Flexible Patents (Class 248/160)
  • Patent number: 8882062
    Abstract: A shapeable support stand for items such as portable phones and cameras includes a shapeable backing member, a footer member and a spacer member therebetween, the spacer member providing a channel between the backing member and the footer member which is open at both ends and thus can accommodate items having widths greater than that of the support stand. The support stand can be made from a single piece of pliable fabric which is sewn to provide all three members, with the pliable fabric of the backing member containing a shapeable filler such as beads. The pliable fabric is advantageously microsuade, and the footer member can contain an elongated insert such as a tube of closed-cell extruded polystyrene foam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: Wedgeworks, LLC
    Inventor: Jonathan A. Piccolo
  • Patent number: 8840074
    Abstract: An improved load bearing structure comprises a center pole is mechanically coupled to an outer helical rod by a plurality of cross helical support rods. The outer helical rod is mechanically coupled to an inner bracing triangle. The center pole, an inner helical rod and the outer helical rod are mechanically coupled to outer end bracing cross support rods and. The outer end bracing cross support rods are mechanically coupled to outer end bracing triangles. These triangles can have vertices bifurcated with lines to which the inner helical rod and the outer helical rod are attached in order to give the improved load bearing structure a shape of a helix based on Koch Snowflake with golden mean scaling such that the improved load bearing structure is substantially stronger than structures made of material of similar type and quantity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Bunch
  • Patent number: 8837128
    Abstract: The present application describes various embodiments regarding an apparatus and method for providing an electrical component for a portable computing device. More specifically a method and apparatus are disclosed for mounting the electrical component to machined mounts extending from an interior sidewall of the portable computing device housing. The machined mounts allow the electrical component to be suspended above an inner surface of the portable computing device so that the electrical component does not interfere with audio output or aesthetics of a speaker grill drilled into the portable computing device housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Charles A. Schwalbach, Brandon S. Smith
  • Patent number: 8794579
    Abstract: An assembly for supporting a device for movement between several positions, the assembly comprising a first four-bar subassembly including proximate and distal ends and a second four-bar subassembly including proximate and distal ends and first and second link members that pivot about substantially parallel axis, the distal end of the first four-bar subassembly linked to the proximate end of the second four-bar subassembly for rotation about an additional axis that is substantially perpendicular to the parallel axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Steelcase, Inc.
    Inventors: Lane Sturman, Dan R. Tatman, Erik R. Peterson, Greg Lok
  • Patent number: 8727290
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a mounting device for supporting a tablet computer while freeing the hands of a user. The mounting device includes an attaching means for temporary or permanently attaching the system to a surface or object, a holding device for safely holding the tablet computer in place, and a flexible connector attached to the holding device via a swivel joint connector and extending between the holding device and attaching means. The swivel joint and flexible connector provide the combinational benefit of adjusting the position of the tablet computer. The attaching means may include a wall mount or spring clamp. The holding device includes a number of different embodiments one of which includes a pair of audio speakers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Inventors: Carlos De La Matta, Mohamad Samhoury
  • Publication number: 20140110541
    Abstract: A locking mechanism for the elbow swivel joint of a support arm for selectively locking the lower arm section and upper arm section of the support arm relative to each other, in which the lower arm section has a swivel head positioned between the end flanges of the upper arm section. A carriage bolt runs through centrally-located coplanar screw holes in the swivel head and end flanges for completing the live hinge of the swivel joint elbow. The locking mechanism preferably includes three spring-biased locking pins that sit in three open-ended guide channels in the relevant end flange of the upper arm section, and there are also a plurality of corresponding locking pin receiving notches on the engagement surface of the swivel head, and a locking knob for compelling the three spring biased locking pins into mating engagement with the corresponding locking pin receiving notches on the engagement surface of the swivel head and holding them in place.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2012
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Inventors: Low Boon Hoe, Low How Wei
  • Patent number: 8662466
    Abstract: A multi-functional mobile laptop desk includes a base, on which a support member is set; the end of the support member far from the base is provided with a joint, the top of the joint is provided with a first upper arm, and the lower part of the joint is provided with a first A lower arm and a first B lower arm paralleling with the first upper arm; the end of the first upper arm far from the joint is connected with the top of a tooth tank; the ends of the first A lower arm and the first B lower arm far from the joint are connected with the lower part of the tooth tank; the top of the another end of the tooth tank is provided with a second upper arm, and the lower part of the end is provided with a second A lower arm and a second B lower arm paralleling with the second upper arm; the another end of the second upper arm far from the tooth tank is connected with the top of a connecting seat; the another ends of the second A lower arm and the second B lower arm far from the tooth tank are connected with the lower
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Dongguan Maichi Electric Appliance Co., Limited
    Inventor: Jianguo Wang
  • Patent number: 8602662
    Abstract: A camera and accessories clamping mount that includes an assembly of ball and socket members rotatably and moveably interconnectable having an anterior end and a posterior end, a top connector disposed atop the anterior end and a bottom connector disposed on the posterior end, wherein the bottom connector is releasably attachable to a clamp, said clamp attachable to an extant surface, and an extant camera, or other accessory device having a ΒΌ-20? female thread mount, is releasably attachable to the top connector, whereby said camera or other accessory device is supportable and positionable through a range of positions by means of the assembly of ball and socket members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Inventor: John Mans
  • Publication number: 20130221169
    Abstract: A platform for an imaging device is provided. The platform comprises a (a) clip, (b) a rigid, deformable arm which extends from the clip and which has a resilient foam covering disposed over the surface thereof, and (c) a mount which is disposed on said arm. The mount releasably attaches the platform to an imaging device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Inventor: Gerard R. Gooch
  • Patent number: 8393584
    Abstract: An apparatus for holding a portable electronic device. The apparatus includes a base having a storage compartment. The base includes a neck cavity. The apparatus includes an attachment member extending from the base and configured to couple to another object. The attachment member includes a suction cup. The apparatus includes a neck extending from the neck cavity of the base; wherein when the neck is retracted substantially fits within the neck cavity. The neck includes a plurality of frustoconical nested members configured to extend from the neck cavity or retract therein. The apparatus includes a mount coupled to a distal end of the neck and configured to couple to a portable electronic device. The mount includes an actuation device configured to actuate the portable electronic device. The apparatus includes a remote control configured to actuate a portable electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Inventor: Salih Maurice Burns
  • Patent number: 8382048
    Abstract: A surgical holding arm has a plurality of holding arm members which are coupled to one another and a tensioning device for tensioning the holding arm members against one another. The tensioning device is designed in such a manner that the holding arm can be brought from an operative position, in which the holding arm members are tensioned against one another so as to be immovable, into an adjusting position, in which the holding arm members can be moved relative to one another. The holding arm can be brought, in addition, into a cleaning position, in which adjacent holding arm members can be moved away from one another further than in the adjusting position. Furthermore, a surgical holding device is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Aesculap AG
    Inventors: Markus Nesper, Dieter Weisshaupt, Matthias Wand
  • Patent number: 8276862
    Abstract: There is provided a stand for an image display device supporting a flat-plate-like image display device. The stand for an image display device is provided with: a plane plate member in which the outside dimension is larger than that of the outside frame of the image display device, and the back face may be arranged in such away that the back face contacts the wall surface; a leg portion installed on the opposite side to the wall surface at the lower end of the plane plate member; and an arm member connecting the back face of the image display device and the front face of the plane plate member in such a way that the image display device may be moved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Shusuke Eshita, Hajime Ogura, Hirotaka Tako, Wataru Tajika, Yoshiichi Tokuda, Ichiro Funakoshi
  • Patent number: 8230863
    Abstract: A medical assembly includes a platform which is securely mountable to an operating room fixture, and a plurality of arms or arm modules coupled to the platform and each with a grasper for holding a surgical instrument or port. The medical assembly is particularly applicable for laparoscopic surgery although it is not limited thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Mini-Lap Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Sundaram Ravikumar, H. Allan Alward, Steven J. Wysocki, Guy L. Osborne
  • Patent number: 8196877
    Abstract: Disclosed is an improved apparatus for holding a construction item in a desired position while the construction item is being secured to a support structure. Embodiments of the apparatus comprise a pressure-plate configured with a pole-ball-socket, a pole-ball, and a flexible pole section. A plurality of pole sections may be used in a telescoping arrangement so that the apparatus may be used to lift a construction item to an elevated position. The pressure-plate defines a pressure-plate-surface configured for being associated with a surface of a construction item. The flexible pole section is then extended to move the construction item to a desired location (such as at ceiling height). Typically the pole section is held at an angle relative to a supporting surface (such as a floor) and then extended to a length about four inches longer than the distance from the supporting surface and said desired location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Inventors: William Gridley, Randall B. Scott
  • Patent number: 8181918
    Abstract: A device for supporting a flexible hose extending between an individual and a stationary base unit nearby, is disclosed. The support device flexibly supports the hose generally above the individual yet readily accommodates movement by the individual while maintaining communication between the individual and the base unit through the hose. The device is particularly adapted for use by individuals suffering from sleep apnea and who use units to assist in breathing while sleeping or resting. The device can be easily placed into one or more configurations so that it is hidden from view or transportable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Inventor: John Edwin McCloud
  • Patent number: 8151481
    Abstract: A universal hair dryer holder includes a base including suction mechanism for releasably attaching the base to a generally flat surface and an adjustable arm extending from the base. The holder also includes a cradle for holding a hair dryer at an end of the arm opposite the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: The Licensing Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles B. Perez, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20110292666
    Abstract: The present invention concerns itself with a floor top holder for a device such as a tablet computer, comprising a floor base, a post, and one, two or more flexible tubes as a support and as a position adjustment mechanism. A wall version of the device holder is also the object of the present invention. Furthermore, the device holder invented can be easily converted from a floor base version to a wall, desk, or table top version.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventor: Kenneth John GALLAGHER
  • Patent number: 8038109
    Abstract: One embodiment of a support for a musical instrument, specifically a guitar. The Amplifier Mounted Guitar Stand is a device designed to hold a guitar while it is not being played and to attach to a wooden-side of an amplifier so that it is kept secure when not in use. The guitar and amplification device can be simultaneously moved around the stage as one unit. The device is made of molded plastic with foam covering on the arm and neck of the device to cushion the guitar. When not in use, pivoting supports, which enable the guitar to be stood upright against the attached plastic frame, are structured to be folded flat against the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Inventor: Dale Frederick Ashford
  • Patent number: 7988390
    Abstract: A precision machine includes a base having an outer wall, a cutting tool for machining a workpiece mounted on the base, a fixing member detachably located on the outer wall, a first connecting member having a first end and a second end and an imaging system. The first connecting member is capable of maintaining a shape after adjustment thereto by application of an external force, and the first end of the first connecting member is fixed to the fixing member. The imaging system is attached to the second end of the first connecting member such that a position of the imaging system relative to the tool can be adjusted by changing shape of the connecting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hung-Tsan Shen
  • Patent number: 7984886
    Abstract: A carrying apparatus of an automobile portable electronic device includes a carrying module, a support rod, a quick release mechanism and a universal joint. The carrying module includes a tray, and the support rod is installed under the tray. The quick release mechanism is installed between the tray and the support rod. The quick release mechanism includes a clamping module and a binder turning rod, and the clamping module is connected to the support rod, and the binder turning rod is passed and disposed at the clamping module. An end of the universal joint is connected to the tray, and another end of the universal joint is covered and clamped by the clamping module, and the tray can be turned and deviated in two-dimensional directions with respect to the support rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Inventor: Rocky Yi-Ping Lin
  • Patent number: 7954773
    Abstract: A positionable platform for use with a beverage holder, the positionable platform including a monolithic body sized similarly to a standard twelve (12) ounce beverage container, the body having an upper platform portion positioned adjacent to a first end of a wall portion thereof, with a plurality of slotted retention apertures distributed about the body and substantially aligned therewith. A resiliently pliable member resides in each of the slotted retention apertures, each of the resiliently pliable members being having a fin portion positioned partially within a slot portion and extended from the outer surface of the wall portion outwardly of the body and extending along the wall portion between the first and second ends thereof, and a spine portion positioned substantially within a recessed keyhole portion. A mounting platform is positioned adjacent to one of the first and second ends of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Carnevali
  • Patent number: 7930859
    Abstract: A cable marker pole system is described for marking the location of buried utility cabling. The cable marker pole system includes a base for embedding in earth or concrete, and a two-part pole assembly that couples with the base. The two-part pole assembly includes a spring coupling the two pole members to allow the pole assembly to flex if struck. A sign is attached to the top of the pole assembly to indicate what is buried.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property I, L. P.
    Inventors: Hossein Eslambolchi, John Sinclair Huffman, Gene Geren
  • Publication number: 20110084182
    Abstract: Some embodiments teach a computing device accessory for a computing device. The computing device accessory can include: (a) a base having: (1) a base plate configured to rest on a surface; and (2) a base rear support coupled to the base plate at a first angle; (b) a top support having: (1) a top plate; and (2) a top rear support coupled to the top plate at a second angle; and (c) a connector collar configured to removably couple to the base rear support of the base and the top rear support of the top support. The top support can be configured to support the computing device such that the computing device is operable by a user when the base plate rests on the surface, the base rear support of the base and the top rear support of the top support are coupled to the connector collar. Other embodiments and methods are also disclosed herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2010
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Applicant: Belkin International, Inc.
    Inventor: Mitchell Suckle
  • Patent number: 7905456
    Abstract: A mounting system for personal electronics devices is described. The mounting system is intended for use in vehicles and consists of a compressible base which may be wedged by hand into a variety of openings and spaces in a vehicle passenger compartment. A bendable arm extends from the base, such that personal electronics items attached to the arm may be positioned in a convenient location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Inventor: Roy Gough
  • Patent number: 7896568
    Abstract: A light on a self-supporting collapsible arm having a plurality of frictionally restrained articulating joints, where the frictional joint has a male half joint with a first plate and an annular shaft with an inner wider diameter. In the surface of the first plate is a first O-ring seated in a first groove. A matching female half joint has a second plate and coaxial to the bearing in the surface of the second plate is a second O-ring seated in a second groove. The opposing side of the second plate of the female half joint has a third O-ring in a third groove. The third O-ring tensions a snap pin that couples the male and female half joints. The snap pin has a head with a compressible ridge which expands when the snap pin is pushed in far enough to engage the inner wider diameter of shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Inventor: Richard Warren Atkinson
  • Patent number: 7861985
    Abstract: A hands-free electronic device holder for holding handheld electronic devices with a screen at or below the user's eye level at a typical distance of 20 to 30 cm is provided. The handheld electronic device is selected from MP3 players, video players, cell phones, PDAs, GPS units or other screen containing devices that display images or interacts with the user via software generated buttons. The hands-free device holder has a flexible adjustable gooseneck, the proximal end of which carries a tab having two spring pins that securely engage with a pocket member. A securement attachment means secures the pocket member to the backside of the handheld electronic device, and two lateral slots receive the pins. The distal end of the flexible adjustable gooseneck connects to a spring clip similar to a clothes line pin, which attaches the hands-free electronic device holder to an airline dining tray or a worktable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Inventor: Nicolette A. Galvin
  • Patent number: 7850130
    Abstract: A support arm which utilizes a material with material properties such that the support arm may be easily placed into a position within a range, yet at the edges of this range have elastic properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Inventors: Joeben Bevirt, David Eliot Scheinman, Fred Italo Polito
  • Patent number: 7849617
    Abstract: A self-righting post assembly includes an elastomeric hinge tube and an elastomeric inner member is disposed in the hinge tube. In one embodiment, an extension post is disposed over the hinge tube. A sign panel can be secured to the extension post. In one embodiment, the inner member is free of any engagement with the hinge tube. In one embodiment, the hinge tube is secured to a base, preferably with a vertically oriented fastener. A method of assembling the post assembly is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Energy Absorption Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: John D. Intagliata, Kent A. Kekeis
  • Publication number: 20100252696
    Abstract: A portable flexible support platform is disclosed having an upper portable unit support surface and a lower attachment surface, the upper support surface for supporting multiple portable control units or portable electronic devices, and elongate flexible member having an upper end hand a lower end, the upper end operatively engaged to the lower attachment surface, the elongate flexible member resiliently flexible into a plurality of retainable positions, and a base member operatively engaged to the lower end, the base member maintaining balance of the portable unit support platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2009
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Inventor: Jon Sage
  • Patent number: 7789357
    Abstract: In a releasable rotationally fixed mechanical connection between a functional part and a connecting part of which one is provided with a receiver neck and the other with an insertion element adapted to be snugly received in the receiver neck, an intermediate wedge member provided with slightly conical outer surface areas is disposed on the insertion element for reception in the receiver neck which has cooperating inner surfaces with which the wedge member is pressed into firm engagement by a collar disposed on the insertion element which is threaded onto the receiver neck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Inventor: Harald Richter
  • Patent number: 7775154
    Abstract: A pivot assembly for use in an electric fryer that rotates heating elements out of a frypot, and a pivot housing that prevents the passage of outside contaminants from entering the pivot assembly. The pivot assembly comprises a tube that has mounting position for heating elements, and the elements can be lowered and raised into the frypot. The pivot housing comprises a hood that fits over the pivot assembly and forms a seal around the assembly, preventing the passage of oil therethrough. The tube of the pivot assembly can comprise one or more heating elements, and the heating elements can be lowered or raised independently of one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: The Frymaster Corporation
    Inventors: Charles Milton Hutchinson, Joseph Goodwin
  • Patent number: 7731138
    Abstract: A mounting apparatus of the present invention is used in a medical environment to releasably secure a device to a support member. The mounting apparatus has a flexible shaft with a first end for releasable attachment to the support member and a second end for releasable attachment to the device. A generally C-shaped clamping member at the first end releasably attaches the apparatus to the support member. The clamping member has an inner surface, an outer surface, and at least two apertures including a first aperture through which a securing rod passes and a second aperture for releasable attachment of the flexible shaft. The present invention is also directed to a powered medical device assembly having a medical device and a flexible shaft capable of selective mounting of the medical device on a support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Covidien AG
    Inventors: Joel Wiesner, Rick A. Sisk
  • Patent number: 7726056
    Abstract: There is provided a knock down signpost comprising a post member (6) and a lower body member (10) held together by a spring (3) having a preload when the post is vertical, acting two flat surfaces (8) creating an initial resistance to motion off the horizontal. Two steel cables (114) transmit the force of the spring and are spaced apart which allows the cables to act as a non rotation mechanism. Two round protrusions (16) in the post member (6) locate into two matching clearance holes (14) in the lower body for post alignment. A shock tube (4) is fitted over the cable and internal to the spring to prevent over compression and provides a mechanical stop. As the top assembly is rotated chamfered edges (15) of the post member (6) engage and interlock into an annular groove (13) to act as a pseudo-hinge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: JMB Manufacturing Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Ian Charles Brodie
  • Patent number: 7571561
    Abstract: A deployable temporary traffic sign system requires no roadside assembly, because the sign comprises a flexible sign panel which may be changed in size merely by folding one portion of the sign panel over a second portion of the sign panel about a crease line disposed therein. The sign itself is supported on a sign stand which is pivotally mounted to a support base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: Worldwide Safety of Nevada, Inc.
    Inventor: Guadalupe C. Garcia
  • Patent number: 7537016
    Abstract: A golf bag umbrella includes a threaded flexible joint of dumbbell shape in its telescopic center post, the joint being adapted to easily bend in a plurality of radially directed positions relative to the part of the center post therebelow in a safety manner for facilitating access to golf clubs disposed in a golf bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Inventor: Ching-Chuan You
  • Patent number: 7481404
    Abstract: A flexible support apparatus for supporting heavy objects relative to a fixed surface and methods for manufacturing the same are described. The flexible support apparatus is formed of a permanently bendable metal rod that is fused by electrosonic welding to a plastic support base at one end and a plastic mounting bracket at its opposite end with a flexible sheath covering the metal rod. Alternatively, the permanently bendable metal rod is fused by conventional welding or other metal-fusing process to a metal support base at one end and a metal mounting bracket at its opposite end with the flexible sheath covering the metal rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Carnevali
  • Patent number: 7458555
    Abstract: A book holder includes a tray for holding a book, a ball joint and swivel assembly connected between the back of the tray and one end of a gooseneck, and a C-clamp connected to the other end of gooseneck, whereby the book holder can be attached to an arm of indoor and outdoor furniture with the tray being rotatable in the plane of its front face over 360Β° to a desired position, rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the gooseneck to a desired position, and the gooseneck bent to further position the tray, thereby permitting a user to be sitting or prone with a book positioned on the tray in a desired reading position, or permitting the book holder to be moved while still attached to the furniture, to a non-use position out of the way of a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Together Us Two LLC
    Inventors: Cosmo D. Mastropaolo, Mary Ann Mastropaolo, Joseph R. Petrella, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7349203
    Abstract: The present invention is a computer controlled display device. In one embodiment, the display device includes a flat panel display having an input for receiving display data. Additionally, a moveable assembly may be coupled to the display. The moveable assembly may provide at least three degrees of freedom of movement for the flat panel display device. Additionally, the moveable assembly may have a cross-sectional area, which is substantially less than a cross-sectional area of a display structure of the flat panel display. Additionally, the moveable assembly may include a plurality of stacked ball-and-socket assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Steven P Jobs, Jonathan Ive, Michael D. Hillman, Frank Tsai, Michael D. McBroom, Daniel L. McBroom, Brian T Sudderth, Arthur S. Brigham, Joel F. Jensen, Robert B. Brownell, Jr., Sung Kim, Anwyl M. McDonald, Russell C. Mead, Jr., Arturo Meuniot, Jesus Beltran, Bartley K. Andre, Christopher J. Stringer, Daniel J. Riccio, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7320450
    Abstract: A multiply configurable mounting apparatus having an elongated permanently bendable support leg with a support base coupled to a first end of the support leg, the support base being structured for securing the mounting apparatus relative to an external surface; and a mounting platform coupled to a second end of the support leg opposite from the first end, the mounting platform is structured for mounting an external device to the second end portion of the permanently bendable support leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2008
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Carnevali
  • Patent number: 7218510
    Abstract: The present invention is a computer controlled display device. In one embodiment, the display device includes a flat panel display having an input for receiving display data. Additionally, a moveable assembly may be coupled to the display. The moveable assembly may provide at least three degrees of freedom of movement for the flat panel display device. Additionally, the moveable assembly may have a cross-sectional area, which is substantially less than a cross-sectional area of a display structure of the flat panel display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignee: Apple Computer, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael D. Hillman, Frank Tsai, Michael D. McBroom, Daniel L. McBroom, Brian T. Sudderth, Bartley K. Andre, Christopher Stringer, Daniel Riccio, Sung Kim
  • Patent number: 7142415
    Abstract: The present invention is a computer controlled display device. In one embodiment, the display device includes a flat panel display having an input for receiving display data. Additionally, a moveable assembly may be coupled to the display. The moveable assembly may provide at least three degrees of freedom of movement for the flat panel display device. Additionally, the moveable assembly may have a cross-sectional area, which is substantially less than a cross-sectional area of a display structure of the flat panel display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: Apple Computer, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael D. Hillman, Frank Tsai, Michael D. McBroom, Daniel L. McBroom, Brian T. Sudderth, Bartley K. Andre, Christopher Stringer, Daniel Riccio, Theo Mann
  • Patent number: 7136280
    Abstract: The present invention is a computer controlled display device. In one embodiment, the display device includes a flat panel display having an input for receiving display data. Additionally, a moveable assembly may be coupled to the display. The moveable assembly may provide at least three degrees of freedom of movement for the flat panel display device. Additionally, the moveable assembly may have a cross-sectional area, which is substantially less than a cross-sectional area of a display structure of the flat panel display. Additionally, the moveable assembly may include a plurality of stacked ball-and-socket assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Apple Computer, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven P. Jobs, Jonathan Ive, Michael D. Hillman, Frank Tsai, Michael D. McBroom, Daniel L. McBroom, Brian T. Sudderth, Arthur S. Brigham, Joel F. Jensen, Robert B. Brownell, Jr., Sung Kim, Anwyl M. McDonald, Russell C. Mead, Jr., Arturo Meuniot, Jesus Beltran, Bartley K. Andre, Christopher J. Stringer, Daniel J. Riccio, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7108445
    Abstract: An adapter is for use in cooperation with a post. The adapter includes an upper adapter portion which will be attached to a first part of the post, and a lower adapter portion which will be attached to a second part of the post. The adapter also includes a cylindrically helical spring connecting the upper adapter portion to the lower adapter portion so as to allow relative movement between the upper and lower adapter portions, including either rotational movement in which the post remains upright, or movement in which the first part of the post bends, or both. At least one of the two adapter portions is shaped to receive the helical spring as a screw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Inventor: Joseph Henriques
  • Patent number: 7069938
    Abstract: A golf-sunshade, the main structure of the golf-sunshade comprises a middle-stick, an upper nest member, an under nest member, a fixture and a rib; wherein the top end of the middle-stick connects to the fixture, a flex member is disposed on the fixture, the upper nest member is fixed on the end of a soft pipe, the under nest member is disposed around the outer surface of the middle-stick and is able to slide up/down along the middle-stick and the soft pipe. A main rib and a branch rib of the forefront sector of the rib respectively connects to the upper nest member and the under nest member for effecting opening/closing of the sunshade; the user put the surface of the sunshade at any angle through the flex member disposed on the end of the middle-stick, and the user can take out a golf club etc. from the bag under the sunshade without closing the sunshade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: Yo Fu Umbrella Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chiu-Chan Yen, Fu-Yi Chou
  • Patent number: 7011279
    Abstract: In a support device with a flexible support arm including a mounting structure for mounting the support device to a base, a support structure for engaging an article and a flexible support arm extending between the mounting structure and the support structure, the support arm comprises a non-elastic flexible metal rod having a polygonal cross-section with opposite ends on which end sleeves with corresponding polygonal axial openings are mounted so as to be snugly connected to the ends of the polygonal metal rod in a rotationally form-locking manner while the end sleeves are firmly mounted in sockets formed on the mounting and support structures of the support device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Inventor: Harald Richter
  • Patent number: 7007908
    Abstract: The present invention discloses an improved sucking disk type hanging pole which comprises a protruded shaft on top and a rubber sucking disk on bottom, a stand with a connecting sleeve on top and a shell plate on bottom, a flexible hanging pole and a retaining base for coupling a retained object; wherein the disk body of the stand is smaller than the rubber sucking disk; a through hole is disposed at the center and interconnected to a bar-shaped sliding groove; a spring disposed in the through hole props a protruded cylindrical shaft of the sucking disk body is; a pivotal axle rod of the protruded cylindrical shaft passes through a sliding groove and pivotally connects with a latch member, and the board latch member at its periphery comprises a cam edge for contacting and supporting a shell plate of the stand, so that the cam edge pushes the shell plate to move back and forth by turning the latch member in order to drive the protruded pole together by the spring to loosen the rubber sucking disk and allow th
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Inventor: Wen-Feng Tsay
  • Patent number: 6827318
    Abstract: A support device for attaching objects to vehicles includes two or more plates received in a housing, and guided to move radially in and out of the housing, and a moving device to move the plates radially in and out of the housing, and to detachably secure the housing to the vehicles, such as to the cup holders of the vehicles. A bolt is rotatably attached to the housing, a follower is threaded to the bolt and has one or more inclined channels, the plates each has an inclined board sildably received in the inclined channels of the follower, to guide the plates to move radially in and out of the housing when the bolt is rotated relative to the follower.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Inventor: Hsiu Chu Hsu Li
  • Publication number: 20040233623
    Abstract: The present invention is a computer controlled display device. In one embodiment, the display device includes a flat panel display having an input for receiving display data. Additionally, a moveable assembly may be coupled to the display. The moveable assembly may provide at least three degrees of freedom of movement for the flat panel display device. Additionally, the moveable assembly may have a cross-sectional area, which is substantially less than a cross-sectional area of a display structure of the flat panel display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Publication date: November 25, 2004
    Inventors: Michael D. Hillman, Frank Tsai, Michael D. McBroom, Daniel L. McBroom, Brian T. Sudderth, Bartley K. Andre, Christopher Stringer, Daniel Riccio, Sung Kim, Cliff Jue, Larry Cheng, Jon Kaplan, Rickson Sun, James R. Yurchenco
  • Patent number: 6815036
    Abstract: A protector device for connection to and transport with a paint bucket includes a flexible protector sheet having an interior, a stiffener member disposed in the interior to resist flexing of the protector sheet and a connector for releasably connecting the protector sheet and stiffener member to the bucket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Inventor: Edward J. Romero
  • Patent number: D537856
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: Good Way Technology Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Robert Tsao