Closure, Viewing Window, Awning, Or Sunshade Patents (Class 135/117)
  • Patent number: 9777508
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus include a modular tent comprising an upper tent portion having a first base surface area, wherein the upper tent portion does not include a floor surface; and a base extension that includes a floor surface having a second base surface area, the second base surface area being larger than the first base surface area, wherein the base extension is removably secured to the upper tent portion, wherein the base extension, when secured to the upper tent portion, results in a base surface area of the modular tent increasing to the second base surface area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2017
    Assignee: Kalvani IP Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: Bimal A. Kalvani
  • Patent number: 9777837
    Abstract: A sealing device for use in sealing a gap formed by the interface between the floor, the dock leveler assembly, and a parked vehicle cargo frame includes a base portion having a bottom surface, an inner vertical surface, and a rear vertical surface. The bottom surface is adapted for sealing engagement with a loading dock floor. The sealing device further includes a first brush portion secured to the rear vertical surface of the base portion. The first brush portion includes a plurality of bristles and is adapted for sealing engagement with a vehicle cargo frame. The sealing device further includes a second brush portion secured to the inner vertical surface of the base portion. The second brush portion includes a plurality of bristles and is adapted for sealing engagement with an underside of the lip of a dock leveler assembly when the lip is in an extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2017
    Assignee: DL Manufacturing
    Inventor: Donald L. Metz
  • Patent number: 9778650
    Abstract: A method, system and apparatus for a kitting and automation assembly. The system includes an inspection apparatus that captures information of a component. A controller is coupled to the inspection apparatus for receiving and evaluating the information to determine a conforming component. The assembly apparatus includes a datum tool that is operatively configured to contact a datum reference of a part to determine a proper position of the part. The method includes capturing a data set indicative of a characteristic of a component and comparing the data set to a stored data set having a desired characteristic to determine a conforming component. The method also includes picking and positioning the conforming component at an installation position, contacting a datum reference of a part with a datum tool to confirm a proper position, and placing the conforming component on to the part at the proper position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2017
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: John M. Scelsi, Brian G. Jones
  • Patent number: 9765545
    Abstract: A shelter for an automobile has a pair of tracks positioned on opposing sides of the automobile and rest on a supporting surface such as the floor of a garage or car-port. A plurality of frames each having a u-shaped contour extend on opposing sides and over the automobile and are spaced apart from it. The terminal ends the frames are engaged with trucks which are in rolling engagement with the tracks. A canopy of a flexible material is attached over the frames and is movable between a folded state and an unfolded state when the trucks are moved within the tracks. The tracks have mutually orthogonal roller contact surfaces and the trucks have mutually orthogonal rollers positioned for rolling on the roller contact surfaces of said tracks. The canopy is able to be withdrawn from either of opposing sides and is further able to be drawn over the automobile to the supporting surface at both opposing sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2017
    Inventor: Ihor Petrenko
  • Patent number: 9752346
    Abstract: A tent assembly has a supporting frame and a rainfly. The supporting frame has a top base and multiple supporting rod units. Each supporting rod unit has a top rod, a first joint, a middle rod, and two hooks. The first joint is connected with the top rod and has a pivotal center. The middle rod is connected with the first joint. The hooks respectively have an end pivotally connected with the first joint respectively at positions away from the pivotal center of the first joint. The rainfly is connected with the supporting frame and has multiple connection units. Each connection unit has multiple connection ropes and at least one elastic belt. The at least one elastic belt is mounted around the hooks of a corresponding one of the supporting rod units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Assignee: Sportsman Corporation
    Inventor: Jack Chen
  • Patent number: 9745772
    Abstract: Disclosed is a back-type expanding and opening foldable sunshade apparatus. The back-type expanding and opening foldable sunshade apparatus can be used directly on the back of a person or used together with a backpack by placing in the backpack, can adjust the opening extent and position of the shade in a lockable manner, and the width of the shade is expanded transversely when opening, thereby shading more effectively; and during use, the shade can be quickly opened, and when being not in use, the shade can be easily folded into a small device on the back or concealed in an interlayer of a backpack, thus being convenient and attractive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Inventors: Guofan Chen, Wuhua Zhu
  • Patent number: 9739072
    Abstract: A retractable awning apparatus for use with a vehicle with enhanced durability and storage ability is secured to an existing vehicle's roof rack. The awning apparatus includes a plurality of telescoping arms coupled to the roof rack, each telescoping arm having an outer tubular member coupled to the roof rack and an inner tubular member slidably mounted to the outer tubular member, each inner tubular member designed to slidably adjust to an extended position into a side area of the vehicle or a retracted position within the outer tubular member, a support bar coupled to exposed ends of the inner tubular members of the telescoping arms, and a canopy detachably coupled to the support bar, vehicle's roof rack and at least one of the telescoping arms when in the extended position, thereby securing the canopy in place over the side area of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventor: Lane Richard Melland
  • Patent number: 9728110
    Abstract: A portable exhibit display includes a frame and a fabric covering for tensioned securement to the frame, wherein the frame incorporates a plurality of first magnets defining magnetic attachment regions of a magnetic attachment array. An accessory provided with one or more attachment points attractive to the first magnets may be removably magnetically secured to the fabric covering in proximity to respective magnetic attachment regions of the magnetic attachment array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: Vomela Specialty Company
    Inventors: Kelly Taylor, Brandon Dart, Erich Toomey, Joe Covington
  • Patent number: 9725922
    Abstract: An awning system for a canopy that couples to two legs of the canopy is disclosed. The awing includes a fabric cover and frameworks. The supportive frameworks include a pair of side supports, each attached to a leg of the canopy and a laterally telescoping crossbeam that attaches to the distal ends of the side supports. The frameworks further include a plurality of tent poles connected perpendicularly to the side supports. The poles support the fabric cover in an upwardly arched shape to facilitate the shedding of water. A tension pole is connected to the bottom of a proximal fabric panel and the top of the distal fabric panel using a system of fabric pockets. The fabric cover is removably attached to the frameworks. The awning provides all-weather protection and may display a sign. Removable rain gutters attach to the awning supports and channel water down legs of the canopy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: Duck-N-Cover Awnings, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy B. Dyeson, Erica L. Dyeson
  • Patent number: 9649235
    Abstract: The retractable canopy for wheelchair is a convertible top for a wheelchair. The retractable canopy for wheelchair is a convertible design that can be deployed or retracted as needed to protect the occupant of the wheelchair from weather. The retractable canopy for wheelchair is a collapsible canopy structure that provides overhead protection from weather and that can be stored in a boot when the retractable canopy for wheelchair is not in use. Optionally, the retractable canopy for wheelchair can have a motorized deployment and retraction system. The retractable canopy for wheelchair includes a boot, a canopy, a plurality of clips, and an extension structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Inventor: Shelia McComb-Jones
  • Patent number: 9650805
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for folding and unfolding a shelter frame, e.g., a tent. A plurality of radially arranged connecting bosses is situated on a connecting piece. A pivoting member pivotally attaches to the connecting boss, and a shelter frame rod attaches to the pivoting member. In the folded position, the pivoting members are rotated toward the center of the apparatus. In the unfolded position, the pivoting members are rotated away from the center of the apparatus. The apparatus is rapidly and easily assembled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Assignee: Campvalley (Xiamen) Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kwan Jun Choi
  • Patent number: 9604564
    Abstract: A sleeping compartment for a recreational vehicle, which has a cabin with a ceiling, a rear wall, two doors, seats, a windshield, and an expandable habitation unit located behind the rear wall. The sleeping compartment includes a roof, which is sized and shaped to cover the expandable habitation unit and the cabin, the roof having a front roof portion and a rear roof portion. The roof is actuatable between a closed configuration and an open configuration. A sleeping berth is separate from and independent to the expandable habitation unit. The sleeping berth has a sleeping surface located on top of the ceiling. The front roof portion is moveably connected to the cabin above the windshield and the doors to permit movement of the roof between the open and closed configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Inventor: Fernando Pellicer
  • Patent number: 9546501
    Abstract: An awning system for a canopy that couples to two legs of the canopy is disclosed. The awing includes a fabric cover and frameworks. The supportive frameworks include a pair of side supports, each attached to a leg of the canopy and a laterally telescoping crossbeam that attaches to the distal ends of the side supports. The frameworks further include a plurality of tent poles connected perpendicularly to the side supports. The poles support the fabric cover in an upwardly arched shape to facilitate the shedding of water. A tension pole is connected to the bottom of a proximal fabric panel and the top of the distal fabric panel using a system of fabric pockets. The fabric cover is removably attached to the frameworks. The awning provides all-weather protection and may display a sign. Removable rain gutters attach to the awning supports and channel water down legs of the canopy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Duck-N-Cover Awnings, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy B. Dyeson, Erica L. Dyeson
  • Patent number: 9540054
    Abstract: In some embodiments, a system and/or method may include a fairing system for vehicles. The fairing system may include a roofing extender. The roofing extender may be couplable rearward of a roof of a vehicle. In some embodiments, a frontward portion of the roofing extender may be coupled to the roof of the vehicle such that the roofing extender pivots, at the frontward portion, relative to the roof of the vehicle. In some embodiments, a rearward portion of the roofing extender may be coupled to the vehicle with a resilient member which allows the roofing extender to pivot relative to the roof of the vehicle within a specified range as needed before returning to set start point. In some embodiments, the roofing extender functions to adjust airflow over the roof of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2017
    Assignee: FlowBelow Aero, Inc.
    Inventors: Joshua L. Butler, Kyle H. Walker, Nicholas Athey
  • Patent number: 9527371
    Abstract: A tube door for off-road vehicles, including open recreational vehicles and Jeeps, is provided. It provides a ladder step for easy entry in and exit from the off-road vehicle. The tube door is hinged at its bottom portion for attaching to the bottom side of the door frame of the off-road vehicle. The tube door has a step bar, which provides a ladder step for the foot support for entry in or exit from the off-road vehicle when the tube door is in open position. The tube door has a lock system for keeping it in the closed position against the Jeep or open recreational/off-road vehicles. The tube door also provides a handle portion for holding when the tube door is in the closed position. The handle portion is the same portion that functions as the step portion when the tube door is in the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2016
    Inventor: Ricardo Flores
  • Patent number: 9470010
    Abstract: The present invention provides a combination tent comprising a tent gate with lock catches and lock rings, when placed adjacent to a second combination tent, the tent gate of the combination tent is fixedly connected to a tent gate of the second combination tent through the cooperation and connection of the lock catches and the lock rings. The present invention enables quick assembly and disassembly, so that the tent can be used independently or combined with other tents. This connection method is applicable in traditional tents, and rapid assembling tents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2016
    Inventor: Keong Woong Youn
  • Patent number: 9447602
    Abstract: A modular screening device includes a flexible first panel that is flexible having a vertical edge and an opposing vertical edge. A first sleeve is coupled to the vertical edge and a second sleeve coupled to the opposing vertical edge. A third sleeve is coupled to the first panel equally distant from the vertical edge and the opposing vertical edge. A first fastener is coupled to the second sleeve. A second flexible panel has a vertical border and an opposing vertical border. A first sheath is coupled to the vertical border and a second fastener is coupled to the opposing vertical border. The second fastener is complimentary to the first fastener. A second sheath is coupled to the second panel equally distant from the vertical border and the opposing vertical border. The device also comprises a plurality of framing tubes, S-hooks, spike anchors, bases, connectors, and support rods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2016
    Inventor: Eduardo Arias
  • Patent number: 9440806
    Abstract: A device for covering a portion of a dock leveler deck and a gap between the deck and a surrounding dock floor surface lying inward relative to a loading dock door is provided. The device may include a rigid frame and a barrier secured to the rigid frame and configured to cover the portion of the dock leveler deck and the gap inward of the loading dock door when the rigid frame is attached to the loading dock door and the loading dock door is fully lowered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Pathfinder Management, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas Mitchell Gray
  • Patent number: 9422737
    Abstract: A retractable cover for use over an opening such as a swimming pool is described. The cover comprises a number i (i?3) of supporting joist means, each joist having a top and bottom surface; an even number j (j<i) of floor section means, each having a first and second end; the first end of a 1st floor section being pivotally fixed to the top surface of a 1st joist, and the first end of the jth floor section pivotally being fixed to the top surface of the ith joist, the first ends of the 2nd . . .
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2016
    Inventors: Robert David Black, John Alexander Black
  • Patent number: 9387921
    Abstract: The self closing aircraft door includes two overlapping door panels and is attached to an outer skin of the aircraft by a plurality of suction cups. Each of the door panels comprises a net material at least partially surrounded by a flexible frame. Each of the panels also includes essentially parallel connecting rods comprising a plurality of magnetic and non-magnetic segments. The door is structured so that in the closed position, the magnetic segments in the connecting rods of the two panels join and thereby create a physical barrier to insects which might otherwise enter the aircraft cabin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture
    Inventors: Jerome A. Hogsette, Jr., Kurt B. Jordan
  • Patent number: 9366050
    Abstract: An inflatable hangar for an airship is provided with retractable support frames so that the structure retains sufficient shape when the structure is opened and deflated to permit entrance and exit of an airship. The inflatable structure is thus easily re-inflated. The resulting membrane structure is transportable and cost-effective.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Inventor: Waldemar Ptaszek
  • Patent number: 9366054
    Abstract: A foldable tent includes a frame coupled to a canopy such that the frame and canopy are collectively collapsible from an open configuration to a folded configuration. The frame includes a plurality of spaced apart hubs positioned at an upper portion of the frame, at least one upper roof pole pivotally coupled with two adjacent hubs, a plurality of lower roof poles pivotally coupled to a corresponding hub and extending radially outward from each respective hub and away from the upper roof pole, and a plurality of collapsible side poles coupled to a corresponding lower roof pole. An eave pole pivotally coupled to a hub extends the canopy to form an eave or an extended roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Inventor: Ki Ho Jin
  • Patent number: 9346519
    Abstract: A fluid shield assembly for preventing fluid from entering a bow of a boat includes a panel that has an outer edge extending between a front side and a back side of the panel. The panel has a pair of slots each extending downwardly from a top side of the outer edge of the panel. The slots are evenly spaced apart from a middle of the top side of the outer edge of the panel to define the door portion of the panel. Each of a plurality of first fasteners engages a boat such that the panel is retained on a bow of the boat. The panel inhibits a fluid from entering the bow of the boat. The door portion of the panel is positioned over a door in the boat to selectively cover and expose the door in the boat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2016
    Inventor: William R. Lee
  • Patent number: 9279270
    Abstract: A system for affixing a blanket to ground includes at least one corner flap mechanically coupled to the blanket and configured with a removable edge with the blanket. At least one stake is mechanically coupled to the blanket. The at least one stake is configured to be removed from underneath the at least one corner flap and into the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2016
    Inventor: John Christian Treister
  • Publication number: 20150122300
    Abstract: A molded hunting blind includes a one piece molded body. The molded hunting blind also includes a molded door and a plurality of windows at least one archery door with a taper configured to limit movement or at least one gun door with a gun rest and an arm rest. A method to mold a one piece hunting blind body is also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2013
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Inventor: Ricky C. Reed
  • Patent number: 9022050
    Abstract: The present invention is a hunting blind configured to attach to a tree. The hunting blind includes a top member with two ends and multiple arms. The top member wraps around the tree and each arm extends downward and outward away from the tree. The arms are staked into the ground in the desired position such that a hunter can sit in the opening formed by the hunting blind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Inventor: Leonard Jeziorski
  • Patent number: 9010347
    Abstract: A portable awning for the car. The present invention is to overcome the deficiency of bad effect of insulation and inconvenience for user. The point of solution includes a casing able to be separated into two portions along the length direction, and an awning body able be stored within the said two portions of the casing respectively, is characterized in that: the said awning body is a foldable body with continuous honeycomb section, the said two portions of the casing are provided with fixed structure used for fixing the car. Each Honeycomb Tube of the said awning body is an opening structure at the both ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Inventor: Xiaopeng Wang
  • Patent number: 8997770
    Abstract: A wheelchair covering device extends around a wheelchair to protect a user positioned in the wheelchair against inclement weather, such as rain, snow, sunlight and the like. The device includes a support unit configured for coupling to a wheelchair. A canopy is coupled to the support unit. The canopy is configured for extending over and shading a seat of the wheelchair. A flexible panel is removably coupled to the canopy. The panel is configured to extend around the seat of the wheelchair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Inventor: Verna Martin
  • Patent number: 8991914
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a device for providing a changing room and/or bathroom space on a watercraft. More specifically, a lounge chair is configured to open either manually or with aid of gas or air shocks in certain embodiments to reveal a changing room and/or bathroom space. On opening, a header bracket is released and deployed, in certain embodiments with aid of gas or air shocks, whereby the privacy curtain's substantially opaque and lightweight fabric is deployed around the revealed space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Premier Marine, Inc.
    Inventor: David L. Grovender
  • Patent number: 8991410
    Abstract: A chair shade including a cover sheet, frame having a first end and a second end, a sliding unit simultaneously affixed to the cover sheet and slideably affixed to the frame such that the sliding unit moves along the length of the frame when a force is applied and maintains its position on the frame when no force is applied and a securing unit that secures the first end and second end of the frame to corresponding opposite sides of a chair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Alysium Trading Co.
    Inventors: James Surek, Marinela Surek, Scott W. Beu, Ronaldo J. Santiago, Renato E. Imaña
  • Patent number: 8939164
    Abstract: A solar shade includes a rigid frame, a flexible cover, and a supporting member to shade a portable enclosure. The solar shade provides cover to an area beyond a footprint of the portable enclosure and does not require attachment to the ground. When attached to a portable enclosure, the solar shade enables unobstructed movement around a perimeter of the portable structure by virtue of not attaching to the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Berg Companies, Inc.
    Inventors: Doug Wayne Combs, Elisabeth Edal, Donald R Myers
  • Patent number: 8936036
    Abstract: A flap door having a soft hinge for a lay-down hunting blind comprises a fabric door frame cover, a door frame receiving pocket formed in the door frame cover, a door frame enclosed within the door frame receiving pocket supporting the door frame cover in planar configuration, the door frame having interconnected U-shaped head end and toe end support members having curved head end and toe end hinge corners supported on the framework of the hunting blind's enclosure, a hinge end of the door frame cover attached to one of two opposing lateral edges of the top opening of the fabric enclosure of the blind without any direct mechanical interconnection between the door frame and the support framework of the enclosure such that a pair of flap doors may be moved between opened and closed configurations over the top opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Inventor: Timothy Parsons
  • Patent number: 8931498
    Abstract: The portable enclosure with an elastically sealed opening includes a base and a frame mounted thereon. The frame is formed from a pair of tensioned frame rods having central portions crossing one another. A fabric covering is secured to the frame to define a hollow enclosure. At least one substantially vertically extending opening is formed through the fabric covering. A lower end of the opening is positioned adjacent the base. Fabric sleeves are secured on opposite sides of the opening. An elastic loop extends through the sleeves around the opening. A tensioned rod is mounted on an upper end of the frame, one end thereof being positioned adjacent an upper end of the opening and supporting an upper end of the elastic loop. This support of the elastic loop creates elastic tension therein, which elastically seals the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Inventor: Charles R. Nelson
  • Patent number: 8915258
    Abstract: A ground blind includes a collapsible support structure and a flexible cover mounted to the collapsible support structure. The flexible cover includes a top, at least one sidewall, at least one opening, at least one elastic member, and at least one fastener. The elastic member is configured to bias the opening into an open position. The fastener is configured to releasably hold the opening in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Primos, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith Beam, Scott D. Lee
  • Patent number: 8899252
    Abstract: A tent is provided. The tent includes a tarp having a plurality of walls and a platform oriented substantially perpendicularly to at least one of the walls. At least a portion of the platform is coupled to the tarp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Seina International LLC
    Inventors: Weidong Yang, Pil Yul Lee, Keong Woong Youn
  • Patent number: 8863766
    Abstract: A canopy with removable blind for hunting tree stand. A bracket removably attaches to a tree with straps, and one or more supports extend upwards from the bracket to a roof, around whose outer edges a blind may removably hang. The roof folds for storage and transportation, and the bracket is composed of two bracket end plates joined by at least one bracket vertical member. The bracket may be easily assembled and disassembled for storage or transportation. Bolts or quick-remove pins attach the support(s) to the bracket and the roof. The canopy is designed for use with an existing tree stand mounted below the roof. When installed above an existing tree stand, the canopy protects the tree stand occupants from weather, and the blind hides the occupants from view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Inventor: Lewis D. Kent
  • Publication number: 20140209138
    Abstract: An apparatus having an exterior surface that simulates a natural surface, and method of manufacturing same, comprising a polymer-foam sidewall having a concave first surface, a first end, and a second end. According to one embodiment in which the apparatus is a hunting blind, the sidewall is generally cylindrical and further has an inner surface, and defines a plurality of windows extending between the inner and outer surfaces. A first endwall is adjacent to the first end of the sidewall. A second endwall is adjacent to the second end of the sidewall. The sidewall, first end wall, and second endwall define an interior space that may be occupied by a hunter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2013
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Inventor: Timothy L. Thomason
  • Patent number: 8776814
    Abstract: A ground blind that includes a collapsible support structure, a flexible cover, and a window assembly. The flexible cover is mounted to the collapsible support structure. The window assembly defines a window opening in the cover and includes a flexible window panel, at least one follower, and at least one track portion. The at least one follower is carried by the window panel and has at least one follower end portion. The at least one track portion is sized to receive the at least one follower end portion. The at least one follower end portion is adjustably positioned within the at least one track portion to alter the window opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Primos, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith Beam, Scott D. Lee
  • Patent number: 8770149
    Abstract: The invention provides a breeding system for aquatic fauna that includes a chamber (2) having a wall (4) made from a water impermeable material. In one embodiment the chamber is provided with one or more hatches (20) in the wall where each hatch can be opened to a selectable extent. In another embodiment, the chamber has a selectable volume. The breeding system according to another embodiment includes one or more of the life support systems (30) adapted to be submerged in water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Bio Booot Ltd.
    Inventor: Aviv Mizrachi
  • Patent number: 8757187
    Abstract: A load-absorbing device initiates load forces such as cable forces or tensioning forces of sheet-shaped structures into supporting structures (10). At least one bearing element (24, 80) is anchored on supporting structure (10). A tie rod (40) of a load-absorbing part (36, 40) is connected to the bearing element. A connection device (50) for tension members (16; 98) cooperates with the tie bar (40). The connection device (50) has at least one connection wing (66) projecting laterally from the longitudinal axis (A) and forming at least one connection point (69a) offset with respect to the longitudinal axis (A).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Carl Stahl GmbH
    Inventor: Michael Kiefer
  • Patent number: 8757186
    Abstract: An insulating cover is adapted for sealing an attic access panel. The insulating cover includes a substantially rectangular fabric layer and at least one rod for raising the fabric layer above the attic access panel. A cavity is defined by the fabric layer and is adapted to contain a volume of stationary air. A seal is formed around a perimeter of the fabric layer. The seal includes multiple fiber strands of material that are adapted to conform to a shape of a floor surface. The fiber strands are adapted to seal gaps formed where the cover meets the floor surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Shurtech Brands, LLC
    Inventors: Brian A. Vulpitta, Daniel Festa, Vageesh Bakhshi
  • Patent number: 8746268
    Abstract: A collapsible guard adapted to cover the rear wheel of a stationery exercise bicycle supported on a bicycle trainer is described. The guard has side walls, an upper wall and a front opening sized to receive the bicycle rear wheel and trainer. In one embodiment of the invention, the guard includes spaced side walls having upper edges, front edges and lower edges; and a flexible upper wall with side edges, a front edge, and a rear edge, the side walls being releasibly attached along at least part of their lengths to the upper wall side edges, the upper wall curving downwardly from its front edge to its rear edge when the side walls are attached. In this embodiment, the side walls are foldable onto opposite faces of the upper wall. In another embodiment, the guard includes a collapsible frame with curved bands and a cover attachable over the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Inventors: Brad Southerland, Brad Forrest
  • Patent number: 8720461
    Abstract: A collapsible portable shelter including at least a first strut and a second strut, each strut being resiliently flexible, a panel formed of a flexible material coupled with the first strut and the second strut, and an anchoring member for anchoring the panel relative to a surface. The first strut is received along a first side of the panel and the second strut is received along a second side of the panel, the second side opposing the first side. The first strut and the second strut each has a portion extending beyond a third side of the panel. A portion of each of the first strut and second strut is to be received in the surface to resist lateral movement of said part received in the ground. The orientation of the panel with respect to the surface can be readily varied by adjusting the anchoring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Inventor: John Alexander Nichols
  • Patent number: 8714174
    Abstract: A method of applying weights to the legs of instant pop-up canopies and the like is disclosed. The weights help prevent uplift under windy conditions. Each weight case is comprised of two half-round hollow cases. The case halves are joined by hinges on one edge and latches on the opposite edge. Each case half has a full length inner V-groove, which when closed, create a throughbore for the canopy legs. Each case half top is fitted with a filler hole and cap. The hollow cases can be filled with a variety of weight material. The weighted case is wrapped around the lower leg of the canopy and latched shut to secure the weight around the canopy leg. The weight case rests on the flanged footplate of each leg. Four to six weight cases are required for each application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Inventor: Daniel Anthony DeSousa
  • Patent number: 8701689
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a portico for saddle-shaped tents. The portico includes a drape that is suspended from the saddle-frame of the saddle-shaped tent. The portico also includes a portico-frame that has a horizontal beam, which beam is attached to the lower edge of the drape. The portico-frame may also include posts. In one embodiment of the invention, the portico acts as a joiner to join two adjacent saddle-shaped tents. The invention includes tents and compound tent-structures that incorporate the portico.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: 0798555 B.C. Ltd.
    Inventor: Gerhard Allan Warner
  • Patent number: 8640395
    Abstract: A portable passive anti-corrosion vehicle enclosure comprising a support frame system and a flexible enclosure. The support frame system is disposed within the flexible enclosure. The flexible enclosure comprises a floor sheet, a side sheet and a ceiling sheet, where the side and ceiling sheets are supported by the support frame system. The flexible enclosure further comprises a closure means configured for enabling entry and exit of a vehicle and/or a driver. When the vehicle enclosure is erected and sealed, the volume defined by the support frame system is substantially isolated from its surrounding environment. A non-powered passive corrosion protection means is provided within the volume to eliminate or reduce corrosion of exposed vehicle metal components within the volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Inventor: Joseph J. DiSabantonio, III
  • Patent number: 8640722
    Abstract: The rail skirt system includes a top rail, a skirt that hangs from the top rail, formed from rail bar members connected together at their inner ends by a middle connector tube connectable to a locking support leg, to provide support for the top rail on a side of a shelter. The outer ends of the rail bar members are connected to legs of the shelter by fixed corner connecting brackets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Patent number: 8640721
    Abstract: A portable hunting blind employs a hand-operated, spring biased clamp with a pair of compressible handles that open spring-biased clamping jaws. The clamping jaws include internal grooves for sure gripping. An elongated, bendable arm extends from one of the clamp handles. An attachment juncture formed in one of the handle ends secures the arm to the clamp. The flexible metal arm can be configured by bending as desired by a hunter to assume a desired shape. A camouflage curtain is secured to the arm, which supports it like a flag pole. When an area for deployment is reached, the clamp is affixed to an available object, such as a tree limb, support the curtain and camouflage a limited selected area. The shape of the concealed arm can be varied by bending the arm. The curtain bottom may be secured to a convenient object to prevent movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Inventor: Patrick Mulligan
  • Patent number: 8616226
    Abstract: A shelter that includes a slider and a strut mechanism mounted on support posts of the shelter that automatically actuate and extend from the side of the support posts when the shelter is expanded from its collapsed state. The strut mechanism provides support for an eave that extends outside from all or a portion of the perimeter of the shelter defined by the corners of the support posts. An automatic hard-stop mechanism is incorporated into the support posts that prevent the eave sliders and strut mechanisms from becoming over-extended. The support posts are configured and oriented relative to the other components of the shelter frame and shelter boundary so to minimize the footprint or size of the shelter when in the collapsed state. Accordingly, the protected and shaded area offered by the shelter is greatly increased without sacrificing the stability and strength of the shelter, complicating the operation of the shelter, or increasing the weight, storability or cost of the shelter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Inventors: Oliver Ma, Marty Dotterweich
  • Publication number: 20130306121
    Abstract: A hunting blind includes a body assembly and a roof assembly. The body assembly includes a body frame defining a receiving cavity, and a body blind embedding the body frame for hiding a hunter in the receiving cavity. The roof assembly includes a roof frame detachably attached on the body frame, and a roof blind provided on the roof frame to operate between a hiding mode and a hunting mode, wherein in the hiding mode, the roof frame and the roof blind are attached on the body frame so as to conceal the receiving cavity, wherein in the hunting mode, the roof assembly is operated to create a roof opening for communicating the receiving cavity with an exterior of the hunting blind, so that a hunter may normally hide in the receiving cavity and expose himself through the roof opening for hunting a predetermined target.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2012
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Inventor: Fermi Chi Hung Lau