Nonplanar (e.g., Three Dimension) Patents (Class 160/352)
  • Patent number: 11045916
    Abstract: This machine tool comprises a machining chamber in which machining of a workpiece is performed, and a tool storage chamber in which a plurality of tools are stored. The machine tool is further provided with a partition which partitions the machining chamber and tool storage chamber from one another. The machine tool is positioned on the front side of the machining chamber, and is equipped with a first sliding door that moves in the width direction, and a second sliding door that is positioned on the front side of the tool storage chamber and that moves in the width direction. The first sliding door and second sliding door are positioned in such a manner that one of the sliding doors is positioned on the front side of the other sliding door, and when one of the sliding doors is opened, said door overlaps with the other sliding door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2021
    Assignee: MAKINO MILLING MACHINE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Daisuke Takada, Keisuke Tange, Kazumasa Nakayasu
  • Patent number: 10626602
    Abstract: A workstation includes a frame having a lower rail and a plurality of upright posts coupled to and extending upwardly from the lower rail. Each upright post has a track. The workstation also includes a plurality of panels supported by the frame. Each panel has a first side edge received in the track of one of the plurality of upright posts, a second side edge received in the track of another of the plurality of upright posts, and a lower edge adjacent the lower rail. The lower edge has a first length. Each panel also has an upper edge opposite the lower edge. The upper edge has a second length that is longer than the first length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2020
    Assignee: HERMAN MILLER, INC.
    Inventor: Richard Holbrook
  • Patent number: 10106999
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an arrangement of cinemas in multiplex cinemas, comprising: at least one first row (1) of contiguous cinemas (1a) provided with a projection screen (P) and with stadium-type seating (G) arranged on an inclined surface (15). The cinemas (1a) of the first row have a trapezoidal layout with: a larger end (11) where the projection screen (p) is arranged, a smaller end (12), and two oblique sides (13, 14). The present invention also relates to an arrangement for a cinema room for a multi-screen cinema, in which each of the cinema rooms has a film projector (1), a screen (2) and tiers of seats (3) with multiple rows of seats (3a, 3b, . . . , 3n) arranged to different heights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2018
    Assignee: VALLESVIU, S.A.
    Inventor: Pere Maria Sallent Puigcercos
  • Patent number: 10077557
    Abstract: A corner piece for a rainwater gutter system having an angled front wall extending at a 45 degree angle to increase the amount of water able to be collected by the corner piece, with each end of a main section of the front wall having an angled out wing section slidably receiving an end of one of the straight gutter sections. The manufacturing method minimizes scrap by the shape of a blank used to form the corner piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventors: Robert E. Joly, Robert Brayman
  • Patent number: 9347170
    Abstract: An expandable and customizable cabinet apparatus for supporting clothes when hanging them to dry includes a housing that forms an enclosure with an opening on one side. A door connected to the housing is able to open to substantially 180 degrees. A frame is connected in a hinging arrangement to the housing allowing it to swing relative to the housing between the housing and the door. The frame includes an anchoring grid. A series of articulating hanging racks are affixed to the anchoring grid and held in a horizontal position with support members. The hanging racks may be articulated downward to a position flush with the anchoring grid, and the enclosed with the frame inside the housing and door when closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2016
    Inventor: Lynnette Van Orden Moore
  • Patent number: 9228367
    Abstract: A modular trade show booth includes a plurality of frame structures connected to form a floor support frame, a first wall support frame and a second wall support frame. A floor panel disposed on the floor support frame. A first wall panel disposed on the first wall support frame, and second wall panel disposed on the second wall support frame. A panel hanger may be attached to the wall panel to facilitate hanging the wall panel on the first wall support frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Inventor: Shawn Schoellkopf
  • Patent number: 8985182
    Abstract: A foldable welding screen includes first and second elongate members each with a first end, a second end and an intermediate point. Intermediate point includes a pivoting connection with the first ends of the first and second elongate members being pivotally connected and the second ends of the first and second elongate members being pivotally connected. A stabilizing member has a first portion that is pivotally connected to the intermediate point of the first elongate member and a second portion that is pivotally connected to the intermediate point of the second elongate member. The first portion of the stabilizing member is movable relative to the second portion of the stabilizing member. A flexible substrate is attached to the first elongate member and the second elongate member. The first and second elongate members move between an erected position and a collapsed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Inventor: Greg Fredin
  • Patent number: 8919418
    Abstract: A curtain assembly includes a curtain, or panel of flexible material, such as fabric, forming a generally smooth surface extending between a first anchor assembly and a second anchor assembly. Slits through the fabric are sized and arranged to be stretched opened to form respective openings in response to relatively small amounts of stretching of the panel between the two anchor assemblies with a tension force. The openings may be re-closed by allowing the panel to return to a relaxed state. The opening and closing action can be repeated according to new methods to controllably vary the amount of light that the curtain assembly allows through the panel. The curtain assembly may be used as part of various larger assemblies and in various environments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Inventor: Maria Paulina Carvallo
  • Patent number: 8910694
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a portable modesty guard apparatus. More specifically, the present invention relates to a portable modesty guard for creating a private space in a public, or other, area. The portable modesty guard provides a unique construction which allows the user to collapse, store and carry the device in a way that allows it to be set-up quickly and packed away in a lightweight, portable unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Inventor: Tina L. Kandakai
  • Publication number: 20140250804
    Abstract: A sound attenuating covering for an architectural opening is provided. The covering may include a frame, a first shade, and a second shade. The frame may include opposing side members, each defining an opposing channel extending along at least a portion of the side member. The first shade may be positioned forward of the frame and may define a plurality of horizontally-extending, transversely-collapsible cells. The second shade may be positioned rearward of the first shade and may be slidably received within the channels of the side members. The first and second shades may be operably coupled to a roller and may move in conjunction with one another across the architectural opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2014
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Applicant: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Ko Kuperus, Fabian Ruffo
  • Patent number: 8783328
    Abstract: An acoustic panel assembly may have one or more panels adaptable for reflecting sound waves and a support member to which the one or more panels may be attached. The support member may be extendable and retractable. The one or more panels and the support member may be collapsible into a housing. The one or more panels may be configured in one or more substantially planar portions, one or more substantially curved portions, or a combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Jim Melhart Paino and Organ Company
    Inventor: Jimmie Ray Melhart
  • Patent number: 8746300
    Abstract: A monitor system having: a) a monitor for an electronic device with a frame and a substantially flat front wall, at which an image is projected; and b) a cover assembly with a front wall that is configured to block the flat front wall of the monitor with the cover assembly operatively engaged with the monitor. The cover assembly further has a mounting assembly that allows the cover assembly to be changed between: i) a first state wherein the cover assembly is fully separated from the monitor; and ii) a second state wherein the cover assembly is operatively engaged with the monitor. The mounting assembly has a pocket that opens in a first direction. The pocket is movable in the first direction relative to the monitor from a separated, pre-assembly position to cause a first part of the monitor to be seated in the pocket with the cover assembly in the second state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Inventors: James E. Healy, Jr., Susan F. Healy
  • Patent number: 8672015
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for security and privacy that is securable to the frame of a window and mountable from the interior of a building. The device comprises a slanted front panel mounted at an angle to allow an open bottom panel and side panels to provide airflow. The panels may be comprised of a mesh screen material to allow airflow when secured in place over an open window, providing airflow and privacy while still providing a level of security for a user. A vertical frame mounts to the rails of a sliding screen along its upper edge, and secures around the bottom of the sliding screen to allow synchronized movement of the two during operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Croteau
  • Publication number: 20130340956
    Abstract: A motor vehicle accessory capable of shielding the interior of a car from the sun, specifically a device that can cover the entire interior surface of a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Inventor: Alfredo P. Bernardo
  • Patent number: 8579007
    Abstract: An improved hunting blind having a mirrored outwardly facing surface and a camouflaged inwardly facing surface. The blind includes four panels that are hingedly connected together with invisible hinges for allowing the blind to be foldably compacted in the manner of an accordion for conveniently storing and transporting the blind. The top edge of the blind is formed with an irregular, zig-zag shaped contour for allowing the blind to blend in with a natural surrounding environment. When the blind is expanded and erected for use, the mirrored front surface of the blind is tilted forward. A game animal looking onto the front of the blind from a distance therefore sees only a reflection of the terrain surrounding the blind, thereby making the blind substantially indiscernible from the surrounding terrain and effectively obscuring a hunter positioned behind the blind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: GhostBlind Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin L. Pottmeyer, Chester W. Burdette
  • Patent number: 8540007
    Abstract: Door elements are disclosed herein. An example door element includes a first flexible door movably coupled relative to a wall between at least a first closed position to cover a first portion of a doorway, a first open position to enable a vehicle to access to the doorway, and an intermediate position to engage a first surface of the vehicle when the vehicle is adjacent the doorway. The door element also includes a second flexible door movably coupled relative to the wall between at least a second closed position to cover a second portion of the doorway, a second open position to enable the vehicle to access the second portion of the doorway, and a second intermediate position to engage a second surface of the vehicle when the vehicle is positioned adjacent the door opening, where the first and second flexible doors each deform to pivot relative to the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Rite-Hite Holding Corporation
    Inventor: Leif Kniese
  • Publication number: 20130175423
    Abstract: An articulated panel that provides both a cover and a support structure for an object, such as a slate computing device, is disclosed. The articulated panel may be converted from a flat position to a folding position that may serve as a support structure. The support structure may be fluidly adjusted into many different standing positions; both portrait and landscape. When the articulated panel is in the folded position, the supported object is sturdy in all provided positions. Two pyramid-based structures and an internal joint at a junction therebetween make this possible. An inversion pulled into one of these pyramid structures by a tether provides both automatic folding as well as additional stability in the support structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2013
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Inventor: Isaiah COBERLY
  • Patent number: 8464493
    Abstract: A configuration, all components of which are man portable in some embodiments, for holding panels to protect assets against external force and impacts from airborne projectiles. An open box-like stackable frame module holds panels along a side of the frame. Multiple frames are connected to construct a protective barrier, such as a wall. Frames include provisions for connection in a vertical configuration so as to allow stacking of the frames to increase the height of the barrier. A method of installing is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Nicholas Boone, Bartley P. Durst, Toney K. Cummins, Pamela G. Kinnebrew, William F. Heard, Thomas R. Slawson, Michael J. Roth, Ryan Stinson, Reed Mosher, Jerry C. Edwards, Andrew B. Edwards, Jason D. Edwards, Shane H. Sanford, Robert A. Pilgrim
  • Patent number: 8347935
    Abstract: A rigid retractable patio or window awning includes a number of rigid panels disposed in a tiered relationship with each other. Each lower panel is slidably connected with its respective upper panel via a set of slides. The top panel remains stationary. An awning operating mechanism includes arms connected via swivel joints with the bottom panel. Each arm also is connected via a threaded nut with a drive screw. The awning is extended by rotating the drive screw, which causes the nuts to travel along the drive screw causing the arms to push the bottom panel outwardly and the bottom panel to pull along any intermediate panels. The awning is retracted by rotating the drive screw in the opposite direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Inventors: Alexander Svirsky, Vladimir Svirsky
  • Patent number: 8235086
    Abstract: A multi-section screen system includes a first of the flexible sheets of screen material that has zipper teeth along at least one side edge and a neighboring second flexible sheet of screen material that has mating zipper teeth along an abutting side edge. Mechanisms retract and deploy each of the flexible sheets in unison. A fastener is fixedly disposed between each two of the mechanisms. The fasteners automatically join the zipper teeth with the mating zipper teeth as the mechanisms deploy the flexible sheets and the fasteners automatically disengaging the zipper teeth from the mating zipper teeth as the mechanisms retract the flexible sheets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Inventor: Richard C. Smith
  • Patent number: 8196639
    Abstract: A modular panel assembly that allows for rapid and relatively simple installation, while also providing flexibility for easy adaptation to any of a variety of constructions types. In some embodiments, the modular panel assembly involves panels which are prefabricated with panel connectors. Additionally, in some embodiments, the assembly involves two panel types that are substantially similar in their outward appearance, but differ internally so as to enable each of straight and non-straight surfaces for a structure being built.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Bellcomb Technologies Incorporated
    Inventors: David Bell Hartwell, Jason David Pobul, Sharon Marie Johnson
  • Patent number: 8156995
    Abstract: Door elements having FinRay structures are described herein. An example door element described herein is movable between a closed position in which the element extends across a doorway to at least partially block the doorway, and an open position where at least a portion of the element moves to a non-blocking position relative to the doorway. The door element includes a first flexible side element to transmit tensile forces and has a proximal end and a distal end. The door element includes a second flexible side element to resist compressive forces and has a proximal end and a distal end. The first and second side elements are coupled to each other at their distal ends. The element includes a plurality of connecting ribs flexibly coupled to the first and second side elements to transmit tensile forces between the first and second side elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Rite-Hite Holding Corporation
    Inventor: Leif Kniese
  • Publication number: 20120055640
    Abstract: An easy curtain structure contains a curtain piece formed in a continuous curve and concave shape, allowing to be folded, including a plurality of bores disposed on a number of raised folding ribs thereof respectively in a cross arrangement, and including at least one positioning structure mounted on a top and a bottom ends thereof respectively so as to be expended and to be fixed by using the positioning structure, wherein the positioning structure includes at lease one sucker fixed on the top and the bottom ends of the curtain piece, thereby the sunshine is stopped to directly shine indoors by the continuously curved and concaved curtain piece or through the bores to obtain heatproof, anti-sun, and bright effect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2010
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Inventor: Ming-Che Wu
  • Patent number: 8037920
    Abstract: A retractable rigid window awning includes a number of U-shaped panels pivotally attached to a building on the sides of a window. In the retracted position, the panels are disposed above the window, in tiers. Each panel has a pair of actuators that enable its extension and retraction. Each actuator is attached to the panel at one end and to a movable nut at the other end via articulated joints. The nuts are installed on a driving screw attached to the building. The awning is extended by rotating the screw, which causes the nuts to travel along the screw. The actuators push their respective panels out and tilt them down. Depending on the length of actuators, panels travel different distances from the building creating a continuous shade over the window. The awning is retracted by rotating the screw in the opposite direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Inventors: Alexander Svirsky, Vladimir Svirsky
  • Patent number: 7913740
    Abstract: A three dimensional shade to provide a three dimensional layer structure and profile includes a movable frame and a shade. The movable frame is installed on any two sliding docks movable on a track of a upper beam. The movable frame includes at least two coupling plates that are hinged together to hang the shade. A drawing element is provided to draw and perform retraction and extension operations so that the shade can be retracted and extended to form a profile same as the movable frame to achieve the three dimensional effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: A-Nan Chen
  • Patent number: 7874090
    Abstract: At least two upright subassemblies, each with a base, radial positioning members; an outer tubular member, an inner tubular member slidably received in the outer tubular member; a plunger for selective engagement with aperture(s) in the outer tubular member, upper and lower horizontal bars secured to the radial positioning members, and a flexible display secured to each set of upper and lower horizontal bars, the radial positioning members for selective positioning between selected convex, concave, in-line and right angle positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Inventor: Rodger H. Flagg
  • Patent number: 7676971
    Abstract: A display system for trade shows and method for assembly thereof. The display system comprises lower and upper lateral frame members, and a plurality of vertical members adapted to connect releasably at the top and bottom to the lateral frame members. Each vertical member has a lower portion that extends outside a first reference plane, and an upper portion that extends outside said first reference plane in the direction opposite the direction of extension of the lower portion. The system further comprises a plurality of legs connected to respective vertical members and releasable fasteners for attaching a sheet of flexible material to the lower and upper lateral members and at least two vertical elongate members for displaying information. The invention also includes a method for assembling a display as described above without the use of extrinsic tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Classic Exhibits, Inc.
    Inventors: Mel White, Kevin Carty
  • Patent number: 7654045
    Abstract: A weather barrier is provided for a frangible element such as a window having an outer perimeter, the frame including a plurality of struts defining a converging end and a diverging end of the frame, the diverging end having a given periphery, a plurality of brackets disposed about the outer perimeter of the frangible element, the diverging end of the frame engageable with the brackets to space the converging end spaced from the window, the given periphery of the diverging end corresponding to the outer perimeter of the window, and a flexible material encapsulating the frame to define an enclosed volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: StormBlok Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: J. Parr Wiegel
  • Publication number: 20100011641
    Abstract: An assembly includes a flexurally deformed panel, which is connected to a membrane tie by a linear connector and is tied by the membrane tie to form a geometrically stable pre-stressed structure. More than one panel may be flexurally deformed and tied together in an assembly and more than one membrane tie may be present within an assembly. Panels are typically semi-rigid sheet materials, for example metal sheets, plastic sheets, or sheets of composite materials, such as glass or carbon fibre reinforced plastics or resins. Membrane tie members are typically flexible, for example plastic films, fabrics or nets or arrays of rods or cables. The assemblies have many different geometric forms and many different practical applications. Assemblies may be relatively large, for example demountable and reusable shelters or flat-pack point-of-purchase display assemblies, or may be relatively small, for example a photograph or postcard display system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Applicant: CONTRA VISION LIMITED
    Inventor: G. Roland Hill
  • Publication number: 20090121207
    Abstract: Disclosed is an enclosure for a water containing body, the enclosure including a frame configurable between multiple frame positions, a connective material associated with the frame, wherein the connective material is configurable into multiple connective material positions, and at least one association structure configured to moveably associate at least a portion of the frame with the water containing body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2007
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Inventor: James Patrick Bowerman
  • Patent number: 7434280
    Abstract: A bed enclosure having a frame, four sidewalls, and a mattress support component suitable for supporting a bed mattress, wherein the bed enclosure is adapted to safely retain within its interior a person who may be prone to falling out of bed or who otherwise may need to be restrained therein, with the bed enclosure having component subframes that can be disassembled for ease of use and storage and sidewalls that can be removed for ease of cleaning, repair, or replacement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Inventor: Patrick C. Cyr
  • Patent number: 7374225
    Abstract: A tarpaulin system that turns a flatbed trailer into a fully covered trailer and closes to provide an open flatbed trailer. The system is comprised of a plurality of inverted U-shaped support bows extending laterally across the trailer and secured to sections of the tarpaulin. Each support bow has rollers secured thereto for sliding movement along rails on each side of the trailer. A plurality of pairs of inverted U-shaped uplifting bows also extend laterally across the trailer and are pivotally secured to the support bows on opposite sides to spread apart during opening of the system. Intermediate support rods are secured between adjacent pairs of uplifting bows and extend laterally across the trailer between the uplifting bows beneath the tarpaulin sections to restrict the tarpaulin sections from falling between the uplifting bows when the system is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Inventor: Brian W. Petelka
  • Patent number: 7194841
    Abstract: A fitting room (11) as a dressing room is adapted to have its entrance (12) opened and closed by drawing a curtain (14). The curtain is suspended from the tip ends of beam members of a curtain suspension apparatus (15) mounted on a ceiling plate (17). When closing the entrance (12), the curtain suspension apparatus (15) can deploy the curtain (14) in such a manner as to spread it outwardly relative to the fitting room (11) with respect to the entrance (12). The interior space closed with the curtain (14) can thus be enlarged when the curtain (14) is closed to use the fitting room (11). When the curtain (14) is opened, the space that was occupied by the curtain (14) when it was closed can be used for other purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: Shima Seiki Manufacturing Limited
    Inventors: Masahiro Shima, Reiji Arikita
  • Patent number: 7163044
    Abstract: A roller shade assembly includes a drape bar extending adjacent a rotatably supported roller tube to suspend a portion of a flexible shade fabric windingly received by the roller tube. The drape bar includes a fabric-receiving portion that is shaped along at least a portion of its length to be non-linear so that the suspended portion of the shade fabric defines a curve across its width. The fabric-receiving portion of the drape bar may be continuously curved. Alternatively, the fabric-receiving portion may include substantially straight segments each longitudinally misaligned with adjacently located segments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.
    Inventor: David A. Kirby
  • Patent number: 7086445
    Abstract: Waste materials are composted in an elongate pit which is maintained covered to retain odors. The pit includes two rails each arranged along a respective side of the opening for receiving operating machines and a carriage for supplying a covering sheet. Each side edge of the sheet has attached thereto a channel shaped support member arranged for engaging over the respective rail so as to attach the side edge to the rail. A reel is mounted on the carriage and is arranged to roll the sheet and the two support members onto the reel and to un-roll the sheet and the two support members therefrom for deployment. An arch support bridges the support members and can flex to a flat condition from rolling on the reel. The carriage includes guides for moving the support members apart to a wider spacing for rolling on to the reel with the sheet flat and for guiding the support members onto the rails and for bowing the arch upwardly in the deployed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Inventors: Walter John Curry, Michael Francis Curry
  • Patent number: 6857460
    Abstract: A portable paintball bunker for temporary deployment atop a playing surface of a paintball game field to provide a shelter for a player from being hit by a paintball shot from a paintball marker of an opposing player. The bunker includes an open perimeter frame assembly formed of straight tubular frame members including one central upright frame member, two diagonal upper edge frame members and two lower ground-supported frame members and connecting fittings for attaching ends of the tubular frame members together to define two substantially upright planar right triangular shaped perimeter frames having a common upright central edge therebetween defined by the central upright frame member. A flexible cover is also provided including two substantially right triangular panels having a common upright margin, each panel extending over one of the perimeter frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Inventor: Todd Mowry
  • Patent number: 6761205
    Abstract: A flow device for location within an aperture (A) to regulate flow through the aperture on a path from a first location (5) on one side of the aperture to a second location (6) on the other side of the aperture wherein there is provided a barrier (1) defined by a sequence of vertical elements; device for driving the sequence of elements, so that the barrier serves to generate a predetermined wave form along the path such that the barrier serves to create in sequence: an entry region for occupation by at least one individual which entry region is initially open toward the one side of the aperture but isolated from the other side of the aperture; a traversing region (R) on the path generated from the entry region by progressive movement of the barrier, and an exit region open towards the other side of the aperture but isolated form the one side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Inventor: Eric John Atherton
  • Patent number: 6749001
    Abstract: The invention provides a combined decorative and utility unit, which has a decorative screen assembly as its basic element. The screen assembly can be combined with other appliances to achieve a variety of utility purposes such as sun blinds, screen windows, window privacy partitions, decor wall panels, and decorative storage units. The screen assembly has a laminar member, preferably having a graphic display, attached to frame members. Relative positions of the frame members may be adjusted by a cam arrangement to vary tension in the laminar member. The screen assembly can be horizontally attached to a wall to work as a decor wall panel, or vertically attached to a wall as a divider or a poster. When combined with supporting elements, the screen assembly can stand on the ground to work as sun blinds or window privacy partitions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Inventor: Robert Anthony Peppett
  • Patent number: 6622771
    Abstract: An arcuately displaceable privacy screen assembly, comprising: (a) a frame sub-assembly having an internal aperture contained therein, wherein at least a portion of the internal aperture is covered with a privacy screen; and (b) at least two ground engaging wheels associated with the frame sub-assembly, wherein the at least two ground engaging wheels controllably direct displacement of the privacy screen in an arcuate path of travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Xibitz, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles R. Plockmeyer
  • Patent number: 6546990
    Abstract: A winding mechanism for a screen which is stretched in the form of a tunnel during use includes a winding tube which is rotatable about an axis of rotation for winding and unwinding said screen. A guide for the screen is disposed beside the winding tube, which guide is curved in such a manner that the distance via the guide and via the surface of the winding tube surface to a line on the surface of the winding tube that extends parallel to the axis of rotation is the same for all points that are located at the same longitudinal position on the screen. In a further embodiment, a rectilinear auxiliary guide can be disposed between said guide and said winding tube, in such a manner that the screen will make contact therewith over its entire width.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Inalfa Industries B.V.
    Inventor: Piet Peeters
  • Patent number: 6516571
    Abstract: A screen apparatus includes a perimeter frame with a notch and arcuate foot in one of the bottom corners that are adapted to receive a raised floor device, such as a raised power outlet. A covering covers the frame but the notch is not covered. The covering is preferably a light-passing translucent sheet of performance fabric which is adapted to pass light sufficient for a viewer to see a person behind the screen, but which scatters and blocks sufficient light to provide privacy by hiding details of the person's work from the viewer. The screen apparatus also includes bowed frame members extending horizontally between some of the outer frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas Overthun, George J. Simons, Jr., Thomas B. Eich, James N. Ludwig, David M. Gresham
  • Patent number: 6367536
    Abstract: A vehicle window screen for a window opening of a vehicle in the form of a curtain having a shape generally conforming to the window opening of the vehicle is disclosed. The curtain having an upper portion, a central portion and a lower portion with elastomeric members disposed thereon the portions. The upper portion removably attachable on a top portion of a door of the vehicle above the window opening of the vehicle, the central portion removably attachable on a side edge of the door of the vehicle and the lower portion removably attachable on the door of the vehicle below the window opening of the vehicle and a means for removably fastening the lower portion of the curtain to the side edge of the door of the vehicle including a clip and a mechanical stop member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Inventor: Shirley St Louis
  • Patent number: 6240939
    Abstract: A portable and foldable shelter for use by ice fishermen and other outdoorsmen is described. A tripod of pole members, hingedly interconnected at one end, is covered with a canvas or plastics cover. A hinged tang is provided on the central pole member which can be secured to the ice and about which the erected shelter can be rotated to keep the open side thereof directly downwind in the event of a wind shift.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Inventor: Charles P. McGee
  • Patent number: 6116326
    Abstract: A mobile screen having a "T"-shape for use on a ground surface is disclosed. The screen includes a base section having at least one panel providing a first surface having a first surface treatment and a second surface having a second surface treatment. The screen may also include an end section having at least one panel providing a first surface having a first surface treatment and a second surface having a second surface treatment. The base section is rigidly coupled to the end section to form the "T"-shape. At least one surface treatment of the base section or the end section is a functional surface treatment intended to selectively provide for the display of information. The screen may include a base section having a vertical frame member and at least one base panel extending therefrom and an end section having a pair of vertical frame members with at least one end panel extending therebetween. The mobile screen may also be provided with a handle or a tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Lyle Domina, Paul Brian Siebert, Jess Allen Sorel, Paul Jesus Espinoza, Lewis Mark Epstein, David Eric Simon
  • Patent number: 6105654
    Abstract: A cooler partition providing a top side, a bottom side being in spaced relation to the top side, a first side connecting a first distal end of the top side to a first distal end of the bottom side, a second side being in spaced relation to the first side, the second side connecting a second distal end of the top side to a second distal end of the bottom side, a center portion having a plurality of openings therethrough, at least one clamp projecting outwardly from the first side, the clamp having first and second opposed side portions, the first side portion and the second side portion being in spaced relation to one another and defining a post-receiving pocket therebetween, and, at least one hinge provided in the second side, the at least one hinge including a post and a clamp-receiving slot provided through the insert between the post and the center portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Inventor: Paul A. Martel
  • Patent number: 6092583
    Abstract: A closure member comprises a flexible sheet curved wavily so as to wave in the horizontal direction, and a drive which causes the flexible sheet to wave forward. A closure structure comprises this closure member and is further provided with a wall member on each side of the flexible sheet in the hill-to-valley direction in its side view, which may further be provided with a moving floor beneath the flexible sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Assignees: Nisshin Steel Co., Ltd., Nisshin A & C Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hidetoshi Furusawa
  • Patent number: 6070371
    Abstract: A large structure enshrouder has a block collector that is secured to the top of the large structure, a plurality of outriggers secured to the top, below the block collector, and a plurality of booms secured to the legs of the large structure. A plurality of first cables are each secured to the shroud, pass through an outrigger, are secured to the block collector and terminate at a collector ring, the collector ring being connected to an appropriate pulling device for lifting the shroud. A plurality of second cables extend between the top and the outrigger for stability of the outrigger, while a plurality of third cables extend between the block collector and the outrigger for further stability. A plurality of fourth cables extend between the booms and the leg of the structure for stability of the booms, the booms also being anchored to the ground. A plurality of fifth cables and sixth cables extend between the outriggers and the booms for stability of the raised shroud during wind load conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Inventor: Jim Myrick
  • Patent number: 6029731
    Abstract: This facing surround assembly is provided which can be installed without fabrication in the field by a single person with average hand tool skills. The facing surround is generally made of non-combustible material and is generally used in conjunction with a fireplace or other wood/gas burning appliance. The invention consists of two corner members, one or more horizontal headers, zero or more corner miters, and two vertical support members positioned. Any particular configuration of the facing can accommodate range of openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: David O. Brazell
  • Patent number: 6015184
    Abstract: A sunshade (42) for substantially covering ail automotive vehicle roof (32) has a plurality of roof bows (70 and 72) and a flexible sheet (50) spanning between these bows, all of which are slidably disposed proximate with an inside surface (40) of the roof (32).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Assignee: ASC Incorporated
    Inventors: Kip A. Ewing, Richard D. George
  • Patent number: RE37013
    Abstract: A tee divider for a golf ball driving range is provided of unitary construction having an upstanding wall and a console-like formation at one end thereof provided with outwardly opening storage pockets for articles, said pockets having drains for eliminating liquid accumulating in said pockets and grooves in a surface of said formation for holding a golf club in a vertical position. The divider has laterally protruding flanges for anchoring it at the site of the tee provided on the golf driving range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Assignee: Wittek Golf Supply Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Wittek, Sr., Aron Cantrell, Terry Sopko