Collapsible Or Knockdown Patents (Class 160/377)
  • Patent number: 11032402
    Abstract: The present invention provides a mobile terminal having an inward-foldable flexible screen and its hinge comprises a left support plate, a middle support plate, a right support plate, a left support frame, a right support frame, and a central U-shaped cover; the middle support plate is a liftable plate whose position corresponds to the middle U-shaped cover, and the descent distance of the middle support plate in the first half of the hinge being folded from the unfolded state is greater than that of the second half of the hinge being folded from the unfolded state. The present invention can be used as the hinge of the mobile terminal with the flexible screen on the inside, and can quickly form the space for the flexible screen to be bent when folded, to avoid the flexible screen from being damaged, and to make the middle mechanism of the hinge not exposed after being folded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2021
    Assignee: HANGZHOU AMPHENOL PHOENIX TELECOM PARTS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Xiaojie Liu, Caiqin Zhu
  • Patent number: 10882545
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of an expedition cart are provided. The expedition cart includes a chassis configured and dimensioned to support a load. The expedition cart includes first and second gusset plates attached to the chassis. Each of the first and second gusset plates includes a central body portion and curved fastening edges on either side of the central body portion. The curved fastening edges can be configured and dimensioned to mate against at least a portion of the chassis. Exemplary embodiments of an expedition cart are also provided that include first and second hubs engaged with the chassis, the first and second hubs defining either a single part or a two part design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2021
    Assignee: McClellan Butte, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas Joseph Jackson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10486721
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of an expedition cart are provided. The expedition cart includes a chassis configured and dimensioned to support a load. The expedition cart includes first and second gusset plates attached to the chassis. Each of the first and second gusset plates includes a central body portion and curved fastening edges on either side of the central body portion. The curved fastening edges can be configured and dimensioned to mate against at least a portion of the chassis. Exemplary embodiments of an expedition cart are also provided that include first and second hubs engaged with the chassis, the first and second hubs defining either a single part or a two part design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2019
    Assignee: McClellan Butte, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas Joseph Jackson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8960212
    Abstract: A hail guard for cars includes a net with a thick mesh applied to a structure having two center rods joined by a hinge, two multiple hinges applied to the free ends of the center rods, and four net-stretching rods hinged to each multiple hinge. Each multiple hinge has pins with vertical axes suited to allow the net-stretching rods to rotate and a rotation pin whose horizontal axis is orthogonal to the center rods, suited to allow the rotation of the set of net-stretching rods. The net-stretching rods are arranged so that two of them, when open, are opposed to each other and two other ones are generically diagonal. Two or more supports are hinged to the center rods and each free end of each support is provided with suction cups or magnets suited to allow the structure to be stably and removably applied to the car roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Inventor: Edoardo Majer
  • Publication number: 20150047263
    Abstract: A buildable, collapsible and lightweight screen comprising a frame constructed with at least two longitudinal profiles, at least two transverse profiles, hollow extruded profiles and which include at least one inner groove which runs along one side, in a longitudinal direction. Each of said profiles, one or more panels of sheet material are confined within said frame along said inside groove, and connectors that align and fasten the longitudinal and transverse profiles by fasteners, connectors which act as intermediaries to avoid direct contact between these profiles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2013
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Inventor: José Humberto Orozco Aguayo
  • Publication number: 20140360687
    Abstract: A portable wind screen is presented where the wind screen is composed of a collapsible metal frame with extendable legs and a fabric or plastic screen connected to said frame with Velcro® fasteners. The frame is fully collapsible and easily stored ion a bag or small box.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2013
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventor: James A. Ogilvie
  • Patent number: 8613407
    Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement for dividing a space into a plurality of areas, said arrangement comprising at least one frame with at least one fixing means for holding the frame in corresponding frame receiving elements, and at least one foldable defining means. The frame is formed in such a way that the arrangement essentially fits onto at least one wall of the space when it is fixed, the foldable defining means being able to be held on the frame and preventing an air flow between adjacent areas of the space separated by the arrangement. The arrangement according to the invention enables a thermal separation of two adjacent areas of a space, that can each be air-conditioned differently, without forming an area containing air which is a mixture from two regions at different temperatures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Sven Hartel, Volkhard Wendt
  • 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: 8418383
    Abstract: A canvas frame and canvas frame kit is disclosed that permits canvas frames of unorthodox configuration. The canvas frames include divergent interior portions that permit an irregular primary frame to be matched with a supplemental frame to present a single, unified work of art separable at the whim of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Inventor: Mazin Badawi
  • Publication number: 20130048237
    Abstract: A shade apparatus configured to mount to a rack on a vehicle or to one the sides of a vehicle so as to provide a shaded area substantially adjacent the vehicle without using support poles or lines. The shade apparatus comprises a housing that attaches to the rack or vehicle, a shade screen that creates the shaded area, a retracting mechanism disposed inside the housing and attached to the shade screen to allow it to be extended or retracted, a pair of side arms that extend outward to support the screen and close inward when the vehicle is to be moved, a locking mechanism interconnecting the shade screen and arms for locking the shade screen in its extended position and a securing means for securing the arms to the housing with the shade screen in its retracted position. The shade apparatus is quick and easy to setup and take down.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Inventor: Jeff L. Mathews
  • Publication number: 20130037228
    Abstract: A display system includes a continuous flexible display, two main display supports each structurally configured to support a respective portion of the flexible display, a segment of the flexible display being located between the said respective display portions. The two main display supports are hingeable between a closed configuration for fixing the flexible display in a storage position and an open configuration for fixing the flexible display in an open position. In the storage position between the main display supports there is a free space enabling a partial curvature of said display segment without conflicting with the respective main display support. At least one additional display support is configured to support said segment of the flexible display in the storage position and facilitates the curvature of the display segment with a predefined radius which is larger than the critical radius Rcrit for the flexible display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2012
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Applicant: POLYMER VISION B.V.
    Inventors: Volker Barnhart VERSCHOOR, Robert Sjang Josine VAN DIJK, Johannes Hermanus VAN DEN TILLAAR, Johannes Cornelis Adriaan HAMERS, Petrus Johannes Gerardus VAN LIESHOUT
  • Patent number: 8365804
    Abstract: An inflatable separation device and method of using the device to form a gas-impermeable barrier in a structural location such as a hallway. The device also provides a safe, effective passage across the barrier to form a concealed region for decontamination protocols. The inflatable separation device includes an inflatable support frame and a cover that envelops the support frame and forms an enclosed interior space when the support frame is inflated. An inflatable perimeter sealing bladder is disposed about the cover and adapted to form a seal between the cover and exterior surfaces of a structural space when the support frame and the sealing bladder are inflated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: James A. Genovese, Patrick M. Nolan, Win Van Basten, Charles Ruppert
  • Patent number: 8297336
    Abstract: Barrier means are provided having a frame including a plurality of frame members, movable between a first substantially erect condition and a second substantially folded condition. At least one of the frame members including two or more telescopically mounted portions capable of relative movement to allow expansion and/or contraction of the length of the frame member. Locking means are associated with one or more of said frame portions to allow the portion or portions to be locked at a required length. The locking means are movable between the locked and/or unlocked position by relative movement of the frame portion or portions with which the locking means are associated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Munchkin, Inc.
    Inventor: Adam Yates
  • Publication number: 20120186755
    Abstract: A screen partition assembly includes an elongate housing having an upper extremity and an opposed lower extremity, and upper and lower arms mounted to the upper extremity and the lower extremity, respectively, of the housing for movement between closed positions toward the housing and open positions extending away from the housing, wherein the upper arm opposes and is parallel to the lower arm in the open positions of the upper and lower arms. A flexible, robust screen is mounted to the housing for movement between a stored position relative to the housing and a deployed position relative to the housing forming a partition extending from the housing. The screen is received and held by the upper and lower arms in the open positions thereof in response to movement of the screen from the stored position to the deployed position in the open positions of the upper and lower arms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Inventor: John F. Sessa
  • Patent number: 8181373
    Abstract: A “pop up” portable display apparatus includes a flexible frame and a tensioned fabric having a perimeter hem, such that the tensioned fabric is maintained by the flexible frame and integrated with the perimeter hem in order for the tensioned fabric to expand with the flexible frame to produce a display area and reduce with the flexible frame for ease of transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Mesa Digital, LLC
    Inventor: Davin E. Lopez
  • Patent number: 8184213
    Abstract: A portable screen includes: a frame body having a rectangular shape; and a screen sheet provided with tension within the frame body and having an image projection surface, wherein one opposing side of two sets of opposing sides forming the frame body is configured to allow the frame body to be extendable along the side, and the other opposing side of two sets of opposing sides forming the frame body is configured to allow the frame body to be spreadable or foldable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Fumio Yuzawa
  • Publication number: 20120080154
    Abstract: A pneumatic frame for textiles of control at of light used in the film industry or images capture with the object to reflect, block, filter, blur and make any use of light and have optimum control of it at the time of capturing the image. The pneumatic frame comprises a hose inflatable structure of at least twelve pieces with threads that allow its assembly, tucks vulcanized along its entire periphery which allow the passage of an elastic which is intertwined with the stitched slit, secured by hang setbolt devices along its entire periphery, as well as external gripping devices of type-setbolt screw pins.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2011
    Publication date: April 5, 2012
    Inventor: Eamon Conmac Sebastian O'Farrill Haro
  • Publication number: 20120073770
    Abstract: A collapsible sunshade according to the present invention has a panel comprising a foldable frame member having a folded and an unfolded orientation, the frame member defining a periphery for the panel with an interior space inside of the peiphery, a meshed material covering the interior space defined by the frame member to form the panel when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation, and a shade fabric having at least a portion thereof removably attached to the panel so that the shade fabric can assume a first position in which the shade fabric completely overlies, in a planar manner, the meshed material, and a second position where the portion of the shade fabric that is removably attached to the panel is disengaged from the panel to expose a portion of the meshed material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 8045264
    Abstract: A collapsible projection backwall system utilizes a short throw projector and a collapsible framework to create a display usable in a small amount of space. The framework is specifically configured to support and appropriately position a flexible screen member so that distortion is avoided. This is particularly significant in situations where a relatively large screen is utilized, which creates the need to maintain appropriate tension upon the flexible screen member. The framework is specifically configured to be slightly canted when in its extended configuration to thereby introduce natural tension forces which will cooperate with the screen fabric to maintain the necessary configuration for the screen. This canted configuration is achieved by configuring a set of corner hinge assemblies and any central hinged assemblies to maintain this natural cant. By maintaining the desired forces on the display screen fabric a more efficient and functional display screen is created.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Skyline Displays, Inc.
    Inventors: John Elliott, Curtis Lindblom
  • Patent number: 8040602
    Abstract: A frame assembly is used to mount a screen. The frame assembly includes screen-perimeter members and frame-splice members. The splice members permit the perimeter members to be separated into segments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Sima Technologies LLC
    Inventor: David L. Hochendoner
  • Publication number: 20110226425
    Abstract: An innovative, low-density, highly-insulating modular panel for use in many applications and industries. The panel consists of a frame that may be preformed or bent and may be made of rigid or flexible material, and a panel covering comprising at least one pocket of thin, low-density shade fabric that has the capability of sufficiently stretching to surround the frame when the pocket is pulled onto it. The pocket may be then secured, along any previously open end where the frame was inserted, by various fastening devices. The panel covering pocket may have additional features added, as described herein. The panel is durable and cost-effective, and has good solar-control and insulating qualities. It is also a windbreak panel, a noise-reduction panel, an impact protection panel, a water-resistant panel, a fall protection panel, and a pollution-control panel. Two or more panels can be joined to create a structure-protecting panel assembly or system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Inventors: Jack R. Forbis, Ann R. Forbis
  • Publication number: 20110108219
    Abstract: A “pop up” portable display apparatus includes a flexible frame and a tensioned fabric having a perimeter hem, such that the tensioned fabric is maintained by the flexible frame and integrated with the perimeter hem in order for the tensioned fabric to expand with the flexible frame to produce a display area and reduce with the flexible frame for ease of transport.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2011
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Inventor: Davin E. Lopez
  • Patent number: 7918044
    Abstract: A portable display apparatus is disclosed, which includes a flexible frame and a tensioned fabric having a perimeter hem, such that the tensioned fabric is maintained by the flexible frame and integrated with the perimeter hem in order for the tensioned fabric to expand with the flexible frame to produce a display area and reduce with the flexible frame for ease of transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Inventor: Davin E. Lopez
  • Patent number: 7889424
    Abstract: A device for folding a reflective projection sheet, including a wall decoration including a box placed behind it, a device inside the box opening out to form a three-portion device including a first panel, a second panel, and a central false back that advances into alignment with the first and second panels when open and/or that reverses to the back of the box, a reflective projection sheet tensioned over the panels and the false back so that the sheet deploys and is tensioned when the first and second panels are open, and folds over into three portions without leaving any fold marks when the first and second panels are closed. The device presents dimensions that are relatively small, because of the way the panels fold, and does so without leaving fold marks on the sheets. The device can discreetly integrate a front projection sheet for video projectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: D.S.H.D (Design Screen Haute Definition)
    Inventor: Eric Claude Suteau
  • Publication number: 20110005695
    Abstract: A system comprising inexpensive composite panels and a configuration that holds them, all components of which are man portable. Select embodiments protect assets against external force and impacts from airborne projectiles. An open box-like stackable frame module holds thin panels along a longitudinal axis of the frame. Multiple frames a reconnected to construct a protective barrier, such as a wall. The panels may be formulated of a very high strength portland cement-based concrete with one side, both sides, or both sides and all edges, covered with elastic material, the combination of which significantly reduces penetration of projectiles. A panel may be covered with specially formulated elastic material comprising multiple layers, each layer of a different type or thickness of elastic material. The elastic material may include reinforcing material such as fabric woven from available COTS high-strength fibers. The panels may be fabricated using basic means available in rural locations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2009
    Publication date: January 13, 2011
    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, James L. Davis, Carol F. Johnson, Jerry C. Edwards, Andrew B. Edwards, Jason D. Edwards, Shane H. Sanford, Robert A. Pilgrim
  • Patent number: 7864418
    Abstract: A screen includes a screen main body, having flexibility, onto which an image light is projected; a first support and a second support which, extending one along each of a pair of opposed edges of the screen main body, each support one of the pair of edges; an auxiliary support which, being disposed between the first support and the second support, extends parallel to the first support and the second support, and supports a pair of intersecting edges intersecting with the pair of edges of the screen main body; and linkage mechanisms which, bridging adjacent supports, among the first support, second support, and auxiliary support, as well as regulating a movement of the adjacent supports in an out-of-plane direction of a projection surface of the screen main body, extend and contract in a direction in which the adjacent supports face each other, bringing the adjacent supports closer to and away from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Kiyoshi Kuroi, Hiroyuki Shindo
  • Patent number: 7673584
    Abstract: A vertical pet excrement collection device. The device is an absorbent fabric collecting sheet mounted on a frame and maintained in a substantially vertical orientation to catch pet excrement emitted that would not land on or be absorbed by a horizontal collection device. In one embodiment, the device is incorporated with and connected to an existing horizontal collection device such as a litterbox. In a second embodiment the collection device is a frame on which an absorbent sheet is mounted, the frame having an interconnected horizontal frame and vertical frame defining a horizontal pad and a vertical pad. Simple and quick removal and replacement of the absorbent material is provided so that a solid sheet may be easily replaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: Thomas E. Aley
  • Patent number: 7658220
    Abstract: Barrier means are provided having a frame including a plurality of frame members, movable between a first substantially erect condition and a second substantially folded condition. At least one of the frame members including two or more telescopically mounted portions capable of relative movement to allow expansion and/or contraction of the length of the frame member. Locking means are associated with one or more of said frame portions to allow the portion or portions to be locked at a required length. The locking means are movable between the locked and/or unlocked position by relative movement of the frame portion or portions with which the locking means are associated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: Lindam Limited
    Inventor: Adam Yates
  • Publication number: 20090294078
    Abstract: A privacy screen assembly has a first elongated support, a second elongated support, and a privacy screen having a first end operably coupled with the first elongated support and a second end operably coupled to the second elongated support, wherein the first privacy screen is positionable between a retracted position and a deployed position. A support member vertically supports the privacy screen and is positionable between a retracted position, wherein the support member is stored within an interior of one of the first elongated support and the second elongated support in a substantially linear configuration, and a deployed position, wherein a substantial portion of the support member extends from the interior of the elongated support and wherein a substantial portion of the support member exits the interior of the elongated support such that less of the support member is present in the interior of the elongated support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2009
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventors: Thomas G. Feldpausch, Adrian Gomez, Allen C. Hager, Kurt R. Heidmann
  • Publication number: 20090145561
    Abstract: A novel removable building structure portal protector adapted to protect against damage to a building portals such as windows and doors during high wind conditions at least includes: a frame member adapted to be coupled to the periphery of a building portal; a plurality of anchor members adapted to anchor the frame member to a structure peripheral to the building portal; and a plurality of bladder members coupled to the frame members, and adapted to be coupled across and adjacent to the building portal, the bladder members being inflatable, and inflated in their protective state. The frame member and the bladder members cooperate to protect the building portal from wind and flying debris during high wind conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2007
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Inventor: Philip I. Tennant
  • Publication number: 20080219759
    Abstract: A corner member for a window screen for joining framing members together at the corners, the corner member having a central body, first and second legs extending outwardly therefrom, a recess formed in the central body portion, and a plurality of resilient retaining members placed in the recess, each resilient retaining member having first and second retaining tabs which extend outwardly and which are designed to retain the screen in the window frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Inventor: Gerard Therrien
  • Patent number: 7422048
    Abstract: A foldable safety barrier to be secured in and removed from a door opening, comprising a frame having a covering member (28), such as a piece of fabric, said frame being formed by upper and lower cross members (1, 2) connected with first and second lateral posts (3, 4) by means of four angle brackets (5, 6, 7, 8), each of which has first and second legs, and constructed such that the upper (1) and lower (2) cross members consist of two pipes (9, 10) which are mutually displaceable, while the first and second lateral posts (3, 4) consist of two pipes (13, 14) which are interconnected by means of lockable hinge links (15, 19). The outer dimensions of the hinge links (15, 19) correspond to the outer dimensions of the lateral posts (3, 4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: Baby Dan A/S
    Inventor: Jesper Andersen
  • Patent number: 7398612
    Abstract: Collapsible structures are provided that have one or more support frames, each having a foldable frame member that has a folded and an unfolded orientation, with the frame member defining a periphery for the support frame. Where more than one support frame is provided, the support frames can be hingedly coupled to each other. The frame member(s) can be used, for example, to support panel pieces, objects and coverings, among others. In some embodiments, one or more objects can be coupled to and supported by the support frame(s). In other embodiments, a covering may be placed over the support frame(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Publication number: 20080163991
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a portable screen system (PSS) for use with projecting equipment or for advertising. The PSS includes a collapsible frame that may be opened to an expanded position to support a screen. The PSS includes locking straps and support lines allowing the PSS to be erected in a variety of locations including both indoor and outdoor locations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2007
    Publication date: July 10, 2008
    Applicant: BACKYARD DRIVE-IN INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Tyler Ernst Dettbarn, Kurt Joachim Dettbarn
  • Publication number: 20080149284
    Abstract: A blind device includes a flexible screen body with interconnected shielding sections, and a counterweight unit provided on a lowermost one of the shielding sections. The counterweight unit includes vertically extending left and right side bars provided respectively at left and right edges of the lowermost shielding section, and a horizontally extending bottom bar retained at a bottom edge of the lowermost shielding section, which includes two vertically extending flaps extending respectively from left and right edges of a main shielding part. Each of the flaps is coupled removably to the main shielding part to form a pocket when coupled thereto. The left and right side bars are received respectively and removably in the pockets so as to stretch the lowermost shielding section when received in the pockets and to permit folding of the lowermost shielding section in the vertical direction when removed from the pockets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2007
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Inventor: Ya-Yin Lin
  • Patent number: 7150127
    Abstract: A partition system for office spaces generally includes a framework and a plurality of different types of decorative and/or functional tiles mountable to the framework. The framework includes I- and C-shaped vertical frame members which are adjustably joined by upper and lower horizontal spanners such that the distance between the vertical frame members is adjustable. Also, the framework may include other types of vertical frame members for forming L-, T-, or X-junctions within the partition system framework. A variety of decorative and functional tiles are mountable to the framework, including retractable workspace tiles, several types of storage tiles, display tiles, window tiles, and electrical and data services tiles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Assignee: Kimball International, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert A. Underwood, Keith E. Metcalf, Ryan A. Herbig, J. Douglas Mitchell
  • Patent number: 7090905
    Abstract: Flat or semi-flat element (1) including a partly or completely circumambient frame (2), which element (1) is manufactured through molding of a polymeric material. The element (1) includes a carrying structure, constituted by the frame (2), and an intermediate wall section (3). The wall section (3) is connected to the frame (2) via a resilient section (4), the resilient section (4) being a part of the wall section (3). The differences in the temperature related shrinkage between the frame (2) and the wall section (3) is absorbed by the resilient section (4), whereby warping of the element (1) is avoided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Arca Systems International AB
    Inventor: Manfred Brauner
  • Patent number: 7062872
    Abstract: A collapsible signaling device bearing a pair of opposed message panels is convertible between a display configuration and a compact linear storage configuration. The message panels are joined together at spaced apart points along their periphery using spacers to form a pocket having an internal cavity. A mast is insertable within the pocket and is joined to the panel members at its upper end. A pair of struts of spring material are joined at one end to the upper end of the mast and are joined at their lower ends to a slider member which is slidably movable with respect to the mast. As the slider member is advanced toward the upper end of the mast, the struts are outwardly bowed imparting outwardly directed tension to the periphery of the message panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Williams, Grant D. Dicke
  • Patent number: 6981540
    Abstract: A tent door which opens and closes in a manner similar to that of a regular house door, yet is in keeping with the requirements for mobility of being light-weight and easily taken apart or reassembled. Such a door being comprised of a fabric panel (54), supported by a rigid frame (22). The frame of this door panel is hinged to a similar frame (20) attached to the perimeter of a cutout opening (56) in the tent wall, against which the door closes. A latch secures the door and allows it to be released for opening by means of a single action which can be performed using just one hand. These are all takedown assemblies connected with manually operated fasteners and employing the lightest or smallest possible components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Inventor: Armand O. Deblois
  • Patent number: 6942000
    Abstract: An improved coupling mechanism for adjacent panels of a sectional door, the panels including facing, adjacent edges; the coupling mechanism including at least one recess formed in or disposed adjacent to the facing edge of each panel, and also including at least one pliable hinge member having a body portion, and expanded regions at each end of the body portion, which are received within and movable within the facing recesses to provide for the relative movement between the facing edges of the panels as the door moves between blocking and unblocking positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Rite-Hite Holding Corporation
    Inventors: Bill Hoerner, Tom Jansen, Perry Knutson
  • Patent number: 6915833
    Abstract: Portable screen wall section(s) are utilized to enclose an opening or openings of a building structure that is mostly and preferably made up of fabric and mesh screen or netting, to allow for an outdoor atmosphere, while eliminating the entry of unwanted insects and/or varmints inside an opening or openings of a building. The portable screen wall section(s) leans against a building structure by the means of the support structure members allowing the elimination of holes, adhesive bonding and/or permanent attachments to a building and/or surrounding areas. The portable screen wall sections can be used alone or are easily attached together to cover larger openings of a building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Inventor: Stacy Lee Hoffman
  • Publication number: 20040211531
    Abstract: Kits for thermal solar screens each comprise a pre-formed screen-frame assembly, a pair of end members and a plurality of corner inserts, which can be packed into a container for transportation. Alternatively, the kits each comprise a pre-formed screen-frame assembly and a pair of pre-formed end members, which also can be packed into a container for transportation. Thermal solar screens are assembled by connecting a pair of corner inserts to the ends of each end member to form a pair of pre-formed end members. The preformed end members are connected to the pre-formed screen-frame assembly and the screen at open ends of the screen are connected to the pre-formed end members by a spline. Alternatively, thermal solar screens are assembled by connecting a pre-formed screen-frame assembly and a pair of pre-formed end members. The pre-formed end members are connected to the pre-formed screen-frame assembly and the screen at open ends of the screen are connected to the pre-formed end members by a spline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventor: Shawn D. Dybdahl
  • Publication number: 20040050504
    Abstract: An assembled and convertible decorating assembly includes at least three partition assemblies. Each partition assembly mainly includes several fixing elements, a pair of vertical rods, a pair of horizontal rods, a decorating element, and a pair of auxiliary horizontal rods. By several pivoting elements, this invention has the following three modes: a complete detached mode, a linear assembled mode that is a screen and an enclosed assembled mode that is an illuminating device. It is easy for storage or transportation. It can be assembled or re-arranged by the user. And, it has many functions such as a regular upright screen, an illuminating device, and an exhibition post, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2002
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventor: Wen-Ling Chen
  • Patent number: 6701996
    Abstract: An assembled and convertible decorating assembly includes at least three partition assemblies. Each partition assembly mainly includes several fixing elements, a pair of vertical rods, a pair of horizontal rods, a decorating element, and a pair of auxiliary horizontal rods. By several pivoting elements, this invention has the following three modes: a complete detached mode, a linear assembled mode that is a screen and an enclosed assembled mode that is an illuminating device. It is easy for storage or transportation. It can be assembled or re-arranged by the user. And, it has many functions such as a regular upright screen, an illuminating device, and an exhibition post, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Inventor: Wen-Ling Chen
  • Patent number: 6684894
    Abstract: Collapsible structures are provided having at least two panels, with each of the panels having a flexible loop member defining a closed loop and adapted to assume an expanded position and a collapsed position, and a fabric for partially covering the loop member. The loop members of two adjacent first and second panels overlap each other at a first overlapping point along first edges of the loop members, and at a second overlapping point along second edges of the loop members, with the overlapping loop members defining a hinge portion about which the two loop members of the first and second panels are pivotable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 6681833
    Abstract: A frame for a ventilation screen-frame assembly includes a body having a mounting surface for receiving ventilation screen material. In one example, the body has at least three V-shaped cuts partially through it. Each V-shaped cut leaves an edge of the body uncut. The body is folded about each uncut edge so that the ends of the body meet at a corner. Each V-shaped cut subtends an angle &thgr; that is slightly less than 90 degrees, so that the folded corners are in compression. The assembly further includes a single corner key for joining the ends of the body into a closed frame. A reinforcement clip can be used in each folded corner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Saint-Gobain Bayform America, Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas H. Wylie
  • 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: 6581667
    Abstract: A removable debris shield and method to internally protect a portion of a vessel, such as a pressure vessel, during fabrication. Pliant material sufficient to span a desired interior portion of the vessel has a hem located around the periphery of the material and having at least one opening. A hoop is removably inserted through the opening into the hem to extend the material across the desired interior portion of the vessel. In one embodiment, a spreader bolt spreads the hoop to force it tightly against the walls of the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Assignee: Babcock & Wilcox Canada Ltd.
    Inventor: Thomas Waring
  • Patent number: 6532703
    Abstract: A portable screen door for positioning in an apartment doorway. The portable screen door includes a frame having a first side bar, a second side bar, a top bar and a bottom bar. A screen extends between and is attached to the first side bar, the second side bar, the top bar and the bottom bar. The screen extends along each of the bars. A first support holds the frame in a doorframe. The support is elongated and has a first end and a second end. The first side bar of the frame is hingedly coupled to the support. At least one biasing member removably biases the support against the doorframe. The biasing member is removably extendable from one of the ends of the support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Inventor: Alan K. Barrens
  • Publication number: 20030024660
    Abstract: A collapsible barrier having a frame that may be converted from a gate configuration to a bed rail configuration and back again. The barrier also has a flexible cover that is attached to the frame. The frame may include tubes connected by couplings and one or more elastic cord. When the tubes and couplings are disconnected, the barrier folds so that it may be easily stored or transported.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Shelley M. Homeyer