Strip, Slat, Or Panel Constrained For Pivotal Folding Patents (Class 160/199)
  • Patent number: 11379005
    Abstract: A rotating shaft body and an electronic device are provided. The rotating shaft body includes a first rotating surface and a second rotating surface. The first rotating surface and the second rotating surface have a common side edge. The axis of rotation of the first rotating surface and the axis of rotation of the second rotating surface are on a same side and do not overlap. The first rotating surface is provided with a first stopper part. The second rotating surface is provided with a second stopper part. The rotating shaft body further includes a supporting surface. The supporting surface is provided on a same side as the axes of rotation of the two rotating surfaces. The supporting surface is concave toward the two rotating surfaces. Two sides of the supporting surface are provided with a third stopper part and a fourth stopper part respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Assignee: VIVO MOBILE COMMUNICATION CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Fei Xue
  • Patent number: 11274493
    Abstract: A gate assembly that can include a frame with first and second mounts to mount the gate assembly across a V-door space on a rig floor, a first gate rotationally attached to a left side of the frame, and a second gate rotationally attached to a right side of the frame, such that the first and second gates selectively permit and prevent access through the V-door space. Inner panels of the first and second gates can be configured to automatically open and close in response to a catwalk extending into the V-door space or retracting from the V-door space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2022
    Assignee: Nabors Drilling Technologies USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary W. Craig
  • Patent number: 10947762
    Abstract: An articulating bracket for a hanging door. The articulating bracket is a two-part structure having a top piece and a bottom piece rotatably coupled together. The bottom piece attaches to a door, and the top piece extends upward from the bottom piece, with a roller wheel attached to the top piece and adapted to roll along a rail mounted above the door. The articulating bracket is particularly advantageous for a pair of doors that are coupled together at their proximal edges. With a first articulating bracket attached at one extreme top position of the first door and a second articulating bracket at the other extreme top position of the second door, one of the articulating brackets is affixed to a supporting structure and the other is free to move with the roller wheel along the rail. As the roller wheel is moved, both of the brackets rotate to follow the outward rotation of the doors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: Monadnock Millwork, LLC
    Inventors: Gregg Vincent Summers, Alwin Golosinda Guittard, Peter C. Delaney, Derek Delaney
  • Patent number: 10822797
    Abstract: A movable drywall is provided. The movable drywall includes a supporting member and a pair of wings operatively coupled to the supporting member. The pair of wings is configured to move relative to the supporting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2020
    Assignee: Saint-Gobain Placo
    Inventors: Vinay Natrajan, Atul Koleshwar, Unnikrishnan V. Painumgal
  • Patent number: 10597935
    Abstract: A vertical cellular drape configured for use as a covering for an architectural structure may include a front drape panel and a rear drape panel. The front and rear drape panels may be coupled to each other so that the drape panels are configured to be moved laterally between an extended position and a retracted position to cover or expose an adjacent architectural structure, as desired. In addition, the drape panels may be configured to be positioned relative to each other such that a plurality of vertically oriented, internal cells are defined between the drape panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2020
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: John D. Rupel, Ren Judkins, Scott R. Cheslock, Toralf H. Strand
  • Patent number: 9980041
    Abstract: An acoustic system includes: a first customer-side microphone; a first counselor-side microphone; a first sound changing unit; a first loudspeaker; a second customer-side microphone; a second counselor-side microphone; and a second loudspeaker. Between the second loudspeaker and the first customer-side microphone, a first sound transmission path is provided. Also, between the second loudspeaker and the first counselor-side microphone, a second sound transmission path is provided. These sound transmission paths have substantially the same length. The first sound signal generated by the first customer-side microphone is made to have a phase substantially opposite to that of the second sound signal generated by the first counselor-side microphone, and the sound signals are added together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2018
    Assignee: Nippon Sheet Glass Environment Amenity Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Fukushi Kawakami, Masakazu Kiyama, Takehisa Okamoto
  • Patent number: 9661940
    Abstract: The invention relates to a glass element (200) including at least one insulating glass panel including at least one first (10) and one second (11) glass sheet combined with one another via a spacer (12) which keeps same spaced apart from one another, said spacer extending along the side, upper and lower edges of said two glass sheets and between said at least two glass sheets, at least one inner space (15) including a layer of an insulating gas and closed by a first (13) and a second (14) peripheral seal arranged around said inner space, and at least one frame (201) which supports said at least one insulating glass panel, said frame including (i) a stationary bracket (21) and (ii) a movable bracket (22) which is hinged on the stationary bracket and which allows the opening and/or the closing of the glass element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2017
    Assignee: AGC GLASS EUROPE
    Inventors: Pierre Schneider, Nicolas Boucher, Olivier Bouesnard
  • Patent number: 9605928
    Abstract: A system of panels for use in assembling a radiation, microbial, acoustically, and ballistically shielded space within a building or other personal space. The panels are comprised of an ionizing radiation shielding material layer, a non-ionizing radiation shielding layer, an anti-microbial treated layer, a bulletproof layer, and an acoustical shielding layer. A method is provided for using said panels to create a radiation, microbial, acoustically, and ballistically shielded space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Inventors: J. Craig Oxford, D. Michael Shields
  • Patent number: 9580149
    Abstract: An expandable and contractible safety barrier for a boat includes a first barrier portion and a second barrier portion. The first barrier portion includes a first outside hinge portion. The second barrier portion includes a second outside hinge portion. The first barrier portion is pivotally connected to the second barrier portion by a middle hinge. The middle hinge is locate on an end of the first barrier portion opposite the first outside hinge portion and on an end of the second barrier portion opposite the second outside hinge portion. A latching device that removably attaches the first barrier portion to a fixed barrier includes a pin about which the first outside hinge portion pivots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2017
    Assignee: Lanny Ralph Poppell
    Inventor: Lanny Ralph Poppell
  • Patent number: 9255430
    Abstract: A folding door with two or more intrinsically rigid folding shutter elements with alternating noncollapsing and collapsing element edges, with at least one guide means which can be raised and lowered on or in one or more guide rail(s), for moving a, in particular the lower, permanently guide rail-adjacent, noncollapsing door element edge, wherein at least one release movement means, which is provided for the initial release movement of the permanently guide rail-adjacent door element edge from the guide rail(s), at the beginning of the opening of the folding door, and for the final advance movement of the permanently guide rail-adjacent door element edge at the end of the closing of the folding door, and an actuation device and method for the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: Belu Verwaltungsgesellschaft mbH
    Inventor: Bernhard Lucas
  • Patent number: 9157265
    Abstract: A bogey includes a body having only a single set of support wheels, with one wheel positioned either side of the body. A threaded retainer is arranged for threaded engagement with a shaft of a hanger bolt. The retainer is located in spaced relation from the wheels, whereby the bolt is cantilevered from the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2015
    Assignee: RMD Industries Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Stylianos Pelekanos
  • Patent number: 8985180
    Abstract: A folding accordion sweep partition assembly is presented. The partition has a plurality of partition panels, the panel having a front face, a rear face, a bottom edge, and two opposing open sided panel keyway channels. A hinge having two side walls, the side wall terminating in a hinge key hinges two panels by having a first hinge key slidably received and retained in a first partition panel keyway channel and a second hinge key slidably received and retained in a second partition panel keyway channel. The partition panel has a mounting bracket affixed to it, a bottom bracket removably retained to the mounting bracket, and a sweep affixed to the mounting bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: CIW Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph D. Kondash, Joseph L. Balay
  • Patent number: 8967225
    Abstract: A leading end assembly for a movable partition may include a frame, an exterior skin coupled to the frame for covering a leading surface and two opposing side surfaces of the frame, the exterior skin including a leading member forming at least a portion of a leading surface of the leading end assembly and at least two side members, each side member being formed separately from the leading member and forming at least a portion of a lateral side portion of the leading end assembly. Movable partitions may include leading end assemblies and leading end assemblies may be formed by related methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventors: William Michael Coleman, Michael D. George, Paul Saccomano
  • Patent number: 8960257
    Abstract: Apparatuses, methods and systems for directionally controlling a movable partition are provided. In one embodiment, an apparatus for controlling lateral displacement of a movable partition includes a bracket, a roller assembly, a first attachment bracket, and a second attachment bracket. The roller assembly is coupled to the bracket and includes a roller element. The first attachment bracket attaches to a first panel of the movable partition and is configured for hinged coupling to a first side of the bracket such that a first pivot line substantially coincides with a centerline of the first panel. The second attachment bracket attaches to a second panel of the movable partition and is configured hinged coupling to a second side of the bracket such that a second pivot line substantially coincides with a centerline of the second panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventor: E. Carl Goodman
  • Patent number: 8944136
    Abstract: Movable partitions and partition systems include a sheet of interconnected panels configured to fold in an accordion fashion. At least two of the interconnected panels have first and second lateral ends extending between a top edge and a bottom edge of the panels. The lateral ends may comprise generally cylindrical structures having openings comprising gaps between lateral edges of the respective panel and a first major surface of the respective panel. The first lateral end of one panel may be engaged with the second lateral end of another panel of the at least two panels. The lateral edges may be enlarged. The at least two panels can extend to a fully extended state in which they are coplanar. Methods of forming movable partitions and partition systems include forming and interconnecting such panels. Methods of repairing movable partitions and partition systems include disengaging such panels by applying lateral forces therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventor: R. Scott Smart
  • Patent number: 8899299
    Abstract: Leading end assemblies for movable partitions may include a movable trolley, a leading structure coupled to the movable trolley, a diagonal member comprising at least one movable feature enabling the leading structure to move from an initial position to a displaced position, and at least one sensor for sensing movement of the leading structure. Movable partition systems may include a leading structure suspended from a trolley and a sensor configured to sense rotation of the leading structure relative to the trolley. Methods of operating a movable partition may include moving at least a portion of a movable partition along a path from a retracted position to an extended position, rotating a leading structure of the movable partition about a coupling, using a sensor to sense rotation of the leading structure, and ceasing movement of the movable partition in response to a signal generated by the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventor: Ivan W. Stewart
  • Patent number: 8863814
    Abstract: Movable partitions comprise a plurality of interconnected panels, at least one sheet of insulation adjacent the plurality of interconnected panels, and at least one hinge member connecting adjacent panels of the plurality of interconnected panels. The at least one hinge member comprises at least one pointed member that extends therefrom. The pointed member is at least partially inserted into the at least one sheet of insulation, and the at least one sheet of insulation is supported by a surface of the at least one pointed member that has a width that is greater than a thickness of the at least one pointed member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventors: R. Scott Smart, Craig G. Bell
  • Publication number: 20140299280
    Abstract: A door operating system or door opening and closing apparatus comprising at least one motive source, a linkage assembly and a door. Preferred door operating systems will include two linkage assemblies, two doors and two motive sources, one for each door. Each motive source is preferably attached to an interior facing surface of a frame of a structure and the door is pivotally attached to an exterior facing surface of the frame of a structure. Each linkage assembly operatively connects the respective motive source to the respective door. By having the motive source attached to the interior facing surface of the frame, doors of the operating system can preferably be opened the full width of the frame opening to maximize available vehicle clearance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2014
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Applicant: Door Engineering and Manufacturing, LLC
    Inventors: Dustin Bowman, Kevin Landgraff, Christopher Adams, Michael Tenney
  • Patent number: 8826964
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention include movable partitions and devices, methods and systems that help to limit or prevent lateral displacement of movable partitions. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a movable partition includes two structures, each structure having a first plurality of panels, and each panel being hingedly coupled to an adjacent panel. The two panels are each supported from an overhead track at laterally spaced locations. One or more lateral restraint devices are supported from the overhead track at a location between the two laterally spaced structures. The lateral restraint device may include a trolley disposed in a channel of the overhead track and an elongated member coupled with the trolley and extending away from the trolley to a location proximate a lower edge of the first structure and a lower edge of the second structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventor: E. Carl Goodman
  • Patent number: 8819993
    Abstract: A window includes a frame, a rail module, and two sashes. The rail module includes a first rail, a second rail, and a pulley assembly. The first rail is fixed to the frame, and the second rail is able to turn. The second rail is turned to connect to the first rail so that the pulley assembly can slide in both the first and the second rails. The first sash is pivoted on the frame, and the second sash is hinged with the first sash and connected to the pulley assembly. The pulley assembly is moved to the second rail from the first rail to make the sashes fold up. After the second sash arrives at the second rail, one may turn the folded sashes totally off the window and attach them to a wall besides the window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Nien Made Enterprise Co., ltd.
    Inventor: Lin Chen
  • Publication number: 20140224435
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sliding door system having a frame (1, 1?, 2, 2?), which receives one or more sliding doors that, mounted in or on the frame (1, 1?, 2, 2?), can be moved horizontally along the frame (1, 1?, 2, 2?), wherein the sliding doors are constructed as folding door elements (11, 12, 13), in which two door elements (14, 15) are connected to each other in a hinged manner by means of a joint arrangement running vertically centrally between the door elements, wherein the joint arrangement can be pivoted out of the plane of the frame, such that the two door elements (14, 15) can be opened at right angles to the plane of the frame and lie flat on each other in an open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicant: Weinor GMBH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Karl-Heinz Stawski
  • Patent number: 8739472
    Abstract: A retention clip for a movable partition includes a top portion and a base portion. The top portion includes an elongated member having a top surface and a bottom surface. The base portion includes an elongated member having a front surface, a back surface, and a side surface. The base portion further includes an extended side portion extending at an angle relative the front surface. A related movable partition system includes a plurality of interconnected panels, a first retention clip and a second retention clip connected to one of the plurality of interconnected panels proximate a first interface and a second interface. A related method for restricting relative movement of adjacent panels of a movable partition includes connecting a first retention clip and a second retention clip each having an extended side portion extending at an angle from a base portion proximate an interface between a pair of adjacent panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventor: Anthony Moss
  • Patent number: 8701739
    Abstract: Partition systems comprise a track and at least one partition configured to hang from and move along the track. A control box configured to contain at least a power supply for supplying power to a drive system, a floating jamb, and a trolley configured to attach to the floating jamb and rollingly engage with the track are also included. The trolley comprises at least one frame member comprising a jamb attachment portion configured to attach to the floating jamb, a distance from the jamb attachment portion to a rearmost surface of the at least one frame member opposite an end of the at least one frame member configured to face the at least one partition being less than or equal to a thickness of the control box in a direction at least substantially parallel to a direction of movement of the trolley. At least one support roller is attached to the at least one frame member and configured to engage with the track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventor: W. Michael Coleman
  • Publication number: 20140059933
    Abstract: A moveable wall panel system is disclosed. The movable wall panel system may include a bottom drop seal assembly that maintains a constant force relative to a floor portion of an environment through a damper. The movable wall panel system may include an automatic top seal assembly that seals a gap between the movable wall panel system and a ceiling of the environment without an actuation from an operator space of the environment, the top seal assembly being positioned above the operator space of the environment. The moveable wall panel system may include a plurality of seals positioned between adjacent panels to seal a gap between the adjacent panels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Modernfold, Inc.
    Inventors: Brad Jones, Aaron Alexander, Phil Middaugh, Mark McDonough, Adam Burke, Mike Beeler, Robert K. Schuyler, Philip M. Watston, Matthew Puccio, Thomas L. Goldsmith, Bryan T. Welch
  • Publication number: 20140041813
    Abstract: Leading end assemblies for movable partitions may include at least one sensor assembly configured to detect a force applied to a leading surface of a leading structure of the leading end assembly. Movable partition systems may include a plurality of hingedly coupled panels and a leading end assembly. The leading end assembly may include a trolley movably coupled to a track and at least one sensor assembly configured to detect movement of the leading structure relative to the trolley when the movable partition is moved from a retracted position to an extended position. Methods of operating a movable partition may include monitoring a displacement of a leading structure of a leading end assembly of the movable partition relative to another portion of the leading end assembly with a sensor assembly and ceasing movement of the movable partition in response to a signal from the sensor assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2013
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Applicant: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventors: E. Carl Goodman, Tracy M. Knight
  • Publication number: 20130284382
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention include movable partitions and devices, methods and systems that help to limit or prevent lateral displacement of movable partitions. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a movable partition includes two structures, each structure having a first plurality of panels, and each panel being hingedly coupled to an adjacent panel. The two panels are each supported from an overhead track at laterally spaced locations. One or more lateral restraint devices are supported from the overhead track at a location between the two laterally spaced structures. The lateral restraint device may include a trolley disposed in a channel of the overhead track and an elongated member coupled with the trolley and extending away from the trolley to a location proximate a lower edge of the first structure and a lower edge of the second structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventor: E. Carl Goodman
  • Patent number: 8567472
    Abstract: Wire trolleys for use with a movable partition system comprise a wire-supporting member through which wire may be inserted. At least one roller configured for insertion into a track along which a movable partition extends is connected to the wire-supporting member. Movable partition systems comprise a track. A movable partition comprising at least two sheets of panels extending at least substantially parallel to one another and distanced from one another to define an interior space between the at least two sheets of panels are suspended from and movable along the track. At least one wire trolley located in the interior space between a proximal end and a distal end of the at least two sheets of panels comprises at least one roller in rolling engagement with the track and a wire-supporting member at least partially supporting at least one wire inserted through the wire-supporting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventor: Ivan W. Stewart
  • Patent number: 8544524
    Abstract: Leading end assemblies for movable partitions may include at least one sensor assembly configured to detect a force applied to a leading surface of a leading structure of the leading end assembly. Movable partition systems may include a plurality of hingedly coupled panels and a leading end assembly. The leading end assembly may include a trolley movably coupled to a track and at least one sensor assembly configured to detect movement of the leading structure relative to the trolley when the movable partition is moved from a retracted position to an extended position. Methods of operating a movable partition may include monitoring a displacement of a leading structure of a leading end assembly of the movable partition relative to another portion of the leading end assembly with a sensor assembly and ceasing movement of the movable partition in response to a signal from the sensor assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventors: E. Carl Goodman, Tracy M. Knight
  • Publication number: 20130186038
    Abstract: The invention relates to a folding closure system for an opening comprising; an overhead track, a jamb panel attached to the head and sill of the opening by at least one (non-offset) pivot hinge, at least one other panel of substantially equal width to the jamb panel and which is suspended from the track by at least one carriage, the aforementioned panels being adapted to be folded about (non-offset) pivot hinges from (i) a closed configuration in which the panels are aligned in a plane, to (ii) an open configuration in which they are arranged orthogonal to said plane, and at least one jamb trim attached to a jamb and aligned with a gap between the jamb panel and the jamb when the panels are in the closed configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2011
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Applicant: MAMMOTH INDUSTRIES PTY LTD.
    Inventor: Craig Cameron Lang
  • Patent number: 8479798
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention include movable partitions and devices, methods and systems that help to limit or prevent lateral displacement of movable partitions. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a movable partition includes two structures, each structure having a first plurality of panels, and each panel being hingedly coupled to an adjacent panel. The two panels are each supported from an overhead track at laterally spaced locations. One or more lateral restraint devices are supported from the overhead track at a location between the two laterally spaced structures. The lateral restraint device may include a trolley disposed in a channel of the overhead track and an elongated member coupled with the trolley and extending away from the trolley to a location proximate a lower edge of the first structure and a lower edge of the second structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventor: E. Carl Goodman
  • Patent number: 8376020
    Abstract: Movable partitions and partition systems include a sheet of interconnected panels configured to fold in an accordion fashion. At least two of the interconnected panels have first and second lateral ends extending between a top edge and a bottom edge of the panels. The lateral ends may comprise generally cylindrical structures having openings comprising gaps between lateral edges of the respective panel and a first major surface of the respective panel. The first lateral end of one panel may be engaged with the second lateral end of another panel of the at least two panels. The lateral edges may be enlarged. The at least two panels can extend to a fully extended state in which they are coplanar. Methods of forming movable partitions and partition systems include forming and interconnecting such panels. Methods of repairing movable partitions and partition systems include disengaging such panels by applying lateral forces therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventor: R. Scott Smart
  • Patent number: 8316914
    Abstract: Movable partitions and movable partition system include a header assembly and a movable partition. The header assembly may comprise an elongated overhead track including a first channel, a second channel, and a central channel between the first and second channels. A plurality of support bracket attachment features may be included with at least one support bracket attachment feature on each of an outer surface of the first channel and an outer surface of the second channel. A support bracket may be coupled to each of the support bracket attachment features. The movable partition may comprise a plurality of panels connected to one another with hinge-like member and may be suspended from the overhead track. Embodiments of overhead tracks and methods of forming header assemblies are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventors: Craig Bell, Tracy M. Knight, Jaren R. Dickenson
  • Patent number: 8269600
    Abstract: A method and apparatus that controls access to a secured area using an automated gate controlled secured environment is disclosed. The method may include receiving an indication that an individual attempting to pass through a clearance area has not been authorized to pass through the clearance area, automatically moving one or more gates to create a channel for the non-authorized individual to be directed to a manual screening area, determining if the non-authorized individual has passed one or more sensor; wherein if the non-authorized individual has been determined to have passed the one or more sensor, then moving a gate located behind the non-authorized individual to enable other authorized individuals to pass through the clearance area while maintaining the channel created to the manual screening area, and preventing the non-authorized individual from gaining access to the automated gate controlled secured environment once the non-authorized individual reaches the manual screening area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Arinc Incorporated
    Inventor: Jon Floyd
  • Patent number: 8235085
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are disclosed for laterally restraining a movable partition. In one embodiment, a movable partition includes two laterally spaced structures wherein each structure includes a plurality of hingedly coupled panels. A lateral restraint mechanism is located and configured to prevent lateral displacement of one or both of the two structures. In one embodiment, a cable is disposed between and extends from along a lower edge of the two structures. The cable is maintained in tension, at least while the partition is in a deployed condition, to prevent or minimize the lateral displacement of one or both of the structures such as when a draft or other external force acts on the two laterally spaced structures. In one embodiment, the cable may be operatively associated with one or more drive components used to displace the movable partition. In another embodiment, the cable may be coupled to a take-up mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventors: W. Michael Coleman, Michael D. George
  • Patent number: 8176963
    Abstract: An accordion-style storm shutter panel and system for use in covering an opening in a building structure including an outer frame assembly and a plurality of vertically mounted elongated panels foldably connected together in accordion style fashion. The panels are joined by slip fitted lateral knuckle joints and a track engaging a guide which extends from ends of the knuckle joints. A plurality of spaced apertures are formed through and extend over the substantial length of each of the panels, each of said apertures preferably having a notch-and-tab arrangement extending around a periphery thereof. A plurality of transparent, translucent or opaque locking plugs are sized and have a spaced locking tab arrangement around a periphery thereof, which matably and releasably lockingly engages within each aperture. Alternately, the plugs may be fixed in place and be light-transmitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Inventor: Stephen J. Motosko
  • Patent number: 8112940
    Abstract: A seal, which is disposed at a vertical frame profile of a stationary door leaf or of a movable door leaf and has a sealing profile protruding from the frame profile and a deformation chamber extending in a longitudinal direction of the sealing profile. A part of the sealing profile protruding from the front side of the frame profile in cross-section forms the portion (T) of an ellipse or substantially of an ellipse, the minor axis (N) of the ellipse intersecting the wall of the sealing profile outside the frame profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Dorma GmbH + Co. KG
    Inventor: Christian Mayer
  • Patent number: 8109315
    Abstract: An accordion partition has a pair of panels having adjacent vertical inner and outer side edges interconnected by a hinge. Horizontal and generally parallel upper ceiling and lower floor tracks extend above and below the pair of panels, and upper and lower trolley hardware on each of the panels rides in the respective tracks so that the panels can move horizontally relative to one another. Respective latches on each of the outer edges can move between locked positions engaged in one of the tracks and an unlocked position clear of the one track. Coupling elements on both of the latches interengage only in the extended use position for shifting both of the latches synchronously between the respective locked and unlocked positions. An actuator on only one of the latches manually shifts the one latch between the locked and unlocked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Sunflex Aluminiumsysteme GmbH
    Inventor: Malte Schneider
  • Patent number: 8100164
    Abstract: Movable partition systems include a movable partition and an intumescent material positioned to seal a gap at a periphery of the partition. In some embodiments, masses of intumescent material may be shaped and positioned to expand toward one another, contact one another, and form a seal therebetween at a periphery of the partition when the movable partition is exposed to fire. A fire barrier may be provided by extending a partition along a track assembly, and heating an intumescent material to cause the intumescent material to expand, char, and form a seal extending along at least a portion of a periphery of the movable partition. Upon installing a movable partition, at least one mass of intumescent material may be positioned to seal at least a section of a gap at a periphery of the movable partition when the at least one mass of intumescent material is exposed to fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventors: E. Carl Goodman, Craig Bell
  • Patent number: 8096341
    Abstract: A folding panel assembly includes at least first and second, substantially rectangular panels, the first panel having first and second vertical ends, and the second panel having third and fourth vertical ends, the second and third vertical ends being hinged to one another about a hinge axis parallel thereto. An actuating system includes a substantially horizontal track, with a first pivot support for connection to the first panel, a carriage traversable along the track, with a second pivot support for connection to the second panel. The actuating system further includes a flexible drive element arranged parallel to the track and engaging the carriage for traversing it along the track. The actuating system employs an elongated connecting rod with a first longitudinal end pivotally connected to the carriage and a second, opposite longitudinal end pivotally connected to the first panel at a location adjacent to the second vertical end thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Industries BV
    Inventor: Sander Teunissen
  • Patent number: 8087444
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention include movable partitions and devices, methods and systems that help to limit or prevent lateral displacement of movable partitions. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a movable partition includes two structures, each structure having a first plurality of panels, and each panel being hingedly coupled to an adjacent panel. The two panels are each supported from an overhead track at laterally spaced locations. One or more lateral restraint devices are supported from the overhead track at a location between the two laterally spaced structures. The lateral restraint device may include a trolley disposed in a channel of the overhead track and an elongated member coupled with the trolley and extending away from the trolley to a location proximate a lower edge of the first structure and a lower edge of the second structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventor: E. Carl Goodman
  • Patent number: 8074699
    Abstract: The present application is directed to a manual or automatic flush threshold door seal system used on folding exterior doors along with an alternate embodiment for conventional exterior entryway doors that will not impede the passage of a wheelchair. A flexible weather seal can be put in a retracted or down position within an aluminum extrusion imbedded within the threshold providing a flush access surface and may be raised up into the upright position providing an adequate weather seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: La Cantina Doors, Inc.
    Inventors: Toby Jones, Matthew W. Power
  • Publication number: 20110203746
    Abstract: Movable partitions and partition systems include a sheet of interconnected panels configured to fold in an accordion fashion. At least two of the interconnected panels have first and second lateral ends extending between a top edge and a bottom edge of the panels. The lateral ends may comprise generally cylindrical structures having openings comprising gaps between lateral edges of the respective panel and a first major surface of the respective panel. The first lateral end of one panel may be engaged with the second lateral end of another panel of the at least two panels. The lateral edges may be enlarged. The at least two panels can extend to a fully extended state in which they are coplanar. Methods of forming movable partitions and partition systems include forming and interconnecting such panels. Methods of repairing movable partitions and partition systems include disengaging such panels by applying lateral forces therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Applicant: WON-DOOR CORPORATION
    Inventor: R. Scott Smart
  • Patent number: 7931067
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are disclosed for laterally restraining a movable partition. In one embodiment, a movable partition includes two laterally spaced structures wherein each structure includes a plurality of hingedly coupled panels. A lateral restraint mechanism is located and configured to prevent lateral displacement of one or both of the two laterally spaced structures. In one embodiment, at least one bracket is substantially rigidly coupled to a hinge of the first structure and a laterally adjacent hinge of the second structure. The at least one bracket may include multiple brackets. Some described methods include a laterally restraining lower edge of a movable partition as well as the installation of lateral restraint brackets including the plumbing, spacing and squaring of the structures in conjunction with such installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventors: E. Carl Goodman, Daniel L. Steadman
  • Patent number: 7926538
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are disclosed for laterally restraining a movable partition. In one embodiment, a movable partition includes two laterally spaced structures wherein each structure includes a plurality of hingedly coupled panels. A lateral restraint mechanism is located and configured to prevent lateral displacement of one or both of the two laterally spaced structures. In one embodiment, a cable is disposed between and extends from along the lower edge of the two laterally spaced structures. The cable is maintained in tension, at least while the partition is in a deployed condition, to prevent or minimize the lateral displacement of one or both of the structures such as when a draft or other external force acts on the structures. In one embodiment, the cable may be operatively associated with one or more drive components used to displace the movable partition. In another embodiment, the cable may be coupled to a take-up mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventors: W. Michael Coleman, Michael D. George
  • Patent number: 7886804
    Abstract: Folding partitions and related methods and components are provided and may include accordion-style folding doors or partitions having multiple folding panels. In one embodiment, a folding partition includes one or more baffling devices. A baffling device may include an elongated enclosure having a first opening proximate a first longitudinal end of the elongated enclosure, a second opening proximate a second longitudinal end of the elongated enclosure, and a flow path extending from the first opening to the second opening. A sound attenuation chamber may be disposed adjacent at least a portion of the flow path. In one embodiment, one or more baffling devices may be disposed in, or otherwise associated with, a jamb component of the partition. In another embodiment, one or more baffling devices may be disposed in, or otherwise associated with, the hinged connection of panel sections of a partition panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventors: E. Carl Goodman, Michael D. George, Michael E. Hazlett, Craig G. Bell, Ronald A. Smart, Jaren R. Dickinson
  • Publication number: 20110024061
    Abstract: Movable partitions and movable partition system include a header assembly and a movable partition. The header assembly may comprise an elongated overhead track including a first channel, a second channel, and a central channel between the first and second channels. A plurality of support bracket attachment features may be included with at least one support bracket attachment feature on each of an outer surface of the first channel and an outer surface of the second channel. A support bracket may be coupled to each of the support bracket attachment features. The movable partition may comprise a plurality of panels connected to one another with hinge-like member and may be suspended from the overhead track. Embodiments of overhead tracks and methods of forming header assemblies are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2009
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Applicant: WON-DOOR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Craig Bell, Tracy M. Knight, Jaren R. Dickinson
  • Patent number: 7874341
    Abstract: A movable partition having hinged connections and related methods are disclosed. The partition may include one or more movable structures wherein each movable structure has a plurality of panels and a plurality of hinged structures arranged in an alternating pattern. The panels may include pockets formed along the ends thereof and the hinge structures may include rods formed on the ends thereof. The rods are disposed within the pockets such that a hinged joint is formed. Retainers are removably disposed over a portion of the joint or coupling formed by the rod and associated pocket. The retainer may include a clip having a first member disposed adjacent the pocket, a second member disposed within an interior space of the rod, and a transition member coupling the first and second members and also spanning a portion of the rod and pocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventors: W. Michael Coleman, John G. Garrett, Michael D. George
  • Patent number: 7854248
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods are provided for visual inspection across a barrier such as a fire door. In one embodiment of the present invention, a first movable partition is disposed adjacent, and laterally spaced from, a second movable partition. A first vision panel is disposed in the first partition and a second vision panel is disposed in the second partition in substantial alignment with the first vision panel. The position of the first vision panel is substantially constrained with respect to the position of the second vision panel along a first longitudinal direction. The first vision panel and the second vision panel are enabled to exhibit a desired amount of lateral displacement relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventors: W. Michael Coleman, Michael D. George, E. Carl Goodman
  • Patent number: 7845386
    Abstract: Movable partitions and various components for use with movable partitions are disclosed along with related systems and methods. In one embodiment, a track and trolley system for use with a movable partition is described. In one embodiment, the track and trolley system may include a track having three channels wherein a first partition is suspended from the first channel, a second partition is suspended from the second channel, and a trolley is partially disposed in the third channel and between the first and second channels. Seal components may be used to substantially provide a fluid seal between the partitions and a surface from which the partitions are suspended. The trolley is configured to be longitudinally displaceable along the third channel while maintaining its components within an envelope defined by the seal components. In other words, such seal components are not penetrated or otherwise breached by the displaced trolley.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventors: W. Michael Coleman, E. Carl Goodman
  • Patent number: 7845385
    Abstract: An apparatus and method of directionally controlling a movable partition includes providing at least one roller assembly and a steering actuator, coupled therewith, to a portion of the partition. A controller may be used to control the steering actuator and thereby select, or change, the orientation of the roller assembly with respect to the partition. In one embodiment, one or more sensors may be used to determine the vertical orientation of the partition including whether the partition, or a section thereof, is substantially plumb. If the partition is substantially out of plumb, for example, if a lower edge of the partition is laterally displaced relative to an upper edge of the partition, the controller and steering actuator may cause the at least one roller assembly to direct the partition, or section thereof, in a particular direction until the partition, or section thereof, becomes substantially plumb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Won-Door Corporation
    Inventors: E. Carl Goodman, Kevin D. Banta, D. George Field, William Michael Coleman