Including Plural Vacuum Cups Patents (Class 248/206.3)
  • Patent number: 11932206
    Abstract: A roof rack system is provided for affixing to a vehicle having a plurality of mounting locations. The roof rack system comprises a crossbar comprising a first end and a second end. The crossbar is configured to allow mounting of equipment. The roof rack system further comprises a first stanchion coupled to the first end of the crossbar by a first swivel joint. The roof rack system further comprises a second stanchion coupled to the second end of the crossbar by a second swivel joint. The first and second stanchions are configured to mount to respective mounting locations of the plurality of mounting locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2024
    Assignee: RIVIAN IP HOLDINGS, LLC
    Inventors: Cory Borghi, Eric Griffith, Christian Elder
  • Patent number: 11719384
    Abstract: An apparatus may include a band having opposing first and second ends, a medial portion between the first and second ends, and opposing first and second sides. The band may further include at least one clamp connected to the medial portion on the first side of the band and configured to hold an object. The least one clamp may be connected to the medial portion of the band at a location spaced apart from a center of the medial portion in a direction of the first end. The band may comprise a bistable spring changeable between an extended configuration and a coiled configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2023
    Inventor: Jesus Dobbins
  • Patent number: 11441727
    Abstract: A support stand for mobile devices which may be arranged in multiple configurations to support different devices in different orientations, and which may support a wireless charger. An exemplary embodiment may include a support member for supporting a mobile device which is pivotably connected to a base. One or more arms may be removably connected to the support member. The arms may each be connectable to the support member in a first position in which the arms are parallel to the support member and a second position in which the arms are not parallel (e.g., perpendicular) to the support member. The arms may be interchangeably connected in different positions to support a wide range of mobile devices. A wireless charger may be secured to the support member such that the mobile device may rest upon the wireless charger when supported by the support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2022
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2022
    Inventor: Peter Amundson
  • Patent number: 11445093
    Abstract: A window camera includes: an image capturing unit, a housing, and a light-shielding member. The image capturing unit is configured to capture an image of outdoors from an indoor surface of a window. The housing includes an attachment surface having a rectangular shape and facing in parallel with the indoor surface. In the housing, the image capturing unit is provided to be recessed in the attachment surface such that an optical axis of the image capturing unit is aligned with an intersection of a pair of diagonal lines of the attachment surface. The light-shielding member protrudes from the attachment surface toward the indoor surface and has a rectangular frame shape along an outer shape of the attachment surface. The light-shielding member is formed of an elastic material and elastically deformable by pressing from the housing to close a gap between the indoor surface and the attachment surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2022
    Assignee: PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Ryota Takeshige, Jumpei Hironaka, Junichi Matsuda, Yasuhiro Nomiyama, Takashi Kihara, Yuki Kitahara
  • Patent number: 11351927
    Abstract: A roof rack system is provided for affixing to a vehicle having a plurality of mounting locations. The roof rack system comprises a crossbar comprising a first end and a second end. The crossbar is configured to allow mounting of equipment. The roof rack system further comprises a first stanchion coupled to the first end of the crossbar by a first swivel joint. The roof rack system further comprises a second stanchion coupled to the second end of the crossbar by a second swivel joint. The first and second stanchions are configured to mount to respective mounting locations of the plurality of mounting locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2022
    Assignee: Rivian IP Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Cory Borghi, Eric Griffith, Christian Elder
  • Patent number: 11197547
    Abstract: A suction-attached shelving system and method is provided. The system includes a suction-based attachment structure including a releasable suction disc, a suction housing, and a suction lever arm. The suction-based attachment structure may be attached to a vertical surface such as a window by using the suction lever arm to establish a suctional engagement of the releasable suction disc and suction housing with the vertical surface. The suction-based attachment structure is connected to a shelf structure by a shelf rotation axle. The shelf structure includes a front portion that may be folded relative to a back portion for ease of transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2021
    Assignee: Abvious, LLC
    Inventors: Michael F. Bolos, Jason Grohowski, Kyle Buzzard, Gary Paulsen
  • Patent number: 11168835
    Abstract: Various embodiments relate to a mounting bracket for supporting a light source on a magnetic wall structure, the magnetic mounting bracket comprising: (a) base having a first magnetic contact positioned on a bottom surface of the base; (b) an arm mount affixed to the base; (c) a light mount affixed to the base; (d) at least one arm pivotally fixed to the arm mount; and (e) a pad pivotally connected to an extending end of the at least one arm, each pad having a second magnetic contact positioned on a contact surface of each pad. Various embodiments further relate to a method of supporting a light source on a magnetic wall structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2021
    Assignee: BOSS LTG, INC.
    Inventors: Todd Chambers, Layne P. Yander
  • Patent number: 10576889
    Abstract: This invention provides for a system of wireless sensor devices, portable or detachable from a vehicle, wirelessly connectable to a mobile electronic appliance and is particularly constructed as a reversing assistant for indicating the proximity between a vehicle and rearward obstacle objects. The sensor devices provided on the vehicle detect the proximity of an obstacle object to the rear of the vehicle and through a transmitter in the sensor devices provides a wireless signal to a receiver, in the mobile electronic appliance located with the driver of the vehicle. The wireless signal is processed by the electronic appliance and provides an indication of the distance between the vehicle and the object. The sensor devices are portable and detachable enabling them to be moved to and from different vehicles and by providing a mobile electronic appliance with wireless features, the reversing system can used by any vehicle eliminating the need to for a fixed wiring of proximity sensors on the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2020
    Inventor: Danielle Constantine
  • Patent number: 10413067
    Abstract: An adhesive retainer for fixing to a structure has at least one adhesive foot which has a supporting base region formed on the adhesive foot and is provided with receiving openings which extend like capillaries through the supporting base region into the interior of the adhesive foot. The receiving openings are configured to form an integral bond with the structure such that when the adhesive foot is placed on the structure covered for this purpose with a liquid, solidifiable bonding substance, the receiving openings receive bonding substance due to capillary ascension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Hermann Benthien, Andreas Poppe
  • Patent number: 10413132
    Abstract: A bathtub insert assembly for facilitating safe bathing includes a shell, which has a top that is open. A lower section of the shell is substantially complementary to a width of a bathtub. An interior surface of the shell is resilient and is configured to absorb an impact imparted by a user to prevent injury. A first plate and a second plate are coupled to a first and second ends of the shell, respectively. The first plate is configured to seat the user. The second plate is configured to support the user's feet. A pair of armrests is coupled to the shell between the first plate and the top of the shell. At least one rail is coupled to the interior surface and is configured to position items, such as soap, and to be grasped in a hand of the user to assist the user in sitting and rising.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Inventor: Barbara Cooper
  • Patent number: 10389860
    Abstract: A spinning accessory for use with a socket accessory attached to a mobile electronic device. The spinning accessory includes a bearing assembly sized to receive the socket accessory, and a gripping member carried by an inner surface of the bearing assembly. The bearing assembly facilitates rotation of a portion of the spinning accessory relative to the socket accessory. The gripping member is adapted to securely engage a portion of the socket accessory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2019
    Assignee: POPSOCKETS LLC
    Inventors: Altan Nahum, David B. Barnett, Tony L. Torrance
  • Patent number: 10190345
    Abstract: A child restraint device for preventing children from opening sliding doors or sliding windows, the device having a suction cup on each end of a handle, the suction cups being adapted to be attached to sliding door or sliding window panes that are disposed in different planes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Inventor: Kyle S. McCullough
  • Patent number: 10160487
    Abstract: A dump truck has a the holding mechanism that is provided at a lower part of a king pin and that is for holding the suspension arm from below, and the holding mechanism includes: a snap ring protruded from an outer peripheral surface of the king pin and disposed in a peripheral direction of the king pin; a bolt attached detachably at a lower end of the king pin; and a holder fixed to the king pin by the bolt and having a supported surface opposed to the snap ring from above and along the peripheral direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasushi Ogawa, Tomohiro Takano
  • Patent number: 9434511
    Abstract: An article container adapted to removably attach to furniture is provided. The article container may form an enclosure that is enclosed by a movable flap. The article container may provide cooperating straps and buckles for removably securing to the arm rest of the furniture. The article container may be adapted to prevent unwanted objects from contacting the articles retained in the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2016
    Inventor: Jin J. Zimmer
  • Patent number: 9392928
    Abstract: Dishwasher appliances configured to receive cleaning agent dispensers are provided. A dishwasher appliance includes a tub that defines a wash chamber for receipt of articles for washing, the tub comprising a plurality of sidewalls. The dishwasher appliance further includes a rack assembly arranged in the wash chamber, and a sump for collecting fluid from the wash chamber. The dishwasher appliance further includes a door movable between a closed position and an open position, the door including an inner wall further defining the wash chamber when the door is in the closed position. The dishwasher appliance further includes a dispenser mounting assembly disposed within the wash chamber, the dispenser mounting assembly configured to receive the cleaning agent dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Davide Jonathan Leone, Eric Theodore Hervol, Matthew David Mersch
  • Patent number: 9234623
    Abstract: A wall hanging mechanism is set on a shell of an electronic product for hanging it on the wall. The wall hanging mechanism includes a top cover, a bottom cover and a hanging plate. The edge of the top cover is provided with an opening. The bottom cover is mounted on the top cover to form a receiving space. The hanging plate is placed in the receiving space, and includes an area for adhesion, an area for mounting screw and an area for mounting sucker. The opening exposes at least one of the areas. The wall hanging mechanism can provide a variety of hanging options, and user can choose hanging plates configured in different positions according to the weight of the electronic product. The wall hanging mechanism may satisfy different requirement of user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2016
    Assignee: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Ren-Tsung Cheng
  • Publication number: 20150144752
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a solution for shower organization products. In one embodiment, the shower piece has a holder with a platform that has a suction cup on the back, a retainer attached to the front of the holder, wherein the platform has a hole, wherein the holder is designed to hold bottles without flattops upside-down. In another embodiment, the shower piece has a holder with a platform that has a suction cup on the back, two tabs on the sides of the platform of the holder, a retainer attached to the front of the holder, wherein the platform has a hole in the center of the platform, wherein the shower piece is designed to hold both flattop bottles that stand on their heads and traditional round top bottles upside-down. In another embodiment, the shower piece has a holder with a platform that has a suction cup on the back, two tabs on the sides of the platform of the holder, a retainer attached to the front of the holder, wherein the platform has a hole in the center of the platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2014
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Inventor: Linda Lim
  • Publication number: 20150070839
    Abstract: A mounting apparatus permits easy and quick attachment and removal of the apparatus securing a portable device to smooth surfaces, or objects. An injection molded platform which allows multiple suction cups to be attached to secure a portable electronic device such as a smart phone, cellular phone, tablet, e-reader, or other digital media device to a smooth surface, or object. The primary platform is an injection molded part specifically designed to accommodate the insertion of mini suction cups, small suction cups, and medium suction cups. The injection molded platform contains multiple openings specifically designed to allow the attachment of an array of suction cups, and alternative mechanisms including kickstand assembly, elastic straps or cording. It is a further object of the invention to provide a platform apparatus that can be attached to smooth surfaces for different sized devices with touch screen capabilities, and devices with camera and video functions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2013
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventor: August A. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8950715
    Abstract: A support apparatus has a positioning disc mounted on a sucking disc. An operation disc is mounted on the positioning disc and has a receiving hole. Two bevel ribs are arc-shaped, are formed on and protrude along an inner wall of the receiving hole. The sucking disc has a column mounted through the positioning disc and the receiving hole of the operation disc. A pin is mounted through the column, with two ends of the pin protruding beyond the column and abutting against the two bevel ribs of the operation disc. By rotating the operation disc to axially move the pin upon abutting against the bevel ribs to pull the sucking disc, the sucking disc can be adhered to a tablet PC. A pivotable stand connected to the positioning disc can be rested on a desk to facilitate viewing at any angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Inventors: Mao-Tung Chiu, Daphne Su
  • Patent number: 8944392
    Abstract: A rotatable multi-cup suction device includes at least two suction cup assemblies coupled to each other through a rotatable connection assembly and each including a cup body that is in direct contact with an adhered surface of an object. The cup bodies are each provided with a cap positioned thereon to define a cavity with the cup body. Each of the cup bodies includes a coupling screw rod and each of the caps includes a mounting hole formed in a central portion thereof to receive the coupling screw rod to extend therethrough. Each of the caps is provided, on a top thereof, with a rotary knob that is threadingly coupled to the coupling screw rod and is provided with an air evacuation hole that is connectable to an air evacuation device. Each of the coupling screw rod has a distal end extending beyond an end face of the rotary knob.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Universal Trim Supply Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shih-Sheng Yang
  • Publication number: 20150008754
    Abstract: A flexible disposition apparatus includes a body made of a flexible material and at least one attaching element integrally formed on at least one lateral surface of the body, and the body includes a containing portion and an opening interconnected to the containing portion, such that the containing portion and the attaching element can combine at least one electronic device with a power bank, or combine at least one expansion module with an electronic device to constitute an electric connection in order to reduce the carrying volume and enhance the practicality of the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2014
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Inventors: Shih-Hui Chen, Chin-Tien Lin
  • Publication number: 20140319296
    Abstract: A station for at least one portable electronic device includes a base having a substantially vertical and forward facing wall and at least one suction cup secured to the wall to temporarily secure the portable electronic device to the wall in a position that the portable electronic device can be viewed and operated while secured to the wall. More than one suction cup can be provided to secure the portable electronic device to the wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2014
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventor: Doug Clouser
  • Patent number: 8851434
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus and a method for coupling an apparatus to a cleat. A cleat-mounted support apparatus in accordance with the present invention may comprise: (a) a first bracket portion; (b) a second bracket portion; and (c) bracket coupling means. A cleat-mountable apparatus in accordance with the present invention may comprise: (a) a cleat-mountable support; (b) an accessory. A method for coupling a cleat-mounted apparatus to a cleat in accordance with the present invention may comprise one or more of the steps: (a) disposing a first bracket portion about a cleat member; (b) disposing a second bracket portion about the cleat member; and (c) operatively coupling the first and second bracket portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: LC Watersports, Inc.
    Inventors: John Menning, Jeree Menning
  • Patent number: 8827102
    Abstract: A device for holding bath toys is provided that includes a flexible receptacle having a back panel and a front panel adjoined by opposing sides and a bottom of the receptacle. At least a portion of the bottom of the receptacle is formed of a mesh material. The top portion of the back panel and an upper edge of the front panel define an open end of the receptacle. The device can be attached to a bathroom wall, for example by using at least two posts which extend through a respective opening in the receptacle and at least two caps, each cap defining a bore for receiving the post and for secure attachment to the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Skip Hop, Inc.
    Inventors: Elizabeth Zack, Rany Joo, Janet Villano, Ellen Diamant
  • Patent number: 8811812
    Abstract: A camera rig system is configured to film in several overlapping directions at once. The camera rig system has a front rig having a first plurality of cameras arranged to film in a first set of overlapping directions. A trigger box is electrically coupled to the front rig and configured to receive data from the first plurality of cameras. A rear rig having a second plurality of cameras is electrically coupled to the trigger box and arranged to film in a second set of overlapping directions. The first set of overlapping directions and the second set of overlapping directions are configured such that images taken from the first plurality of cameras and the second plurality of cameras can reflect background images around the camera rig system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Inventors: Michael Shawn Lawler, David Charles Smith
  • Publication number: 20140158842
    Abstract: A rotatable multi-cup suction device includes at least two suction cup assemblies coupled to each other through a rotatable connection assembly and each including a cup body that is in direct contact with an adhered surface of an object. The cup bodies are each provided with a cap positioned thereon to define a cavity with the cup body. Each of the cup bodies includes a coupling screw rod and each of the caps includes a mounting hole formed in a central portion thereof to receive the coupling screw rod to extend therethrough. Each of the caps is provided, on a top thereof, with a rotary knob that is threadingly coupled to the coupling screw rod and is provided with an air evacuation hole that is connectable to an air evacuation device. Each of the coupling screw rod has a distal end extending beyond an end face of the rotary knob.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2013
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: UNIVERSAL TRIM SUPPLY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: SHIH-SHENG YANG
  • Patent number: 8740161
    Abstract: A holder for sustaining a handheld electronic device is provided. The holder includes a sucker and a positioning device. The sucker has a central and peripheral portion. The positioning device, which is disposed on a side of the sucker, comprises a housing, a ball, a clamping assembly and a rod. The housing is disposed on the sucker and has a receiving space for the ball and the clamping assembly. The rod has a first end connecting to the central portion of the sucker and a second end extending towards the receiving space. When the rod is led to position the sucker onto an object, the clamping assembly is adapted to restrict the ball simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: HTC Corporation
    Inventor: Wen-Sheng Hsu
  • Publication number: 20130341412
    Abstract: A mounting apparatus permits easy and quick attachment and removal of a portable electronic device to smooth surfaces for self-photos or videos, for example. A flat panel/card holds multiple, mini, double-sided suction cup units. One side of each cup unit may be connected to a portable electronic device such as a smart phone, or other lightweight digital media device with a smooth LCD or touch screen. The other side of each cup unit may be connected to a generally vertical surface or other object. The panel/card may be a single-layer plastic card with retention slots into which the double-sided suction cups are inserted. The panel/card may also function as a stored-value card, pre-paid gift card, or credit card incorporating bar codes, scratch-off codes, and magnetic strip features.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Inventor: August A. JOHNSON
  • Publication number: 20130320164
    Abstract: A double suction cup having a first suction cup with a first internal face and a second suction cup having a second internal face. The first suction cup is attached to the second suction cup via an interconnecting base member. At least one protrusion is disposed on at least one of the internal faces of the suction cups to prevent the first or second suction cup from completely flattening and to maintain a tight vacuum on the object the first and second suction cup is attached to.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: MUNCHKIN, INC.
    Inventors: HUISOK PYON, Andrea Beatriz Montes, Steven Bryan Dunn
  • Publication number: 20130248665
    Abstract: A television base and a television safety device includes a suction cup attachment mechanism to help secure a television base and/or a television to a television stand. One or more suction cups may hold one or more bars, where the bars can secure the television base to the television stand. For example, a bar may extend between two suction cups. The bar may be disposed over the television base while the suction cups are secured to the television stand. Other designs are also possible, using one or more suction cups attached to one or more bars, to secure a television and prevent it from tipping.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2012
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Inventor: Peter Koklamanis
  • Patent number: 8514059
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments are directed to a transponder holder for controlling the readability of a transponder by an interrogator. Embodiments of the transponder holder can be removable mounted to a support structure, such as a windshield of a motor vehicle. The transponder can be supported by a plate of the transponder holder, which can be moved to position the transponder in a readable position and an unreadable position to allow a user to select whether the transponder is readable by an interrogator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Highway Toll Administration, LLC
    Inventor: David Centner
  • Patent number: 8480044
    Abstract: An omni-direction rotatable dual-cup suction device includes two suction cups, which are respectively combined with and in communication with two evacuation structures, so that the two evacuation structures can evacuate air from the suction cups to induce vacuum suction forces. The two suction cups are respectively provided with a mounting seat and an attaching seat for securely coupling the two evacuation structures. The mounting seat includes a pillar fixed thereto. A collar receives a ball end of a bar therein and is attached to the pillar. The ball-ended bar is coupled to a threaded rod, which extends through an internally-threaded locking knob and received into the attaching seat to be secured by a nut. With such an arrangement, one of the suction cups can be attached to a planar fixture surface, while the other suction cup can be used to hold an article and is orientation adjustable in any direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Lih Yann Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Po Lin Liao
  • Patent number: 8474768
    Abstract: A device for supporting a part has a mounting element with a pocket-shaped receptacle and a suction element which supports the part and can be received in the pocket-shaped receptacle or removed from it and directly attached to the surface, so that in both cases the part is supported on the surface, either through the suction element and the mounting element or through the suction element only, and a width of at least a portion of the suction element is smaller than a width of the pocket-shaped receptacle of the mounting element, so that when the portion of the suction element is inserted into the pocket-shaped receptacle of the mounting element, it is compressed and thereby tightly retained in it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventors: Eli Zhadanov, Sam Zhadanov
  • Publication number: 20130075554
    Abstract: A suction disc device includes at least two suction pads. Each suction pad includes a lower suction disc and an upper suction disc. The lower suction disc is adapted to suck on a supporting object such as a table or floor, etc. The upper suction disc is adapted for holding or placing objects such as beverage bottles, bowls, dishes or cups, etc. The upper and the lower suction discs of each suction pad are in communication with each other by a through-hole. Furthermore, a communicating tube is connected between the two suction pads, so that the two suction pads can be detached synchronously.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Inventors: Yuan-Song Tsai, Sheng-Chi Lin
  • Patent number: 8393020
    Abstract: Bath and shower support systems for a bath or shower enclosure have adjustable grab bars bearing on adjustable lower supports and laterally connecting to a parallel tiled wall by suction cups clamped to the tile by locking means. An adjustable length upward extending grab bar attaches to the lower grab bar with its upper extremity attaching to the tiled wall by connection means that includes a suction cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Inventor: Willie T. Grant
  • Patent number: 8387783
    Abstract: A device for holding bath toys is provided that includes a flexible receptacle having a back panel and a front panel adjoined by opposing sides and a bottom of the receptacle. At least a portion of the bottom of the receptacle is formed of a mesh material and a top portion of the back panel defines at least two openings, with the top portion of the back panel and an upper edge of the front panel further defining an open end of the receptacle. The device also includes a mounting plate having at least two posts on a first side of the mounting plate and an element for attaching the mounting plate to a wall; and at least two caps, each cap defining a bore for receiving the post and for secure attachment to the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Skip Hop, Inc.
    Inventors: Elizabeth Zack, Rany Joo, Janet Villano, Ellen Diamant
  • Patent number: 8348208
    Abstract: The vehicle window support apparatus provides for a user to hold a vehicle window in a desired position, relative to up and down, without the typical vehicle window support mechanisms. The apparatus does not need tools or hard installation into the vehicle. Instead, suction cups hold the window. The apparatus lower vertical member and horizontal member position the apparatus within the existing window channel of a given vehicle. The slanted member enables the upper vertical member to be proximal to the window itself, whereby the suction cups are then temporarily and removably affixed to the window, holding the window as desired by a user. Upon termination of use, the apparatus suction cups are easily removed from the window and the lower vertical member removed from the window channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Inventor: Marco A. Talbott
  • Patent number: 8333354
    Abstract: A structure for removable attachment to a substantially vertical surface for example of glass, glazed tiles or metal. The structure includes a suction disk for sealingly contacting a surface, a pulling member attached to the suction disk for drawing a part of the suction disk away from the surface, so that a partial vacuum is created between the suction disk and the surface. Rotation of the rotatable member draws the pulling member and respective part of the suction disk away from the surface. An intermediate member is provided which engages the suction disk and supports the rotatable member. A structural member is mounted in or on the intermediate member. The outer diameter of the rotatable member is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the adjacent part of the intermediate member, so that a user's fingers will grip the rotatable member without catching on parts of the intermediate member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: Croydex Limited
    Inventors: Jonathan Harry Tooley, Charles Frederick Burrows
  • Patent number: 8302920
    Abstract: A dual vacuum mount type support device includes a support arm, two vacuum mount assemblies pivotally connected to the two distal ends of the support arm for securing to the flat surface of a support wall and the flat surface of an object to be supported on the support wall, and two pivot locks for locking the vacuum mount assemblies to the support arm in the respective adjusted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Inventor: Wen-Feng Tsai
  • Publication number: 20120233937
    Abstract: The invention provides a staircase arrangement for use within a swimming pool. The staircase arrangement comprises a staircase and at least one suction device. The staircase includes a set of stairs, a bottom-facing surface and a wall-facing surface. Each of the at least one suction devices comprises an attachment portion for attachment to at least one of the bottom-facing surface and the wall-facing surface of the staircase and a suction portion suitable for establishing a suction connection with an interior surface of the swimming pool so as to secure the staircase to the interior surface of the swimming pool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2011
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Applicant: 9189-2356 QUEBEC INC.
    Inventor: Jacques ST-PIERRE
  • Patent number: 8251340
    Abstract: A mat having a resiliently deformable mat portion and a securing element provided thereon for securing an item attached thereto against movement and relative to the mat portion is provided. The mat is arranged to grip a support surface on which the mat portion is laid, in use, by formation of at least a partial vacuum between the mat portion and the support surface upon deformation of the mat portion. The mat comprises a projection arranged to urge the item away from the mat when held by the mat, thereby to create a deformation in the mat portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Jackel International Limited
    Inventors: Ian Webb, Mark Armstrong, Tom Cotton
  • Patent number: 8231089
    Abstract: A plate holder can include: a skirt having a top member and one or more side walls forming a cavity therebetween when the one or more side walls are resting on a substrate with the top member oriented away from the substrate; a base coupled with the skirt and located within the cavity, the base having one or more top suction device receptacles and one or more bottom suction device receptacles; one or more top suction devices coupled with the one or more top suction device receptacles such that the top suction device is oriented away from the substrate; and one or more bottom suction devices coupled with the one or more top suction device receptacles such that the bottom suction device is oriented toward the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Lil Diner, LLC
    Inventor: Jesse Russell Mills
  • Patent number: 8186642
    Abstract: A portable device accessory is used to hold, grip or manipulate a portable device such as and not limited to mobile phones, MP3 players, portable entertainment/computing devices, and/or gaming devices. The accessory possesses two suctions cups connected by a neck and having an aperture for receiving a jack on earphone. Certain embodiments of the accessory will have tabs, ridges, groove and/or a space to receive earphones. The accessory permits a jack of earphones to be threaded through an aperture and the cord of the earphones to be wrapped around the accessory. The suction cups may be inverted to conceal the cord wrapped around a neck of the accessory and tabs may be used to hold inverted suction cups together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Inventor: John Weiss-Vons
  • Patent number: 8132766
    Abstract: In order to provide a structure for removable attachment to a substantially vertical surface for example of glass, glazed tiles or metal, the structure has a mounting means comprising: suction means (1) for sealingly contacting a surface, pulling means (2) being attached to the suction means (1) for drawing a part of the suction means (1) away from the surface, so that a partial vacuum is created between the suction means (1) and the surface. There is a substantially helical or wedge shaped surface on the pulling means (2) engaged with a corresponding substantially helical or wedge shaped surface of a rotatable member (13), whereby rotation of the rotatable member (13) draws the pulling means (2) and respective part of the suction means (1) away from the surface. An intermediate member (5) is provided for engaging a sealing part of the suction means (1), the intermediate member (5) supporting the rotatable member (13).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: Croydex Limited
    Inventors: Jonathan Harry Tooley, Charles Frederick Burrows
  • Patent number: 8128042
    Abstract: A sucker assembly includes a sucker, a pull bar secured on the sucker, a pressing member mounted on the pull bar and pressing the sucker, an elastic member mounted on the pull bar and biased between the sucker and the pressing member, a control handle pivotally mounted on the pressing member, and a pivot shaft extending through the control handle, the pressing member and the pull bar. The pressing member has a periphery provided with a mounting seat which has a fixing recess to receive a hanging rod of a support rack and to abut a surface. Thus, the hanging rod of the support rack is locked onto the surface by the fixing recess of the mounting seat so that the support rack contacts with the surface exactly and closely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Ferro-Carbon Ent. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Lung-Chih Chen
  • Patent number: 8109479
    Abstract: A multi-vacuum mount type support device includes a multi-end connection bar, multiple supporting arms each having one end thereof horizontally pivotally connected to a respective end of the multi-end connection bar by a respective pivot lock, multiple vacuum mount assemblies vertically pivotally connected to the other ends of the supporting arms by respective pivot lock for securing to a flat surface by a vacuum suction force, and a mount connected to one front end of the multi-end connection to hold a holder member for holding an electronic apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Inventor: Wen-Feng Tsai
  • Publication number: 20120018599
    Abstract: A multi-vacuum mount type support device includes a multi-end connection bar, multiple supporting arms each having one end thereof horizontally pivotally connected to a respective end of the multi-end connection bar by a respective pivot lock, multiple vacuum mount assemblies vertically pivotally connected to the other ends of the supporting arms by respective pivot lock for securing to a flat surface by a vacuum suction force, and a mount connected to one front end of the multi-end connection to hold a holder member for holding an electronic apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2010
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Inventor: Wen-Feng Tsai
  • Publication number: 20120006952
    Abstract: A dual vacuum mount type support device includes a support arm, two vacuum mount assemblies pivotally connected to the two distal ends of the support arm for securing to the flat surface of a support wall and the flat surface of an object to be supported on the support wall, and two pivot locks for locking the vacuum mount assemblies to the support arm in the respective adjusted position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2010
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Inventor: Wen-Feng Tsai
  • Patent number: 8079565
    Abstract: A portable device accessory is used to hold, grip or manipulate a portable device such as and not limited to mobile phones, MP3 players, portable entertainment/computing devices, and/or gaming devices. The accessory possesses two suctions cups connected by a neck and having an aperture for receiving a jack on earphone. Certain embodiments of the accessory will have tabs, ridges, groove and/or a space to receive earphones. The accessory permits a jack of earphones to be threaded through an aperture and the cord of the earphones to be wrapped around the accessory. The suction cups may be inverted to conceal the cord wrapped around a neck of the accessory and tabs may be used to hold inverted suction cups together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Inventor: John Weiss-Vons
  • Patent number: 8002226
    Abstract: An accessory device (1) for an aquarium is described, in particular for a thermal heater (2), which may be vertically positioned. It comprises an accessory device (2) for operation of said aquarium and supporting means (4, 5) for supporting the accessory device (2) on a wall of the aquarium tank. The supporting means (4, 5) comprise a supporting body (4) which may be attached to the aquarium wall and latching means (5, 10), which are integral with the accessory device (2) and may be removably associated with said supporting body (4). The supporting body (4) supports the latching means (5, 10) and the accessory device (2) and allows selection of vertical position of accessory device (2) with respect to supporting body (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Askoii Holding S.r.l.
    Inventor: Elio Marioni