separate horizontal planes of movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1985
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1987
    Inventors: Gerald P. Skalka, Stanley H. Skalka
  • Patent number: 4679756
    Abstract: An upright, detachably attachable to the frame of a wheelchair, supports a vertically adjustable mounting for a service tray. The mounting includes a quick release cam for precisely locating and pivoting the service tray into and out of a position of use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1986
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1987
    Inventor: Charles F. Wood
  • Patent number: 4672898
    Abstract: An adjustable table with a bulkhead bracket (20) permanently mounted on the wall or vertical surface of a watercraft, recreational vehicle, or the like. A davit shaped arm (30) slips into the bracket (20) and is axially rotatable, with detents (34) interfacing into notches (24) in the bracket for placement. A top attaching bracket (40) slips over the arm (30) on the horizontal end with detents (34) penetrating a pair of holes (42) to maintain stability and achieve adjustment. A top (50) is permanently secured to the top attaching bracket (40) providing a flat work surface and rotatable 360 degrees from the wall, also tilting 90 degrees horizontally for access.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1987
    Inventor: Henry A. Davidson
  • Patent number: 4629846
    Abstract: A switch assembly for microwave oven turntable is disclosed. The turntable comprises a base (4) and a platform (6) rotatably mounted thereupon. The platform (6) is adapted having a downward pripheral rim flange (36), along which an annular gear ring (38) is provided. A flange (20) extends outward from the base beyond and below the rim flange (20). A switch mechanism includes a rocker body (48) pivotally mounted to the flange (20) and adapted to pivot toward and away from the flange (36). A locking finger (60) extends under the rim flange (36) and upward into a parallel and adjacent relationship with the gear ring (38). The locking finger (60) is of triangular saw-toothed cross section defining an apex ridge (62) oriented toward the gear ring. The gear teeth of the gear ring (38) likewise have a saw-tooth configuration. Rocking actuation of the switch body causes the locking finger (60) to pivot toward and away from meshing engagement with the gear ring (38).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1985
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1986
    Assignee: Rubbermaid Incorporated
    Inventor: Richard D. Dilyard
  • Patent number: 4625087
    Abstract: Locking mechanism for a mechanically driven, low profile, portable turntable for use in cooking ovens, especially microwave ovens, for rotating foodstuffs while cooking. The low profile turntable includes a spring which varies the height of the rotating portion of the turntable with respect to the base between a first predetermined position when there is no food or the like on the turntable and a second predetermined position when there is food on the turntable. The locking mechanism includes notches and prongs located on the rotating portion and base portion of the turntable which engage each other when the turntable is in the first predetermined position to prevent rotation of the turntable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1985
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1986
    Assignee: Northland Aluminum Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Jorgen A. Jorgensen, Donald W. Nygren, Douglas J. Kluge, Jerel P. Traun
  • Patent number: 4587908
    Abstract: Two vertically spaced shelves with pie-shaped cut outs are rotatably supported on a fixed post in a corner cabinet. Each shelf is rotatably mounted on the post by an anti-friction bearing assembly comprising a rotatable bearing member attached to the shelf and a fixed bearing member attached to the post. To enable the pie-shaped cut out of the shelf to be located in a predetermined angular home position relative to the cabinet door, a detent mechanism is incorporated in the bearing assembly. The detent mechanism includes a cage carried by the rotatable bearing member and supporting a detent ball which snaps into a detent notch in the fixed bearing member to hold the shelf releasably in its home position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1985
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1986
    Assignee: Amerock Corporation
    Inventor: William DeBruyn
  • Patent number: 4576372
    Abstract: A cylindrical body houses a disc-like pressure plate between a bottom of the body and a disc-like top plate. Ball bearing races are disposed between the body and pressure plate and between the pressure plate and top plate. A reversable ratchet mechanism interconnects the top plate and pressure plate for either conjoint rotation in one rotative direction or conjoint rotation in the opposite rotative direction; while permitting rotation of the top plate without the pressure plate in the opposite direction. A setting lever is provided to change the direction of conjoint rotation of the top plate and pressure plate. The ratchet mechanism includes a drive spur having teeth which coact with a ring gear formed in an opening in the upper surface of the pressure plate. An inflattable bladder is disposed between the body and the periphery of the pressure plate to selectively modify the force required to rotate the pressure plate conjointly with the top plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1984
    Date of Patent: March 18, 1986
    Inventor: Michael Rinaldi
  • Patent number: 4546708
    Abstract: A support for supporting a cathode ray tube display screen and keyboard of a computer terminal at a work station. The support includes a base, a turntable rotatably mounted on the base for supporting the display screen, and a rotatable platform connected to the turntable by a pair of articulated arms for supporting the keyboard. Both the turntable and platform may be rotated to any desired position and the platform may additionally be moved toward and away from as well as laterally with respect to the turntable to allow the display screen and keyboard to be moved to a multiplicity of positions at the work station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1983
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1985
    Inventor: Daniel N. Wilburth
  • Patent number: 4518139
    Abstract: An improved pedestal for a rotatable seat which includes a shiftable pivot arm and associated latch part. The arm and latch cooperate with a flange of the pedestal support member to secure the plate against detachable lifting during normal seat rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1983
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1985
    Assignee: Elkhart Machine & Tool Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Don L. Barfell
  • Patent number: 4482196
    Abstract: A Structure for supporting household appliances includes a cantilever arm pivotally mounted to a wall or other support, a platform rotatably mounted to the end of the arm, electrical hardware providing electrical outlets on or in the platform, and means to limit the rotation of the platform on the arm to less than 360.degree..
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1983
    Date of Patent: November 13, 1984
    Inventor: John Wolens
  • Patent number: 4450774
    Abstract: A circularly configured rotatable element rotationally mounted for use in a drafting, drawing, tracing or light tabletops of generally rectangular or square configuration, a concave-convex annular interface disposed between the circular element and the adjacent portion of the tabletop and a series of 360.degree. sockets or apertures arranged along the interface for receiving a locking spring pin element therein. Also, indicia displaying 360.degree. markings may be disposed about peripheral portions of the circular element. A swivel assembly such as used in a lazy susan is used to support the rotatable element. In one embodiment, the circular element is constructed of transparent, translucent or similar material with a set of at least a pair of fluorescent lights mounted thereunder. In another embodiment, the rotatable element is in the form of an opaque, light impervious circular element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 29, 1984
    Inventor: Johnny L. Weaver
  • Patent number: 4365561
    Abstract: The invention relates to a computer terminal station constituted by an input device and by an output device, both devices being separate one from the other.According to the invention, the station comprises a support for the device 2 constituted by a column mounted for sliding along its axis in a stand, and for rotation about its axis with respect to said stand, the top part of the said column being provided with a console mounted to pivot about an inclinable axis for the output device whereas between the column and the stand are provided means for their axial immobilization in relative rotation and whereas between the column and the console are provided means for adjusting the inclination of the console.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1979
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1982
    Assignee: Compagnie du Roneo
    Inventors: Pierre Tellier, Jean-Pierre Demaille, Jean Doillon
  • Patent number: 4229060
    Abstract: This invention relates to a rotary storage cabinet comprised of an outer stationary housing and an inner rotatable rotor having four sides two of which are positionable to present the contents of the cabinet simultaneously to two opposite openings in the housing. Two other opposite sides of the rotor are positionable to close the openings in the housing. The cabinet is constructed from a plurality of sub-assemblies which are shipped for assembly at the point of use. The basic structure of the unit comprises a base (20), two pilaster frames (10), and a top frame pan (30) each of which is shipped as a sub-assembly. The cabinet includes several features including: the ball bearing mechanism (FIGS. 7-9); spring urged wheel (180) and detent (150) (FIG. 12) stop mechanism; lock mechanism (160) (FIG. 12); welded pilaster frames (10); and a single centrally located rotor frame (50). The unit is modular permitting the use of like "add-on" units (FIGS. 16 and 17).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1978
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1980
    Assignee: Acme Visible Records, Inc.
    Inventors: Sherwood S. Brownlee, Warren G. Lohr
  • Patent number: 4219248
    Abstract: A piece of furniture possibly provided with shelves and usable for the storage of various goods. This piece of furniture comprises at least one storage unit consisting of an upper tray and a lower tray both secured at right angles to a vertical support element, which forms either a part of the door or the door itself of the furniture frame; the storage unit being pivotally mounted on bottom and top wall portions of the frame, respectively, at location areas which are decentralized with respect to the axis of the frame; the trays having a peripheral edge so irregularly curved as to enable the furniture doors to be swung about the decentralized location areas without any shock between two adjacent storage pivoting units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 1978
    Date of Patent: August 26, 1980
    Inventor: Adolphe Goldberg
  • Patent number: 4203624
    Abstract: A writing tablet for a chair arm is mounted by a pivot swivel block to the arm for pivotal movement about a first axis. A tablet panel support is mounted to the pivotal swivel block for pivotal movement about a second axis perpendicular to the first axis. Semicircular slots are included in the pivot swivel block and tablet panel support in registry with each other, and a ball rides in the slots to limit the movement of the tablet panel support about the second axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1978
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1980
    Assignee: Knoll International, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard B. Hopkins