Endless Carrier Type Patents (Class 211/121)
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Patent number: 11928695Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosed technology provide anti-theft shelving units particularly designed to deter/detect sweeping theft. For example, an anti-theft shelving unit of the disclosed technology may comprise a combination of the following anti-sweeping theft design features: (1) flip-stopper(s) swingably-mounted to shelves of the anti-theft shelving unit; (2) flip-door(s) swingably-mounted to the anti-theft shelving unit; (3) processing circuitry that, in response to an anti-theft-related signal, locks the flip-stopper(s) and flip-door(s) in fixed positions that restrict access to items on the shelves; and (4) shelf-mounted sensors and processing circuitry that determine occurrence of sweeping theft in response to detecting removal of over a threshold number of items from a shelf in a pre-determined time interval.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2023Date of Patent: March 12, 2024Assignee: DISA DIGITAL SAFETY PTE. LTD.Inventor: Weng Wah Chng
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Patent number: 11830750Abstract: A storage apparatus, and a transporting device and a transporting method for a Front Opening Unified Pod (FOUP) are provided. The storage apparatus includes: at least two carrying bins configured to carry the FOUP; and a rotating component. The at least two carrying bins are connected to the rotating component at different positions of the rotating component. The rotating component is configured to change positions of the at least two carrying bins through rotation of the rotating component.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2021Date of Patent: November 28, 2023Assignee: CHANGXIN MEMORY TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventor: Tianzhu Chen
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Patent number: 11744258Abstract: An apparatus and method for organizing breast milk storage bags, comprising a refrigerated enclosure, a vertical carousel automated conveyor having a plurality of racks rotating around it vertical axis with such racks partitioned in a plurality of compartments wherein the breast milk storage bags are placed, a main door that allows access to the whole arrangement and a secondary door that allows easy access to one rack for retrieving or storing breast milk storage bags, such secondary door includes a load sensor and a plurality of light sources that indicates in which slot the desired bag is located. The apparatus further includes a control panel with a User Interface and employs an algorithm that selects the breast milk storage bags according to the desired ounces sorting them by nearest expiration date and keeping track of the breast milk inventory database which is able to be accessed through a mobile app.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2022Date of Patent: September 5, 2023Assignee: PHILON LABS LLCInventors: David Gruszka de los Rios, Gilberto Antonio Román Balcone, José Gerardo de Jesús Sánchez Marín, Simón Antonio Díaz Abad, Jósedavid Manzanares Arroyave
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Patent number: 11344117Abstract: An electric shelf which has at least one column to be installed on a wall, a slidable component arranged on the column to slide along the column vertically, at least one layer of shelf board component connected to the slidable component to move simultaneously with the slidable component, and a linear driving device connected to the slidable component and the column to actuate the slidable component to move relative to the column. Advantages of the present disclosure compared to prior arts include a simpler structure and less space occupied by the shelf board component.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2020Date of Patent: May 31, 2022Assignee: Loctek Inc.Inventors: Lehong Xiang, Tao Lin, Songli Wang
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Patent number: 10928133Abstract: An air dryer apparatus including a conveying mechanism is disclosed here. The air dryer apparatus comprises of a conveying mechanism adapted to receive garments for air drying. Furthermore, the air dryer apparatus comprises of a tubular structure with a channel slot formed and extending in a lower section along length thereof. The tubular structure is adapted to be mounted on a modular ceiling or a railing arrangement including rails. The air dryer apparatus also comprises one or more rotating assemblies comprising at least one pair of wheels connected via a shaft and a covering provided for the shaft. To continue, the air dryer apparatus further comprises at least one support member extending from the covering and passing through the channel slot, with at least one support member adapted to support hanging of at least one article of clothing thereon. In the air dryer apparatus at least one pair of wheels is configured to travel inside the tubular structure along the length thereof.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2019Date of Patent: February 23, 2021Inventor: Pawel Malecki
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Patent number: 10750881Abstract: This disclosure presents a product display and merchandising device, system and method that may include multiple such product displays and merchandising devices, and a method for dispensing products to customers using such product display and merchandising device. The merchandising system may efficiently utilize storage space and provide an aesthetic display by automatically aligning different products to a front display surface. The merchandising system may use multiple holders or clips on a conveyor belt to hang and display products. A customer may pull and remove a front piece of the products. As the customer pulls the front piece of merchandise or product, the action moves the conveyor belt and brings a next piece of products forward, to the position that the front piece of the product previously occupied. As such, the merchandising system may enable customers to freely remove products and maintain a tidy and neat display of the products.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2019Date of Patent: August 25, 2020Inventor: Fernando Ruiz
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Patent number: 10729238Abstract: An electric shelf includes at least one column to be installed on a wall, a slidable component arranged on the column to slide along the column vertically, at least one layer of shelf board component connected to the slidable component to move simultaneously with the slidable component, and a linear driving device connected to the slidable component and the column to actuate the slidable component to move relative to the column. Advantages of the present disclosure compared to prior arts include a simpler structure and less space occupied by the shelf board component.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2019Date of Patent: August 4, 2020Assignee: LOCTEK INC.Inventors: Lehong Xiang, Tao Lin, Songli Wang
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Patent number: 10334948Abstract: An electric shelf is provided which comprises at least one column to be installed on a wall, a slidable component arranged on the column to slide along the column vertically, at least one layer of shelf board component connected to the slidable component to move simultaneously with the slidable component, and a linear driving device connected to the slidable component and the column to actuate the slidable component to move relative to the column. Advantages of the present disclosure compared to prior arts include a simpler structure and less space occupied by the shelf board component.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2017Date of Patent: July 2, 2019Assignee: Loctek Inc.Inventors: Lehong Xiang, Tao Lin, Songli Wang
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Patent number: 9044106Abstract: An illustrative embodiment of a storage and retrieval system may include a storage assembly supported by a plurality of frame members. The storage assembly may include a plurality of storage members that may be engaged with one another such that each storage member may selectively move along a predetermined path. The exterior of the storage and retrieval system may include a front exterior panel that may be configured with an access port therein for interacting with items positioned on the storage members. The exterior may also include a first and/or second display, scanner, and one or more door flaps to allow/prevent access to the interior of the storage and retrieval system through the access port.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2013Date of Patent: June 2, 2015Inventor: John T. Smith
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Publication number: 20140291265Abstract: A high and multi-layer warehousing and planting-cultivating rotary machine has a multiplicity of stands distributed, and partitioned in multi-layer, and a chain that winds in series, drives the multi-layer stands and is installed in a chain wheel that rotates with respect to a shaft which is mounted to a supporting body, where the stands is pivotally connected to the chain. The chain is distributed in pair on both sides of the stands to be wound and engaged the corresponding upper and lower chain wheels The chain is connected to a pin that is furnished in the pin hole provided at both ends of the stands and a bearing is also provided for the pin. The rotary machine is capable of achieving the alternate adjustment of the altitude of the stands in appropriate position by employing the chain to pull the multi-layer stands in series without having the user climbing up of employing a crane elevate up-and-down to access the goods stored in the stands.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 11, 2014Publication date: October 2, 2014Inventor: SHREN-CHU OU
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Patent number: 8616381Abstract: A cantilever carousel system for efficiently storing multiple print cylinders while providing a common access point for loading and unloading the print cylinders. The cantilever carousel system generally includes an external frame structure defining an internal cavity and a shell connected to the external frame structure to surround the cavity, wherein the shell includes at least one access opening extending therethrough. An internal frame structure is positioned within the cavity and a vertically oriented carousel is supported by the internal frame structure. A drive assembly is mechanically connected to the carousel, wherein the drive assembly circulates the carousel and a plurality of cantilever mandrels are supported by the carousel and circulate with the carousel. A plurality of print cylinders are removably received by the plurality of cantilever mandrels through the access opening.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2009Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Assignee: Vidir Machines, Inc.Inventors: Phillip G. Forster, Stanley K. Plett
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Patent number: 6974038Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of jewel case enclosed CDs in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired CD is moved to the top region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of inter-connected holders. In one embodiment a holder retains a single jewel case, and comprises two independent loops that are rotated with a single motor. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of CD selection. The housing base preferably is detached during shipping to permit transporting the rack in a smaller volume container. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2004Date of Patent: December 13, 2005Assignee: The Sharper Image CorporationInventors: David Caplan, Charles E. Taylor
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Patent number: 6959822Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of jewel case enclosed CDs in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired CD is moved to the top region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of inter-connected holders. In one embodiment a holder retains a single jewel case, and comprises two independent loops that are rotated with a single motor. A preferred embodiment employs inter-connectable holders that each retain two jewel cases in a side-by-side configuration. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of CD selection. The housing base preferably is detached during shipping to permit transporting the rack in a smaller volume container. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2002Date of Patent: November 1, 2005Assignee: Sharper Image CorporationInventors: David Caplan, Charles E. Taylor, Andrew J. Parker
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Patent number: 6915911Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of jewel case enclosed CDs in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired CD is moved to the top region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of inter-connected holders. In one embodiment a holder retains a single jewel case, and comprises two independent loops that are rotated with a single motor. A preferred embodiment employs inter-connectable holders that each retain two jewel cases in a side-by-side configuration. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of CD selection. The housing base preferably is detached during shipping to permit transporting the rack in a smaller volume container. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2003Date of Patent: July 12, 2005Assignee: Sharper Image CorporationInventors: Charles E. Taylor, Edward C. McKinney, Jr., Tristan M. Christianson, Andrew J. Parker, David Caplan
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Patent number: 6899232Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of jewel case enclosed CDs in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired CD is moved to the top region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of inter-connected holders. In one embodiment a holder retains a single jewel case, and comprises two independent loops that are rotated with a single motor. A preferred embodiment employs inter-connectable holders that each retain two jewel cases in a side-by-side configuration. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of CD selection. The housing base preferably is detached during shipping to permit transporting the rack in a smaller volume container. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2002Date of Patent: May 31, 2005Assignee: Sharper Image CorporationInventor: Charles E. Taylor
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Patent number: 6899234Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of jewel case enclosed CDs in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired CD is moved to the top region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of inter-connected holders. In one embodiment a holder retains a single jewel case, and comprises two independent loops that are rotated with a single motor. A preferred embodiment employs inter-connectable holders that each retain two jewel cases in a side-by-side configuration. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of CD selection. The housing base preferably is detached during shipping to permit transporting the rack in a smaller volume container. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2003Date of Patent: May 31, 2005Assignee: Sharper Image CorporationInventor: Charles E. Taylor
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Patent number: 6854815Abstract: A powered carousel shelving unit is configured to bring individual shelves to a standard handicap accessible height at a front access opening for viewing and selection of product on the shelves. Stationary guide tracks and complimentary tracking elements connected to the shelves are cooperative to tip the shelves forward as they approach and leave the access area so as to organize the product to the front of the shelves.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2002Date of Patent: February 15, 2005Inventor: John T. Smith
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Publication number: 20040238463Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of jewel case enclosed CDs in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired CD is moved to the top region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of inter-connected holders. In one embodiment a holder retains a single jewel case, and comprises two independent loops that are rotated with a single motor. A preferred embodiment employs inter-connectable holders that each retain two jewel cases in a side-by-side configuration. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of CD selection. The housing base preferably is detached during shipping to permit transporting the rack in a smaller volume container. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventor: Charles E. Taylor
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Publication number: 20040232094Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of DVD boxes or containers in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired DVD is moved to the top fan-out region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of inter-connected holders. A preferred embodiment employs inter-connectable holders that each retain two DVD boxes in a side-by-side configuration. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of DVD selection. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2004Publication date: November 25, 2004Inventors: Charles E. Taylor, Andrew J. Parker, Edward C. McKinney
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Publication number: 20040222177Abstract: A system and method for providing a vertically moving in closed loop storage for enabling a user safe, efficient and practical access to load and unload the products located on foldable carriers. The system enables the user full control over the height between the carriers, exact carriers stop location at an operator's comfortable access, locking and speed control systems while emphasizing safety and usability saving floor space and taking full advantage of the height of the storage building.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 5, 2003Publication date: November 11, 2004Inventor: Moti Shai
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Patent number: 6786338Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of jewel case enclosed CDs in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired CD is moved to the top region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of inter-connected holders. In one embodiment a holder retains a single jewel case, and comprises two independent loops that are rotated with a single motor. A preferred embodiment employs inter-connectable holders that each retain two jewel cases in a side-by-side configuration. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of CD selection. The housing base preferably is detached during shipping to permit transporting the rack in a smaller volume container. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2000Date of Patent: September 7, 2004Assignee: Sharper Image CorporationInventors: David Caplan, Charles E. Taylor
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Patent number: 6752277Abstract: A system for the display and distribution of multiple product items, where the product items bear radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, and an RFID reader is associated in close proximity for maintaining effectively continuous inventory control. A product display tray is provided with multiple product channels and individual pusher sleds in the product channels for urging the product items to the front of the display. The pusher sleds are actuated by non-metallic tension elements extending underneath the product items in conjunction with spring-actuated windup reels for maintaining the tension elements under tension urging the sleds in the desired direction. An RFID reader board is disposed directly under the product display tray, arranged for periodic reading of the entire contents of the tray. The non-metallic tension elements, extending underneath the product items, provide for actuation of the pusher sleds without interfering with the radio frequency identification procedures.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2002Date of Patent: June 22, 2004Assignee: Masters of Branding, Inc.Inventor: Arthur T. Sempliner
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Patent number: 6729482Abstract: An automated parts storage and retrieval method is provided. The method includes a frame, a plurality of trays configured to hold a plurality of parts, and a movement method attached to the frame and arranged to move the plurality of trays in a serpentine pattern for retrieval and storage of the plurality of parts. The movement method includes a plurality of sprockets arranged within the frame in a zigzag pattern, at least one chain toothedly engaged within the plurality of sprockets, and a drive motor configured to drive one of the plurality of sockets. The plurality of trays are rotatably attached to the at least one chain. The method includes a computer method for controlling the drive motor based on a selection using a parts selection component and position information sent by a position sensor.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2002Date of Patent: May 4, 2004Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Brian K. Hovik
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Publication number: 20040069731Abstract: An automated parts storage and retrieval method is provided. The method includes a frame, a plurality of trays configured to hold a plurality of parts, and a movement method attached to the frame and arranged to move the plurality of trays in a serpentine pattern for retrieval and storage of the plurality of parts. The movement method includes a plurality of sprockets arranged within the frame in a zigzag pattern, at least one chain toothedly engaged within the plurality of sprockets, and a drive motor configured to drive one of the plurality of sockets. The plurality of trays are rotatably attached to the at least one chain. The method includes a computer method for controlling the drive motor based on a selection using a parts selection component and position information sent by a position sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 9, 2002Publication date: April 15, 2004Inventor: Brian K. Hovik
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Publication number: 20040055975Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of jewel case enclosed CDs in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired CD is moved to the top region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of inter-connected holders. In one embodiment a holder retains a single jewel case, and comprises two independent loops that are rotated with a single motor. A preferred embodiment employs inter-connectable holders that each retain two jewel cases in a side-by-side configuration. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of CD selection. The housing base preferably is detached during shipping to permit transporting the rack in a smaller volume container. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 15, 2003Publication date: March 25, 2004Applicant: Sharper Image CorporationInventor: Charles E. Taylor
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Publication number: 20040045918Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of jewel case enclosed CDs in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired CD is moved to the top region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of inter-connected holders. In one embodiment a holder retains a single jewel case, and comprises two independent loops that are rotated with a single motor. A preferred embodiment employs inter-connectable holders that each retain two jewel cases in a side-by-side configuration. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of CD selection. The housing base preferably is detached during shipping to permit transporting the rack in a smaller volume container. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 8, 2003Publication date: March 11, 2004Applicant: Sharper Image CorporationInventors: Charles E. Taylor, Edward C. McKinney, Tristan M Christianson, Andrew J. Parker
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Publication number: 20030226814Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of DVD boxes or containers in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired DVD is moved to the top fan-out region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of inter-connected holders. A preferred embodiment employs inter-connectable holders that each retain two DVD boxes in a side-by-side configuration. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of DVD selection. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 30, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventors: Charles E. Taylor, Andrew J. Parker, Edward C. McKinney
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Publication number: 20030226813Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of DVD boxes or containers in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired DVD is moved to the top fan-out region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of inter-connected holders. A preferred embodiment employs inter-connectable holders that each retain two DVD boxes in a side-by-side configuration. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of DVD selection. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 30, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventors: Charles E. Taylor, Andrew J. Parker, Edward C. McKinney
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Publication number: 20030127403Abstract: An electrically cycling multi-medium CD rack comprising a main framework, a gearing device and at least a clamping seat belt, wherein the gearing device is provided in the main framework, the clamping seat belt is integrally formed and has thereon multiple mutually linked clamping seats; the clamping seats are connected mutually, and the clamping seat belt is mounted around the gearing device to complete the electrically cycling multi-medium CD rack with lower cost of production.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 17, 2002Publication date: July 10, 2003Inventor: Kuo-Ming Kao
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Patent number: 6543628Abstract: An electrically cycling CD rack comprising a base, two lateral plates, a gearing device and a lot of clamping seats, the base is perpendicularly connected with the two lateral plates, the gearing device is fixedly provided between the two lateral plates with a motor of which an output axle is provided thereon with a gear, the gear is engaged with a cog device movably and rotatably provided between the two lateral plates, the cog device are connected with the clamping seats; an adjustment box is provided under the cog device to connect the clamping seats. A CD displaying rack having an effect of convenient assembling as well as fast and stable clamping, suitable for viewing and with high storing capability can be obtained.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2002Date of Patent: April 8, 2003Inventor: Kuo-Ming Kao
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Publication number: 20030047526Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of jewel case enclosed CDs in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired CD is moved to the top region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of inter-connected holders. In one embodiment a holder retains a single jewel case, and comprises two independent loops that are rotated with a single motor. A preferred embodiment employs inter-connectable holders that each retain two jewel cases in a side-by-side configuration. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of CD selection. The housing base preferably is detached during shipping to permit transporting the rack in a smaller volume container. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 9, 2002Publication date: March 13, 2003Applicant: Sharper Image CorporationInventors: Charles E. Taylor, Andrew J. Parker
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Publication number: 20030047525Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of jewel case enclosed CDs in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired CD is moved to the top region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of inter-connected holders. In one embodiment a holder retains a single jewel case, and comprises two independent loops that are rotated with a single motor. A preferred embodiment employs inter-connectable holders that each retain two jewel cases in a side-by-side configuration. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of CD selection. The housing base preferably is detached during shipping to permit transporting the rack in a smaller volume container. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 9, 2002Publication date: March 13, 2003Applicant: Sharper Image CorporationInventors: Charles E. Taylor, Edward C. McKinney, Tristan M. Christianson, Andrew J. Parker
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Publication number: 20030042216Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of jewel case enclosed CDs in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired CD is moved to the top region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of interconnected holders. In one embodiment a holder retains a single jewel case, and comprises two independent loops that are rotated with a single motor. A preferred embodiment employs inter-connectable holders that each retain two jewel cases in a side-by-side configuration. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of CD selection. The housing base preferably is detached during shipping to permit transporting the rack in a smaller volume container. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 9, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Applicant: Sharper Image CorporationInventors: Charles E. Taylor, Tristan M. Christianson, Edward C. McKinney
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Patent number: 6520347Abstract: A motorized rack for holding the jewel cases or containers of CDs (or the CDs themselves) in a very compact manner includes a continuous loop formed of holders for the CD cases or other retainers which is driven by a pair of sprockets on which the holders are mounted for rotation. High density storage is provided by spacing the holders and their associated CD containers contiguously to one another and then removal is facilitated by allowing the holders and containers to fan out at the top the vertical tower for manual removal.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2001Date of Patent: February 18, 2003Assignee: Sharper Image CorporationInventors: David Caplan, Charles E. Taylor
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Publication number: 20020190012Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of jewel case enclosed CDs in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired CD is moved to the top region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of inter-connected holders. In one embodiment a holder retains a single jewel case, and comprises two independent loops that are rotated with a single motor. A preferred embodiment employs inter-connectable holders that each retain two jewel cases in a side-by-side configuration. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of CD selection. The housing base preferably is detached during shipping to permit transporting the rack in a smaller volume container. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 9, 2002Publication date: December 19, 2002Applicant: Sharper Image CorporationInventor: Charles E. Taylor
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Publication number: 20020190013Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of jewel case enclosed CDs in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired CD is moved to the top region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of interconnected holders. In one embodiment a holder retains a single jewel case, and comprises two independent loops that are rotated with a single motor. A preferred embodiment employs inter-connectable holders that each retain two jewel cases in a side-by-side configuration. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of CD selection. The housing base preferably is detached during shipping to permit transporting the rack in a smaller volume container. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 9, 2002Publication date: December 19, 2002Inventors: David Caplan, Charles E. Taylor
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Publication number: 20020190014Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of jewel case enclosed CDs in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired CD is moved to the top region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of interconnected holders. In one embodiment a holder retains a single jewel case, and comprises two independent loops that are rotated with a single motor. A preferred embodiment employs inter-connectable holders that each retain two jewel cases in a side-by-side configuration. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of CD selection. The housing base preferably is detached during shipping to permit transporting the rack in a smaller volume container. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 9, 2002Publication date: December 19, 2002Applicant: Sharper image CorporationInventor: Charles E. Taylor
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Patent number: 6464088Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of jewel case enclosed CDs in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired CD is moved to the top region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of inter-connected holders. In one embodiment a holder retains a single jewel case, and comprises two independent loops that are rotated with a single motor. A preferred embodiment employs inter-connectable holders that each retain two jewel cases in a side-by-side configuration. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of CD selection. The housing base preferably is detached during shipping to permit transporting the rack in a smaller volume container. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2000Date of Patent: October 15, 2002Assignee: Sharper Image CorporationInventors: David Caplan, Charles E. Taylor
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Publication number: 20010045400Abstract: A motorized rack for holding the jewel cases or containers of CDs (or the CDs themselves) in a very compact manner includes a continuous loop formed of holders for the CD cases or other retainers which is driven by a pair of sprockets on which the holders are mounted for rotation. High density storage is provided by spacing the holders and their associated CD containers contiguously to one another and then removal is facilitated by allowing the holders and containers to fan out at the top the vertical tower for manual removal.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2001Publication date: November 29, 2001Inventors: David Caplan, Charles E. Taylor
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Patent number: 6119880Abstract: The shelf carousel comprises an upright support frame, guide tracks arranged on the support frame, shelves arranged for movement along the guide tracks, a shelf stabilizer track fixed adjacent the top end of the guide tracks, a shelf stabilizing member fixed to the shelf, and drive chains connected to the shelves for providing movement along the guide tracks. The guide track includes an upper track portion and a lower track portion. The lower track portion is wider than an upper track portion and lies out of line of the upper track portion. Shelves moving on the lower track portion move out of line with each other and towards the user as the shelves pass the user. The stabilizing track and shelf stabilizing member help reduce tipping or swinging of the shelves as the shelves move through the turn at the top of the guide track.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 1997Date of Patent: September 19, 2000Inventor: Raymond Dueck
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Patent number: 5984113Abstract: A shoe storage system for housing and organizing shoes. The system includes a compartment defined by a top wall, a bottom wall, a long open front, a long open back and long opposed side walls, and further includes a gear system disposed in the interior of the compartment, a pulley system coupled to the gear system, and a plurality of shoe pouches coupled to the gear system.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 1997Date of Patent: November 16, 1999Inventor: Bernice Roberson
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Patent number: 5845788Abstract: A bicycle storage and display system having a frame, a first chain mounted on a first side, and a second chain mounted on a second side of the frame. A plurality of sprockets rotatably support the first and second drive chains. The sprockets are arrayed to support the drive chains for concurrent movement in parallel vertical planes. A plurality of elongated, horizontally positioned support bars having first and second ends supported, respectively, on the first and second drive chains, support a plurality of horizontally spaced bicycles thereon. A plurality of two point bicycle hangers are suspended from the support bars, means on each of the hangers releasably engage each bicycle at two points thereon to secure and suspend the bicycles in a generally horizontal orientation for storage and display and for releasing the bicycles for ready removal therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 1997Date of Patent: December 8, 1998Assignee: RHC/Spacemaster CorporationInventor: Claude J. Robolin
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Patent number: 5788057Abstract: An apparatus for the suspended storage of foodstuffs, particularly slabs of chocolate or the like, arranged on shelves (15) lying flat on trays (14) hanging from two parallel chains (12, 13) moving around a closed circuit that includes a supply run and a return run. Each tray (14) is combined with at least one shock absorbing device (61) for restricting the swinging motion thereof, quickly damping said motion and preventing the trays from bumping into one another. For this purpose, the shock absorbing device (61) comprises a braking disc located within a recess provided inside a housing and containing a viscous liquid.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Sapal Societe Anonyme des Plieuses AutomatiquesInventors: Hans Heiri Walser, Urs Muller
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Patent number: 5738225Abstract: A bookrack that moves vertically and horizontally is provided with a chain gear (56) of a reduction motor (55) that turns left or rights by the operation of switches (3, 4). Power is supplied to a rotary wheel (48) to turn an attachment double chain (44). A rotary wheel (40) of a moving body (35) turns motivated by the attachment double chain (44), and a gear (41) connected to the rotary wheel (40) is rotated and engages a rack gear (43). The moving body (35) is thereby made to move in a direction contrary to the attachment double chain (44). A bookrack (80) connected to the moving body (35) is caused to move vertically and horizontally around a right-angled tetragonal track with the moving body (35). The bookrack enables a child, an old or infirm person or a handicapped person to take out or arrange books from a seated position, since the bookrack (80) moves freely and is kept horizontal at all positions as the moving body (35) moves the bookrack (80) horizontally and vertically around the track.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 1996Date of Patent: April 14, 1998Inventor: Bongki Kim
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Patent number: 5687858Abstract: In high-rise shelving, in the region of a feed or removal opening (2) there is disposed a collapsible table (7), to which a shelf-rack (5) can be temporarily transferred. The table (7) assumes, in addition to the supporting function, the function of an actuating member for a switch which opens and closes a feed circuit of a drive system for rollers (4) of two roller paths, which roller paths are disposed in the region of the base of the feed or removal opening (2).Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 1995Date of Patent: November 18, 1997Assignee: Bellheimer Metallwerk GmbH.Inventor: Norbert Bouche
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Patent number: 5431493Abstract: A storage system for vertical and horizontal storage of hangered apparel includes first and second chains having inwardly directed pins. Rods for mounting on the pins include a first fixed end have a bore to mount on one pin and a second retractable end having a bore to mount on the second pin. An actuator tube is mounted over the second end of the rod and is affixed to the sliding retractable end by pins extending through slots in the rod. When the actuator tube is slid inwardly, the end is retracted so that the rod can be mounted first on the one pin on the fixed end and then positioned over the second pin. The actuator is then slid outwardly to mount the rod. A spring biases the retractable end outward.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 1993Date of Patent: July 11, 1995Assignee: Lift & Storage Systems, Inc.Inventor: Roger Larson
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Patent number: 5419523Abstract: The apparatus is a hanger for the ends of the axle of a roll of sheet goods such as carpeting. The hanger is a short "U" channel with a spindle attached across the top of the "U" and protruding out from one side. The spindle is used to substitute for the pin between links of vertical endless chains which hold multiple rolls for display. The side of the "U" opposite from the protruding spindle has a slot which curves down from a vertical edge of the side toward the bottom of the "U". A spring loaded catch pivots across the slot, but only moves in the direction which permits the end of a roller axle to enter the slot while preventing the axle from lifting out from the slot.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 1993Date of Patent: May 30, 1995Assignee: Royal Engineering CompanyInventors: Andrew J. Alpert, Stephen S. Alpert, Douglas P. Duprey
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Patent number: 5339968Abstract: A vertically extending carousel for the display of clothing items and the like. The carousel provides cantilever supported, horizontally extending display racks on which the garments can be displayed. An access position at the bottom of the carousel includes a stop mat which stops the operation of the conveyor when a prospective customer approaches the access position. Manual controls are provided to allow the customer to move selected display racks to the access position, allowing the customer to inspect the garment and remove it in the event that a purchase is desired.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1992Date of Patent: August 23, 1994Assignee: White Consolidated Industries, Inc.Inventor: Dale Voelz
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Patent number: 5211460Abstract: A shoe closet comprises a compartment for the storage and retrieval of shoes, a number of shoe-plate modules on which shoes are placed, a conveyor assembly for carrying shoes to a desired position, and a driving unit for driving the conveyor assembly. The conveyor assembly includes a first conveyor device disposed at an inner edge of the compartment for an upward movement of the shoe-plate module and a second conveyor device disposed at an outer edge of the compartment for a downward movement of the shoe-plate module.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 1991Date of Patent: May 18, 1993Inventor: Shih-Ying Liu
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Patent number: 5207314Abstract: There is provided a device for conveying articles put on a loading base while horizontally holding the loading bases which are moving circulatively in a vertical plane by a single endless chain.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 1992Date of Patent: May 4, 1993Assignee: Tsubakimoto Chain Co.Inventors: Satoshi Ueda, Kiyoshi Fukuyama