Platelike Patents (Class 211/41.1)
  • Publication number: 20120061337
    Abstract: A photovoltaic module mounting system using clamps to attach the modules to a mounting structure, thereby providing a universal mounting structure for use with laminate or framed modules of differing shapes and sizes, from different manufacturers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Inventors: Martin N. Seery, Rodney H. Holland, Jeff Hartnett, Isaac Childress, Todd Pelman
  • Publication number: 20120055890
    Abstract: A display stand for sheet goods such as desk chair mats has a pair of upright side members and a base coupled to the side members. The base can have an upper surface to support a lower edge of sheet goods in a standing position. A protrusion can define an arcuate front lip along the retaining well. The arcuate front lip can be configured to impart a curvature to facilitate standing of the sheet goods. The upper surface of the base can be configured to have different elevations. A back member can be coupled to the upright side members, and can swing, slide, or both, between an open position to provide access to the sheet goods and a closed position to retain the sheet goods within the display. Signage panels can be coupled between the side members along a tie member to attract customers to the displayed goods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2010
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Inventors: Bailey Jean Black, JR., Bryan F. Magee
  • Publication number: 20120048351
    Abstract: The present invention is a ballasted solar panel mounting system primarily for mounting solar panels to a roof. The mounting system reduces waste space by positioning the first and/or the last row of bases beneath the panel. This potentially provides room for an additional row of panels and generation of a greater amount of electricity per square foot of area. Additionally, the mounting system uses bases with upwardly extending posts that are integrally connected to the bases that support ballasts. Thus, all assemblies that require attaching one part of the system to another is done at an elevated level to reduce the amount of bending required by the installers. Moreover, the unique system for installing solar panels can be installed without a jig. In some instances, it can be installed with only a single reference line (e.g., chalk line). Additionally, the bases are configured to be stackable for inexpensive storage and distribution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: Solar Liberty Energy Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Nathan Rizzo
  • Publication number: 20120037576
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for fixing metallic structures to the floor, said device consisting of a cylindrical metallic tube (2) with lateral wings (4) and longitudinal openings, in the lower part, from which teeth (11) extend, said teeth being distributed over the external surface of link blocks (9) which expand by screwing a central screw (5) fixed thereto by an upper jig bushing (6), and two central and lower jig bushings (7) that hold and guide the link blocks (9). Pistons (12) are arranged in the region of the openings (3), said pistons moving in opposite directions towards the centre of said region due to the screw (5) having reverse screws in its screwing areas, which push the link blocks (9) outwards during the movement of the pistons, causing the teeth to project out of the tube (2) through the openings (3). The upper end (16) of the screw (5) is hexagonal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2011
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Inventors: Pablo José Adriaensens Aparicio, José Antonio Pérez Lires
  • Publication number: 20120037214
    Abstract: To protect a solar cell panel and facilitate the attachment of the solar cell panel on a roof and the like. A solar cell module 2 includes a solar cell panel 20 and two reinforcing bars 21 that laterally cross the solar cell panel 20 and that are disposed and adhered on the rear surface of the solar cell panel 20. Each of the reinforcing bars 21 is in the form of a rectangular and flat plate having a length that is approximately the same as the lateral width of the solar cell panel 20. Both end portions of each reinforcing bar 21 are bent upwardly to form hooking portions 21a of each reinforcing bar 21. U-shaped notches are formed adjacent to both ends of each reinforcing bar 21, and the U-shaped parts are bent downwardly to form protruding engagement portions 21b. An example of the reinforcing bar 21 is made of a steel plate that is cut, bent, and subjected to plating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2010
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Inventor: Kenichi Sagayama
  • Publication number: 20120036717
    Abstract: A collapsible photovoltaic module mounting assembly framework for mounting a plurality of photovoltaic modules thereon, comprising a plurality of module support rails each configured to be attached to a portion of a photovoltaic module and a plurality of supporting beams. A first of the supporting beams is positioned under, and pivotally connected to, a first portion of the rails and a second of the supporting beams is positioned under, and pivotally connected to, a second portion of the rails. The supporting beams can be moved to a relative position adjacent to each other by moving the rails from a first orientation substantially perpendicular to the supporting beams to a second orientation substantially oblique to the supporting beams. Further, each supporting beam has a plurality of openings through which a hardware connector can be passed to connect the supporting beam to a support structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Inventors: Michael A. Belikoff, John Hartelius, Chris Mahn
  • Publication number: 20120031470
    Abstract: The invention provides solar panel systems, which may be applied to surfaces such as residential rooftops. The invention also provides methods of installing solar panel systems. A solar panel system may comprise one or more module, which may comprise one or more solar panels and a rack. A solar panel may comprise a polymer, and may not comprise glass or a metal frame. The rack may include three footings and a plurality of adjustable fasteners that may enable the module to reside on an uneven surface. The rack may also include integrated electronic components and a microinverter. A module may yield a desired power output, and may generate performance monitoring data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2010
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Inventors: Dmitry Dimov, Julian Sweet, Mark Goldman, Theo Mann, Christine M. Kurjan, Anne Elizabeth
  • Publication number: 20120031859
    Abstract: An adjustable tilt solar panel support system including a support post, a pivot bracket attached to the support post in a generally upright orientation and having a pivot pin hole for accommodating a pivot pin, and further having at least one adjustment opening; a rotational support cradle having a pivot pin hole in alignment with the pivot pin hole of the pivot bracket, such that the support cradle is pivotally attached to the pivot bracket, the support cradle further including at least one adjustment opening which aligns with the adjustment opening of the pivot bracket. An adjustment pin is selectively inserted into and through the adjustment openings of the support cradle and pivot bracket to secure the support cradle at a selected angle, and wherein the removal of the adjustment pin permits the rotational support cradle to pivot on the pivot bracket about the pivot pin. Beam holders for securing support beams are disposed atop the rotational support cradle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2011
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Applicant: THOMPSON TECHNOLOGY INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Anthony A. Zante, Monty Mullins, Craig Stager, Daniel S. Thompson
  • Publication number: 20120031860
    Abstract: An adjustable plate stand including a plurality of plates configured to hold foodstuffs thereon, a support rod configured to be arranged vertically and support the plurality of plates thereon, and a locking mechanism associated with each of the plurality of plates to lock each of the plurality of plates with respect to the support rod and further configured to allow the plurality of plates to move with respect to the support rod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2010
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Applicant: Wilton Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephanie GOODE, Thomas Noone, Mason Umholtz
  • Publication number: 20120006768
    Abstract: Solar panel mounting frame assemblies are provided, as well as methods of stacking and transporting the same. The solar panel mounting frame assemblies include a first set of bars that are located adjacent to a top surface of a second set of bars. A bottom surface of each of the bars included within the second set of bars have at least one notch, which is configured to receive a bar included within a first set of bars of a second solar panel mounting frame assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2010
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Inventor: Dallas Kellerman
  • Patent number: 8091845
    Abstract: A holder comprising a first portion and a second portion. The first portion has a base, a first wall and a second wall. The first and second walls extend upwardly from the base to define a space for receiving at least partially a lid or a cover. The second portion has a first member extending downwardly from the second wall and a second member with a bridge extending between the first and second members. The second member has a lever portion and a grasping portion. In use, the grasping portion is movable between a first position, where a gap is formed between the grasping portion and the first member, and a second position, where the grasping portion is biased towards the first member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Trudeau Corporation 1889 Inc.
    Inventor: Stefano Di Lollo
  • Publication number: 20120000866
    Abstract: The present invention is operable to store or transport one or more sheets of any material, including fragile materials. The present invention may be utilized to store or transport a wide variety of materials including, panes of glass, laminated glass, insulated glass, plastic sheets, or any other rigid panels of any material. The transport rack includes slots wherein one or more glass panes may be loaded and supported. One or more rotatable gripping arms may be utilized to support the one or more panes of glass positioned within the slots. Cushioning material may cover or coat the supporting members and/or gripping arm. One or more glass panes positioned in the transport rack may be protected from breakage during storage or transport.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2010
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Inventors: Randal Huszczo, Jeff Young, Richard Montana, Paul T. Arato, Robert Vandenham
  • Publication number: 20110272367
    Abstract: A device for supporting solar modules, including several posts arranged in a row, wherein a head piece is attached to each post in its upper end region and at each head piece a transverse beam oriented more or less transversely to the row of posts is fixed, characterized in that the head piece is a profiled element, and that there is a strut between each transverse beam and the post, at the head piece of which the transverse beam is fixed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventor: Johann Kufner
  • Publication number: 20110272368
    Abstract: A frame for jointly mounting at least two rectangular solar modules, wherein the frame comprises at least a group consisting of three parallel rails which are attached to a supporting structure at defined distances from each other, characterized in that the middle rail of the three rails has a profile with flanges cantilevering towards both sides under which an edge of a solar module can be inserted, and that to the two outer rails of the three rails clamping elements can be bolted, by means of which solar modules inserted into the middle rail can be mounted on the two outer rails, namely on both respective edges which are adjacent to the edge inserted into the middle rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventor: Johann Kufner
  • Publication number: 20110272366
    Abstract: A display module for sheet goods is provided that uses a spline having a spline base and a sample attachment section defined by a recess along one side of the spline base. The depth of the recess is approximately equal to a thickness of the sample material. The sample attachment section has a reduced thickness in comparison to the spline base, and two slots are defined in the spline base on a side opposite to the sample attachment area. The slots have a first slot portion that extends inwardly from the side of the spline base and a second slot portion that extends generally perpendicular to an end of the first portion, and an enlarged slot end portion is located at an end of the second slot portion. A rack is provided having two generally parallel rods which are spaced apart by a same distance as a spacing between the slots in the spline. The rods are adapted to be received in the slots.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Applicant: ART GUILD, INC.
    Inventors: Ivan Letinic, Steve Pancheri
  • Publication number: 20110266234
    Abstract: A mounting system (1) for solar modules (6) having base part (11) on which a frame (2) is supported to which one or more plate-shaped solar modules (6) are held, and having an anchor (13, 35) capable of being attached to a wall of a building structure and which supports the frame (2) in an upper region, wherein the base part (11) is pivotable about a horizontal axis (10). Further, the invention relates to a method for installing a solar system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2011
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Applicant: SCHUCO INTERNATIONAL KG
    Inventors: Ralf Ritzler, Wadim Salzer, Andreas Rosenwirth, Gerd Imkamp, Andre Stockhausen, Carsten Hanke
  • Publication number: 20110266233
    Abstract: Mounting system (1) for solar modules (6), having a substructure (7, 9, 11) on which a frame (2) is supported on which one or more plate-shaped solar modules (6) are held, and having an anchor (13, 35) that can be affixed to a building structure and supports the frame (2) in an upper region, wherein a retainer part (20, 50?) is provided at the anchor (13, 35) in order to fix the frame (2) and being adjustable to alter the inclination relative to the anchor (13, 35) by at least one axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2011
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Applicant: SCHUCO International KG
    Inventors: Ralf Ritzler, Wadim Salzer, Andreas Rosenwirth, Gerd Imkamp, Andre Stockhausen, Carsten Hanke
  • Publication number: 20110233157
    Abstract: A frame system is disclosed for supporting photovoltaic (PV) panels on a support surface. The frame system may make use of a plurality of frame rails, with each frame rail forming a single piece component having a channel formed therein. Each frame rail may have a first portion and a second portion extending non-parallel to the first portion. The system may also include a plurality of ballast trays for securing to the frame rails. Each ballast tray may have a floor portion being of dimensions adapted to support a predetermined ballast weight thereon, and a connecting bracket secured to the floor portion. The connecting bracket may define a plurality of locations thereon at which end portions of a pair of the frame rails may be connected to the connecting bracket. The connecting bracket enables a degree of adjustable spacing to be provided between adjacent rows of frame rails connected to the connecting bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2011
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Applicant: JAC-Rack, Inc.
    Inventor: Gerard J. Kmita
  • Publication number: 20110226711
    Abstract: A cushioned top surface mat on which a plurality of devices are to be placed is provided on the top surface of a tray body. A bottom surface mat which is brought into contact with a plurality of devices placed on a lower tray body to restrict movement of the devices is provided on the bottom surface of the tray body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2009
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Inventors: Michikazu Okanishi, Ryo Uematsu, Kimio Nagatome
  • Publication number: 20110220596
    Abstract: A panel support and wiring system is used as part of a bi-directional solar panel support matrix having lower support joists and upper panel rails. Both the panel clip and wiring arrangements are configured to facilitate rapid deployment and installation of the entire solar panel system, including supports and interfaces with the underlying substrate. A standardized wiring system is one of the factors facilitating rapid installation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2011
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Applicant: Northern States Metals Company
    Inventors: Paul R. Cusson, Thomas P. Kilar, JR., Robert J. Voytilla, Charles Blackman, Michael G. Greenamyer
  • Publication number: 20110210085
    Abstract: A frame assembly is provided for a solar module. The frame assembly includes a plurality of frame members that are structured to collectively support and hold a first solar panel. At least one of the plurality of frame members is structured to adjoin a frame member of a second solar module in forming a joining with the frame member of the second solar module over a length where the frame member of the first and second solar module adjoin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Inventor: Joshua Reed Plaisted
  • Publication number: 20110204007
    Abstract: A modular rack system for displaying flat articles. In one aspect, the invention comprises: a plurality of racks, each rack comprising: a floor for supporting a flat article, the floor having a front, a rear and lateral sides; a front retaining portion extending upward from the floor at the front of the floor; first and second lateral retaining portions extending upward from the floor along the lateral sides of the floor; at least two support members extending from the rear of the floor that engage a vertical wall and support the rack in a cantilevered manner and oriented so that the floor slopes downward and away from the vertical wall; and the racks mounted to the vertical wall in a stacked assembly so that an upper rack in the stacked assembly rests atop the first and second lateral retaining portions of a lower adjacent rack in the stacked assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2010
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Inventors: Steven B. Golden, Stephen P. Dashe
  • Publication number: 20110198304
    Abstract: A rack assembly for supporting a solar energy collecting module on a support surface is provided that has a plurality of upright frames and a transverse element connected to the plurality of upright frames. An associated method of constructing the rack assembly is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2009
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Inventor: Linus Eric Wallgren
  • Publication number: 20110108498
    Abstract: The invention relates to a holder for safely storing and/or transporting frameless PV modules or other flat, cuboidal bodies, the size of which is defined by three sides and the thickness of which is defined by the shortest one of the three sides, wherein the holder comprises a base body made from a first material, which base body has a first and second side wall, at least one first and second support element and at least one first and second securing element, and further comprises a buffer structure made from a second material which is softer with respect to the first material and has an adhering effect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2010
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Inventor: Joachim Haeberlein
  • Publication number: 20110094559
    Abstract: The solar canopy support system has at least two beam support columns. Each beam support column has a first end connected to a ground surface and extends substantially vertically along a longitudinal axis from the first end to a second end. There is also a “C”-channel support beam connected at the second end of each beam support column. The “C”-channel support beam includes a longitudinal axis within about 0 degrees to about 30 degrees of perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of each beam support column. There are also two or more “C”-channels. Each “C”-channel has a first end connected to an upper portion of one “C”-channel support beam and has a second end connected to an upper portion of another “C”-channel support beam. Each “C”-channel includes a longitudinal axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of each “C”-channel support beam; at least one solar power array connected on an upper portion of at least two “C”-channels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2010
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Inventors: DAVID S. POTTER, Jeff P. Munoz
  • Publication number: 20110097186
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an export rack for shipping sheet-like articles. More specifically, the present invention is directed to an export rack that includes at least one support, a removable gate and at least one top restraint. The removable gate includes at least one wedge that is configured to secure sheet-like articles loaded in the export rack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Applicant: AGC Flat Glass North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven D. GIBSON, Dennis MURPHY
  • Patent number: 7931145
    Abstract: An embodiment of the invention provides a cassette comprising a top plate, a base plate, a plurality of posts arranged between the top plate and the base plate and defining an operation space, a securing device comprising a stop mechanism and a clamping mechanism and arranged along with one post. The stop mechanism comprises a stop projection provided on an outer side of the one of posts, a stop bar parallel to the one post and slidable disposed through the stop projection, and a stop block disposed on a side of the stop bar. A lower end of the stop bar extends beyond a plane of the base plate when the stop block is bearing against an upper surface of the stop projection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Beijing Boe Optoelectronics Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Haoran Gao, Wei Shen
  • Patent number: 7857147
    Abstract: A dish rack comprises a tubular hub with a bottom segment and an outwardly flared top segment. An inner ledge supports a funnel and a flat-panel grate. The funnel may be molded together with the hub, eliminating the ledge. The rear of the hub is a vertical splash guard rising above the height of the front of the hub. A removable drainage tray is configured to slide into the bottom segment at the front of the hub. Cutouts on the bottom segment define hand-hold cavities. Handles are located on the exterior of the flared top segment to also serve as dish towel drying bars. The flat-panel grate is preferably configured with a slot to support and cradle a dish edge. An optional utensil holder is preferably configured to be supported by the flat-plate grate at the inner periphery of the flared top segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Inventor: Azanaw Mulaw
  • Patent number: 7854974
    Abstract: Tubular silicon members advantageously formed by extrusion from a silicon melt or by fixing together silicon staves in a barrel shape. A silicon-based wafer support tower is particularly useful for batch-mode thermal chemical vapor deposition and other high-temperature processes, especially reflow of silicate glass at above 1200° C. The surfaces of the silicon tower are bead blasted to introduce sub-surface damage, which produces pits and cracks in the surface, which anchor subsequently deposited layer of, for example, silicon nitride, thereby inhibiting peeling of the nitride film. Wafer support portions of the tower are preferably composed of virgin polysilicon. The invention can be applied to other silicon parts in a deposition or other substrate processing reactor, such as tubular sleeves and reactor walls. The tower parts are preferably pre-coated with silicon nitride or polysilicon prior to chemical vapor deposition of these materials, or with silicon nitride prior to reflow of silica.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Integrated Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Ranaan Y. Zehavi, James E. Boyle
  • Patent number: 7854324
    Abstract: A shipping carrier having a frame with an elongated tube and an elongated retainer attached to the tube. Dunnage made of a compressible material is attached to the retainer and that dunnage has a plurality of space for recesses, each of which has spaced-apart sides and are dimensioned to receive an edge of a component. A guard is attached to the dunnage so that the guard overlies at least a portion of one side of the dunnage recess. Additionally, a subcomponent may be attached to the dunnage with a screw anchor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: C & D Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles Farley, Craig Hefner
  • Publication number: 20100237029
    Abstract: Precise parameters are maintained in a support structure for solar panels or other panel-like structures through use of a collapsible folding structure which is preassembled to precise tolerances at a convenient staging site before being collapsed for shipment. Easy installation with unskilled labor is facilitated by attaching one support joist to a substrate and then unfolding the entire support structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2009
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Inventors: Paul R. Cusson, Robert J. Voytilla
  • Publication number: 20100237028
    Abstract: An array of photovoltaic panels is supported in rows and columns spaced from one another using a foldable bi-directional span of support members. The support members include a plurality of support joists and support rails braced at an incline. Each support rail is tubular and generally rectangular, having a lower wall section with a T-slot channel for acceptance of the head of a bolt for adjustable attachment with the support joist. Also, the support rail may have a C-slot channel for retaining electrical wires. Clips are used to secure each panel to upper wall portions of underlying support rails. Each clip has a generally U-shaped gasket and is retained to a corresponding support rail through a threaded hole in a top wall of the support rail that receives a bolt or similar threaded fastener.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Inventor: Paul R. Cusson
  • Publication number: 20100132769
    Abstract: The solar canopy support system has at least two beam support columns. Each beam support column has a first end connected to a ground surface and extends substantially vertically along a longitudinal axis from the first end to a second end. There is also a zee channel support beam connected at the second end of each beam support column. The zee channel support beam includes a longitudinal axis within about 0 degrees to about 30 degrees of perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of each beam support column. There are also two or more zee channels. Each zee channel has a first end connected to an upper portion of one zee channel support beam and has a second end connected to an upper portion of another zee channel support beam. Each zee channel includes a longitudinal axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of each zee channel support beam; at least one solar power array connected on an upper portion of at least two zee channels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2009
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Inventors: David S. Potter, Jeff P. Munoz
  • Publication number: 20090188873
    Abstract: A display for a group of semi-rigid to semi-flaccid sheet goods has a base, and a pair of parallel sidewalls that extend upward from the base a spaced distance from each other that is smaller than the width of the sheet goods. A plurality of channels is fixed to each sidewall so that each channel is perpendicular to the base and points toward the other sidewall at a uniform inclined angle. The angle of the channels is such that one of the sheet goods can be received between opposing pairs of the channels when curved in an arc. This arcuate presentation of the semi-rigid to semi-flaccid sheet goods ensures that the sheet goods will remain erect for an extended period of time while situated in the display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2009
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Inventor: Edward S. Robbins, III
  • Publication number: 20090145863
    Abstract: A rack for hanging room sized carpets in show rooms. The rack has a plurality of uprights, each of which has a horizontal arm supporting a hanging carpet. The arm is adapted to be raised and lowered by a rod in a cylinder and the rod is driven by a motor or other means and the motor would be a gear drive type motor. The belt and motor-driven pulley are mounted on the rack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2008
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Inventor: Jason J. Kostigian
  • Publication number: 20080272071
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fastening system for fastening a plate within an enclosure for electric installations. The fastening system comprises an elongated holder and a support member arranged to be fastened to the holder with snap-in fastening means. The snap-in fastening means are arranged to fasten the support member detachably to the holder in a direction perpendicular relative to the longitudinal direction of the holder and comprise locking means for fastening the support member to the holder at different points along the holder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2008
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Applicant: FIBOX OY AB
    Inventor: John-Erik Sonntag
  • Publication number: 20080257779
    Abstract: The present invention provides a supporting member for thin-film-coated boards that is capable of sufficiently suppressing dust generated because of particles and the like. The present invention also provides a storage container suitable for storing thin-film-coated boards that has such a supporting member so as to store the thin-film-coated boards at a high level of cleanliness. The supporting members (2) and (5) have supporting means for supporting the thin-film-coated boards (1) such as mask blanks. The surface of at least a portion of the supporting means that comes into contact with the thin-film-coated boards (1) is permitted to be a smooth plane having an arithmetic average surface roughness (Ra) of 0.1 ?m or lower. The surface of at least the portion of the supporting means that comes into contact with the thin-film-coated boards (1) is composed of, for instance, a resin material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2005
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Applicant: HOYA CORPORATION
    Inventor: Akinori Kurikawa
  • Publication number: 20080251473
    Abstract: An apparatus for storing contamination-sensitive flat articles, in particular for storing semiconductor wafers, comprises a plurality of box-like compartments stationary arranged on a fixed mounting rack. The compartments are open on a front side and are arranged in rows and columns side by side and one above the other on the fixed mounting rack. The compartments each have a plurality of slotted holders for receiving the flat articles, and they surround a first handling unit configured for automatically inserting and removing the flat articles into and out of the slotted holders. A closed housing forms a clean room where both the plurality of compartments and the first handling unit are arranged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2008
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Inventors: Lutz REBSTOCK, Michael Meichsner
  • Patent number: 7434699
    Abstract: A fixture for displaying dinnerware including a base, a track, and a dinnerware mount. The base is configured to support a piece of dinnerware. The track is coupled to and extends generally perpendicular to the base. The dinnerware mount is slidably coupled to the track and includes a first arm and a second arm circumferentially spaced from one another. Each of the first arm and the second arm define a clasp for receiving a portion of the piece of dinnerware. When the dinnerware mount is in a first position with respect to the track, the piece of dinnerware is maintained between the base and the dinnerware mount. When the dinnerware mount is in a second position with respect to the track, the piece of dinnerware is removable from between the base and the dinnerware mount. Dinnerware displays and methods of presenting dinnerware to retail audiences provide additional advantages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: Target Brands, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph R. Stukenberg
  • Patent number: 7431158
    Abstract: A flexible substrate storage equipment of the present invention includes at least a pair of opposed members that constitute an outer frame of a storage equipment main body, wherein the pair of opposed members are disposed so as to maintain a predetermined interval to wedge a plurality of flexible substrates in between to hold them in a shape of a curve. As a result, a flexible substrate storage equipment for surely storing and holding a plastic substrate or other flexible substrate with a simple structure, and a storing method of such substrate can be realized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kimihiko Yamada, Yoshiki Nakatani, Tetsuya Aita
  • Publication number: 20080150244
    Abstract: A sheet handling device for handling large sheets of glass or other sheet material, the device comprising a wheeled trolley having an upright support shaft (2), a carriage movable along the shaft (2) into a selected position, and at least two vacuum grips mounted to the carriage to engage the sheet at positions displaced in the height direction of the sheet. In another embodiment the carriage is movable by operation of a winch. The trolley is normally used in conjunction with a second like trolley so that the vacuum grips of the two trolleys engage the sheet at spaced positions along the length of the sheet. The two trolleys are preferably interconnected by releasable bracing which can be stored on the trolleys for ease of transportation. In a further embodiment there is also disclosed a glass installation guide to facilitate guidance of a large glass sheet into a frame during installation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2004
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Inventor: Ricardo Carlei
  • Patent number: 7341151
    Abstract: An LCD module covered a protective film and stored in a vinyl bag is held by cushioning material, and the cushioning material is placed in a box. A plurality of grooves are formed in a mutually parallel fashion on the lower and upper members of the cushioning material. The grooves form a supporting portion for supporting the edges of LCD modules that are fitted in the grooves. The depth of the grooves is slightly less than the width of the frame area of the LCD modules. An upwardly protruding convexity is formed in the area between the grooves and on both sides of the rows comprising the plurality of grooves. The convexity is a pop-out prevention portion for preventing LCD modules from popping out from the cushioning material during transport. Soiling can thereby be prevented from occurring on the display area of the display modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Assignee: NEC LCD Technologies, Ltd.
    Inventor: Koji Takagi
  • Patent number: 7210892
    Abstract: The invention relates to a stacking column for storing goods on top of each other or next to each other on pawls (1) which rotate about a rotational axis (2) from an idle position into a working position. The respective successive pawls (1) are mutually coupled by means of at least one link plate (9). In order to reduce the gap or pitch (T) between adjacent pawls (1), the at least one link plate (9) is angular, elbowed or arc-shaped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Assignee: MTS Maschinenbau, GmbH
    Inventor: Gustay Strobel
  • Patent number: 7104409
    Abstract: A storage rack for storing pots, pans, skillets and lids comprising an adjustable storage rack constructed with a stand and a base member mounted to the stand. A plurality of wire members are mounted on clamp members which are mounted on rails secured to the base member. The clamp member can be slidably positioned on the rails prior to the securing of them in a fixed position on the rails and extending upward from the base member. A plurality of wire members have sleeve assemblies forming the upright supports, the sleeve assemblies providing height adjustment of the wire member. A spring biased handle is mounted to the base member and is biased to return to its original position after the handle is released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Inventor: Fletcher Morgan
  • Patent number: 7032964
    Abstract: The storage apparatus for removable roof panels of an automobile includes a roof panel rack having a base member, a top member, and at least one support member joining the base and top members such that the base and top members are separated by a distance substantially equal to the at least one support member. The at least one support member includes at least one bearing support that is adapted to supportively receive the removable roof panel and a locking bar. A locking bar body having a locking bar and a locking bar cover is operatively coupled to the roof panel rack and is designed and configured to secure at least one removable roof panel. A protective cover is disposed between two removable roof panels. The storage apparatus is adapted to be arranged as a stand outside the automobile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Inventor: Albert W. Kirk
  • Patent number: 7001130
    Abstract: Robotic rack loading apparatus and method include features and loading steps that provide essentially damage free rack loading of automotive panel assemblies into a specially designed rack. The rack includes dunnage elements containing sets of slots with lead-in upper edge angles and sensing holes associated with the slots. The robot carries a modified end of arm tool including a sensor to sense the location of a sensing hole to position a panel for loading into a corresponding set of slots. Another sensor preferably senses objects or structure in the rack to position the tool in a preload position. A compliant device allows lateral and longitudinal compliance of the end of arm tool to allow assemblies to be funneled into position in the slots without encountering damaging stress. A programmed robot can thus automatically load panel assemblies into the rack without damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Lance T. Ransom
  • Patent number: 6997318
    Abstract: A liquid crystal display module packing apparatus having a rectangular lower plate, first and second side walls that extend from sides of the lower plate, and an upper plate that extends from an upper edge of the first side wall. To provide structural support, a plurality of auxiliary side walls extend from the ends and the middle of the first and second side walls. A plurality of fixing jaws are located on inner surfaces of the packing apparatus. Those fixing jaws receive and retain liquid crystal display modules. A plurality of grooves are located at side edges of the upper plate, and at upper edges of the first and second side walls. The liquid crystal display module packing apparatus can be unfolded into a flat structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: LG.Philips LCD Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Sun-Im Park
  • Patent number: 6974039
    Abstract: A implement for storing weight lifting plates whereby the plates cannot be placed incorrectly. The invention comprises plural foundation members adapted to create a base of support or to attach the implement to existing structures. Mainframe members connect upwardly therefrom to form the structure of the implement. Each plate station is comprised of two horizontal-extender members mounted perpendicular to the mainframe member at a predetermined height and protruding laterally by various distances. Attached to the outermost end of each horizontal-extender member is a forwardly protruding plate-support member, adapted to support the plates with maximal surface contact. A height-limiting member is centrally mounted to the mainframe member and protruding forwardly, superior to the plate-support members at a predetermined distance depending on the plate size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Inventors: Chad Gordon Comartin, Mark Kurt Vockentanz
  • Patent number: 6948623
    Abstract: A frame for housing plate materials includes a pair of laterally opposed side boards having formed equally thereon a plurality of parallel, mutually opposed support grooves; bases (top and bottom plates) formed on and beneath the side boards; joints for interconnecting the side boards and the bases; a device provided in the frame to adjust an interval between the side boards in order that given plate materials may be accommodated in the frame as spaced at predetermined intervals by causing paired edges of the plate materials to be inserted into the opposed support grooves; adjusting projections protruding slightly from the support grooves and disposed on at least either of mutually opposed inner surfaces of members suitably selected from among the side boards, bases and joints; and auxiliary adjusters disposed near the adjusting projections and adapted to allow terminal parts on at least one side of the plate materials to collide against the mutually opposed inner surfaces by simply moving one of the side boa
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignee: Nix, Inc.
    Inventor: Hitoshi Takano
  • Publication number: 20040238465
    Abstract: The present invention includes a rack for storing panels, comprising a base having a top surface, a rear structure vertically extending from the base, a plurality of supports in at least one of the top surface of the base and the rear structure for supporting the panels in a vertical position, and a plurality of arms extending from the rear structure for engaging top edges of the panels to retain the panels in the vertical position. The present invention therefore allows for easy and selective access to a desired panel, or small group of panels, regardless of the number and disposition of the other panels within the rack. A method for storing panels within a rack is also presented.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventor: Roger Mercure