Mechanical Actuator Tilts Surface Patents (Class 108/7)
  • Patent number: 7273201
    Abstract: A tiltable mounting as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the lever has a conical shaped roller engaging the cam, the roller being mounted for rotation on the lever about an axis which passes through the pivotal axis of the lever and the conical surface of the roller having a projected apex which coincides with the pivotal axis of the roller to minimize sliding movement at the line of contact of the roller and cam as the roller moves over the cam surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: The Vitec Group PLC
    Inventor: Richard Arthur Lindsay
  • Patent number: 7171909
    Abstract: An adjustable display rack or stand for displaying products on at least two panels of the display rack. The panels being adjustable about respective generally horizontal pivot axes to adjust an angle or degree of tilt of the panels relative to a base of the display rack. The panels are substantially simultaneously or correspondingly pivoted via an adjustable mechanism and at least one cable connected to the adjustable mechanism and at least one of the panels. The adjustable mechanism may be connected to one of the panels via the cable and may be coupled to one other of the panels, whereby the panels are pivotable via movement of the adjustable mechanism. The adjustable mechanism may comprise a threaded collar that is threadedly coupled to an elongated threaded shaft such that rotation of the shaft causes movement of the collar along the shaft to pivot the panels about their pivot axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: TADD Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven J Alt
  • Patent number: 7131911
    Abstract: A slope controllable foot plate for a golf swing practice apparatus which includes a actuating oil pressure motor providing the power for controlling the slope, a transformation device for transforming the rotating driving power to linear driving power, and a slope control oil pressure cylinder for controlling the slope of the foot plate, whereby a lower height and a simplified structure of the foot plate is obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: Golfzon Co. Ltd
    Inventor: Wonil Kim
  • Patent number: 7100516
    Abstract: A console (10) is disclosed which comprises a console top (12), a first member (14), and a second member (16) coupled to the first member (14) via a mechanism. The mechanism (17) is movable between a first configuration in which the first member (14) closes a recess (18) in the console top (12), and a second configuration in which the first member (14) extends away from the console top (12) and the second member (16) is arranged such that it can support a load while the mechanism (17) is retained in the second configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Inventors: Martin Philip Riddiford, Michael Andrew Nairn
  • Patent number: 7047890
    Abstract: A computer workstation having a desktop/work surface defined by a central aperture and a pivoting liquid crystal display (LCD) support panel mounted on pivot shafts in the aperture. In addition, a sliding input device platform is mounted on telescoping roller brackets underneath the front edge of the work surface. Lever arms are rotatably engaged with the pivot shafts and are linked to the roller brackets. The lever arms automatically pivot the LCD support panel to an upright position upon extension of the input device platform, and vice versa, and a hydraulic damper brings the LCD support panel to a safe, gentle stop. Aa mercury switch turns the LCD on and off automatically upon opening or closing. Two or more such LCD support panels and associated hardware can be included in a single desktop/work surface for a computer training and/or conferences.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Inventors: Jeffrey Korber, Peter Stengel, James Babcock
  • Patent number: 6832560
    Abstract: A work table includes a frame with a vertical central column as well as a base and a work surface, which is fastened to a support element. The height and angle of the work surface are adjustable. A joint seating device is provided on an upper end of the central column and a swivel arm is arranged in a pivoting manner about a horizontal axis of the joint seating device. The swivel arm contains another rotary joint, about whose horizontal axis the support element and the work surface connected with it are arranged in a pivoting manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Assignee: Sedus Stoll AG
    Inventors: Mathias Seiler, Martin Pabst
  • Patent number: 6682240
    Abstract: A self-positioning device for a keyboard includes two protrusions adapted to be respectively formed on opposite sides of a corresponding leg, two stops each formed on a corresponding one of the protrusions, and two sectorial bosses adapted to be formed on a corresponding one of the recessed seats to correspond to the two protrusions. Each sectorial boss has a first edge and a second edge to selectively abut a corresponding one of the two stops. The selective abutting of the stops to the first and second edges enables support of the keyboard on a plan surface horizontally and inclinedly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Behavior Tech Computer Corporation
    Inventor: Kuan-Nan Chou
  • Patent number: 6663498
    Abstract: The present invention provides a golf practice device having a tiltable golf platform. In one embodiment, the platform is supported by an assembly that allows the platform to be controllably adjusted to simulate various golf lies. The device (200) includes a platform surface (250) mounted in a platform frame (202) that is affixed to a base frame (204) through a pair of actuators (205 and 206), each mounted to the base frame by a pivot block assembly (212) and affixed to the platform frame by an end block assembly (400). The platform frame is pivotally affixed to the base frame by a double cross-joint (203) mounted on the platform frame. The pivot block assemblies allow each actuator to adjust to the side angle relative to the actuator, thus allowing the platform to move freely in two different angles preventing unnecessary stress on the double cross-joint and the positions of attachment of the actuators to the base and platform frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Inventor: Arthur R. Stipan
  • Patent number: 6644216
    Abstract: A table 2 is provided with a table top 4 and adjustable legs 6. The adjustable legs 6 are pivotally attached to the table top 4. An adjuster 10 is pivotally attached to the adjustable leg 6 and the table top 4 to independently allow the angle and height of each of the adjustable legs 6 to be altered such that the table top 4 may be levelled on uneven ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Inventor: Malcolm Frank Cole
  • Publication number: 20030140822
    Abstract: The invention relates to a work table, consisting of a frame (1) with a vertical central column (5) as well as a base (6) and a height- and tilt-adjustable work surface (3), which is fastened to a support element (9). The invention is characterized by the fact that on the upper end of the central column (5) a joint seating device (7) is provided, about whose horizontal axis (17) a swivel arm (4) is arranged in a pivoting manner, wherein the swivel arm (4) contains another rotary joint (18), about whose horizontal axis (19) the support element (9) and the work surface (3) connected with it are arranged in a pivoting manner. With this work table, a user can easily and quickly realize a change in the working position (upright sitting position, tilted-back almost lying position, standing position).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Applicant: SEDUS STOLL AG
    Inventors: Mathias Seiler, Martin Pabst
  • Patent number: 6550401
    Abstract: A reference table tilting mechanism has a reference table which is supported by a plate spring and is adjusted of its angle of inclination by first and second angle adjusting machines constituted by an eccentric cam mechanism. Angles of inclination of the reference table in first and second directions are detected by first and second inclination angle sensors. Based on the detected angles by these sensors, the respective angle adjusting machines are feed-back controlled to make the angle of inclination of the reference table to be a desired one in each direction. Whereby, such a reference table tilting mechanism can be realized that has a simplified structure and a high rigidity, and is manufactured at a low price.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Assignee: Harmonic Drive Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Jiro Chiba
  • Patent number: 6406228
    Abstract: A machine tool includes a working table slidably supported on an upper portion of a base, and a protective cover rotatably secured to one or both of the ends of the working table with a pivot shaft. The protective cover is dependent downwardly when the protective cover is disengaged from the end portion of the base, and may be rotated to move upward. of the upper portion of the base when the working table is moved inward of the upper portion of the base. The cover may thus be used to suitably cover and shield the space formed between the working table and the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Inventor: Alan Xiao
  • Patent number: 6270047
    Abstract: There is disclosed an adjustable tilt mechanism for a keyboard support platform. The keyboard support platform is of the type that includes a linkage for connecting the platform to a work surface. The linkage further includes connecting arms which pivotally connect the keyboard support platform to the work surface. The adjustable tilt mechanism of the present invention includes a tilt adjustment member that is movable transversely relative to the pivot axis of the platform. Engaging the tilt adjustment member is an angled shaft which is fixed to the platform between the sides of the platform. The tilt adjustment member is also pivotal about a second fixed shaft that is parallel to the pivot axis of the platform. A releasable latching member is mounted on the connecting arms for engaging and releasing the tilt adjustment member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Assignee: CompX International Inc.
    Inventor: Randy Hudson
  • Patent number: 6209463
    Abstract: A medical examination table having an apparatus for support and securing the backrest to an inclined position, self-adjusting drawers having a resilient extension fixedly connected to at least one of two side panels of the drawer, wherein the drawer is slideably connectable within multiple sized drawer openings, a retractable footstep having a platform slideably received within a cavity of the table and able to be locked in an extended position and a retractable leg rest having a shelf member slideably received within another cavity of the table and having a lip and a pad for continuously supporting the patient's leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Assignee: United Metal Fabricators, Inc.
    Inventors: Louis T. Koharchik, Michael A. Pribish, Jacob D. Radwanski, Mark J. Romano
  • Patent number: 6095476
    Abstract: An adjustable television stand is provided including a base fixedly positioned on a recipient surface. Also included is an intermediate portion slidably situated on the base along a vertical axis. An upper support is rotatably coupled to the intermediate portion about a vertical axis and further tiltable about a horizontal axis. A plurality of mechanisms are provided for selectively raising and lowering the intermediate portion and further rotating and tilting the upper support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Inventor: Virgil Mathis
  • Patent number: 5890436
    Abstract: A tiltable table has a pneumatic actuator and a locking system for establishing and maintaining a table position. The locking system is operated by an air cylinder that engages a dog with a ratchet plate secured to the table. The ratchet permits the table to be raised but not lowered while locked. The ratchet must be unlocked before the table can be lowered. The dog is spring-biased to locking position, and is air-operated for release against the action of the biasing spring. On lowering the table, air from the actuator can be used to unlock the ratchet. The air can be permitted to escape through a restriction orifice at a slow enough rate to maintain sufficient air pressure to keep the locking system disengaged, but sudden release of all the air pressure will again permit the spring to re-lock the system to prevent a downward slamming of the table surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1999
    Inventor: Ronald J. Thompson
  • Patent number: 5868079
    Abstract: A stand for a monitor and a keyboard, which can be used to hold a computer monitor and keyboard so that a human operator may comfortably use the computer in a variety of positions, including sitting in a conventional chair and standing. The stand includes two shelves, each of which is attached to a post. The posts are then attached to a base. One shelf is designed to hold a monitor, while the other shelf is designed to hold a keyboard. The keyboard shelf itself is tiltable about its post, such that the angle between the keyboard shelf and its post is adjustable. Both the post attached to the keyboard shelf, and the post attached to the monitor shelf, are independently extensible, such that the length of each post, and hence the vertical position of each shelf, can be adjusted independently.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Assignee: Finish Group Ltd.
    Inventor: Gad Charny
  • Patent number: 5791263
    Abstract: A mounting assembly is disclosed for mounting an auxiliary device, such as a keyboard support or work surface, for vertical movement relative to a support, such as a desk top. The assembly permits upwardly directed movement of the auxiliary device while releasably constraining downwardly directed movement relative to the support, and includes a linkage assembly coupled with a brake assembly fixed relative to the support. The auxiliary device is released for downwardly directed movement by manually operated paddle coupled with the brake assembly and movable with the auxiliary device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Assignee: Weber Knapp Company
    Inventors: Richard L. Watt, Donald R. Pangborn
  • Patent number: 5778799
    Abstract: A computer console has a computer monitor platform and a keyboard platform. Movement of a system of support arms for the computer platform is controlled by a pressurized gas cylinder via a control cable extending from the underside of the platform at its front edge. The keyboard platform is mounted by arms secured to an eccentrically mounted elongated cylinder whereby the horizontal position of the keyboard is maintained during movement well below and well above the computer platform, the keyboard platform also mounted for both positive and negative tilt of 8.degree. above and below the horizontal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Assignee: Baker Manufacturing Co.
    Inventor: Clarence W. Eyre
  • Patent number: 5720591
    Abstract: A tilting platform that elevates and tilts an object while maintaining a center of gravity of the object about a center line of the platform. The platform includes a surface upon which the object is fastened, and a plurality of slideable sections each having a forward end coupled to a forward end of the surface. The slideable sections are retractable. The tilting plaform also includes a base coupled to a forward end of each of the plurality of slideable sections, where the plurality of slideable sections are retractable into the base, an actuator that retracts and expands the plurality of the slideable sections uniformly along the direction of the base, and the vertical linkage, coupled to the base, and coupled to the surface to cause the surface to tilt as the plurality of slideable sections are retracted by the actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 24, 1998
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Roger Joseph Ledet
  • Patent number: 5685231
    Abstract: An adjustable computer station has separate platforms for a computer console and a keyboard, the console platform being adjustable between upper and lowermost positions and any position in between with the keyboard platform movable with the console platform and independently movable between upper and lowermost positions and any positions in between and in addition may be tilted between two different positions. The mechanism may be used in any situation in which such adjustability is advantageous.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1997
    Inventor: Clarence W. Eyre
  • Patent number: 5671091
    Abstract: An improved computer graphic work station is disclosed of the type that includes a digitizer for allowing an artist or other user to input a drawing into a computer, and an imaging device to produce an image of the drawing as it is being drawn. A beam splitter reflects at least a portion of the produced image to the eye of the user. The position and orientation of the beam splitter may be varied by a user relative to the imaging device in order to allow the user to align the workstation by causing the reflected image to appear, in the user's eye, to be substantially coincident with the drawing. Once aligned, the user may adjust the position and orientation of the digitizing surface without upsetting the alignment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Assignee: The Walt Disney Company
    Inventors: Marshall M. Monroe, Eric C. Haseltine, William G. Adamson
  • Patent number: 5649491
    Abstract: A tilt table is supported on one side of a base frame so as to be swung up about rollers allowing movement away from one side of a base frame. A pair of links are pivotally connected to the underside of the table and to the other side of the base frame table to tilt up as its one side rolls away from the base frame one side. A pair of air spring actuators is mounted in a space between cross pieces and fixed to the links and base frame to operate the tilt table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 22, 1997
    Assignee: Knight Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: James Zaguroli, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5624375
    Abstract: A tilt mechanism for use with an infant care apparatus such as an incubator to place and retain the infant care apparatus in a desired tilt angle. The tilt mechanism includes two sets of crossed links, each set forming an X between the links. One end of each link is rotatable affixed to a fixed base and the other end rotatably affixed to the infant care apparatus. A locking device is used that allows the infant apparatus to be manually moved by means of the crossed link sets to the desired angle and then locked into that position. With this mechanism, the entire infant apparatus is tilted rather than only some internal bed or infant platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1997
    Assignee: Ohmeda Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher A. Dykes, Robert M. Simenauer
  • Patent number: 5605101
    Abstract: A tiltable mounting for a payload includes a base (10), a support member (15) for supporting the payload thereon, the support member being tiltable about a horizontal axis (14) on the base for tilting about each side of a top dead center position about said horizontal axis, and a torque generating mechanism (17) mounted on the base and acting on the tiltable support to generate a torque in response to tilting of the support equal and opposite to the out of balance moment of the support with its payload to hold the support balanced in any position of movement about said axis. A plurality of torque generating units (20, 21) are provided each generating a torque which varies sinusoidaly with displacement, and a mechanism (22, 23, 31, 32, 35, 36, 37) provided for adjusting the phase angle between the torque generating means to vary the collective amplitude of the torque generating mechanism to suit the weight of the payload on the support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1997
    Assignee: Vitec Group, PLC
    Inventor: Richard A. Lindsay
  • Patent number: 5601014
    Abstract: A lift and tilt table has a two arm linkage between the load bearing deck and the base. A single extensible cylinder acting between one of the arms and the deck causes the arms to rotate as the cylinder is extended to lift and tilt the table relative to the base. A pivotal connection between one of the arms and the base is slidable along the base from a forward position to an intermediate position and can be locked in the forward position. When the pivotal connection is locked, extension of the cylinder will cause the arms to rotate to simultaneously tilt and lift the deck relative to the base. When the pivotal connection is unlocked, extension of the cylinder will cause the arms to rotate to sequentially tilt and then lift the table relative to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1997
    Assignee: Vestil Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Jay B. Stevens, Richard K. Gronczewski, Bradley R. Holloway, William H. Yeakle
  • Patent number: 5572933
    Abstract: A tiltable table has a pneumatic actuator and a locking system for establishing and maintaining a table position. The locking system is operated by an air cylinder that engages a dog with a ratchet plate secured to the table. The ratchet permits the table to be raised but not lowered while locked. The ratchet must be unlocked before the table can be lowered. The dog is spring-biased to locking position, and is air-operated for release against the action of the biasing spring. On lowering the table, air from the actuator can be used to unlock the ratchet. The air can be permitted to escape through a restriction orifice at a slow enough rate to maintain sufficient air pressure to keep the locking system disengaged, but sudden release of all the air pressure will again permit the spring to re-lock the system to prevent a downward slamming of the table surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Assignee: International Material Control Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald J. Thompson
  • Patent number: 5518245
    Abstract: An improved apparatus for golf practice formed from two coaxial wedge-shaped structures, one above the other and rotatable relative to each other and with respect to an underlying supporting platform to provide tilt and tilt direction for practicing golf swings on up slope, down slope and cross slope lies, to simulate the various slope and slope directions of a real golf course. The lower wedge-shaped structure acts as a solid support for the upper wedge-shaped structure and rotation of the upper wedge-shaped structure may result in the tilt of the upper surface of the upper wedge-shaped structures over a continuous range from zero degrees up to the total of the angles of the two wedge-shaped structures. The direction of the tilt angle of the upper surface of the upper wedge-shaped structure relative to an underlying planar base can then be varied by rotating the two structures together about a vertical axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1996
    Inventor: Harry Nelson
  • Patent number: 5511492
    Abstract: A tilt table is hinged along an unload side and is spring urged to swing up towards the unload side to cause parts on the table to shift against an endwall. Pin and slot connections between fixed side plates and gussets on the table structure cause a roller supported platform to which the table is hinged to shift away from the unload side, carrying the tilt table hinged side away so that as the tilt table swings up, clearance at the unload side with the upper edge of the endwall is maintained to avoid impingement into the workspace which would otherwise occur.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Assignee: Knight Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: James Zaguroli, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5450800
    Abstract: An ergonomically adjustable computer workstation comprises a fixed base assembly, and a movable frame assembly slidably mounted to the fixed base assembly. The movable frame assembly includes a support member and platform supporting a video display terminal thereon. The workstation also includes a mechanism, mounted to the base assembly, for adjusting the height of the movable frame assembly and a mechanism, mounted to the frame assembly, for adjusting the rotational orientation of the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 19, 1995
    Inventor: Joseph W. Leonard
  • Patent number: 5431112
    Abstract: A tiltable table has a pneumatic actuator and a locking system for establishing and maintaining a table position. The locking system is operated by an air cylinder that engages a dog with a ratchet plate secured to the table. The dog is spring-biased to locking position, and is air-operated for release against the action of the biasing spring. On lowering the table, air is permitted to escape through a restriction orifice at a slow enough rate to maintain sufficient air pressure to keep the locking system disengaged, but sudden release of all the air pressure will again permit the spring to re-lock the system to prevent a downward slamming of the table surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 11, 1995
    Assignee: International Material Control Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald J. Thompson
  • Patent number: 5357870
    Abstract: The audiovisual telecommunication terminal makes it possible to orient the flat screen relative to the position of the face of the operator in front of the same. The terminal comprises means for the flexible driving of the mobile part (20) carrying the flat screen relative to the fixed part (10). The transmission is of the "pulley block" type and uses a motor (12) driving a belt (8) fixed on the one hand to a drive shaft (18) and on the other to the fixed part (10) in order to exert tension on the mobile part (20). The reverse movement can be brought about by helical springs (19).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 25, 1994
    Assignee: France Telecom
    Inventors: Jacques Guichard, Georges Buchner, Alain Isckia
  • Patent number: 5345632
    Abstract: A medical examination table comprises a pedestal to which an end of a rocker is hinged. An underframe is fixed rotationally to the other end of the rocker. By acting on the two axes of rotation, the table may enable motions that are as different as a simple raising motion and tilting motions of various amplitudes in one direction or another. The advantage of the invention is that it provides a simplification of the industrial-scale manufacturing of tables with or without a rocker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 13, 1994
    Assignee: General Electric CGR S.A.
    Inventors: Rene Langenaeken, Claude Martin
  • Patent number: 5340111
    Abstract: A golf practice apparatus that includes a platform that is pivoted about a universal Joint by a pair of hydraulic actuators. The universal joint couples the platform to a centrally located post which extends from a base structure. The universal joint is located in close proximity to the platform so that a centrally located player is not laterally displaced when the platform is rotated about the joint. The apparatus also has a spherically shaped cowling that cooperates with a cylindrically shaped shroud to completely enclose the underside of the platform. Movement of the actuator pistons is controlled by a pair of solenoid control valves which receive input signals from a foot switch. The foot switch has a plurality of buttons which can be depressed by the user to move the platform into a number of different positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1994
    Inventor: David S. Froelich
  • Patent number: 5313892
    Abstract: A pneumatic table that adjusts to various positions. Pneumatic cylinders controlled by a pneumatic system raise and lower the tabletop to a desired position. Brakes are used to lock the tabletop once it is in its desired position. The tabletop tilts forward and backward to vary the operating position of a piece of machinery located on the tabletop. A self-adjusting foot treadle adjusts when the tabletop height is changed such that the linkage between the treadle and the tabletop is maintained. The treadle also adjusts to various positions for the comfort of the operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1994
    Inventor: William A. Tice
  • Patent number: 5309788
    Abstract: A tilt couple device having a pair of mounting members with each member having a wedge-shape cam. At least one of the cams has teeth on it that engages a pinion on an operating shaft. Rotation of the operating shaft causes the pinion to rotate one cam member relative to the other in order to change the inclination of one mounting surface relative to the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1994
    Inventor: Michael D. Summerfield
  • Patent number: 5295452
    Abstract: A stand for sewing machines with an open base design is readily accessible to users in special seating such as wheel chairs, and adaptable to accessory equipment related to the handling of materials. A vertically adjustable pedestal extends upward from one side of the base. On the pedestal, extending out over the base, is a platform which receives and holds a variety of sewing machines. Adjustable attaching mechanisms on the platform connect to the bases of different sewing machines, to support them securely and to present them at various orientations above the open base of the stand. Attaching mechanisms are provided for a variety of table configurations, each adapted to the configuration of the sewing machine mounted in the stand for quick interchange of tables onto the platform. The platform is attached to the top of the pedestal by a rotary joint of substantial proportions which provides for rotation of the entire platform about an axis extending horizontally, side-to-side, over the open base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 22, 1994
    Assignee: MIM Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Ricky J. Frye, Robert N. Landis
  • Patent number: 5289784
    Abstract: A table base (2) features a table substructure (4) and pedestals which can be arranged at its ends. Supporting rails (24) featuring plug-in holes (28, 30, 32, 34) for supporting parts (12, 14) on the pedestal side and for cross-arms (20, 22) on the table base side are arranged parallel to the ends of the table base (2) in the area of connection between the table substructure (4) and the pedestals (6). The connection between the supporting rails (4), the cross-arms (20, 22) on the table base side and the supporting parts (12, 14) on the pedestal side is made in the form of a truss union so that the entire table base (2) is exceptionally stable while having the appearance of a light construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 1, 1994
    Inventor: Walter Waibel
  • Patent number: 5271320
    Abstract: A new and improved workstation including a base member, a first vertical mast mounted with the base member and extending upwardly therefrom, a second vertical mast disposed about the first vertical mast for vertical movement with respect thereto, a monitor shelf with the second vertical mast for movement therewith, a third vertical mast disposed about the second vertical mast for movement therewith, and a work surface with the third vertical mast for movement therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1993
    Inventor: Raymond P. Reneau
  • Patent number: 5241914
    Abstract: A work table or office desk with a work surface which is adjustable in height or inclination, and is supported by two pairs of pivotal support arms on the cross piece of a table support. One pair of support arms is oriented towards the front and the other pair of the support arms towards the back of the work surface. The support arms are hinged on sliders which are adjustable in guide rails extending from the front to the back, on the underside, of the work surface. A simple drive device, which can be integrated into the support arms, provides numerous possibilities for changing the height and/or inclination of the work surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1993
    Assignee: Dyes GmbH Buromobelfabrik
    Inventor: Daniel Korb
  • Patent number: 5197393
    Abstract: A table wherein the elevation and tilt of the table top are adjustable under power assist by a single hydraulic cylinder. The table includes a substantially horizontal base and a substantially horizontal frame disposed above the base, with a plurality of adjustable-length support posts disposed between the base and the frame, one end of each support post being affixed to the base and the other end of each support post being affixed to the frame. Post lock pins on each of the plurality of support posts selectively lock each support post at a selected length. A table top disposed above and supported by the frame is attached to the frame by a hinge. A table lock selectively locks the table top to the frame to prevent tilting of the table about the hinge. A hydraulic lift cylinder is dipsosed between and connected to the table top and the base for lifting the table top relative to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1993
    Assignee: Vestil Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: William H. Yeakle
  • Patent number: 5138955
    Abstract: A mechanism for adjusting the tilt and/or height of a countertop or table top of a piece of furniture. The mechanism includes a lifting element that acts on the countertop or table top and is connected to a drive gear mechanism. The lifting mechanism is a curved toothed rack or element, with the drive gear mechanism including a gear that is in engagement with the toothed element. A guide is provided for guiding the toothed element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1992
    Assignee: Robert Krause GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Roland Manner
  • Patent number: 5131333
    Abstract: A tiltable table having a top plate tiltably mounted on a frame. The tiltable table comprises an air spring disposed between the frame and the top plate and having a cylinder pivoted at its one end to the frame, a piston rod pivoted at its outer end to the rear side of the top plate and a release pin projecting from the piston rod outer end, the piston rod being holdable as projected by a desired length by the air spring; a pushing plate movable toward and away from the release pin of the air spring; a lever pivoted to the top plate at the free end thereof; and release structure attached at its one end to the base end of the lever and at the other end thereof to the pushing plate for pressing the pushing plate into contact with the release pin of the air spring when the lever is pivotally moved to thereby release the piston rod from the holding action of the air spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1992
    Assignee: Osaka Taiyu Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ryuji Karasawa, Kenko Yamaga, Yoshikazu Tabayashi
  • Patent number: 5107774
    Abstract: A variable slant work board pivotally mounted to a base such as a table or desk. A winch actuated segmented arm supplies an upward force on the underside of the work board to pivot it upwardly toward the fully raised vertical position. A horizontally disposed expansion spring is attached by cable to the underside of the work board to bias it toward the fully lowered horizontal position. The work board is infinitely adjustable between the vertical and horizontal positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1992
    Inventor: Donald L. Allen
  • Patent number: 5101736
    Abstract: An adjustable desk having two centrally located motorized platforms, one in front of the other, with the front platform adapted to support a keyboard and the rear platform adapted to support a video display terminal. Both platforms operate independently of the other. Each of these platforms can have its elevation adjusted over a wide range. The platform for supporting a keyboard may also have its tilt adjusted through a motorized means. The platform for the keyboard comprises three planar sections stacked on top of one another. The two lower sections are hingdly attached to one another along their front edge. The top section is slidably connected to the middle section. Switches to control the adjustent of these platforms is found on the front of the desk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1992
    Inventors: Paul F. Bommarito, Vincent A. Laporta
  • Patent number: 5041770
    Abstract: An apparatus for adjusting a computer work station to individual needs including a frame having a keyboard support attached thereto. A vertical adjustment mechanism operatively attached to the frame permits the keyboard support to be adjusted vertically up or down. Also, a pivotal adjustment mechanism is operably attached to the frame and to the keyboard support for permitting the keyboard support to be adjustably pivoted about a substantially horizontal axis. A monitor support is provided and has a horizontal adjustment mechanism operably attached to the frame for selectively moving a monitor support toward or away from the keyboard support and the monitor support also can be adjusted vertically by a separate vertical adjustment mechanism. The adjusting mechanisms for the keyboard support and the monitor support are electrically controlled by the computer user. An adjustable wrist support and an adjustable foot support are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1991
    Inventors: Michael A. Seiler, Donald K. Seiler
  • Patent number: 5036776
    Abstract: An adjustable table top (7, 105) is supported movably on a trestle having at least one abutment (5, 104) fixed thereto beneath the table top. The abutment coacts with a wedge-shaped intermediate piece (9, 106) which is displacable in an opening direction of its wedge angle, substantially parallel to the table top, and which can be introduced to a lesser or greater extent into a space between the abutment and the table top so that a distance between the table top and the abutment and, thus, the position of the table top relative to the trestle, are determined by the position of the intermediate piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1991
    Assignee: Veyhl GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Wolf Veyhl, Erwin Kubler
  • Patent number: 4892452
    Abstract: A vehicle parking apparatus incorporating a platform and a mounting device. The platform is sized and shaped to permit a vehicle to be driven onto the platform so that it is supported thereby. The platform is supported between its ends by a mounting device in a manner which permits the platform to selectively pivot in response to the force of gravity on the platform and any additional items supported thereby.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1990
    Assignee: GMX Parking Systems
    Inventor: John J. Moynihan
  • Patent number: 4815391
    Abstract: A computer desk comprising a pair of U-shaped frames of which one is longer than and pivoted to the other, two pairs of wheels disposed on the ends of the limbs of each U-shaped frame, two boards engagably disposed on the top of the inverted U-shaped frames and height adjusting device. The height adjusting device comprises three length adjustable rods connecting between the frames and between the boards and the frames. Adjusting the length of the adjusting rods changes the height of the boards and the angles of the boards with respect to the plane of the horizon so that the height of the desk is adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1989
    Assignee: Ton Li Enterprises Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yu Lee
  • Patent number: 4805538
    Abstract: A table assembly supports a computer terminal and viewing screen, and keyboard, at a central location for optimum use by a number of users. Separate keyboard-supporting and terminal-supporting tables are independently vertically adjustable. Electrical switches on the keyboard-supporting table are actuated to effect operation of electric motors, which in turn rotate lead screws engaging nuts operatively attached to tubes supporting the tables, and thus effect reciprocation of the tables. The terminal-supporting table is pivoted about a horizontal axis so that the tilt thereof may be adjusted, and the keyboard-supporting table is slideable between detented positions to adjust the position of the keyboard with respect to the terminal and screen. At least one larger side panel, and a rear panel and other panels form the base of the assembly and allow it to be readily integrated with office furniture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1983
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1989
    Assignee: JG Furniture Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: David W. Fisher, Lee N. Denny, Joseph T. Furlong