Ground Inserted Patents (Class 248/156)
  • Patent number: 9587403
    Abstract: A method for mounting an appliance to a membrane-covered roof involves (a) mounting two or more rails or appendages to the appliance, the rails or appendages placed to lie flat on the membrane-covered roof, supporting the appliance, and to extend away from the appliance, (b) installing two reinforced attachments, each incorporating a metal plate fastened into decking below the membrane of the membrane-covered roof, and covered by transition membrane heat welded to the membrane of the membrane-covered roof, one attachment installed on each side of each rail to be secured to the roof; and (c) fastening a bridge between the two attachments and over the rail at each rail point to be secured to the roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Platinum Roofing, Inc.
    Inventor: William Edwin Shevlin
  • Patent number: 9556976
    Abstract: A guide body for a cable guide includes a stem having an upper end, a lower end, and a longitudinal axis extending between the upper and lower ends, and base adjacent the lower end of the stem. The guide body is rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the stem to configure the base from an unlocked orientation relative to the wire basket cable tray, in which the base is receivable in and removable from a floor opening of a wire basket cable tray, and a locked orientation relative to the wire basket cable tray, in which the base is secured to the wire basket cable tray in the floor opening. A snap-fit component attaches a roller retainer to a stem body by snap-fit connection when a roller is received on the stem body to retain the roller on the stem body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: Stephen Nathaniel Thompson, Travis Cole Shelton, Mohan Ravilla
  • Patent number: 9453320
    Abstract: An anchorage system includes a plurality of anchors, disassembled from an anchor assemblage, and a plurality of anchor connectors. Each anchor includes a body having an endless rigid sidewall defining and surrounding an interior cavity in the body. The sidewall has an endless rim and an attachment formation opposite from the endless rim. Each anchor connector is configured to couple with the attachment formation on the sidewall of the anchor and engage a sheet of material, such as a beach towel, at one of a plurality of corners thereof so as to secure the sheet of material on the sandy beach when the anchor bodies are buried in the sandy beach such that the interior cavities of the anchor bodies, below the endless rims thereof, are substantially filled with sand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2016
    Inventor: Rogelio Peraza
  • Patent number: 9402386
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for a collapsible turkey decoy having a central upright rod having an upper cap thereon along with a lower sliding collar wherein a plurality of ribs or lateral frame members extend from the upper cap to the lower sliding collar so that when the lower sliding collar is in a first upward position the ribs expand outwardly to form the body of the decoy and when the lower sliding collar is in a second lower position the ribs collapse into a folded position. The ribs also have both neck and tail frame members mounted thereon over which the cover of the turkey body is mounted along with an optional tail piece assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Inventor: W. C. Otwell
  • Patent number: 9393472
    Abstract: The present invention provides a golf club support 10 comprising an elongate shaft 12, having a first and a second end 12a, 12b; a ground engaging member 14, positioned towards said first end; a golf club rest 16 on said shaft positioned towards said second end in which said golf club rest comprises an elongate support member 20 having a first 20a and a second end 20b and a longitudinal axis Y and in which said first end 20a is secured to said shaft 12 and said member 20 extends substantially perpendicular thereto and by an end stop 22 at said second end 20b extending in at least two substantially perpendicular directions from said member. Such an arrangement allows for the support of multiple golf clubs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Inventor: Ranjit Nagi
  • Patent number: 9314009
    Abstract: A fishing pole holder assembly attaches a fishing pole to a support structure so that the fishing pole is readily accessbile. The assembly includes a clamp configured for coupling to a support structure. A holding member is provided having a first end and a second end. The second end of the holding member is attached to the clamp. The holding member is tubular. The holding member includes a plurality of upper bends proximate the first end of the holding member wherein the holding member is configured to receive and support a handle of a fishing pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2016
    Inventor: Samuel J. Shaw, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9301614
    Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment a marsh duck hunting stool, comprised of unitary construction having no detachable members, provides a compact, lightweight, floatable structure, with simple functionality, primarily used in a duck marsh environment. The stool includes a horizontally oriented seat platform with a single, elongated, vertically oriented support member. The support member comprises two tubular members, one sliding within the other, providing a plurality of seat height settings. A foot and stake assembly is pivotally disposed on the bottom end of the sliding tubular member. The foot and stake assembly limits soft soil penetration and provides fore and aft/side to side stability. The sliding tube rotates within the foot and stake assembly thereby providing 360 degree pivot of the seat platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Inventors: Ronald Lee Christopher, Andrew Wesley Christopher
  • Patent number: 9238922
    Abstract: A ground anchor for a delineator includes a unitary plastic body having a receptacle shaped and configured for connection to a delineator post and a ground engaging portion extending from the receptacle along a longitudinal axis. The ground engaging portion includes a plurality of tapered blades. Delineator assemblies using the ground anchor, and methods of installing the ground anchor, are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2016
    Assignee: Energy Absorption Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: John Intagliata, Kent Kekeis
  • Patent number: 9211026
    Abstract: An attachment system is configured to connect a topper ornament to a tree having a center pole attached to branches. The attachment system includes a dome configured to contain a plurality of prongs. A topper receiver post is mechanically coupled to the dome and configured to receive the topper ornament. A tree post is mechanically coupled to the dome and configured to receive the center pole. Inserting the center pole into the tree post causes the branches attached to the center pole to hold the attachment system in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2015
    Inventor: Pat Dennis McLemore
  • Publication number: 20150108295
    Abstract: A rotary mounting stand for removably holding a decoy, camera or there selected device upright on the ground. The stand includes an upright rod with a helical coil or flights forming an auger having a point at the lower distal end to be fixedly and removably screwed into the ground to support the stand in an upright position. The top end of the rod forming the stand shape cap configured, sized and shaped to correspond to the mounting base of a selected device to be supported on the stand. Just above the helical coil at least two outward extending legs extend normal to or perpendicular to the vertical rod forming a base when the auger portion is screwed into the ground. The distal end of each of the legs are bent or angled to extend upward perpendicular from the ground a selected distance forming handles for the purpose of rotating the auger into the ground. The auger is intended to be cranked until the at least two outward extending legs come to bear against the ground for increased lateral support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventor: Kevin Brooks
  • Patent number: 8984783
    Abstract: A method of increasing the stability of a corrugated display apparatus defining a plurality of lower openings and having a plurality of walls at least partially defining a plurality of channels, each with a channel width, spanning from one of the plurality of lower openings toward an upper end of the display apparatus, the method including providing a cutting device with a handle length and a blade member coupled along the handle length, cutting a portion of at least one of the plurality of walls with the blade member to combine two of the plurality of channels adjacent to the cut portion of the at least one of the plurality of walls to create an enlarged channel, and inserting a post-like member into the enlarged channel, the post-like member securely retained within the enlarged channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Inventor: William Barry Cepek
  • Patent number: 8978676
    Abstract: An umbrella holder having a base, a holder removably attachable to the base, and a plurality of stakes to secure the base to the ground. A top surface of the base has a section to store the holder when not in use. A bottom surface of the base has a plurality of stake holders to hold the stakes when not in use. The holder has two tubes attached by link arms to allow the two holders to be adjustable relative to each other. The base also has a central main hole and a plurality of auxiliary holes so that a pole can be inserted through at least one of the tubes and through the main hole so as to be perpendicular to the ground, or through one of the auxiliary holes so as to be non-perpendicular to the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Inventor: Walter Williams
  • Patent number: 8968047
    Abstract: The balloon display system used in indoor and outdoor show rooms and the like. The system includes a heavy plastic inflatable balloon. The balloon is mounted on top of a circular balloon holder cup. The cup and the balloon are attached to an upper end of a flexible rod. A lower end of a flexible rod can be attached to a flexible or a rigid, hollow mounting pole. A lower end of the mounting pole can be attached to an upper end of a ground stake. A lower end of the ground stake is inserted into a ground surface. Also the lower end of the mounting pole can be mounted on top of a weighted base stand or other upright objects. The system is designed to display one balloon or a plurality of balloons in a balloon cluster.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Balloon Innovations, LLC
    Inventors: Christopher J. Wicken, Gregg A. Wicken
  • Publication number: 20140374550
    Abstract: A ground mounted solar power assembly having at least one solar panel having a support beam connected to the back of the solar panel. A plurality of legs have a bracket at one end that receive the support beam. Finally, an eccentric handle is connected to the bracket to permit selective rotation of the support beam within the bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2013
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Inventor: James E. Straeter
  • Publication number: 20140353440
    Abstract: The invention relates to ergonomically-correct golf club stands that prop up putters, other clubs, fishing poles, and plants. The stands also have attachment points for accessories. The stands protect golf clubs by keeping them off the ground and visual. This helps keep them clean and avoids inadvertently leaving them behind.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2014
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Applicant: Just Believe International Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Joseph Campos, JR.
  • Patent number: 8902121
    Abstract: A portable field antenna platform supports an L-band antenna and communicating via a cable. The platform includes several tubes, a shock cord, and an antenna mount. Each tube has a sleeve and a ferrule inserted therein at a first end of that sleeve. The ferrule of a first tube detachably inserts into a second end of the sleeve of a second adjacent tube. The shock cord passes through each tube to connect all the tubes together by elastic tension. The antenna mount attaches to the antenna and connects a cable to the terminal. The mount includes an antenna connector for connecting the cable to the antenna. The tubes either collapse into a zig-zag bundle in a stow configuration or deploy as a mast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: Sean C. Locker
  • Patent number: 8888055
    Abstract: A stake for keeping a bag mouth holder and opener and refuse bag in combination secured to the ground in a fixed position whereby the bag mouth holder and opener has the general shape of a rectangular perimeter of a hyperbolic paraboloid to which the stake can be removably attached or integrally connected such that the stake can be driven in to the ground when the bag mouth holder and opener is positioned in the mouth of a bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Inventor: Ross Robert Kramer
  • Publication number: 20140332645
    Abstract: A stake which can be screwed into the ground to hold a device such as a water fowl decoy or a trail camera in position primarily for use out doors. The stake includes a helical coil at one end for fixedly and removably attaching that end of the stake into the ground by screwing the helical coil into the ground. The other end of the stake includes a receiver for removably and fixedly attaching a water fowl decoy such as a duck decoy or other elements such as a camera in cooperative engagement with the receiver on the top end of the stake. The stake includes an integral handle configured to manually turn the stake in order to screw the coiled end into the ground. One embodiment includes three outrigger legs for further stability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2013
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Inventor: Kevin Brooks
  • Patent number: 8870133
    Abstract: A stand is provided for supporting a portion of a combustible member. The stand includes a base portion and a plurality of branch portions. Each branch portion extends in a direction away from the base portion such that a cavity is formed between each branch portion and another branch portion adjacent the branch portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Inventor: Charles Brown
  • Publication number: 20140283894
    Abstract: Installation of solar energy systems is made easier through the use of augur tubes. The base augur tube accommodates telescoping sections which enable these systems to exhibit a smaller footprint with enhanced power ratings. A tracking head is provided in which dual axis tracking is provided using a single drive mechanism. These features are employed either together or independently.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2013
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Inventor: Charles Silver
  • Patent number: 8836508
    Abstract: Anti-theft protection systems and methods for portable devices, such as portable electronic devices, that are unattended during use. The anti-theft protection systems and methods use a combination of measures including mechanical aspects, such as tethering the device to an object that is difficult to move, and electronic aspects that detect unauthorized movement and or alarm the user or other responsible party if unauthorized movement occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: H4 Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott K. Taylor, Christopher T. Boyle, Alexander G. Sammons, Denes Marton
  • Patent number: 8833710
    Abstract: A garbage can retaining device adapted to retain garbage cans and to mount to any substantially planar surface such as natural ground or man-made materials. The device including includes: a mount member adapted to mount the garbage can retaining device to any substantially planar surface, wherein the mount member is adapted to receive a shaft and base assembly within an interior region and to fixedly secure the shaft and base assembly to the mount member, the shaft and base assembly including a shaft having a plurality of attachments attached thereto; a garbage can contacting portion secured to the shaft; and a base securely formed with the shaft adapted to be slidably received within the interior region of the mounting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Inventor: David L. Atkinson
  • Patent number: 8820007
    Abstract: A post sleeve installation assembly includes: an elastomeric sleeve core shaped to form a post sleeve when positioned in uncured concrete, a removable stiffener inside the core, an aperture extending lengthwise in the stiffener, a locking element positioned within the core, and an assembly plate coupled to the stiffener. The assembly plate clamps to a prefabricated sleeve element, with the core and stiffener positioned within a post cavity of the sleeve element. an installation stake is positioned in the aperture and prevented from sliding upwards by the locking element. A release point on the assembly plate permits an operator to release the locking element for removal of the stake. To install a post sleeve, the operator positions the installation assembly, clamped to a prefabricated sleeve element, in a post hole with the stake resting on the bottom, then fills the hole with concrete, manipulating the stake to position the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Inventor: N. Eric Knudsen
  • Patent number: 8807514
    Abstract: An accessory attachment system for securing a dish such as a water feeder as well as a hook for hanging various items to a stake. The accessory attachment system generally includes clamp member adapted to be removably secured to a stake. An attachment member is provided which is secured at a first end to the clamp member. A second end of the attachment member includes a hook member for suspending a hanging plant as well as a horizontal portion adapted to retain a dish member thereon via use of a dish mount member. A dispenser holder extending from the dish member may be utilized to support a dispenser such as a bottle, which will automatically feed the dish member with its contents due to force of gravity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Inventors: Paul R. Giauque, Hailey M. Giauque
  • Patent number: 8777176
    Abstract: A device for mounting solar modules/solar panels on props that are introduced into the ground of the mounting location, wherein supports that can be connected on top of or on the props are arranged by means of fastening means that allow vertical compensation and/or lateral compensation for deviations of the introduced props from the perpendicular, with a rail (3) that can be connected to the prop (2), a T-shaped or L-shaped or U-shaped connecting flange (4) with at least one connector (8) for a support (5), and a rocker bearing (6) that allows the connection between the rail (3) and the connecting flange (4) to be established.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: HatiCon GmbH
    Inventor: Gido Genschorek
  • Patent number: 8695985
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes various embodiments of shooting target assemblies and associated systems and methods of use and manufacture. One aspect of the disclosure is directed to shooting target assemblies configurable in an assembled arrangement and a stowed arrangement. Another aspect of the disclosure is directed to shooting target assemblies having a stabilizer for improving target stability during operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Battenfeld Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Russell A. Potterfield, Tim Kinney, Adam Birk, Robert J. Zara, Jim Gianladis
  • Publication number: 20140083025
    Abstract: A post securing system that secures a post in the ground, while allowing for a full range of vertical adjustment via a coupling assembly that includes an articulating ball joint element that is connected to a post support element secured within two clamp assemblies. The clamp assemblies each include an anchor assembly which, when assembled, secures at least three stake elements at a predetermined angle. The post securing kit includes both the coupling assembly and the anchor assembly to allow securing a post into a non-horizontal ground, while maintaining the desired vertical alignment of the post held therewithin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Inventor: Brian Edward Richardson
  • Publication number: 20140021311
    Abstract: A flexible mailbox support is assembled by pivotable attachment of a mailbox support arm to a post having two rigid sections separated by a flexible middle section and coverable by a replaceable sleeve, the connection between the support arm and the post uses a single bolt inserted through and joining a flat surface on the arm to a flat surface on the top of the post, formed to be detachable with force, the parallel surfaces being set at an angle of less than 90 degrees from the post and a spring is compressed by the bolt head to adjustably bias the surfaces against one another while allowing the arm to pivot about the axis of the bolt, with a cage providing protection for the mailbox.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2012
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Inventor: Arthur W. Lenz, JR.
  • Patent number: 8627774
    Abstract: A ground lock is formed of a main shaft having a first latching structure near its upper end and a ground fastener at its lower end. A mating member provides a cooperative latching structure and slides on the main shaft between raised and lowered positions. In one of the raised or lowered positions, the two latching structures are latchable, allowing the mating member to drive the main shaft to engage or disengage the ground fastener. In the other of the raised or lowered positions, the second latching structure is non-latchable with the first latching structure such that the main shaft is disabled from driving the ground fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Inventor: Cordell Pearce
  • Patent number: 8613412
    Abstract: An impact absorbing sign post with quick change-out capability and method is provided. The impact absorbing sign post includes an upper sign post for carrying a sign, an intermediate cylindrical hollow bollard post carrying the upper sign post and a lower hollow bollard post mounted immovably in the ground supporting the intermediate cylindrical hollow bollard post. A easily removable pivot base flexible joint member with a dome portion is mounted between the intermediate cylindrical hollow bollard post and the lower hollow bollard post. A quick change-out spring kit is housed substantially with the lower hollow bollard post in includes a coil spring that is compressed by a tension means such as a cable or chain. When the sign post is impacted by a vehicle and the spring kit is damaged a replacement quick change-out spring kit may be easily installed after removal of the original spring kit without the necessity of removing the lower hollow bollard post from the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Inventor: Ronald W. Donaldson
  • Publication number: 20130320162
    Abstract: A support structure for solar panels, including at least one support post having a foot part to be anchored in the ground, a head part situated above the foot part to be connected to at least one solar panel, and a connector that joins the head part and the foot part. The connector has at least one clamping bracket that presses the head part against the foot part, whereby the clamping bracket consists of two bolts provided with a thread and of a connecting strut that joins the two bolts to each other, and whereby the two bolts pass through holes in the head part and through holes in the foot part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Lorcan Kemple
  • Patent number: 8590856
    Abstract: A metal post support ground spike is disclosed having a post receiving socket, and a flat plate. The flat plate is welded to four walls of the post receiving socket. The post support may also comprise a blades portion welded to the flat plate. The blades portion, post receiving socket and flat plate may all have reinforcement lines stamped therein and may comprise metals of varying thickness and rigidity. The flat plate may comprise the thickest and most rigid metal, whereas the post receiving socket and/or the blades may be made from a thinner and/or less rigid metal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Peak Innovations Inc.
    Inventors: Jianzhong Zhu, Simon Walker
  • Publication number: 20130264440
    Abstract: The invention creates a storage option that can be set up individually and sits securely on a sandy subsurface, whereby the placement of beverage vessels is achieved in a service-friendly manner. The tray used for this purpose is held in a stable manner, yet can be removed. For this purpose, a storage element that can be set up as a cup holder above the subsurface is proposed as a two-part system. A straight mandrel is provided, comprising an upper and a lower section, wherein the lower section is adapted for being turned or inserted into the subsurface. At a certain height above the end of the lower section, the straight mandrel has a horizontally extending structure which is adapted and suitable as a holding support for the tray-like storage element. The storage element has an opening, which is guided over the upper section of the mandrel in order to rest on the horizontal structure and be held there.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2011
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Inventors: Annette Auracher, André Gruenewald
  • Patent number: 8550375
    Abstract: A cylindrical, protective housing and accompanying insertion tool for shielding an in-ground sprinkler head. The cylindrical housing is inserted into the ground surrounding an in-ground sprinkler head, protecting the sprinkler head and subterranean feed lines from damage resulting from yard work or other traffic. The cylindrical housing prevents inadvertently sprinkler head collisions with lawn mowers, wheelbarrows, golf carts, or similarly wheeled vehicles. The insertion tool is a male-fitting press tool that provides vertical loads on the cylindrical housing upper extent to force it into soil surrounding a sprinkler head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Inventor: Tim Curtis
  • Patent number: 8523134
    Abstract: A ground spike is disclosed having a plurality of blades and a flat plate secured thereto. The blades each have a reinforcement deformation proximal to a longitudinal outer edge. The reinforcement deformation may be a reinforcement line stamped therein, may be a bent outer edge, or the like. Objects may be attached to the flat plate, thereby securing such objects to the ground when the ground spike is used. The ground spike may have a post receiving socket secured to the flat plate. Each component may comprise metals of varying thickness and rigidity or other suitable materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Peak Innovations Inc.
    Inventors: Simon Walker, Mark Hopkinson, Jianzhong Zhu
  • Patent number: 8505859
    Abstract: A garden edge spike includes: a tapered spike portion having a lower spike and an upper C-shaped portion having a plurality of grooves on an outer edge thereof; and a holder, the holder having a holding portion including plural flanges, and a coupling portion that slideably engages one or more of the plurality of grooves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Huizhou Light Engine Ltd.
    Inventors: Sue-Anne Tean Leung, Eddie Ping Kuen Li
  • Patent number: 8480043
    Abstract: A ground anchoring system for trash cans designed to secure trash cans from scavenging animals and during windy conditions. The apparatus comprises a steel pole assembly that is anchored in the ground with concrete and extends up from the ground. An upper end of the pole is provided with a decorative cap and at least one (1) hook provided at a position to engage the handles on at least one (1) trash can. The upper end further comprises a spring-loaded mechanism to allow the hooks to ride up and down the pole, thus allowing them to engage trash containers of different sizes, especially those of large wheeled totes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Inventor: Ronald B. Ventura
  • Patent number: 8474773
    Abstract: The present invention includes two embodiments of stackable beverage container holders. In each, the beverage container holder comprises an upper cup-like receptacle for receiving a beverage container and one or more lower ground-penetrating members, for being inserted into sand, earth, or turf and thus retaining the product upright, supporting the beverage container. The product is intended to be molded as a single integral piece. The generally cylindrical receptacle may have a slot formed in it to allow reception of a beverage container having a handle, e.g., a coffee mug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: FunForAll, LLC
    Inventor: Richard Hull
  • Patent number: 8474779
    Abstract: A line post anchoring device for a roadway cable barrier system includes a lower helical anchor to which a detachable line post socket member is secured. The helical anchor and line post socket of each line post anchoring device have mating coupling sections that are preassembled and hydraulically screwed into the ground in a single operation. Each socket includes interior guide plates for properly guiding and positioning a line post therein, such that the cabling system can be effectively strung under tension at the same time the anchoring devices are installed in the ground. Damaged sockets are easily replaced with minimal disruption to the surrounding soil by backing the helical anchor out of the ground only so far as necessary to detach and replace the damaged socket, and then reinserting the helical anchor in the same location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas M. Ronnkvist
  • Patent number: 8444106
    Abstract: A holder for the sound-box of a pot call for a wild turkey comprises a mass-producable unitary synthetic resinous trough having a generally cylindrical shape and a coaxial U-shaped channel in the trough, the channel being wide enough to snugly removably hold the sound-box. The trough is removably mounted on a vertical mounting post projecting axially, vertically from a two-piece or two-strut stake the lower end of which is pointed so that it can be pushed into the ground at height not higher than that of a hunter's fingers when he is seated. Two embodiments are provided: (i) the lower strut may be retracted fully into the upper strut; (ii) the upper end of the lower strut is slidably inserted into the lower end of the upper strut and locked in position in a T-slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Inventor: Stephen S. Sloop
  • Patent number: 8444105
    Abstract: An umbrella anchoring device comprising a support dowel and a generally truncated cone shaped umbrella stop, with two opposing surfaces, an angled wall connecting the outer perimeter of the surfaces, and a hollow passage through the vertical axis thereof which is complementary to the cross section of the support dowel, wherein the umbrella anchoring device is used to support an umbrella with at least a partially hollow shaft. A method of using the anchoring device, where the support dowel is placed generally vertically in the ground, the umbrella stop is placed over the end thereof and slid so that the wider surface is at ground level and the narrower surface is below, and an umbrella is placed over the support dowel, with the end resting on the umbrella stop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Inventor: Eric Silvestri
  • Publication number: 20130082016
    Abstract: One embodiment is directed to a system for improving triathlon transition area efficiency, comprising a main stand member comprising a base portion and a top portion, the base portion being configured to be supported by a ground surface; and a first shoe coupler fixedly coupled to the top portion of the main stand member and configured to removably couple a first shoe to the main stand member in a manner wherein a pose is established for the first shoe such that a foot of a standing athlete may be urged into the first shoe without the use of one or more hands of the athlete to stabilize the shoe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Applicant: Triathalon Scientific, Inc.
    Inventor: Alexander Arrow
  • Patent number: 8407949
    Abstract: A foundation driller for anchoring of components in soil is provided that includes an apparatus in which the foundation driller comprises a base body with at least one cylindrical area and at least one cutting blade that provides forward advancement, in which the base body comprises at least two cylindrical areas with different diameters, wherein the area nearer to the soil has a smaller diameter and the at least one cutting blade providing forward advancement is attached at the area nearer to the soil and has an even incline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Inventor: Peter Kellner
  • Patent number: 8398047
    Abstract: A line post anchoring device for a roadway cable barrier system includes a lower helical anchor to which a detachable line post socket member is secured. The helical anchor and line post socket of each line post anchoring device have mating coupling sections that are preassembled and hydraulically screwed into the ground in a single operation. Each socket includes interior guide plates for properly guiding and positioning a line post therein, such that the cabling system can be effectively strung under tension at the same time the anchoring devices are installed in the ground. Damaged sockets are easily replaced with minimal disruption to the surrounding soil by backing the helical anchor out of the ground only so far as necessary to detach and replace the damaged socket, and then reinserting the helical anchor in the same location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas M. Ronnkvist
  • Publication number: 20130038770
    Abstract: A system for providing feedback to an individual involved in improving an activity such as a sport, performance or the like. The present invention relates to a training accessory, and more particularly to a holding apparatus for mounting a video or photographic device, such as a digital camera having a display device for feedback, such as a tablet PC, i-phone, i-pad, cell phone having a screen, multimedia device, or the like. The imaging and display device being easily transportable and easy to set up, for example, on a golf course where multiple instances are required, yet does not interfere with the playing of the game.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2012
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Inventor: James Hawkins
  • Patent number: 8371319
    Abstract: The present invention provides umbrella anchors and accessories that facilitate the use of umbrellas over a wide variety of ground surfaces. An anchor may have a generally tubular shape with a bore that receives the bottom end of a pole of an umbrella. The anchor may have a tip that penetrates the ground in response to application of linear force, and a flange that limits the depth of penetration of the anchor into the ground and adds stability. Alternatively, an anchor may have a flange positioned distally to lie underneath a deck or other man-made surface. An anchor may have a flange that is angled relative to the remainder of the anchor to facilitate placement of the umbrella at a angle relative to ground level. A cover may prevent entry of debris into the anchor bore. Modular tables or accessory trays may be attached around the pole of the umbrella.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Inventors: Melissa Jane Meibos, David W. Meibos
  • Patent number: 8328147
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to devices and methods for assisting archery bow hunters in making accurate shots while hunting in dynamic terrain. Generally, in accordance with various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the present invention discloses various universal mounting brackets and integrated archery bow systems configured for coupling a support element to an archery bow. Most preferably, the universal mounting brackets and integrated archery bow systems are configured to give the bow hunter maximum stability and range of motion when aiming and/or firing the bow. In accordance with the various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, various universal mounting brackets and integrated archery bow systems configured for coupling a collapsible monopod support element to an archery bow is disclosed. Additionally, various universal mounting brackets configured for coupling an extendable bipod support element to an archery bow is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventors: Kenneth R. Gardner, Jonathan L. Gardner
  • Patent number: 8322678
    Abstract: A metal post support ground spike is disclosed having a post receiving socket, and a flat plate. The flat plate is welded to four walls of the post receiving socket. The post support may also comprise a blades portion welded to the flat plate. The blades portion, post receiving socket and flat plate may all have reinforcement lines stamped therein and may comprise metals of varying thickness and rigidity. The flat plate may comprise the thickest and most rigid metal, whereas the post receiving socket and/or the blades may be made from a thinner and/or less rigid metal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Peak Innovations Inc.
    Inventors: Jianzhong Zhu, Simon Walker
  • Patent number: 8308123
    Abstract: An umbrella mounting system comprises a base having a top surface and a bottom surface, a first side edge and a second side edge; a first base aperture disposed on the base toward the first side edge of the base and a second base aperture disposed on the base toward the second side edge of the base; a cylindrical mounting shaft having a first end with an opening and a second end, the opening of the first end of the mounting shaft functions to hold a shaft of an umbrella that is inserted into the opening, wherein the mounting shaft is attaches the top surface of the base and extends upwardly therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Inventor: Anthony Accordino
  • Patent number: 8302927
    Abstract: A tool and method for holding a rotary lawnmower in a tilted position to expose the underside of its deck for maintenance, comprising a bracket having an anchoring portion and a receiving pocket joined to the anchoring portion, the anchoring portion being adapted to be operatively mounted on a vertical wall or post surface or held down at or near a floor or ground level, the receiving pocket being arranged when the anchoring portion is operatively mounted to receive a horizontal hand grip of the distal end of a lawnmower handle, and a lock member deployable on said bracket to selectively retain or release the hand grip in or from the receiving pocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Inventor: Arthur A. Wright