With Supports Patents (Class 232/39)
  • Patent number: 7559457
    Abstract: A mailbox arrangement is provided for mounting a mailbox to a mounting post, featuring a mailbox for receiving mail; a mounting base coupled to the mailbox; a mounting bracket for suitably coupling the mailbox arrangement to a mounting post; and a spring assembly for flexibly and rotationally coupling the mounting base to the mounting bracket in a predetermined relationship, the spring assembly being responsive to a force, for pivoting the mounting base in relation to the mounting bracket in one direction so as to resist and absorb a torque being applied as a result of the force, and for pivoting the mounting base in relation to the mounting bracket in the opposite direction as a result of the torque being stored in the spring assembly so as to return the mounting base and the mounting bracket back to the predetermined relationship when the force is no longer applied, so that when the mailbox is mounted on the mounting post, the mailbox is oriented in a desired position for receiving mail, and so that when th
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Inventor: Michael Webber
  • Patent number: 7510162
    Abstract: A two piece plastic support is provided for a plastic mailbox, which upon installation surrounds a support post mounted in the ground. The two pieces are substantially reverse images of one another with confronting post receiving channels on their inward sides. The channels are dimensioned to accommodate warped or slightly over size posts. Corresponding sides of the channels have protuberances, which stabilize the post within the channel. Abutting pockets in the inner and outer walls of each of the pieces aligned openings for fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: RWL Corporation
    Inventors: Robert W. Lackey, Robert C. Beckmann
  • Publication number: 20090057388
    Abstract: A fixture assembly includes a base post assembly and a support post assembly which includes opposed post members. The fixture assembly includes a yieldable assembly which allows the support post assembly to repeatably move between upright and tilted positions in response to an applied force. The opposed post members are positioned to restrict movement of the support post assembly from the upright position to the tilted position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2008
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventor: Anthony J. Newbill
  • Patent number: 7497368
    Abstract: A mailbox is mounted to two perpendicular faces of a post by a mounting assembly main bracket with two perpendicular flanges. The main bracket has a horizontal top wall from which two diverging sidewalls extend downwardly. The top wall has two sets of perpendicular slots, which receive two parallel right angle top brackets to receive the mailbox in a position either partially overlying the top of the post, projecting from the post, or offset from the post in a transverse orientation. Another embodiment has a main bracket with an integral top bracket, and only one adjustable top bracket. For sale, the top brackets mount to the main bracket by a label sheet wrapping the top wall and holding a fastener container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Inventor: David E. Lutzke
  • Patent number: 7487907
    Abstract: A security mailbox system known as Safe “T” Box being a fully enclosed square mailbox that can be designed from PVC or some fabricated material, the Safe T Box is easy to install, environmentally friendly and will provide long service life. The mailbox includes chambers for incoming and outgoing mail being delivered via the U.S. Postal Service, it also has a chamber for newspapers/advertisements not delivered via U.S. Postal Service. The incoming mail chamber is designed for mail to go down a mail chute into a basket for pick-up through back of the locked mailbox. Outgoing mail can be placed from the back for pick-up from the front by postal worker. The mailbox is attached to the ground though internal poles extending from the bottom of the mailbox into the ground and cemented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Inventor: Sheila Roxann Miller
  • Patent number: 7481357
    Abstract: A combined mailbox and swivel mount assembly includes a mailbox made from durable rubber material and an elongated and rectilinear post with axially opposed ends. The assembly further includes a mounting bracket, a rectilinear support shaft, and a base bracket fixedly and statically coupled to an underside of the mailbox. A sleeve is monolithically formed with a posterior side of the base bracket. Such a sleeve has a longitudinal length registered parallel with a longitudinal length of the post, and is rotatably coupled to the mounting bracket in such a manner that the base bracket and the mailbox freely articulate in sync about a fulcrum axis defined parallel to the sleeve and along an arcuate path defined substantially anterior of the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Inventor: Victor Totis
  • Publication number: 20090001152
    Abstract: Door stop and impact absorber bracket for restraining mailbox doors from opening beyond a selected swing radius. The bracket can fit underneath the mailbox behind an existing lower hanging lip. The door stop bracket is positioned such that it limits the door from swinging beyond a desired point (for example approximately 90 degrees) when the door is opened. The bracket can have an elongated rectangular planar central portion, with bent ends, together forming a generally C-shape. The bracket can have cushion pad to protect both the door, hinges other components and even the body of the mail box from being damaged from excessive vibrations when the door reaches the maximum opening point. The pad can also reduce objectionable impact noise effects that are created when a mailbox door accelerates in a free fall to a stop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2007
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Applicant: EUROASIA PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: John M. Bowers, Craig W. Walker
  • Publication number: 20080314967
    Abstract: According to the present disclosure impact damage to a mail box and an associated support column can be prevented or at least minimized. In addition, adverse weather related affects can be minimized by the provision of a device comprising a shield having an arcuate form in a mounted position for shielding the mail box and at least a portion of the associated supporting column extending therefrom. The device includes a first leg extending along one side of the supporting column and the mail box and a second leg extending along another opposing side of the column and the mail box. A connecting member is provided and includes an arcuate portion connecting the first leg and the second leg for absorbing and deflecting the impact of collisional objects. The arcuate portion extends over and above at least a top side of the mail box.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2008
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventor: JEFFREY H. BLACK
  • Patent number: 7448531
    Abstract: A theft-resistant mailbox with secure mounting bracket and method of construction thereof are presented. A mounting bracket is formed and includes a substantially flat plate provided with one or more apertures to accommodate at least one post fastener. A housing having an open substantially rectangular bottom is provided. A bottom plate is fixedly attached to the inside walls of the housing above bottom margins of the rectangular bottom. A bracket mount is provided between the bottom margins to be slidably received by the mounting bracket over the post fastener. A lockable door is pivotably attached to a front of the housing. A bracket lock is provided to removably lock the mounting bracket to the housing from at least one fixed point of attachment accessible from within the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Inventor: David Joseph Bolles
  • Patent number: 7438214
    Abstract: A mailbox bracket comprises a laminar plate that is generally coextensive with a lower surface of the mailbox and has a pair of flanges for securing the mailbox to the plate. A generally cylindrical sleeve is secured to the plate and extends downwardly therefrom. The sleeve is adapted to receive a generally cylindrical post and includes an aperture for use with a bolt or pin to secure the post within the sleeve. According to one embodiment of the invention, the bracket is formed of steel. According to another embodiment of the invention, the bracket is integrally formed of nylon polymer and includes a plurality of strengthening ribs extending radially outward from the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignee: Caminoverde II, L.L.P.
    Inventors: Ronald D. Riker, Darrell W. Heald
  • Publication number: 20080149697
    Abstract: A mailbox arrangement is provided for mounting a mailbox to a mounting post, featuring a mailbox for receiving mail; a mounting base coupled to the mailbox; a mounting bracket for suitably coupling the mailbox arrangement to a mounting post; and a spring assembly for flexibly and rotationally coupling the mounting base to the mounting bracket in a predetermined relationship, the spring assembly being responsive to a force, for pivoting the mounting base in relation to the mounting bracket in one direction so as to resist and absorb a torque being applied as a result of the force, and for pivoting the mounting base in relation to the mounting bracket in the opposite direction as a result of the torque being stored in the spring assembly so as to return the mounting base and the mounting bracket back to the predetermined relationship when the force is no longer applied, so that when the mailbox is mounted on the mounting post, the mailbox is oriented in a desired position for receiving mail, and so that when th
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Inventor: Michael Webber
  • Patent number: 7389911
    Abstract: A mailbox mounting apparatus comprises three elongated members, a mounting bracket and a mailbox attachment bracket. A first one of the elongated members is movably attached to a second one of the elongated members for enabling the first and second elongated members to be moved between a respective stacked configuration and a respective extended configuration. The second one of the elongated members is movably attached to a third one of the elongated members for enabling the second and third elongated members to be moved between a respective stacked configuration and a respective extended configuration. The mounting bracket is attached to the first one of the elongated members. The mounting bracket is specifically configured for being attached to a mailbox support structure. The mailbox attachment bracket is attached to a third one of the elongated members. The mailbox attachment bracket is specifically configured for mating with a base portion of a mailbox.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Inventor: Joseph Francis Ruocco
  • Patent number: 7364066
    Abstract: A mailbox has an aerodynamic shape that deflects snow thrown by the snowplow and an anchoring system that permits stable anchoring of the mailbox, yet easy replacement in the event such replacement is required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Inventor: Walter T. Wilson
  • Patent number: 7353985
    Abstract: A mailbox mount which includes a heavy-duty spring connecting the mailbox to post via a mounting element. The spring allows the mailbox to return to its initial position after being contacted by another item, such as a snowplow or the like to prevent permanent damage to the mailbox. The mailbox mount also includes a mailbox mounting plate with a protective lip or shield on at least the delivery side of the mailbox.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Inventor: Michael J. Weatherholt, II
  • Patent number: 7311291
    Abstract: An elongated support post for a mailbox has a mailbox support arm secured to an upper portion of the support post and at least one anchor fin secured to a lower portion of the support post and projectingly outwardly therefrom. In one embodiment of the invention a pair of support fins is secured to generally opposed portions of the support post and project radially outwardly therefrom. The support post may have openings into which portions of the support fins extend for mechanical interengagement therebetween. The support fins are preferably taperedly downwardly so as to facilitate insertion of the post into the earth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: Solar Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry Dwight Robinson
  • Patent number: 7293696
    Abstract: A mailbox has a housing having a plurality of walls, and a light source arranged so as to emit light into an interior of the housing, wherein the housing has at least one transparent wall through which the light emitted by the light source into the interior of the housing passes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Inventor: Carpenter Laborde
  • Patent number: 7290697
    Abstract: A mailbox support structure device, an associated kit and method of using same are disclosed. The mailbox support structure device includes the interconnected components of a telescoping vertical post member, a telescoping horizontal post member and a pair of locking pins. The mailbox support structure device may be lengthened horizontally and vertically to overcome snow piling up at or near the device. The kit includes the unassembled components of the device. The method of using same includes the steps of adjoining, affixing, boring, cutting, digging, drilling, enlarging, expanding, inserting, locking, obtaining, piercing, placing, pouring, screwing, and slipping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Inventor: Kevin R. Lessard
  • Patent number: 7281651
    Abstract: A multiple mailbox mount has a vertical post adapted to be anchored in the ground. A body having two opposed, spaced-apart, vertical ends, a continuously-semicircular curved section extending between the vertical ends, and a midpoint, is attached to the vertical post at the midpoint. A horizontal bar extends between the vertical ends of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Assignee: Caminoverde II, L.L.P.
    Inventors: Darrell W. Heald, Ronald D. Riker, Charles G. Champ
  • Patent number: 7275680
    Abstract: A mailbox assembly having a mounting plate for securing the mailbox assembly into the ground. The mounting plate has three primary configurations: a flat configuration for use on a generally flat ground surface; a bent configuration for use on the edge of a hill; and an angled configuration for use on a hill. The mailbox assembly is adjustable horizontally, vertically, pivotally, and angularly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Assignee: Pin Industries, LLC
    Inventor: Keith Pins
  • Patent number: 7252220
    Abstract: A mailbox comprising side and back walls, a top and a bottom secured together to form an enclosure, a front access door mounted to the front wall, a rear access door connected to the rear access door, and a tray accessible through the front access door and vertically adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Inventor: Don C. Shreve
  • Patent number: 7249704
    Abstract: A mailbox multi-position support system for efficiently providing easy and safe access to mailboxes. The mailbox multi-position support system generally includes a first support member attached to a mailbox post, a rotating member rotatably attached to a first upper horizontal surface of the first support member and a second support member attached to a second upper horizontal surface of the rotating member, wherein a third upper horizontal surface of the second support member attaches to a mailbox, wherein the mailbox rotates about the first support member via the rotating member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Inventor: Cleve H. Smith
  • Patent number: 7246738
    Abstract: A package receptacle system including a container having an interior storage compartment, a lower floor within the container for supporting a package placed in the compartment, and sidewalls extending upward from the floor to define an access to the compartment. An upper lid is pivotally attached to the container for closing the access when in a closed position. A feature hangs from the lid for inhibiting rain from entering the compartment when the lid is in a non-closed position. Raised features are present on the floor of the container for supporting a package placed within the compartment above any moisture that might be present on the floor. A feature is included for indicating a recipient's address, and/or a package within the compartment ready for pickup, and/or receipt of a package within the compartment from a delivery service.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Inventor: Wiliam Phillip Jonas
  • Patent number: 7216798
    Abstract: A mailbox system that is sturdy and durable, easy to manufacture, assemble and customize, and is aesthetically pleasing to look at. The mailbox system preferably includes a pair of vertical posts and horizontal rails, a decorative component such as a flag or flower box, a mailbox and a newspaper receptacle. When assembled, the horizontal rails and the decorative component span between and are supported by the vertical posts, while the mailbox and newspaper receptacle are mounted to a single post. Assembly of the mailbox system is made quick and easy through the use of a series of snap-fit assembly features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignee: Exclusive Products, LLC
    Inventors: LaVerna Marie Stephens, Randy Scott Stephens
  • Patent number: 7195146
    Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, an apparatus, including: a generally horizontal support tray to support a mailbox; a post interface bracket for attachment to a mailbox support post; a spring attached to said generally horizontal support tray and said post interface bracket and disposed so as to return said generally horizontal support tray to its normal position after said generally horizontal support tray is rotated out of position; and a connection pivot bolt connecting said spring and said post interface bracket, said connection bolt being sole method of fixed attachment of said generally horizontal support tray and said post interface bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Inventors: Tristram C. Dunn, George E. Riehm
  • Patent number: 7191932
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for receiving ordered products and/or making products available for pickup. The apparatus has a lockable container for the products with at least an input device and a controller with a memory element. The method employs this reception/provision apparatus. A control unit including at least input device, controller and memory element is positioned with container in front of the user's residence or place of business for an expected delivery/pickup. After a completed ordering process, the obtained order information is input by the user into memory element of reception/provision apparatus to put reception/provision apparatus in a state of readiness. The transportable reception/provision apparatus is positioned in front of the user's residence or place of business for the expected delivery or pickup of product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Inventors: Aldo Hermann Fobbe, Jesper Okkels
  • Patent number: 7185803
    Abstract: A conventional mailbox is mounted to a dimensioned lumber post by a mailbox mounting assembly having a main bracket which mounts to two perpendicular faces of the post by two perpendicular flanges. The main bracket has a horizontal top wall from which two diverging sidewalls extend downwardly. The top wall has two sets of perpendicular slots, which receive two parallel right angle top brackets to receive the mailbox in a position either partially overlying the top of the post, projecting from the post, or offset from the post in a transverse orientation. Another embodiment has a main bracket with an integral top bracket, and only one adjustable top bracket. Yet another embodiment has two mirror image brackets which mount to different size mailboxes by their position with respect to each other on a post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Inventor: David E. Lutzke
  • Patent number: 7178772
    Abstract: A mailbox bracket comprises a laminar plate that is generally coextensive with a lower surface of the mailbox and has a pair of flanges for securing the mailbox to the plate. A generally cylindrical sleeve is secured to the plate and extends downwardly therefrom. The sleeve is adapted to receive a generally cylindrical post and includes an aperture for use with a bolt or pin to secure the post within the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Assignee: Caminoverde II, L.L.P.
    Inventor: Ronald D. Riker
  • Patent number: 7172163
    Abstract: A mailbox holder (10) includes an upper mailbox support (14), a lower ground support (16) that is securely fastened to the upper support, and an attachment bracket (36) to which a mailbox (12) is secured. The upper mailbox support includes a vertical post (20), a horizontal arm (22) rigidly welded to the post to carry the mailbox, a diagonal support (24) welded between the horizontal arm and the vertical post, and a circular bolt flange (26) welded to the bottom of the post. The lower ground support includes a vertical stake (28) adapted for direct insertion into the ground, a circular bolt flange (30) welded to the top of the stake for connection to the upper support flange, and radially outwardly extending stabilizers (32) to resist movement of the support in the ground. The bracket is adjustable in width to accommodate mailboxes of different widths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Inventor: Dan F. Johnson
  • Patent number: 7168611
    Abstract: A postal receptacle assembly (20A, 20B, 20C, 20D) comprises a postal receptacle component (22) which is spatially framed by other components of the postal receptacle assembly. The other components include a horizontally-oriented stoop (24); two columns (26) mounted on the stoop and extending essentially vertically parallel in spaced apart relationship; and, a pediment (28) supported by the two columns. The postal receptacle component (22) is situated in a space (30) framed in two dimensions by the stoop (24), the pediment (28), and the two columns (26). In certain embodiments the postal receptacle assembly is configured to visually emulate the appearance of a building or portion of a building (e.g., a porch). One or more of the assembly components (known as “stylistic” components) may be formed with (or structurally and/or visually convey) selected architectural features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Inventors: David C. Thompson, Rayanne S. Thompson
  • Patent number: 7163140
    Abstract: A pre-fabricated lightweight roadside mailbox structure having an inner core made of a rigid foam material, a capital joined to the inner core, a reinforcing cloth adhesively joined to the inner core and a decorative outer coating for simulating the appearance of an immovable massive roadside mailbox. A first horizontal aperture extends into the mailbox for receiving a mail enclosure, a second horizontal aperture extends into the mailbox for receiving a newspaper and a vertical aperture upwardly from a bottom of the mailbox for mounting the mailbox on a square post. The inner core is comprised of a rigid foam base and a rigid foam mailbox housing adhesively joined to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Inventor: Patrick G. Kaiser
  • Patent number: 7163141
    Abstract: A detachable box assembly designed to allow for the quick-release of a box from a box receiving surface. The assembly consists of two slidably secured attachment plates configured to be attached to the base of a box and the support of the receiving surface post. The plates are configured for attaching the box to the box receiving surface. The assembly further comprises a locking mechanism configured to prevent the removal of the attachment plates and thereby secure the box to the box receiving surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Inventor: Kenneth A. Parker
  • Patent number: 7163142
    Abstract: A damage resistant mailbox assembly to prevent damage to mailboxes and vehicles, persons or equipment which contact same. The mailbox is supported from an upright support post or structure by one or more expandable and bendable spring units. One end of each spring unit is attached to a plate which is in turn attached to the support post or structure. The other end of each spring unit is attached to the closed end of a standard mailbox enclosure. The device provides for movement of the mailbox when struck by external force, within a 360° radius about an axis substantially parallel to each support spring, with each spring biasing a return to the mailbox structure's original position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Inventors: Randall L. DeLine, Kerry Luedtke, James Harris
  • Patent number: 7093747
    Abstract: A mail box access replacement cover assembly for use on existing and new masonry mounted mail boxes having a mail box and newspaper insert. A two-part adjustable assembly is secured on the masonry support surface aligned to overlie the mail box and newspaper tube openings respectively. A decorative replacement access door for the mail box and paper receiving tube are respectively secured to the assembly by decorative cover fill plate selectively positioned therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Inventor: Raymond Marchese
  • Patent number: 7090117
    Abstract: An elongated vertical plastic ground mount post for mailboxes is provided having an upper portion suitable for supporting a mailbox, as by insertion into a hollow support column of a plastic mailbox, and a lower portion with vertically spaced notches which serve to retain the post in place in the ground when earth is compacted against the lower portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: RWL Corporation
    Inventors: Robert W. Lackey, Robert C. Beckmann
  • Patent number: 7090118
    Abstract: A mailbox is secured to a support by a tongue and groove connection. The support may be formed of two side by side pieces, which are maintained in assembly by the tongue and grove connection. The two pieces of the support may have mating protrusions and pockets preventing sideway displacement of the support pieces from one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Inventors: Robert W. Lackey, Robert C. Beckmann
  • Patent number: 7080773
    Abstract: A mailbox snowplow blocking method and apparatus includes a mailbox assembly with at least one mailbox and a vertical support that is attached to the mailbox and extends into a ground surface. A panel has a front side and a back side. Each of a pair of posts is attached to the back side of the panel and extend downwardly from the panel. A pair of sleeves, each with an upper end having an aperture extending therein, is extended into the ground surface adjacent to the mailbox assembly. Each of the posts has a bottom end that is extended into one of the sleeves. The sleeves are positioned so that the back side of the panel is adjacent to and aligned parallel with a lateral side wall of the mailbox assembly and the front side of the panel faces toward oncoming traffic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Inventor: Edward J. Tepley
  • Patent number: 7051920
    Abstract: A mail retrieval system for allowing a user to limit exposure to the elements while retrieving mail. The mail retrieval system includes a support assembly extending between a curb and a house. A mail receiving member is coupled to the support assembly whereby the mail receiving member is selectively transported along the support assembly. The mail receiving member is designed for receiving mail. The mail receiving member permits a user to retrieve the mail when the mail receiving member is transported along the support assembly to be positioned proximate the house. A drive assembly is coupled to the support assembly. The drive assembly is operationally coupled to the mail receiving assembly for transporting the mail receiving member along the support assembly when the drive assembly is actuated by the user to allow the user to retrieve the mail in the mail receiving box without having to walk to the curb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Inventor: James Asch
  • Patent number: 7036719
    Abstract: A mail receptacle for use in public and private settings. The mail receptacle has an upper mail insertion area and a lower storage area. An individual placing mail in the upper mail insertion area would need to press down on a pair of pivotally attached doors, allowing the item of mail to fall into the storage area for later retrieval.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Inventors: Rosemarie Helphrey, Dale Helphrey
  • Patent number: 7032811
    Abstract: A mailbox assembly having a rotatable mailbox attached to a flexible support for securing said assembly within the ground. The support includes a rod having a top end and a bottom end. The support also includes a bottom support plate positioned on the ground surface for stabilizing the mailbox. A mounted stake is attached to the bottom support plate for securing the support underneath the ground surface. A spring is attached between the bottom end of the rod and the bottom support plate, for allowing the support to bend from the spring in any direction upon impact. The mailbox, having an interior cavity, is rotatably secured to the support by a cylinder shaped support plate attached to a circular collar. The rod of the support is sized to fit though the circular collar of the cylinder shaped support plate and is fastened to the inside cavity of the mailbox by a ball. The ball is threaded to accept the rod and hold the cylinder shaped support plate in place against the bottom of the mailbox.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Inventors: Kenneth Paulic, Dimitry Atrkhimovich
  • Patent number: 6988655
    Abstract: The device includes an elongated shaft disposed along a vertical plane, a bracket being adaptable to selected shapes for being secured to the shaft, and a telescopic support member extending outwardly from the bracket along a substantially orthogonal path. The telescopic support member includes a plurality of elongated tubes slidably engageable along a path for moving a mailbox between extended and retracted positions. One of the tubes is secured to the bracket, wherein a plurality of stop members is selectively engageable with each other for defining a distance along which the plurality of tubes can be moved. The device further includes a platform secured to an inner tube for maintaining a mailbox thereon, and a handle is provided beneath the platform for assisting a user to move the support member between selected positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Inventor: Anthony E. Riccio
  • Patent number: 6983876
    Abstract: A bat trap provides for capturing a bat, club, or other tool or weapon used by a vandal to damage a mailbox adjacent a roadway. The trap may comprise an elongated support member; a plurality of spikes protruding through the support member from a back side of the support member so that a respective point of each spike extends outwardly from the support member by some selected minimum distance; a cover extending far enough from the support so as to cover all of the spikes; and an adhesive or mechanical fastener for attaching the support member to the mailbox so that the back side of the support abuts a traffic-facing side of the mailbox.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Inventor: Ray L. Hauser
  • Patent number: 6957767
    Abstract: Under the present invention, a mailbox is equipped with a RFID reader. The RFID reader receives a continuously transmitted signal from an RFID tag that contains an RF identifier. Upon receipt, the RFID reader compares the RF identifier in the signal to an RF identifier assigned to the mailbox. If a match is established, the mailbox is unlocked and access is permitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Bryan Eric Aupperle, Carol Eddy Aupperle, James M. Mathewson, II
  • Patent number: 6955291
    Abstract: An adjustable mailbox platform is connectable to an existing mailbox post for receiving a mailbox thereon. The platform includes a bracket including a plurality of spaced side members for securing to a mailbox post. A plurality of cross members are secured to the side members for maintaining a stable position. The platform further includes an elongated support member with a flanged end portion for securely receiving a mailbox thereon. The support member includes a plurality of edge portions slidably engageable between the plurality of side members so the mailbox can be selectively moved between forward and rearward positions. The support member and cross members have a plurality of holes formed therein and alignable with each other for receiving a fastening member therethrough and for securely attaching the support member to the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Inventor: Vincent Knight
  • Patent number: 6840438
    Abstract: A theft-preventative mailbox for holding various sizes of mail correspondence and mail parcels. The mailbox includes an elongate and internally hollowed body with a mail correspondence insertion slot at a generally upper end location. The body further includes a mail storage compartment, and the body is further fixedly anchored at a ground location so that at least a portion of the mail storage compartment extends below a surface of the ground location. An access door is defined within the body and permits the depositing of mail parcels into the storage compartment. A constriction skirt is secured to the interior of the mailbox body and includes a plurality of inwardly directed and pointed spear portions for permitting one-way depositing of mail correspondence and mail parcels. A mail retrieval mechanism acts in concert with the parcel access door to permit the retrieval of the mail correspondence and mail parcels deposited within the storage compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Inventor: Shawky Hassan
  • Patent number: 6799716
    Abstract: A mailbox having a direct illumination lighting system in which light is directed downward so as to shine on an address plate or other sign is disclosed. The lighting system is powered by rechargeable batteries that are recharged by a solar energy system. The solar energy system collects solar energy and converts it into electrical energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Assignee: World Factory, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory G. Kuelbs
  • Patent number: 6736310
    Abstract: A secured mailbox assembly for preventing the theft of mail placed inside a user's mailbox. The secured mailbox assembly includes an elongate base member being adapted to be partially disposed in a ground; and also includes a mailbox including a bracket being fastened with fasteners to the elongate base member, and also including a container being attached to the bracket, and further including a mail delivery door being hingedly attached to the container, and also including a mail retrieval door also being hingedly attached to the container, and further including a mail chute being attached to the mail delivery door; and further includes a lock mechanism for locking the mail receiving door to said container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Inventor: Michael A. Mesol
  • Patent number: 6722561
    Abstract: A curbside mailbox wherein the outgoing mail compartment is located under the incoming mail compartment behind a single carrier service door. The incoming mail, when inserted, drops behind the outgoing mail compartment and falls into a deep mail storage area, to be retrieved by the owner through a locking rear access door. The rear access door retains a mechanical key lock and acts like a hasp fitting over a flange that is built into a upper rear wall. This feature allows the owner to double lock for added security or single lock placing a combination lock on the flange if the owner desires not to carry a key or give access to key for someone authorized to remove mail. The locking mailbox further includes a channel on top for a highly visible address display, a mounting channel on lower front to allow for quick and easy engagement, and a post cover assembly for safe and attractive installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Inventors: Eva M. Thomas, William J. Thomas
  • Patent number: 6662997
    Abstract: An improved mail receptacle that expands to accommodate a large volume of mail, which volume could include a parcel. To attain this, the mail receptacle has an expandable pouch. In an embodiment, the pouch is configured to be stored in a pouch box, which box is affixed to or integral with the mail compartment. In an embodiment, the mail receptacle has a flexible post. In an embodiment, the mail receptacle has a mounting plate incorporated into the mail compartment; such mounting plate couples the mail receptacle to the post such that the mail compartment can rotate about the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Inventors: Diane Smith, Patricia L. New
  • Patent number: 6592026
    Abstract: A biological safety mailbox made up of a housing, a securable lid, access ports providing access to the interior portion of the housing, and protective gloves that form a seal at the access port while allowing a user to manipulate the contents. A mounting bracket is also provided to permit the user to selectively remove the housing in order to permit a user to use the mailbox to open any mail inside while in a different location. A lock is further included to prevent unauthorized removal of the housing by locking the housing to the mounting bracket. A biological safety mailbox for commercial applications is also disclosed having a large housing partitioned into a plurality of hermetically sealed compartments, each compartment having a pair of glove access ports and an individual lid access port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Inventor: Michael Vilardi
  • Patent number: 6543680
    Abstract: A slide mount for a rural mailbox comprises a plastic base defining multiple, fixed, horizontal slideways and a slide member slidably and complementally assembled to the base. The slide member is sized and shaped to receive the mailbox thereover and to be secured to the mailbox by screws. A handle is attached to the front of the slide member, and a one-way stop prevents the slide member from being fully removed from the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Inventor: Robert D. McCormack