Pivotally Mounted Unit Patents (Class 160/210)
  • Patent number: 11377214
    Abstract: Passenger seating comprises rows of seats with a door assembly at the end of each row for improving a seat occupant's privacy. The door assembly includes a door that slides into and out of a base in a primary mode of operation, and which supports a secondary mode of opening. The secondary mode may involve pivoting on hinges. A latch is provided to prevent the door from being opened routinely in the secondary mode. The door assembly is also capable of retracting with respect to the adjacent seat to improve access.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Inventor: Aaron Robinson
  • Patent number: 11319164
    Abstract: The invention relates to a charging unit of a material processing apparatus having a charging hopper, the side walls (22) and rear walls (23) of which can be folded over between a working and a transport position by means of actuators (40, 50). A deflection element is provided, which converts the movement of an actuator during a portion of a movement thereof into a rotational movement of the rear wall or of the side wall and, during a further portion, into a translational movement. As a result of the rotational movement, the rear and side wall can be pivoted between the working and transport position, while by means of the translational movement, the rear and side wall can be connected to each other by means of an appropriate closure (60). By means of the deflection element, a simple, self-securing, and economical structure of the charging hopper is made possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Inventor: Christian Weller
  • Patent number: 11162300
    Abstract: A keeper apparatus engaged to the lower free end swinging corner portion of a gate, not to either of the upper and lower corner portions having the axis on which the gate swings, and not to the upper free end swinging corner portion where the gate has a main latch. The keeper apparatus joins the shortened ends of a horizontal gate support member and a vertical gate support member where, prior to engaging the keeper apparatus on the shortened ends, such intentionally manufactured shortened ends are free and spaced from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2021
    Assignee: Regalo International, LLC
    Inventors: Mark A. Flannery, Gary T. Schultze, Nicholas E. Beattie, Michael P. Lane, Matthew A. Willms
  • Patent number: 11142321
    Abstract: A privacy panel assembly for a passenger cabin environment including a flexible privacy panel having a leading edge and a trailing edge, the flexible privacy panel moveable between a stowed position leaving open an opening between spaced structures and a deployed position closing the opening, wherein the leading edge of the flexible privacy panel, when the flexible privacy panel is in the deployed position, is moveable out of a plane of the opening by way of force against the flexible privacy panel. A passenger suite configuration including a suite entrance formed between spaced walls and a flexible privacy panel moveable between a stowed position leaving open the suite entrance and a deployed position closing the suite entrance, wherein a portion of the flexible privacy panel is moveable out of a plane of the opening by way of force against the flexible privacy panel, for example, during emergency exit from the suite.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2021
    Assignee: Rockwell Collins, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark B. Dowty, Kent M. Kroener
  • Patent number: 10974834
    Abstract: Separable partition assemblies provide privacy between adjoining aircraft cabin sections, e.g., between a main passenger cabin section and a section having an emergency exit and a belted toilet seat such as may be provided in executive aircraft. The separable partition assembly includes a bulkhead structure defining a bulkhead passageway opening to allow passenger egress from one vehicle cabin section to an adjoining vehicle cabin section that is provided with at least one panel sized and configured to close the bulkhead passageway. A nonpermanent mounting system mounts the panel to an inboard edge of the bulkhead structure to allow the at least one panel to be separably uncoupled from the bulkhead structure in response to exertion of a force of predetermined magnitude thereagainst to thereby allow unimpeded passenger egress between the adjoining vehicle cabin sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Assignee: EMBRAER S.A.
    Inventors: Beenal Gharia, Brian Rahn, Janyce Wynter, Jay Beever, Joshua Rea, Paulo Celso Pires
  • Patent number: 10953986
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for providing a modular unit through a confined entryway. The modular unit includes portions that are foldable between a transit configuration and a deployed configuration. In the transit configuration, the modular unit can fit through the confined entryway. In the deployed configuration, the modular unit may not fit through the door, but can have larger dimensions. Once past the confined entryway, the foldable portions can be quickly moved to the deployed configuration and fixed in place with a small number of pins or other fasteners. In some instances, multiple modular units may be attached together to form a larger unit. The modular units can include foldable portions, and the modular units can be connected together with a relatively small number of fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2021
    Assignee: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventors: Stephen M. Young, Carl Aaron Davison
  • Patent number: 10907382
    Abstract: A gate unit includes a gate mount that can be mount to a doorway, hallway, or staircase. A gate is mounted to the gate mount for pivotable movement between opened and closed positions. The gate unit further includes a two stage gate latch that is configured to latch the gate when the gate is in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2021
    Assignee: Dorel Juvenile Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Laura Kay Raffi, Caroline M. Hunter, Paul Dowd
  • Patent number: 10760320
    Abstract: A door drive for a motor vehicle door has a lever element which can be mounted on the body work side of the motor vehicle and which can be connected to an adjustable drive element of a drive device arranged on the motor vehicle door. The adjustable drive element is designed as a rocker element which can be mounted about a bearing axis and which includes a first lever arm by which the rocker element is at least indirectly connected to an actuator of the drive device, and also includes a second lever element by which the rocker element is connected at least indirectly to the lever element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2020
    Assignee: Bayerisch Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Marcus Knechtel, Andreas Laemmerhofer, Manuel Wernicke
  • Patent number: 10455990
    Abstract: There are described fully trackless, frameless bi-fold doors for use with conventional bathtubs, showers, or walk-in bathtubs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2019
    Assignee: Gus's Kitchen & Bath Limited
    Inventor: Gaston Yvon Dozois
  • Patent number: 10316580
    Abstract: A cover device which covers an upper part of a mounting work space of a component mounting machine includes: an openable/closable cover including a first cover portion swingable around a first swinging shaft line and a second cover portion attached to a free end of the first cover portion to be swingable around a second swinging shaft line; and a guiding device which stably holds the openable/closable cover in a half-opened state and in an entirely opened state. To hold the half-opened state of the openable/closable cover, a guide rail is provided with a downwardly curved portion at an intermediate portion of the guide rail, and a flip-up type guide provided above the curved portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2019
    Assignee: FUJI CORPORATION
    Inventors: Toshinori Shimizu, Toshihiko Yamasaki, Hiroyasu Ohashi, Masaki Murai
  • Patent number: 10077596
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a smoke or fire barrier for closing an opening in a building, the barrier including: a curtain for closing the opening; means arrangeable at a head of the opening for deploying the curtain and for retracting the curtain; guide means at sides of the opening for retaining edges of the curtain after deployment and for reducing flow of smoke past the edges of the curtain, the guide means including: a pair of jaws for holding the edges of the deployed curtain, at least one of the jaws being movable towards the other and means for moving the or each movable jaw after deployment of the curtain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: Coopers Fire Limited
    Inventors: Andrew P Cooper, William Charles James
  • Patent number: 9802704
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for providing a modular unit through a confined entryway. The modular unit includes portions that are foldable between a transit configuration and a deployed configuration. In the transit configuration, the modular unit can fit through the confined entryway. In the deployed configuration, the modular unit may not fit through the door, but can have larger dimensions. Once past the confined entryway, the foldable portions can be quickly moved to the deployed configuration and fixed in place with a small number of pins or other fasteners. In some instances, multiple modular units may be attached together to form a larger unit. The modular units can include foldable portions, and the modular units can be connected together with a relatively small number of fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Assignee: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventors: Stephen M. Young, Carl Aaron Davison
  • Patent number: 9388603
    Abstract: The present gate includes a barrier frame and a gate in the barrier frame. The gate is opened by inserting a foot into a foot opening in the gate, which action compresses springs disposed about pivot pins between the gate and the barrier frame and draws an extended latch downwardly and out of a latch receiver that is bottomless, which action unlatches and frees the gate from the barrier frame such that the gate can be swung open. Downward travel of the gate is minimized until a foot pushes a pivoting stop out of the way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Carlson Pet Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark A. Flannery, Brian G. Linehan, Elizabeth R. Volk
  • Publication number: 20140318721
    Abstract: The invention relates to a child safety gate which occupies as little space as possible when the gate is open. The child safety gate comprises two or more panels (1, 2, 3, 4) interconnected by at least one hinge (5). The panels are mounted in the opening via at least one fitting (10) connected with an end panel (3) at one side. At least one closure device (12, 13) is connected with an end panel (4) at the other side. The hinges (5) may be connected with the panels (1, 2, 3, 4), so that the panels may be folded inwardly over each other when the gate is opened. A panel top (8) and/or a panel base (9) may be connected with the panels. The panels (1, 2, 3, 4) may comprise two panel parts which may be telescoped. An extension panel may be disposed between the panel parts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2012
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventors: Henrik L Pedersen, Tina Moller-Nielsen
  • Patent number: 8720827
    Abstract: A dual function lavatory door and methods are presented. A hinged door panel comprises a doorway hinge coupled to a first side of a lavatory doorway of a lavatory. The doorway hinge positions the hinged door panel to couple to a first interior side-wall of the lavatory in a deployed position. An extendable door panel is coupled to the hinged door panel by a vertical hinge and can couple to a second side of the lavatory doorway opposite to the first side. The extendable door panel folds along the vertical hinge into an interior space of the lavatory in the deployed position. An extension panel is coupled to the extendable door panel and extends from the extendable door panel to couple to a second interior side-wall of the lavatory opposite to the first interior side-wall in the deployed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Kelly L. Boren
  • Patent number: 8713857
    Abstract: A device is disclosed that replaces an existing panel or door with a reconfigurable modular panel. The invented panel additionally may function as a working door or screen, serving to more optimally employ a room volume. The invented panel can be configured to fit various styles of door frames thus being adaptable to various entry or floor space pattern situations. The invented panel may be electrified allowing modular plug-ins to house a wide array of elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Logue
  • Patent number: 8696076
    Abstract: The invention relates to a furniture item having a furniture body and a folding flap, wherein the folding flap comprises at least three sub-flaps arranged one above the other. A first sub-flap is pivotally mounted relative to the furniture body, a second sub-flap is pivotally mounted with respect to the first sub-flap and a third sub-flap is pivotally mounted relative to the second sub-flap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Julius Blum GmbH
    Inventor: David Karg
  • Publication number: 20130133845
    Abstract: A device for shielding operation and maintenance areas comprises a frame (20) for attachment in a wall structure and one in the frame pivotably supported panel (2-5). The panel comprises two substantially plate like panel parts (5) attached to a common central member (1), and a device for pivoting the panel (1-5) between open and closed positions. The panel further comprises a top plate (2) and a bottom plate (3), between which the central member (1) and two side members (4) extend. The two panel parts (5) are release ably attached to a respective one of the side members (4), and the top 20 plate (2) and bottom plate (3) are pivotable within limits with respect to a substantially vertical axis in the area of the central member (1), said axis also substantially coinciding with the pivot axis of the panel (1-5) in the frame (20).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: IKM dsc Engineering AS
    Inventors: Olav Wierli, Gunnar Brekke, Øyvind Kaasa
  • Patent number: 8297333
    Abstract: Overhead door assemblies having both interlocking and releasable guide assemblies, and guide track assemblies for use with same are disclosed herein. An overhead door track configured in accordance with an embodiment of the invention includes a first side portion spaced apart from a second side portion to define a channel or gap region therebetween. The first side portion has a first guide surface and a first retention surface. Similarly, the second side portion has a second guide surface and a second retention surface. In this embodiment, the first and second guide surfaces diverge outwardly from the gap region in a first direction, and the first and second retention surfaces diverge inwardly from the gap region in a second direction, opposite the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: 4Front Engineered Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael M. Meichtry
  • Publication number: 20120097343
    Abstract: A blind system has a horizontally positioned tilt rail having a longitudinal axis and a plurality of slats suspended from the tilt rail via at least one connecting member. The tilt rail includes a reinforcing member and a tensioning member. The blind system also has a divided slat that is divided lengthwise into a first sub-slat and a second sub-slat and has a longitudinal axis with each of the first and second sub-slats configured to be movable with respect to each other so that when each of the plurality of slats are in an angular position with respect to the corresponding slat longitudinal axis that restricts at least a portion of light passing between the slats, either the first sub-slat or the second sub-slat has an angular position with respect to the divided slat longitudinal axis that is substantially the same as the angular position of each slat depending on a direction of rotation of the plurality of slats.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2010
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Applicant: BASILEIA INVESTMENTS, INC.
    Inventor: Trey Brant O'HAIR
  • Publication number: 20120097345
    Abstract: An architectural louver shade assembly comprising a shade canopy mounted to a rotatable central axle tube that supports a rod rib assembly to which the shade canopy is attached by adjustable tensioners that mechanically stretch and tension the fabric element of the shade canopy to remove wrinkles and sags. A wax cylinder piston attached by elements of a wax piston pressure system that changes the pitch of the shade canopy in response to temperature with a gas spring unit that returns the shade canopy to its default, horizontal orientation with decreasing temperatures. An optional manual/mechanical system that, through use of control cables, changes the pitch of the shade canopy with a gas spring unit that returns it to a default orientation. A camber cable assembly that maintains an equal compression load on the rib arm units that directly support the shade canopy, and carrier brackets that support the central axle tube and connect the louver shade assembly to a building wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2011
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Inventor: Roger R. Rountree
  • Publication number: 20110203747
    Abstract: A panel mounting system configured to securely mount a panel to a support structure includes a channel and a pivoting wedge assembly. The pivoting wedge assembly is configured to selectively lock a panel to the channel. In one or more implementations, the pivoting wedge assembly is configured to automatically rotate between a released position and a locked position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2011
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Applicant: 3FORM, INC.
    Inventors: Su-Wen U. Chen, Brian Hillstrom, Michael Damen
  • Patent number: 7942185
    Abstract: A folding leaf gate comprising a post hung section hingedly attachable to a gate post and at least one leaf hung section hingedly connected in series with the post hung section by means of one or more section hinges, wherein the folding leaf gate additionally includes a rotating device associated with the or each leaf hung section and sharing a common axis of rotation with the or each section hinge and secured in a static relationship to a leaf hung section whereby rotation of the or each rotating device causes rotation of a leaf hung section about the or each section hinge, and one or more translating devices engaging the or each rotating devices, the one or more translating device being configured, when in use, to translate rotational motion of the post hung section about a gate post to rotation of the one or more rotating devices whereby simultaneously to open a gateway closed by the folding leaf gate and fold the folding leaf gate in two or more.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Inventor: Roger George Long
  • Patent number: 7900681
    Abstract: A colonial storm shutter assembly with improved impact resistance includes shutter blade elements having a corrugated configuration that exhibits superior structural strength and bending resistance while providing an attractive face. Triple, double and single shutter blade elements overlap to provide enhanced structural strength and simplify assembly. Side frame structures include a reinforcing portion on the outside wall which provides increased strength particularly in the miter joint with top and bottom frame structures. A storm bar includes a center storm bar clip which bolts to the side frames of two shutter panels when in the closed configuration to provide enhanced structural rigidity. Center fastening angles are bolted to the side and top/bottom frames at both the top and bottom where the two shutter panels meet in the closed configuration to provide further structural strength and resistance to opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Extreme Impact Shutter Supply, Inc.
    Inventor: John Sweeney
  • Patent number: 7891400
    Abstract: Overhead door assemblies having both interlocking and releasable guide assemblies, and guide track assemblies for use with same are disclosed herein. An overhead door track configured in accordance with an embodiment of the invention includes a first side portion spaced apart from a second side portion to define a channel or gap region therebetween. The first side portion has a first guide surface and a first retention surface. Similarly, the second side portion has a second guide surface and a second retention surface. In this embodiment, the first and second guide surfaces diverge outwardly from the gap region in a first direction, and the first and second retention surfaces diverge inwardly from the gap region in a second direction, opposite the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: 4Front Engineered Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael M. Meichtry
  • Patent number: 7861762
    Abstract: Overhead door guide assemblies, guide tracks, and guide track support brackets are disclosed herein. An overhead door track assembly configured in accordance with one embodiment of the invention includes a vertical track segment mounted to a wall adjacent an opening therein, and a curved track segment operably coupled to the vertical track segment. The curved track segment includes a first guide surface spaced apart from a second guide surface to define a first gap region that movably receives the door guide members as the door moves away from the opening. The track assembly further includes a non-vertical track segment operably coupled to the curved track segment. The non-vertical track segment includes a third guide surface spaced apart from a fourth guide surface to define a second gap region that movably receives the door guide members from the curved track segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: 4Front Engineered Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael M. Meichtry
  • Publication number: 20100132895
    Abstract: A device is disclosed that replaces an existing panel or door with a reconfigurable modular panel. The invented panel additionally may function as a working door or screen, serving to more optimally employ a room volume. The invented panel can be configured to fit various styles of door frames thus being adaptable to various entry or floor space pattern situations. The invented panel may be electrified allowing modular plug-ins to house a wide array of elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Inventor: Michael Logue
  • Publication number: 20090280971
    Abstract: An arrangement for covering a machine having a machine frame, includes a covering device adapted to be attached to the machine frame above the machine. The covering device has opposite sides corresponding to opposite sides of the machine frame. Hinges are respectively connected at the opposite sides of the covering device about which the covering device can be selectively swiveled to an open or a closed position relative to the machine. Each one of the respectively arranged hinges at opposite sides of the covering device is selectively coupled to the machine frame and has a parallel-extending swiveling axis. Respectively the non-selected hinge that does not form the swiveling axis for opening the covering device is arranged to be detachable from the machine frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2009
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Applicant: Mueller Martini Holding AG
    Inventor: Simon KUNZ
  • Publication number: 20090272040
    Abstract: The combined mechanism of roller and shaft has a roller provided with dust and moisture proof means at both surfaces thereof that contribute to smooth operation of the mechanism for prolonged lifespan. The hollow structure of the shaft results in saving the material and fabrication costs. The shaft is successfully divided into a pivot section and an axle section with the aid of dexterously designed collar ringing the shaft at its front end and a ferrule holding the roller which is hinged to the riveted tip of the pivot section. The collar and the ferrule make the mechanism universally applicable to sectionalized lift up door for various applications, such as garage or vehicle door without the need of preparing different sized shafts to meet individual specifications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2008
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Applicant: PRO-HAWK CORPORATION
    Inventor: Po-Feng CHEN
  • Patent number: 7451802
    Abstract: Disclosed are door assemblies particularly well suited for opening and closing wide entries such as emergency room entries. The assemblies have multiple doors that can be overlapped at a side of the entry. If further access room is needed the doors can then be pivoted so that essentially the entire entry is open. There is an automatic latching system that activates as the doors are being pivoted to prevent some sliding motion during the pivoting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: Nabco Entrances, Inc.
    Inventors: John S. Cianciolo, Aaron D. Clark
  • Publication number: 20070272118
    Abstract: Composite bi-fold doors and other composite closures having improved assemblies are described, wherein the assemblies provide enhanced strength and durability of the doors and their construction while simultaneously maintaining their aesthetics. Additional improved bi-fold door and semi-solid door assemblies are also provided, which allow for the dimensional adjustment of the height of the doors by the installer as necessary, while simultaneously maintaining the structural integrity of the doors following the height adjustment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2007
    Publication date: November 29, 2007
    Applicant: HOME FASHION TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Ali Kashani, Reza Kashani
  • Patent number: 7036286
    Abstract: The present invention is an exterior window covering or exterior shutter that is comprised of layers of materials to form a sandwich. The sandwich material has a layer of polycarbonate material. An embodiment of the sandwich material is comprised completely of synthetic materials that are resistant to the adverse effects of sunlight, humidity, rain, heat and wind. The polycarbonate material yields an exterior shutter that retards flying objects and withstands substantial stresses from wind loads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Inventors: Grover M. Blackwell, Harry H. Rembert, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7000673
    Abstract: A gate apparatus comprising a first frame, a second frame and a plurality of rails, wherein each of the first and second frames comprises a vertical post and a plurality of cross-bars, and wherein the cross-bars of the first frame increase in length from the top cross-bar to the bottom cross-bar, and the difference in length between each cross-bar and the one below it is at least equal to the width of each rail, and wherein the cross-bars of the second frame increase in length from the bottom cross-bar to the top cross-bar, and the difference in length between each cross-bar and the one above it is at least equal to the width of each rail. The gate apparatus includes a means of attaching the rails to the cross-bars that allows the rails to pivot vertically. A wheel is attached to the vertical post of the second frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: EC Ranch
    Inventor: Edmond A. Cook
  • Patent number: 6932141
    Abstract: A gate apparatus comprising a first frame, a second frame and a plurality of rails, wherein each of the first and second frames comprises a vertical post and a plurality of cross-bars, and wherein the cross-bars of the first frame increase in length from the top cross-bar to the bottom cross-bar, and the difference in length between each cross-bar and the one below it is at least equal to the width of each rail, and wherein the cross-bars of the second frame increase in length from the bottom cross-bar to the top cross-bar, and the difference in length between each cross-bar and the one above it is at least equal to the width of each rail. The gate apparatus includes a means of attaching the rails to the cross-bars that allows the rails to pivot vertically. A wheel is attached to the vertical post of the second frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: EC Ranch
    Inventor: Edmond A. Cook
  • Patent number: 6842917
    Abstract: A spa cover lift and cover construction that easily accommodates use with odd sizes and shapes of spas. The construction uses a column which is positioned at a single location about the periphery of the spa. A foot piece can be included at the bottom of the column which slips under the spa to use the weight of the spa and water to help hold the cover lift and cover securely. The column is preferably adjustable in height. It has pivot arms which extend in recesses formed in the underside of one half of the cover. The pivot arms extend from the column out to the side edges and are looped to form a handle and return that further supports the cover on the lift. The pivot arms may have tail ends that engage a bumper when the cover lift is retracted. Control arms may be pivotally connected between the column and pivot arms to resist erratic movements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Assignee: Leisure Concepts, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael C. Genova
  • Patent number: 6823927
    Abstract: This invention discloses a pocket door. The pocket door is capable of pivoting on hinges between a fame that holds the pocket door and allows it to slide in and out of a pocket to open and close a passageway. More specifically, the pocket door is hinged to the moving frame and also includes a two-part panel, where each panel is separated from an adjacent panel by a hinge that is capable of allowing the panels to move between flush engagement wherein the two panel lie in the same plane and a position where the panels are no longer lying in the same plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Inventors: Charles F. Steel, Chris Steel
  • Publication number: 20040173327
    Abstract: This invention discloses a pocket door. The pocket door is capable of pivoting on hinges between a frame that holds the pocket door and allows it to slide in and out of a pocket to open and close a passageway. More specifically, the pocket door is hinged to the moving frame and also includes a two-part panel, where each panel is separated from an adjacent panel by a hinge that is capable of allowing the panels to move between flush engagement where the two panels lie in the same plane and a position where the panels are no longer lying in the same plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2003
    Publication date: September 9, 2004
    Applicant: CHARLES STEEL
    Inventors: Charles F. Steel, Chris Steel
  • Patent number: 6695390
    Abstract: A jointed lateral hopper door device capable of raising and retracting one or more lateral hopper doors upward, allowing a totally free access space without impeding access to the cargo material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventor: Anacleto Matteo Bucco Morello
  • Patent number: 6626227
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for a window shutter system are disclosed. A window shutter system (100) is disclosed that includes a plurality of shutter frames (106, 108). Each shutter frame (106, 108) includes a plurality of elongate members (126, 130). Each of these elongate members (126, 130) has two ends, and each end has a receiver (204, 208). The shutter frames (106, 108) also include a plurality of couplers (128, 120, 132, 140). Each coupler (128, 120, 132, 140) has at least two extensions (202, 206) for connecting adjacent elongate members. These extensions (202, 206) are adapted to interlock with the receiver (204, 208) of an associated elongate member (126, 130) such that the elongate members (126, 130) and the couplers (128, 120, 132, 140) cannot rotate relative to one another. In addition to the shutter frames (106, 108), the shutter system (100) also includes at least one hinge (112, 114) that may be used to couple one of the elongate members (126, 130) to a window frame (110).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Inventor: Jean A. Turner
  • Patent number: 6499254
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a pair of frame members adapted for mounting to opposing surfaces of a passageway. A door is mounted to at least one of the frame members for movement between a closed position, in which the door and frame members substantially traverse the passageway and an open position, in which a portion of the passageway is free of the door and frame members, the portion being large enough to permit passage of an adult therethrough. A lock is coupled to at least one of the frame members and adapted to retain the door in the closed position, the lock including an actuator adapted to release the lock to permit movement of the door from the closed position toward the open position upon application to the actuator of a force of at least a predetermined weight of a child.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Assignee: The First Years Inc.
    Inventors: Jon R. Rossman, Bryan R. Hotaling, Carl J. Conforti
  • Publication number: 20020189770
    Abstract: At least one rigid shutter frame is pivotally mountable to a window frame on the inside of a dwelling. The shutter may be pivoted from a closed position covering the window to an open position which may be generally parallel to a portion of the wall of a dwelling adjacent to the window frame. The shutter has at least one light transmitting aperture formed therethrough, the edges of which are not parallel to the edges of the shutter frame but are decoratively formed in outline within the light transmitting aperture of the frame. The shutter frame, in co-operation with its light transmitting aperture formed therethrough, may be a bi-fold shutter. The shutter frame may be decorated, separately or in combination, with a backdrop of light diffusing fabric sheer curtains sandwiching light inhibiting curtains between the sheer curtains and the frame. The sandwiched curtains may be centrally gathered or may be colorful murals made from translucent fabric panels or may be slats.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventor: Michelle C. Van Hee
  • Patent number: 6357509
    Abstract: A security closure device to protect a building opening and a closure member. The device includes a main security panel and a narrower secondary security panel that are hingedly mounted to each other. The side of the main security panel opposite to the smaller security panel is hingedly mounted to a security casing assembly inside the building defining the protected opening. A user can readily unlock the narrower panel from the casing assembly from inside the building without requiring a key or combination. From the outside, a key or combination is required. To open the inwardly swinging security closure, a user opens the closure member a sufficient distance determined by the width of the secondary panel to unlock it. The angular travel of the secondary panel with respect to the main security panel is limited by a stopper assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Inventor: Ladislao Lamazares
  • Patent number: 6345475
    Abstract: Pivotably mounted barriers extending across a portion of and staggered in an alternating manner from opposite sides and spaced apart as to permit directed travel up or down stairs or staircase. Barriers extend across staircase to the extent that in addition to acting as an aid in ascending or descending, should a person stumble or lose their footing, their fall would be interupted within a few feet instead of tumbling all the way to the bottom suffering certain injury and possible death.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2002
    Inventor: Kevin Darnell Flory
  • Patent number: 6257523
    Abstract: A stowable aircraft cabin vertical partition comprising (1) at least three rigid rectangular-shaped panels attached to each other by panel hinges along the horizontal joints between the panels, that permit the partition to hang vertically when in use and to be fan folded along the joints when stowed (2) a partition support to which the partition is attached near or along its top edge, (3) a stowage support which holds the fan-folded partition next to the support for stowage; wherein a portion of the panels form a vertically-hinged cabin access door having a sufficient number of vertical and horizontal hinges to keep the panels of the access door in a planar alignment with each other when the partition is in use, and to be fan folded with the rest of the partition when the partition is stowed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Michael J. Olliges
  • Publication number: 20010000556
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a pair of frame members adapted for mounting to opposing surfaces of a passageway. A door is mounted to at least one of the frame members for movement between a closed position, in which the door and frame members substantially traverse the passageway, and an open position, in which a portion of the passageway is free of the door and frame members, the portion being large enough to permit passage of an adult therethrough. A lock is coupled to at least one of the frame members and adapted to retain the door in the closed position, the lock including an actuator adapted to release the lock to permit movement of the door from the closed position toward the open position upon application to the actuator of a force of at least a predetermined weight of a child.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2000
    Publication date: May 3, 2001
    Applicant: The First Years Inc., a Delaware Corporation
    Inventors: Jon R. Rossman, Bryan R. Hotaling, Carl J. Conforti
  • Patent number: 6176042
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a pair of frame members adapted for mounting to opposing surfaces of a passageway. A door is mounted to at least one of the frame members for movement between a closed position, in which the door and frame members substantially traverse the passageway, and an open position, in which a portion of the passageway is free of the door and frame members, the portion being large enough to permit passage of an adult therethrough. A lock is coupled to at least one of the frame members and adapted to retain the door in the closed position, the lock including an actuator adapted to release the lock to permit movement of the door from the closed position toward the open position upon application to the actuator of a force of at least a predetermined weight of a child.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Assignee: The First Years Inc.
    Inventors: Jon R. Rossman, Bryan R. Hotaling
  • Patent number: 6161992
    Abstract: A machining system has a frame forming a working station and a mounting plate movable relative to the frame in and adjacent the station in a first main direction, in a second direction transverse to the main direction, and in a third direction transverse to the first and second directions. A machine tool head is mounted on the mounting plate and a plurality of struts have outer ends swiveled on the mounting plate and extending inward away from the plate. A mechanism acting on the struts moves the plate and tool head in the three directions. A main panel is movable only in the first and second directions and the head is mounted in the panel for movement relative thereto only in the third direction. In addition a pair of side panels of changeable length each have an inner edge connected along a respective inner axis parallel to the third direction to a respective outer edge of the main panel and a respective outer edge connected at a respective outer axis parallel to the third direction on the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Assignee: Ernst Krause & Co.
    Inventors: Franz Holy, Karl Steiner
  • Patent number: 6155520
    Abstract: The present invention is relative to a panel hinged on a receiving part, along at least one curved contour edge, by means of two hinges which define a geometric axis of rotation around which the panel pivots between an open position and a closed position. The panel includes fittings intended to engage, during rotation of the panel between its open and closed positions, with reception fittings carried by the receiving part, in order to press the aforesaid curved edge of the panel against the receiving part, the fittings fixed to the panel describing a curved trajectory the center of which is situated on the axis of rotation around which the panel pivots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Assignee: Eurocopter
    Inventors: Christian Jean Raymond Giraud, Roland Jocelyn Felicien Chave
  • Patent number: 6079762
    Abstract: The invention relates to a side wall for the body 1, 2, 3 of a vehicle, having at its upper longitudinal edge an upper wall portion 4 pivotably connected to the vehicle body 1, 2, 3 via a first horizontal pivot pin 6, and a lower wall portion 5 which at its upper longitudinal edge is hingeably disposed on the lower longitudinal edge of the upper wall portion 4, while engaging with at least one of the two lateral edges of the upper wall portion 4 is a lifting arm 8 which is articulated via its other end to the upper transverse frame portion 2 of the vehicle body via a third, driven pivot pin 9 parallel with the first pivot pin 6 and the second pivot pin 7.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Inventor: Johann Strasser
  • Patent number: 5904199
    Abstract: A new garage door screen for allowing for a garage to be ventilated. Also included is a screen door having a generally rectangular configuration. The screen door is defined by a peripheral frame including opposed long upper and lower members and opposed short side members. The peripheral frame has a mesh screen extending therewithin. The long upper member is hingedly secured to a bottom edge of a garage door. The screen door hangs below the bottom edge of the garage door in an open orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1999
    Inventor: Caroline F. Messner