With Force-multiplying Means Patents (Class 108/147)
  • Patent number: 9986821
    Abstract: A keyboard and keyboard and peripheral position system, which may be used with adjustable-height desks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2018
    Assignee: THERMOGENESIS GROUP, INC.
    Inventors: Ron Wiener, Andrew Rosenbaum, Cole Dalton
  • Patent number: 9933201
    Abstract: A refrigerator that includes a cabinet; a storage compartment located in the cabinet; a door mounted to the cabinet and configured to open or close at least a portion of the storage compartment; a freezing compartment provided in an upper region of the cabinet; an evaporator configured to cool the freezing compartment; an elevating frame provided at a lower part of the freezing compartment, the elevating frame being configured to move vertically and defining an expanded freezing compartment based on the elevating frame being moved downward; and fixed frames that are secured to respective sidewalls of the storage compartment and that are configured to guide and support vertical movement of the elevating frame is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Myeongha Yi, Jaeyoul Lee, Taegyeong Kim
  • Patent number: 9884322
    Abstract: A laboratory stand for a microplate comprises a base (2), at least one post (3, 4) extending upwardly from the base, a shelf (5) located above the base and supported by the at least one post, and means for adjusting the height of the shelf in relation to the base. The shelf (5) comprises a rear portion (9) which is substantially horizontal and a front portion (10), which is inclined downwards away from the horizontal, which is adapted to retain at least one microplate. The laboratory stand improves pipetting ergonomics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: Abel Applications Limited
    Inventors: Jan Knight, Robert Knight
  • Patent number: 9849584
    Abstract: A tool cabinet includes a cabinet body having two guide rails and a routing space that is proximate to one of the guide rails, a working platform unit having a protective tube, two lifting units, a driving unit, and a power supply unit having a transmission wire. The working platform unit includes two extension members respectively slidable relative to the guide rails. Each lifting units includes a threaded rod extending through a respective extension member. The driving unit is disposed for driving rotation of the threaded rod of a respective one of the lifting units. The transmission wire has an end connected to the driving unit, and an opposite end extending through the protective tube into the routing space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Inventor: Chia-Ming Liu
  • Patent number: 9839285
    Abstract: An improved computer stand is an elevated computer support surface that allows users to comfortably stand, if desired, while taking up much less space than conventional computer desks. Fabricated of a durable wood material with a strong, metal-based support stem, this product would be adjustable to heights ranging from forty-two to sixty-two inches (35?-62?), and would feature a large surface width of thirty inches (30?). The improved computer stand would have two (2) tiers. The top section would be a flat rectangular piece that could easily support a laptop or computer monitor. The second tier, which would be tucked underneath the top space, would be hinge connected and adjustable in height. A footrest, attached at the base of the support stem, would offer a height adjustable place to relax the feet should one choose to sit on a tall stool or chair while working.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2017
    Inventor: Bruce Cassamajor
  • Patent number: 9788645
    Abstract: A telescopic leg for supporting a table-top of a table, the leg defining an extension axis, a first end of the leg, and a second end of the leg, opposite the first end, wherein the length of the leg between the first end and the second end is adjustable between a minimum length and a maximum length, wherein the telescopic leg includes: a plurality of leg members slidingly engaged with each other along the extension axis; the plurality of leg members including a first leg member terminating with the first end, suitable to rest on the floor or be fixed to a base, and a last leg member terminating with the second end and suitable to be fixed to the table-top; wherein the last leg member is an extruded tubular member internally defined by a tubular member inner surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignee: UNIFOR S.P.A.
    Inventor: Dante Bonuccelli
  • Patent number: 9776367
    Abstract: Provided is an unloading system and a method for unloading a tire tread carrier, wherein the tire tread carrier includes a plurality of plates, wherein each plate is arranged for supporting at least one tread for a tire, wherein the unloading system includes an arm with a retaining device for picking up and retaining treads, wherein the arm is provided with a lifting device that is arranged to move together with the arm for lifting one of the plates, wherein a control system is arranged for controlling a drive system to position the arm in a starting position in which the lifting device extends at least partially underneath said one plate and to subsequently move the arm upwards such that the lifting device is moved towards a lifting position, thereby lifting said one plate; from the closed position towards the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2017
    Assignee: VMI HOLLAND B.V.
    Inventors: Henk-Jan Grolleman, Roel Kramer
  • Patent number: 9743754
    Abstract: A height adjustable device that can include: a work surface; and at least one leg assembly connected to the work surface, the at least one leg assembly including: a first member; and a second member moveable relative to the first member along a longitudinal axis; a counterbalance mechanism connected to the height adjustable device and configured to counteract a force exerted on the work surface, the counterbalance mechanism including: a gas spring having a cylinder and a moveable piston; a wheel moveably connected to the gas spring; and first tension member engaged to the wheel, the first tension member connected to the at least one leg assembly; a second tension member engaged to the wheel, the second tension member connected to the at least one leg assembly; and a guide member mounted inside of one of the first member and the second member, the guide member being slidably engaged with the cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Assignee: Ergotron, Inc.
    Inventors: Mustafa A. Ergun, Chelsea Cross
  • Patent number: 9745762
    Abstract: A vertical raising safety rail having a moveable top rail, a base, a movable center rail assembly positioned above the base and below the top rail, a drive shaft, and a motor that provides rotational power to the drive shaft. The safety rail further includes a pair of spaced apart lower linkage arm assemblies that is operatively connected to the base and to the center rail assembly and configured to raise or lower the center rail assembly relative to the base when a rotational force is applied to the drive shaft. The safety rail also includes a pair of spaced apart upper linkage arm assemblies that is operably connected to the center rail assembly and to the top rail. The upper linkage arm assemblies are operably connected to corresponding lower linkage assemblies and are configured to move the upper rail relative to the center rail assembly. When the rotational force is reversed, the safety rail collapses into a compact footprint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Assignee: Control Dynamics, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric M. Moran
  • Patent number: 9730512
    Abstract: A table frame for a table has a first column and a second column for supporting a table top, a cross member of hollow profile construction by which the first column and the second column are interconnected with each other and a first cantilever support mounted on the top end of the first column and a second cantilever support mounted on the top end of the second column. The first and the second column each have two projections at respective top ends thereof. The cross member, at each end section thereof, has a pair of oblong holes disposed on its lower side and through which the two projections of the respective column extend into the cross member. Each cantilever support has a first and a second flange which are arranged spaced-apart from one another, each of the flanges abutting the cross member on a lateral side portion thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Assignee: Veyhl GmbH
    Inventors: Wolfgang Bruder, Arthur Oswald
  • Patent number: 9730513
    Abstract: A modular furniture unit can be configured to provide power distribution in conjunction with other furniture features. Embodiments of furniture arrangements may utilize one or more modular furniture units to provide one or more of such features (e.g. storage, seating, privacy, work surface, lighting, etc.). In some embodiments, the modular furniture unit includes an elongated upper member having an upper slot that has a first end and a second end opposite its first end. At least one leg is attached to the first end and at least one leg is attached to the second end. The elongated upper member may have a channel through which power cabling passes and outlets that are connected to such cabling. Different elements can be connected to the upper member via the upper slot or a downward facing opening of the upper member and/or to the legs to provide different furniture arrangements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Assignee: Knoll, Inc.
    Inventors: Masamichi Udagawa, Sigrid Moeslinger, Ronald Snyder
  • Patent number: 9731829
    Abstract: The present invention provides a table arrangement comprising a table moveably mounted to a table mounting structure, a compensation arrangement connected between the table and table mounting structure for reducing the force required to lift the table from a lowered position to a raised position, and a damper arrangement for reducing the speed of the table as it moves from the raised position to the lowered position, wherein the compensation arrangement is mounted on a shaft, such that as the table is lowered, the shaft rotates about its longitudinal axis and wherein the damping arrangement is arranged to act on the shaft to reduce the speed of its rotation about its longitudinal axis. The invention also provides an aircraft seat module and a method of deploying or stowing a table arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Assignee: Zodiac Seats UK Limited
    Inventors: Robert Gow, Paul Morgan
  • Patent number: 9723916
    Abstract: An electric lifting device includes one driving mechanism and at least two transmission mechanisms, the two transmission mechanisms cooperating mutually and connected through a transmission bar assembly, with one transmission bar assembly driven by the driving mechanism. Each transmission mechanism includes a gearbox, a first driving gear, a second driving gear with axes of the first and second driving gears being crossed vertically, and lifting table legs disposed below at least two of the transmission mechanisms and driven by the second driving gear of the corresponding transmission mechanism to be lifted synchronously. The present invention employs only one driving mechanism, and with respect to the structure employing multiple driving mechanisms, the electric lifting device in the present invention can not only prevent interference to guarantee higher consistency, but also reduce devices to lower the difficult in control, thereby significantly reducing the cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: HANGZHOU DECHANG HARDWARE & FURNITURE CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Dechang Chen
  • Patent number: 9723920
    Abstract: A height-adjustable table with concealed wiring design is provided herein, which includes table surface, table leg, table foot, driving mechanism, and control device. The table leg is connected between the table surface and the table foot and includes a telescoping tube structure. The driving mechanism includes motor, first threaded rod, and connecting tube. The first threaded rod screwed to one end of the connecting tube and the connecting tube are disposed in the telescoping tube structure. The motor is configured to drive the first threaded rod to alter the length of the telescoping tube structure. The control device includes wiring and a control interface. The wiring is disposed in the telescoping tube structure and spirals around the connecting tube. The wiring transmits power to the driving mechanism and transmits a control signal from control interface to the motor to drive the driving mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: Strength Master Fitness Tech Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shu-Yao Wu
  • Patent number: 9700136
    Abstract: A height adjustable table, which has a counterbalance mechanism integrated into a top assembly of the table is disclosed. The height adjustable table can include a top assembly supported by a base assembly, which can include right and left telescoping leg assemblies. The top assembly can include a work surface supported by a housing. A counterbalance mechanism, which can include a spring coupled to a snail cam pulley, can be mounted within the housing. A synchronized lift mechanism, which can include at least two bands operatively engaged with a pulley system disposed within the right and left telescoping leg assemblies, can be operatively coupled to the snail cam pulley such that the counterbalance force provided by the counterbalance mechanism is transmitted to the synchronized lift mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2017
    Assignee: Humanscale Corporation
    Inventor: Hamid Zebarjad
  • Patent number: 9693624
    Abstract: A work platform height adjustment apparatus having a frame and a support assembly moveably mounted on the frame. The frame is provided with cover panels which are mounted to the frame and the support assembly carries a spring biased work platform on brackets mounted to the support assembly so that the work platform can assume a number of fixed height positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2017
    Assignee: QUEST ENG LLC
    Inventors: Terry Mitchell, Richard D. Arnold, Mathew R. Ruster, Greggory J. Elhart
  • Patent number: 9625794
    Abstract: A portable studio for item photography is developed as a closed container whose base (1), sides (2) with covers (3) and rotating table (4) are immobile and interconnected, and with a movable, rotating housing (5) with a holder (7) for attaching the photographic camera. There is a rotating table (4) inside the housing and light sources (14) in the housing. The housing consists of two coaxial surfaces—outer (5) and inner (6), in a shape approximating a cylinder, between which the light sources (14) are distributed horizontally and in sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Assignee: ORBITVU Sp. z o.o.
    Inventor: Tomasz Bochenek
  • Patent number: 9615656
    Abstract: A driver fixing device for an electric adjustable standing desk is provided. The driver fixing device includes a driver, a device framework and a fixing unit. The driver is used for driving the electric adjustable standing desk to ascend and descend, the device framework is arranged around the electric adjustable standing desk, the fixing unit is arranged in the device framework, the fixing unit can be made of an elastic material with a through hole, and the driver penetrates through and is fixed in the through hole. When the driver actuates, the fixing unit allows the driver to slide and move in the through hole for properly regulating a transmission error of the driver, and further, the configuration of a flexible connector is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2017
    Inventor: Chun-Tsair Wang
  • Patent number: 9591919
    Abstract: A height adjustable desk can include a work surface; and at least one leg assembly connected to the work surface. The at least one leg assembly can include: a first member; and a second member moveable relative to the first member along a longitudinal axis; and a counterbalance mechanism connected to the desk and configured to counteract a force exerted on the work surface. The counterbalance mechanism can include: a wheel; a gas spring having a cylinder and a moveable piston; a wheel moveably connected to the gas spring; and the tension member is connected to the leg assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2017
    Assignee: Ergotron, Inc.
    Inventors: Mustafa A. Ergun, Robert William Fluhrer, Scott Trish, Jeffrey Randall Mensing
  • Patent number: 9572422
    Abstract: In an example, a lift mechanism can comprise: a first leg assembly, the first leg assembly including: a first member; and a second member moveable relative to the first member along a first longitudinal axis; a second leg assembly, the second leg assembly including: a third member; and a fourth member moveable relative to the third member along a second longitudinal axis; and a synchronization assembly connecting the first and second leg assemblies, the synchronization assembly configured to balance movement between the first and second leg assemblies, the synchronization assembly including a wheel assembly, the wheel assembly connected to a first tension member and a second tension member, the first tension member connected to at least one of the first leg assembly and the second leg assembly and the second tension member connected at least one of the first leg assembly and the second leg assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Ergotron, Inc.
    Inventors: Mustafa A. Ergun, Shaun Christopher Lindblad
  • Patent number: 9572421
    Abstract: Height-adjustable work table, preferably kitchen table comprising at least one cabinet on top of which a table top is located. The cabinet(s) is located on a number of electrically driven height-adjustable platforms. In that the platforms are mutually retained by at least one connection rail these appear as stable both during the assembly of the work table and of the assembled table. Between a surface, typically a floor on which the platform is located, and an underside of the cabinet a toe kick is placed. This toe kick is telescopic in height such that the toe kick regardless of the adjusted height of the kitchen table shuts off access under the cabinet. The connection rail may constitute an element of the telescopic toe kick.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Linak A/S
    Inventor: Norbert Klinke
  • Patent number: 9532842
    Abstract: A medical positioning apparatus for positioning and holding an object, including: a telescopic member; a support member for receiving the object; a base member securable to a base; a first and a second joint mechanism movably securing the telescopic member to the support member and the base member and each having at least two rotational degrees of freedom; a locking device operatively connected to the joint mechanisms and the telescopic member, the locking device operable between a locked position in which the configuration of the positioning apparatus is fixed, and a released position in which the configuration of the positioning apparatus may be changed, the locking device being passively biased in the locked position; and a lock activation device to unlock the locking device in order to change the configuration of the positioning apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: CONMED CORPORATION
    Inventors: Guillaume Chauvette, Charles SĂ©vigny
  • Patent number: 9512663
    Abstract: The present invention is a security display case comprising an enclosure defining a safe portion, a display housing with a lift platform and a closing member, the display housing moveable into and out of the safe portion, a lift mechanism disposed in the safe portion drivingly connected to the lift platform, the lift mechanism controlled by a first drive motor, a locking mechanism mounted atop the closure member comprising at least one latch finger adapted to extend into and retract out of the enclosure, the locking mechanism controlled by a second drive motor, and a control system controlling the first and second drive motors, the control system further comprising a lower limit switch, an upper limit switch, and a trip switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2016
    Inventor: Samuel C. Medawar
  • Patent number: 9510671
    Abstract: A height adjustable desk can include a work surface; and at least one leg assembly connected to the work surface. The at least one leg assembly can include: a first member; and a second member moveable relative to the first member along a longitudinal axis; and a counterbalance mechanism connected to the desk and configured to counteract a force exerted on the work surface. The counterbalance mechanism can include: a wheel; a gas spring having a cylinder and a moveable piston; a wheel moveably connected to the gas spring; and the tension member is connected to the leg assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2016
    Assignee: Ergotron, Inc.
    Inventors: Mustafa A. Ergun, Robert William Fluhrer, Scott Trish, Jeffrey Randall Mensing
  • Patent number: 9480333
    Abstract: A lifting column, preferably for height-adjustable tables comprises a guide with three mutually telescopic members (1,2,3) and a motor driven spindle unit for bringing about the movement. The second member (2) of the guide is with a lower end secured to a lower end of the second spindle (6). The second spindle nut (8) co-operating with the second spindle (6) is with a bearing (18) with a rigid connection (28) fixed to a shaft stub (16) secured to an upper end of a drive tube (9). The shaft stub (16) is via a second bearing (20) secured to a mounting plate (23), by means of which the spindle unit is secured in the lifting column. Thus, the vertical load on the lifting column is led through the spindle unit around the guide (1,2,3). This enables a better and more optimum dimensioning of the guide (1,2,3) and the spindle unit, just as it is advantageous in terms of assembly and not least it enables a better implementing of a squeeze protection in the lifting columns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2016
    Assignee: Linak A/S
    Inventor: Michael Lindekilde Randløv
  • Patent number: 9427648
    Abstract: A dynamic training apparatus includes a platform, a first motor, a moving assembly, and a rebound wall. The moving assembly is coupled to the platform and the first motor and is movable in response to an actuation of the first motor. The rebound wall is coupled to the moving assembly and is pivotable relative to the platform in response to movement of the moving assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2016
    Inventor: James Cingone
  • Patent number: 9414676
    Abstract: An integral system for stabilizing a table and chair on an uneven surface. The table comprises a table top supported by a first end of a primary shaft, a second end of the primary shaft having a first pair of legs extending therefrom; a secondary shaft positioned within, and movably joined at a first end to, the primary shaft, a second end of the secondary shaft having a second pair of legs extending therefrom; and wherein the secondary shaft may move in a side-to-side manner relative to primary shaft thereby stabilizing the table. Another version utilizes a plate member and shaft combination. Chairs may use similar technology.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2016
    Inventor: Eddie Rafii
  • Patent number: 9364083
    Abstract: An adjustable shelving assembly includes at least two support rails, at least one geared rack provided in each of the at least two support rails, and an actuating mechanism placed adjacent to the at least one geared rack. The actuating mechanism is configured to support at least one shelf and facilitates movement of the at least one shelf along the at least two support rails. The actuating mechanism includes a pinion mating with the at least one geared rack, a plurality of permanent magnets mounted coaxially inside the pinion, ferromagnetic disks provided on either ends of the pinion, and a shaft placed axially in the pinion, connecting the permanent magnets. The permanent magnets magnetize or demagnetize the ferromagnetic disks when the shaft is rotated for locking or unlocking the at least one shelf.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: Wipro Limited
    Inventors: Jejju Jacob, Puneet Makkar
  • Patent number: 9345318
    Abstract: A table (TBL) with a height-adjustable tabletop (PL) comprises an electrical drive (EA) for adjusting the height of the tabletop (PL) and a braking mechanism (BR) for selective prevention of a downward movement of the tabletop (PL). A self-locking of the drive (EA) is designed in such a manner that the tabletop (PL) moves downward in the event of a defined load on the tabletop (PL). The table further comprises an energy accumulator (BAT, FE), wherein the table (TBL) is designed in such a manner that energy resulting from a downward movement of the tabletop (PL) is stored at least in part in the energy accumulator (BAT, FE).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2016
    Assignee: LOGICDATA ELECTRONIC & SOFTWARE ENTWICKLUNGS GMBH
    Inventor: Daniel Kollreider
  • Patent number: 9332836
    Abstract: A height adjustable table, which has a counterbalance mechanism integrated into a top assembly of the table is disclosed. The height adjustable table can include a top assembly supported by a base assembly, which can include right and left telescoping leg assemblies. The top assembly can include a work surface supported by a housing. A counterbalance mechanism, which can include a spring coupled to a snail cam pulley, can be mounted within the housing. A synchronized lift mechanism, which can include at least two bands operatively engaged with a pulley system disposed within the right and left telescoping leg assemblies, can be operatively coupled to the snail cam pulley such that the counterbalance force provided by the counterbalance mechanism is transmitted to the synchronized lift mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2016
    Assignee: Humanscale Corporation
    Inventor: Hamid Zebarjad
  • Patent number: 9278040
    Abstract: A medical cart includes a cart body, a top platform, and an elevating device. The elevating device is mounted on the cart body for supporting the top platform above the cart body and is for moving the top platform upwardly and downwardly. The elevating device includes a sleeve, a screw rod, a motor and a motor driving module. The screw rod extends through the sleeve and engages threadedly a threaded inner surface of the sleeve. The motor is connected to the screw rod and is for driving the screw rod to rotate and move with respect to the sleeve, such that the top platform is driven by the screw rod to move upwardly and downwardly with respect to the cart body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2016
    Assignee: Modernsolid Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chin-Jui Hung
  • Patent number: 9250003
    Abstract: A robot refrigerator and a robot refrigerator system are provided. The robot refrigerator is remotely controlled. The robot refrigerator generates image information from a surrounding image and transmits the generated image information to a wireless communication device. The wireless communication device remotely controls the robot refrigerator, or monitors or remotely controls the robot refrigerator in real time, so that the robot refrigerator easily avoids an obstacle, and thus, minimizes a movement time of the robot refrigerator. Thus, user convenience and system reliability is improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2016
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Sangoh Kim, Sungil Park, Namgi Lee
  • Patent number: 9239184
    Abstract: A refrigerator includes: a refrigerator main body having a cooling chamber; a cooling chamber door for opening and closing the cooling chamber; a shelf assembly provided within the cooling chamber such that a height thereof is adjustable; and a basket provided in any one of the refrigerator main body and the cooling chamber door such that a height thereof is adjustable. A space of the refrigerator main body or the cooling chamber door can be utilized to facilitate receiving and keeping food items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2016
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Hongsik Kwon, Sanghun Kim, Seonkyu Kim, Hyokku Kwon, Sungkyong Han, Hangbok Lee
  • Patent number: 9232855
    Abstract: A height adjustable desk can include a work surface; and at least one leg assembly connected to the work surface. The at least one leg assembly can include: a first member; and a second member moveable relative to the first member along a longitudinal axis; and a counterbalance mechanism connected to the desk and configured to counteract a force exerted on the work surface. The counterbalance mechanism can include: a wheel; a gas spring having a cylinder and a moveable piston; a wheel moveably connected to the gas spring; and the tension member is connected to the leg assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2016
    Assignee: Ergotron, Inc.
    Inventors: Mustafa A. Ergun, Robert W. Fluhrer, Scott Trish, Jeffrey Mensing
  • Patent number: 9229038
    Abstract: Provided is a method and an apparatus for controlling an electric device. The apparatus includes a cabinet defining a recess, and a sensor disposed within said recess for sensing the presence of a foreign object in close proximity to the sensor. A veneer at least partially conceals the sensor disposed within said recess from view when observed from an ambient environment of the cabinet. A controller is responsive to a signal transmitted by the sensor indicative of the presence of the foreign object adjacent to the sensor to transmit a control signal for controlling operation of the electric device operatively connected to communicate with the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Inventor: Peter Botten
  • Patent number: 9150394
    Abstract: A tiltable lift and a method for using it to aid the unloading of a pallet. The tiltable lift comprises a lift mounted atop a tiltable platform. A pallet load of pallet load elements, such as containers, cartons, boxes, trays, or bundles, deposited on the lift is tilted. A wall extending upward from the platform receives a side of the tilted pallet load, which is urged against the wall by gravity. The lift lifts the pallet load along the wall to position the topmost layer of the pallet load at a top end of the wall for easy access and removal of pallet load elements from the pallet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Assignee: Laitram, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Matthew L. Fourney, Stephen Wargo
  • Patent number: 9144330
    Abstract: A display device 10 comprises a base 16, a first flat display area 12 and a second flat display area 14, the first display area 12 being pivotally mounted and angularly movable relative to the base 16 about an axis of rotation, the second display area 14 being pivotally mounted to and independently angularly movable relative to the base 16 about said axis of rotation, the first and second display areas 12, 14 being arranged to align with one-another in the same plane to form a single flat display area in at least one position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Assignee: PERFORMANCE ENCLOSURES LIMITED
    Inventor: David Botting
  • Patent number: 9144301
    Abstract: A lifting column preferably, for height adjustable tables, includes a guide (5) and a drive unit (9), the guide (5) including at least a first member (5a) and a second member (5b), the members (5a, 5b, 5c) being arranged mutually telescopically relative to each other. At the end of the first member (5a) from which the second member (5b) can be displaced sliders are arranged on an internal side thereof. At the end of the second member (5b) extending into the first member (5a) sliders are likewise arranged on the outside thereof. In a first plane the sliders have a first, a large, prestressing between the first member (5a) and the second member (5b), while the sliders in the second plane have a second, a small, prestressing between the first (5a) and second member (5b). Thus, a good dampening of vibrations of the table is achieved in case of exposure to horizontal forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Assignee: Linak A/S
    Inventors: Martin Riis, Ulrik N. Rasmussen
  • Patent number: 9126074
    Abstract: An apparatus which can be operated in one of two modes. The apparatus has a plurality of legs, a processor, at least one electronic motor controlled by the processor, a plurality of mechanical gears coupled to the at least one electronic motor, the plurality of mechanical gears are configured to adjust a length of the at least one leg wherein a point on a surface of the apparatus can be adjusted in height. The plurality of legs can be adjusted in length to slant the surface of the apparatus at an angle or to vary a height of the surface of the apparatus. The two modes may include an upside down mode wherein the apparatus is configured to operate as a toddler gym or a right side up mode where the apparatus is configured to operates as the table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Assignee: TrackThings LLC
    Inventors: Serena Marlene Gabara, Helen Mary Gabara, Thaddeus John Gabara
  • Patent number: 9091393
    Abstract: A lifting type support stand includes a foot stand, on which a drag mechanism and hanging tool moving mechanism are mounted, where two ropes configured on a sheave is used to couple the drag mechanism to hanging tool moving mechanism. The hanging tool moving mechanism can be driven to move vertically along the foot stand when the sheave is rotated. The rear side of sheave is projected with a scroll, the periphery of which is configured with an approximately tapered spiral line rope race. The rope race is surrounded with a drag rope, two ends of which are respectively coupled to the sheave and an extension spring, a reaction force of the spring is utilized to mount the hanging tool moving mechanism and display device. Whereby, a vertical position and moving distance of a display device can be adjusted and increased by moving the drag rope on the rope race.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Inventor: Ming Hua Huang
  • Patent number: 9080718
    Abstract: A display lifting device includes: a body; an adjusting unit having big and small wheels coaxially disposed on the body, a shaft fixed to the body, and a rock arm pivotally fixed to the shaft and having first and second arms; a spring having one end fixed to the body; a first rope member wound on the small wheel and having two ends connected to the first arm and the other end of the spring, respectively; and a second rope member wound on the small and big wheels and having one end connected to the second arm, and a sliding unit for carrying a display such that the display is movable between a first position and a second position. Since the sum of torques produced on the first and second arms is kept equal to zero, the display can stop at any position between the first and second positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2015
    Assignee: SYNCMOLD ENTERPRISE CORP.
    Inventors: Chin-Hsing Kuo, Wei-Hsiang Hsiu, Fong-Ci Syu, Cheng-Yu Huang, Lung-Yu Chang, Chin-Cheng Hsu
  • Patent number: 9038549
    Abstract: A height adjustable table, which has a constant-force counterbalance mechanism integrated into a top assembly of the table is disclosed. The height adjustable table can include a top assembly supported by a base assembly, which can include right and left telescoping leg assemblies. The top assembly can include a work surface supported by a housing. A counterbalance mechanism, which can include a spring coupled to a snail cam pulley, can be mounted within the housing. A synchronized lift mechanism, which can include at least two bands operatively engaged with a pulley system disposed within the right and left telescoping leg assemblies, can be operatively coupled to the snail cam pulley such that the counterbalance force provided by the counterbalance mechanism is transmitted to the synchronized lift mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: Humanscale Corporation
    Inventor: Hamid Zebarjad
  • Publication number: 20150128832
    Abstract: A pallet lifter for raising and lowering a pallet. The pallet lifter includes a pallet platform and a movement mechanism that controllably causes the pallet platform to raise and lower. The pallet platform includes a top surface designed to support a pallet, two side walls, and a back wall. The movement mechanism includes a motor and a threaded rod. The electric motor is designed to cause the threaded rod to rotate in a clockwise and counterclockwise direction to cause said pallet platform to raise and lower.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2015
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventors: Curtis Taylor, Aaron Misener, Thomas L. Rattini, Robert H. Unnerstall, JR., Robert Myler
  • Publication number: 20150096472
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to console furniture and related features. A support structure is provided for supporting a work surface, the support structure comprising a frame defining an interior space, a frame brace receivable into the interior space of the frame, a support for supporting the work surface, and at least one fastening mechanism for extending between the frame brace and the support to clamp the frame therebetween, thereby securing the support about the frame. A console with a height adjustable work surface is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2014
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Applicant: EVANS CONSOLES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Matko Papic, Richard Game, Carlos Renderos, Nathan Edward Stone
  • Patent number: 8991320
    Abstract: A workstation is disclosed including a tabletop, a powered height adjuster coupled to the tabletop and configured to move the tabletop vertically between at least a first height and a second height, and a powered depth adjuster coupled to the tabletop. The depth adjuster may be configured to automatically move the tabletop horizontally while the height adjuster moves the tabletop between the first height and the second height. Other workstation embodiments with different moveable elements are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Sparx Smart Pods Inc.
    Inventors: LĂ©on DesRoches, Nancy Lee Black
  • Patent number: 8967560
    Abstract: Embodiments include a balance mechanism having a first cam and a second cam configured to convert a variable force exerted by the energy storage member into a substantially constant force applied to a mounting portion. The balance mechanism may be useful for balancing forces such that a user can set the height of an electronic display and/or other equipment attached to the balance mechanism at a number of heights within the range of travel allowed by the mechanism. Lift mechanisms, display positioning apparatuses, and height adjustable desks incorporating a multi-cam balance mechanism are also provided. A method of positioning a display is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Ergotron, Inc.
    Inventors: Mustafa A. Ergun, Robert W. Fluhrer, Thiem Wong, Saeb Asamarai, John Cain
  • Patent number: 8967057
    Abstract: A vertically adjustable platform system includes a lifting tower with a lifting mechanism. A first scissors mechanism is adjacent one face of the tower and a second scissors mechanism is adjacent the other face of the tower. A first platform is disposed on the upper end of the first scissors mechanism and a second platform is disposed on an upper end of the second scissors mechanism. A lifting mechanism has a first lifting element interconnected with the first scissors mechanism or the first platform for moving the first platform vertically. The lifting mechanism has a second lifting element interconnected with the second scissors mechanism or the second platform for moving the second platform vertically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: South Essex Fabricating Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Quiring, David Knelsen Dyck
  • Publication number: 20150047538
    Abstract: A height adjustable desk can include a work surface; and at least one leg assembly connected to the work surface. The at least one leg assembly can include: a first member; and a second member moveable relative to the first member along a longitudinal axis; and a counterbalance mechanism connected to the desk and configured to counteract a force exerted on the work surface. The counterbalance mechanism can include: a wheel; a gas spring having a cylinder and a moveable piston; a wheel moveably connected to the gas spring; and the tension member is connected to the leg assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2014
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Inventors: Mustafa A. Ergun, Robert W. Fluhrer, Scott Trish, Jeffrey Mensing
  • Patent number: 8950603
    Abstract: A device for supporting consumer products includes a transmission, a first end plate, a second end plate, and a shelf. The transmission includes a worm wheel coupled to a socket; a worm gear engaged to the worm wheel and coupled to a back axle shaft; a first pinion gear coupled to a first end of the back axle shaft; and a second pinion gear coupled to a second end of the back axle shaft. The first end plate is coupled to a first end of a back axle shaft shroud, where the back axle shaft shroud includes a first shelf hook and a second shelf hook. The second end plate coupled to the second end of the back axle shaft. The shelf is coupled to the first and second end plates and includes a first and a second shelf pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: ADCO Industries—Technologies, L.P.
    Inventors: Raymond E. Davis, Clifton Glenn Hampton
  • Patent number: 8947215
    Abstract: A system and method are provided for implementing an automated workstation elevation position tracking and control scheme. Software running on the user's computer generates reminders and/or to forces an individual to periodically readjust the height of the workstation in a manner that promotes standing while at work. A current position, and an elapsed time that the workstation has been at the current position, is detected with an objective of providing pre-programmed routine or random automated reminders to a user to change the current position of the workstation from one elevation state to the other. The software tracks the percent of time that a user is standing and optionally compares this with a pre-defined goal. Automatic control via the user workstation, of workstation elevator actuators is provided in a manner that makes it easier, or otherwise unavoidable, for the user to initiate repositioning from a sitting to a standing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: Barry P Mandel, Michael R Furst