Plural Leg Patents (Class 248/163.1)
  • Patent number: 6947666
    Abstract: A support apparatus for a camera and strobe lights includes a mounting plate for holding the camera substantially normal to and at a fixed distance from the photograph area, a set of legs attached to one or more portions of the apparatus providing support and positions for mounting and a set of strobe lights affixed to the legs at known positions relative to the focal plane of the camera and directed towards the photograph area to facilitate acquisition of multiple photographic images for use in one or image processing operations. The support apparatus can be automated through the use of one or more mobile strobe lights slidably coupled to each leg, capable of self-propelled linear motion along the axis of the leg and providing indication of its position along the leg to facilitate acquisition of multiple photographic images and position data for the image processing operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Charles B Chapman, Ryan Wilshusen, Daniel George Gelb, Thomas Malzbender
  • Patent number: 6942187
    Abstract: A support apparatus of adjustable height having at least one leg assembly with a first leg unit, a second leg unit and a third leg unit. The first and second leg units are slidably movable relative to each other, and the second and third leg units are slidably movable relative to each other. A first fixing clamp selectively locks and unlocks the first leg unit relative to the second leg unit, and a second fixing clamp selectively locks and unlocks the first leg unit relative to the second leg unit. First and second actuating levers are independently actuatable to selectively lock and unlock the first and second fixing levers. The first and second actuating clamps can be operated simultaneously to simultaneously lock or unlock both of the first and second fixing clamps, irrespective of the positions of the first, second and third leg units relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Clemseven Holdings Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Robert Hugh Blackburn
  • Patent number: 6942269
    Abstract: A removable shelf assembly for vehicles (e.g., sport utility vehicles) to increase storage capacity in a generally flat rearwardly extending bed defined by a floor and pair of upwardly extending side walls, the shelf assembly comprising a frame composed of a plurality of U-shaped members, each member having a base and two spaced apart arms extending perpendicular to the base, a plurality of telescoping members associated with the arms, means for removably locking each arm of each the U-shaped member, whereby to adjustably fix the spaced apart bases; and, a first and second generally planar panel members positioned on the frame for receiving items to be transported thereon, the panel members associated with the frame to allow movement between the panel members. The frame preferably has a raised lip extending substantially around the frame so as to reduce movement of items placed on the frame. A downwardly depending leg which is able to pivot out of the way when needed provides additional load support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Katie-Korp of the Emerald Coast, Inc.
    Inventor: David R. Mains
  • Publication number: 20040227040
    Abstract: A support for geomatic equipment such as a geomatic pole has feet which facilitate stability of the pole. The feet are constructed to resist forces applied along legs of the support to which they are connected in both directions, including forces which tend to lift the feet upward. The foot is formed to readily penetrate certain surfaces and to resist withdrawal from the surfaces after penetration. In one embodiment, a fixed connection to the underlying surface may be achieved. The foot is also constructed to resist rotation of the foot and leg to which it is attached which could cause instability of the support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2004
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Applicant: Crain Enterprise, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen B. Crain
  • Publication number: 20040211456
    Abstract: An apparatus, system and method of evaluating performance of a photovoltaic array that includes a plurality of photovoltaic elements. The function of each of the photovoltaic elements is to convert solar energy to electricity. The method includes diagnosing independently the functioning of individual photovoltaic elements, and identifying under-performing individual photovoltaic elements within the photovoltaic array. The diagnosing includes a separate diagnostic circuit for each of the individual photovoltaic elements, and the identifying includes analyzing contemporary and historical measurements of the individual photovoltaic elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2003
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventors: Jacob E. Brown, Teodor M. Galitev, Glen Long
  • Publication number: 20040140412
    Abstract: A structural frame assembly that is adapted to support a chute of a sorting machine, the frame assembly including two laterally spaced beams and at least one cross-beam interconnecting the two laterally spaced beams, the beams and the at least one cross-beam including a projecting edge thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2003
    Publication date: July 22, 2004
    Inventors: Louis J. Hendzel, Donald G. Hill, Eric J. Reisenauer
  • Publication number: 20040129843
    Abstract: A tripod (1) has at least one tripod leg (2) consisting of three telescopically guided segments (5-7) for length adjustment. Rotation of one of the segments (6, 7) fixes the adjusted length of the tripod leg (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2003
    Publication date: July 8, 2004
    Inventors: Ludwig Pernstich, Benno Miller, Henry Freisinger
  • Patent number: 6755381
    Abstract: A portable sign assembly having a base assembly which includes a leg member pivotally interconnected with a base plate of the base assembly. A leg release mechanism is further provided for selectively locking a respective leg from pivoting relative to a respective base plate. The release mechanism includes a lock-pin that is slidably disposed through the leg and is biased in a first position by a biasing member disposed within the leg. The lock-pin selectively engages apertures of the base plate for prohibiting pivotal motion between the leg and the base plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: Marketing Displays, Inc.
    Inventors: Yevgeniy M. Levin, David U. Hillstrom
  • Patent number: 6726157
    Abstract: An automatically collapsible prop for propping a golf bag or the like is provided and includes a frame having a top and bottom part. A rack member is fixedly attached to the top part and includes a central guide rail formed between two side tooth members having a number of elongated parallel teeth. A slide mechanism includes a support part guided by the guide rail and a pair of pinion supports. Two pinions are rotatably mounted on the respective pinion supports of the slide mechanism so as to engage the respective side teeth. Two legs are respectively connected to the pinions. A lever rod is fastened to the slide mechanism with one end projecting upward through the support part of the slide mechanism. A coil spring is provided between the support part of the slide mechanism and the top part to normally push the slide mechanism downward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Q-Boak Sports, Inc.
    Inventor: Kyung-Bun Yoon
  • Patent number: 6722617
    Abstract: The invention relates to a musical-instrument stand, in particular for guitars, and comprises a first side and a second side, each of which defines a lower part and an upper part. The lower parts of the first and the second sides each comprises foot elements or setting the stand on a floor surface. In their upper parts, the first and the second sides respectively comprises a first and a second joint element, which together define a pivot joint in order that the sides can be pivoted with respect to one another about a predetermined axis of rotation. A releasable catch is also provided in the region of the joint elements to lock the guitar stand in at least one pivot position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Inventor: Hans-Peter Wilfer
  • Patent number: 6708831
    Abstract: A support apparatus for crutches that can be configured in one position to hold a pair of crutches in an upright position that is convenient for the user to reacquire for use and takes up less floor space than laying the crutches on the floor. In a second configuration the apparatus is stored in a compact area so that it will not interfere with the normal use of the crutch to which it is attached. The apparatus is modular and can be designed to work with a variety of existing or new designs of crutches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventor: Tilio J. Balassi
  • Publication number: 20040051009
    Abstract: An extensible leg frame has four support rods, four tubes, four hollow joints, four bottom seats, and eight connection rods. Each hollow joint is disposed on a top end of the corresponding support rod. Each tube is disposed on the corresponding bottom seat. Each support rod is inserted through the corresponding tube. Each connection rod is connected to the corresponding hollow joint and the corresponding bottom seat. Each support rod has a round aperture. Each hollow joint has a plurality of circular apertures. A rivet fastens the corresponding hollow joint and the corresponding support rod together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2002
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventor: Kao-San Chen
  • Publication number: 20040051010
    Abstract: A leg assembly (12) for a tripod (10) comprises a first leg unit (13), a second leg unit (14) and a third leg unit (15). First leg unit (13) includes legs (13A and 13B). Second leg unit (14) includes legs (14A and 14B). Legs (14A and 14B) are laterally spaced from each other and held in fixed position by an upper cross member (17) and a lower cross member (18). Legs (13A and 13B) can slide through openings in upper cross member (17). Leg (15A) can slide through an opening in lower cross member (18). Upper cross member (17) includes a first fixing means for selectively locking and unlocking the first leg unit in position. The lower cross member (18) includes a second fixing means for selectively locking and unlocking the third leg unit in position. A first lever (23) is used to selectively actuate the first fixing means. A second lever (24) is position adjacent to first lever (23). Second lever (24) is connected via a connecting means such as torsion bar (25) to the second fixing means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventor: Robert Hugh Blackburn
  • Publication number: 20040051021
    Abstract: A wooden collapsible drum stand that facilitates multiple sized conga drums in two modes, i.e. stand up or sit down play. The drum stand includes three leg members, a triangular main ring with three leg slots for each leg. A band or rope is used to support the base of the drum and is adjustable via a locking knob. The drum stand can accommodate accessory mounts for other percussion instruments by attachment to one or more leg members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2003
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventor: Thomas Micheel
  • Publication number: 20040016856
    Abstract: The invention relates to a musical-instrument stand, in particular for guitars, and comprises a first side and a second side, each of which defines a lower part and an upper part. The lower parts of the first and the second sides each comprises foot elements or setting the stand on a floor surface. In their upper parts, the first and the second sides respectively comprises a first and a second joint element, which together define a pivot joint in order that the sides can be pivoted with respect to one another about a predetermined axis of rotation. A releasable catch is also provided in the region of the joint elements to lock the guitar stand in at least one pivot position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Hans-Peter Wilfer
  • Publication number: 20040011930
    Abstract: The present invention provides a bucket support device comprising: (a) a stand; (b) a vertically disposed central telescoping rod, the rod comprising a first end attached to the stand, and a second end; (c) a horizontally disposed flat support platform, the support platform comprising a bottom surface stably attached to second end of the rod, and a top surface; (d) a bucket comprising a horizontal base and vertical side walls, the bucket horizontal base stably attached to the top surface of the support platform by a bucket attachment means; and (e) a bucket attachment means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Dennis J. Tuohy, Jeannie Touhy
  • Patent number: 6651944
    Abstract: An apparatus that is adapted to reduce wobble in a tripod that is used to hold an optical instrument, includes a triangular shaped base plate that includes an attachment to each leg of the tripod. The base plate includes slots at each corner or apex thereof that provides for an adjustment range sufficient for most types of tripods. A member that is attached to each leg of the tripod is attached to each corner of the base plate. A lighted carousel that includes a battery operated light and is adapted to hold a plurality of lenses is disposed above the base plate. According to a modification, the slots are eliminated from the base plate and an adjustment bar having a slot therein is attached at one end to a modified base plate and, at a remaining end, to a member that is attached to each of the legs of the tripod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Inventor: David Harold Coleman
  • Publication number: 20030173477
    Abstract: A backpacker's portable cooking stand that can be used for outdoor cooking and can be foldable to a compact configuration includes a cooking platform for mounting over a source of heat, and foldable legs that are pivoted to over center attitudes for stable use of the cooking stand over a fire and are folded to a compact configuration for travelling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventor: S. Dunkin FitzSimons
  • Publication number: 20030173476
    Abstract: The disclosed system is directed towards a stable support system. The stable support system comprising a first arched base having a first arch member and a first web disposed between the first arch member. The stable support system includes a second arched base having a second arch member and a second web disposed between the second arch member. Also included is an arched beam having a first end coupled to the first arched base and a second end coupled to the second arched base and a multi-hinge coupled to the arched beam. The stable support system includes a display coupled to the multi-hinge, wherein the first arched base and the second arched base are configured to stabilize the stable support system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Kuni Masuda, Joe Miseli, James Stanton
  • Publication number: 20030168558
    Abstract: A laptop computer support system for elevating a laptop to a comfortable viewing level and adequate space for an external keyboard. The laptop computer support system includes a support frame, at least one support platform attached to the support frame, and a first support leg and a second support leg pivotally attached to opposing sides of the support frame. A first cable and a second cable are attachable to the first support leg and the second support leg respectively to prevent the legs from extending outwardly too far. Front and rear riser members are preferably attached to the legs for allowing height and angle adjustment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2003
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Inventors: Robert L. Mallory, David W. Mallory
  • Patent number: 6612401
    Abstract: A sawhorse is disclosed that provides stability, easy assembly and disassembly, and ability to handle heavy loads and is inexpensive to manufacture. Brackets that have a C-shaped collar for holding the ends of a cross member and leg receptacles for holding standard dimension lumber used for legs of the sawhorse. All pieces are designed to spread the forces of the load. An optional elevation bar helps facilitate the cutting of material without cutting through the sawhorse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Inventors: Tommy Price, Charles W. Nolen, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6585199
    Abstract: A musical instrument stand has three pairs of first leg rods, three pairs of second leg rods, three link tubes, a positioning seat, three support tubes, three joints, a main pipe, and a clamping device. The main pipe passes through the clamping device. The positioning seat is disposed on a lower end of the main pipe. The support tubes are connected to the clamping device and the joints. Each joint is connected to one of the first leg rods and one of the second leg rods. Each link tube is connected to the positioning seat and one of the joints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Inventor: Ming-Ti Yu
  • Publication number: 20030102414
    Abstract: A collapsible support includes extendable and retractable arms and legs for generating a respective uncollapsed and collapsed state. In the uncollapsed state, the support can be placed on most types of surfaces in an upright position to support a golf club or other items by leaning the item against arms or hanging the item from the arm. In the collapsed state, the arms and legs are substantially parallel and adjacent the support's body and thus easily transported or stored. The support also includes an arm attachment assembly attached to the body and a leg attachment assembly attached to the body, both operable to extend and retract respective arms and legs. Also included is a biasing member to bias the arms and legs in a retracted position, an actuating member to extend the arms and legs, and a locking mechanism to lock the arms and legs in the extended position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2001
    Publication date: June 5, 2003
    Inventor: David M. Smart
  • Patent number: 6572061
    Abstract: An adjustable base structure supports a person in an upright attitude on uneven terrain and comprises a plate and multiple legs independently pivotally connected to the plate. When in an operative mode, the legs diverge from each other and from the plate and rest on the terrain to orient the plate horizontally. A cable connects the legs and maintains them in the operative mode. A bushing on the plate receives a post of a carrier that is attached to a seat. When the carrier post is in the bushing, the person can sit upright regardless of the contour of the terrain. A dome-shaped pad is joined to each leg for swiveling in a manner that accommodates the terrain and that supports the adjustable base structure in soft soil. Different lengths of the cable are storable inside one of the legs to adjustably limit the amount of pivoting of the legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Overbeck/Ahern LLC
    Inventor: James Overbeck
  • Patent number: 6572060
    Abstract: An automatically collapsible prop for propping all kinds of loads such as golf bag, knapsack, coolie rack, etc., comprises a first tubular member having an upper end and an open lower end, a second tubular member relatively moveably inserted in the first tubular member so as to slide down by gravity relative to it to protrude from the open lower end of the first tubular member by a predetermined length when lifting the first member in a sloping or vertical position, and a third member rotationally mounted on a fixed shaft attached to the second tubular member so as to pivot relative to the first and second members about the fixed shaft. A first engaging groove is formed in the surface of the first member in the longitudinal direction to allow the second member with the third member to slide relative to the first member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Q-Boak Sports, Inc.
    Inventor: Kyung-Bun Yoon
  • Publication number: 20030094551
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a universal post base for supporting a chair having an elongated and generally tubular body. The body includes upper and lower surfaces and a plurality of outer channels disposed longitudinally along the body. The post base may further include a plurality of post support members, at least a portion of each post support member defining a cross-section substantially corresponding to the outer channels such that the post support members are retractably engageable with the outer channels. Moreover, the post support members define a support area extending radially from the tubular body for supporting the chair.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2001
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Inventor: Daniel S. Corrales
  • Patent number: 6561469
    Abstract: The disclosed system is directed towards a high storage volume support system. The high storage volume support system includes an arched beam having a first end and a second end and a first base coupled to the first end. The high storage volume support system includes a second base coupled to the second end and a storage volume formed by the arched beam, the first base and the second base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: Sun Microsystems, Inc.
    Inventors: Kuni Masuda, Joe Miseli, James Stanton
  • Publication number: 20030071179
    Abstract: An upwardly extending structure is secured to a based support system comprising a series of individual blocks 25 interlocked with a linking beam 26. Each incorporates a groove in its top face which receives the linking beam 26. U-shaped bolts 29A are located in grooves formed in the two sides of the block 25 and running around the base. The ends of the bolts will be fixed to securing plates 29B. Each block has a pair of protrusions and a pair of recesses in both side walls so that the blocks can be interlocked with one another. This reduces the need for all of the blocks to be positively attached to the linking beam 26. Thus, pairs of blocks can be unsecured to the linking beam between two blocks which are positively attached to the beam 26. Attachment plates 32 can be secured to the sides of the linking beam 26.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: Cluny John Mearns
  • Patent number: 6536723
    Abstract: The invention includes a base (21) provided with pairs of fitting hole (25), two each of which are spaced apart and situated facing each other so as to constitute a pair. A pair of rotary shaft portions (28) of each first leg member (27) are rotatably fitted in each pair of fitting holes (25). The two rotary shaft portions (28) are formed on the outer surface of the upper end portion of each first leg member (27) as an integral body therewith so as to extend coaxially. A second leg member (29) is inserted in each first leg member (27) in such a way that the distance by which the second leg member (29) projects from the first leg member (27) can be adjusted. As the top end face of each second leg member (29) can be positioned flush with the top end face of the associated first leg member (27), the invention is capable of improving the telescopic extension ratio of the legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Nihon Nelbon Seiki Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Koichiro Nakatani
  • Publication number: 20030052240
    Abstract: A portable satellite dish stand is disclosed, for use in providing satellite communications in conjunction with a portable computer classroom or other vehicle. The satellite stand has a stabilization plate that secures the stand against wind using the weight of the vehicle. The stand is lightweight and easy to assemble, and can be assembled without using any tools because it uses quick-release positive locking pins to join the components of the stand. Although it is big enough to accommodate virtually any portable satellite dish, when disassembled the stand is small enough for easy transport.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: David Roy Springett
  • Publication number: 20030046893
    Abstract: The elongated box frame structure of the present invention comprises a plurality of frame segments attached to at least one end piece. Preferably, two end pieces are attached, one at each end of the plurality of frame segments. The plurality of frame segments are attached to the end piece such that a column-like structure is formed. The inner space defined within the frame segments is substantially free of webbing. Instead, structural strength and stability is achieved by the attached end pieces. The end pieces of one elongated box frame structure are capable of removably connecting with the end piece of other similar elongated box frame structures to achieve varying framing heights and other dynamic configurations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2001
    Publication date: March 13, 2003
    Applicant: Skyline Displays, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Fritsche, Dan Berg, Jason Johnson
  • Publication number: 20030015634
    Abstract: Disclosed is an automatically collapsible prop for propping a golf bag or the like. The prop has a frame with a top and a bottom shaping part. A rack member is fixedly attached to the top shaping part having a central guide rail part formed between two side tooth parts with a number of elongated parallel teeth. A slide mechanism has a central support part held and guided by the guide rail part, and a pair of pinion support parts. Two pinions are rotatably mounted on the respective pinion support parts of the slide mechanism so as to engage the respective side tooth parts. Two legs are respectively connected to the pinions. A lever rod is fastened to the slide mechanism with its one end part projected upward through the central support part of the slide mechanism. A coil spring is provided between the central support part of the slide mechanism and the lower part of the top shaping part to normally push the slide mechanism downward.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2002
    Publication date: January 23, 2003
    Inventor: Kyung-Bun Yoon
  • Patent number: 6505429
    Abstract: A portable firearm resting assembly for providing an easily carried and set up tripod rest for holding a firearm when the firearm is not in use. The portable firearm resting assembly includes a tripod assembly having a pair of main legs, a support leg, and a carrying case for storage of the tripod assembly. In an embodiment, the support leg is shorter than the main legs and a cord is provided for holding the main legs in a spread position during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Inventor: Curran John Percival
  • Patent number: 6491266
    Abstract: A stand for holding a camera or a microphone, includes a cylindrical tube unit having an inner wall surface defining an axially extending post-receiving chamber to telescopically receive a post therein. A positioning element is fixed on the tube unit. First, second and third support legs have upper portions sleeved on an outer wall surface of the tube unit. The second and third support legs are rotatable relative to the tube unit in such a manner that the second and third support legs can be stacked below the first support leg when the stand is in a storage position and that the first, second and third support legs engage the positioning element and are angularly spaced apart from one another when the stand is disposed at a position of use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: Yoga Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Mike Chen
  • Publication number: 20020130229
    Abstract: An apparatus that is adapted to reduce wobble in a tripod that is used to hold an optical instrument, includes a triangular shaped base plate that includes an attachment to each leg of the tripod. The base plate includes slots at each corner or apex thereof that provides for an adjustment range sufficient for most types of tripods. A member that is attached to each leg of the tripod is attached to each corner of the base plate. A lighted carousel that includes a battery operated light and is adapted to hold a plurality of lenses is disposed above the base plate. According to a modification, the slots are eliminated from the base plate and an adjustment bar having a slot therein is attached at one end to a modified base plate and, at a remaining end, to a member that is attached to each of the legs of the tripod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2001
    Publication date: September 19, 2002
    Inventor: David Harold Coleman
  • Patent number: 6450464
    Abstract: A satellite dish stand for providing a transportable stabile base for mounting a satellite dish. The satellite dish stand includes a pipe member with a lumen extending between an upper end and a lower end such that the upper end is designed for receiving a post of a satellite dish, an upper collar fixedly coupled to the pipe member, a lower collar coupled to the pipe member, a plurality of leg members each with an upper portion coupled to the upper collar, and a plurality of leg support struts coupled to extend between the lower collar and an associated one of the leg members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Inventor: Elbert Lee Thomas
  • Publication number: 20020125381
    Abstract: An automatically collapsible prop for propping all kinds of loads such as golf bag, knapsack, coolie rack, etc., comprises a first tubular member having an upper end and an open lower end, a second tubular member relatively moveably inserted in the first tubular member so as to slide down by gravity relative to it to protrude from the open lower end of the first tubular member by a predetermined length when lifting the first member in a sloping or vertical position, and a third member rotationally mounted on a fixed shaft attached to the second tubular member so as to pivot relative to the first and second members about the fixed shaft. A first engaging groove is formed in the surface of the first member in the longitudinal direction to allow the second member with the third member to slide relative to the first member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2002
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventor: Kyung-Bun Yoon
  • Publication number: 20020109058
    Abstract: A removably mountable tray support device for attachment of a tray to articles of furniture, especially those having upholstery or substantial padding. The device has a clamping assembly with a generally C-shaped frame and has a means for manually securing the device to a portion of upholstered furniture. A bracket attached to the frame extends outwardly therefrom preferably in a horizontal orientation to receive alone, or in combination, a tray or similar item to provide a temporary table surface. Posts may be provided to support the bracket and thereby increase the stability of the surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2001
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Inventor: Barbara A. Gish
  • Publication number: 20020056792
    Abstract: Accessory trays supported between the legs of a camera tripod. In a first embodiment, a semicircular tray having side walls is supported on the stabilizing arms or the end cap of a camera tripod and is attached to the lower portion of the center post by a retaining device. In a second embodiment, two semicircular trays are supported on the stabilizing arms of a camera tripod and surround the center post. In the second embodiment, each semicircular portion has a recess into which the center post fits. In this second embodiment, the semicircular portions are attached to each other in a variety of ways.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Publication date: May 16, 2002
    Inventor: Zafar Y. Ibrahim
  • Patent number: 6375135
    Abstract: A high strength, engineered collapsible support has separate shear bearing surfaces and pivot elements which permit efficient manufacture and higher strength. Unitary brace attachment is achieved with designs which can be molded and yet both efficiently manufactured and made acceptably strong such that heavy items such as performance or commercial speakers can be mounted stably. An extendible sleeve permits adjustment; a semiautomatic as well as manual clutch assembly permits quick securement of the top mast to the tripod; compression rings allow a secure fitting to be established between various pieces; leg upper end caps allow the legs of the tripod to be coupled to the main mast of the tripod; an end plug can serve to reduce the number of parts necessary to couple the various leg braces to the bottom of the main mast. Strength is achieved through multiple shear surfaces located at a distance from a pivot retention element and with parallel braces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: Ultimate Support Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald H. Eason, Jonathan P. Workman, Kenneth W. House, Douglas A. Kempel, Robin R. Slaton, Tillman F. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6367749
    Abstract: The present invention provides a stand base comprising a central hub and a plurality of legs removably attached to the central hub. Each of the legs depends radially outward and downwardly from the central hub. The base stand is adapted to receive the central vertical support of a display rack and provide both lateral and vertical support thereto. The plurality of legs may be detached from the central hub and packaged together in a nested configuration that is compact for shipping and storage. Each of the plurality of legs has an arcuate shape so that the plurality of legs provide a natural resiliency and upward bias when a load is placed on the display rack. The base provides support in either a normal-load mode or a high-load mode for improved vertical and lateral support of the display rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: Southern Imperial, Inc.
    Inventor: Stanley C. Valiulis
  • Publication number: 20010048059
    Abstract: A portable easel assembly includes a tripod assembly and a paint/sketch box. A lid is connected to a base of the paint/sketch box by a hinge assembly and a slide bar assembly having a slide bar slidably interconnected to the base and lid and secured in position with clamps. The tripod assembly includes an attachment plate having an aperture configured to receive a bolt therethrough. A first leg is pivotally attached to the attachment plate so as to be moveable between an extended supportive position and a folded position. Second and third legs are associated with the attachment plate in such a manner so as to be rotatable and pivoted between supportive and folded positions. The first, second and third legs are adjustable in length.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2001
    Publication date: December 6, 2001
    Inventor: Donald Richard Jones
  • Patent number: 6286795
    Abstract: A leg for a dual stage tripod including a mechanism for actuating the lower lock assembly from the upper end of the leg. The leg includes telescoping upper (46), middle (48), and lower (50) leg portions, and upper and lower lock assemblies for coupling the upper and middle leg portions together, and the middle and lower leg portions together, respectively. An elongated torque shaft (270) extends substantially parallel the upper leg portion, downward from the upper end of the leg to a transfer assembly coupled to the upper end of the middle leg portion. The transfer assembly is coupled to the lower lock assembly disposed at the lower end of the middle leg portion such that rotation of the torque shaft about its longitudinal axis results in an actuating force which actuates the lower lock assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Autocue, Inc.
    Inventor: Joel W. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6283875
    Abstract: A support and alignment implement for supporting an article such as a golf club in an upright or elevated position comprises a pair of leg members, each leg member having a stretched “C” shaped proximal end and a ground engaging distal end, a spring element disposed between the proximal ends and means for joining the proximal ends such that the spring element is retained therein and maintains the proximal ends of the leg members in contact with one another in a closed position. In operation, the user extends the proximal ends of the leg members away from one another to an open position, such as by bringing. together the distal ends of the leg members, inserts the shaft of the golf club between the stretched “C” shaped proximal ends, and returns the proximal ends to the closed position, thereby securing the shaft between the proximal ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Inventor: David W. Jones
  • Patent number: 6257555
    Abstract: A device for extracting stumps and poles from the ground. The device includes a pair of legs each having an upper end and a lower end. A pivot pin, adapted to suspend a winch above the ground, hingedly joins the legs together at their upper ends. A pair of ground-engaging feet are secured to the lower ends of the legs and extend laterally therefrom. A flexible connector selectively connects the feet together and may be retracted into one of the legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Inventor: David Michael Barbara
  • Patent number: 6254043
    Abstract: A lockable stand in order to be able to transport the stand. A central leg (2) is provided with a first support plate (26) and the other stand legs (3, 4) are provided with respective further support plates (36, 46) which are placed on the first support plate (26) of the central leg (2). Locking consist of pegs for locking the legs together are arranged on the support plates and coordinated holes or a strap of the central leg (2), in which the strap is fastened to a clamp fitting (25), engage one another. Locking of the legs in a retracted position is produced by means of a lock (27) arranged on the central leg (2). A manipulation of the stand by an operator can be performed in the upright position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: Leica Geosystems AG
    Inventor: Johannes-Gallus Schwärzler
  • Patent number: 6254044
    Abstract: A tabletop tripod is disclosed. The tripod has a base with a cavity defined in one side thereof, a stationary leg fixedly mounted on the base, two pivoting legs pivotally mounted on the base each having a driving means engaging each other received in the cavity of the base and an equipment base with a threaded stud extending upwardly therefrom pivotally mounted on the base to attach a camera. In such an arrangement, the two pivoting legs can be opened up simultaneously to make using the tripod more convenient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Inventor: Li-Hwa Lee
  • Patent number: 6216887
    Abstract: A detachable hanger for sport pads includes a base, a number of legs, a number of posts, a number of interconnecting blocks, and a number of hanger members. Each leg has an end releasably engaged with the base. The posts are detachably mounted to the base in an upright manner. The interconnecting blocks interconnect the posts in the upright manner. Each interconnecting block includes an inner flange to thereby define an upper positioning compartment for securely yet releasably receiving a lower end of one post located above the interconnecting block and a lower positioning compartment for securely yet releasably receiving an upper end of one post located below the interconnecting block. Each hanger member has an end releasably engaged with an associated interconnecting block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Inventor: Mike Soo
  • Patent number: 6199807
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a support stand which is economical to manufacture. The support stand comprises at least two support legs for the support stand. Each of the support legs comprises a generally vertical central portion with top member supporting extensions extending from either side of a first end of the generally vertical central portion. The support legs are provided with surface engaging means, extending either side of the second end of the generally vertical central portion. The support stand also includes a top member which provides the support surface of the support stand. The top member has a first section having engaging means at or adjacent either end thereof for engaging with the top member supporting extensions of the support leg. The top member is also provided with a second section attached along an edge to the first section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Inventor: Hilary Z. Ilijas