Ladder Patents (Class 248/210)
  • Patent number: 6029776
    Abstract: The invention relates to holding device adapted to attach to a ladder having rungs. The holding device comprises: (a) a substantially flat holder member defining a holder plane; (b) a hook adapted to engage one of the rungs, the hook being adjustable with respect to the holder plane, and lockable in at least two orientations with respect to the holder plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: Robert L. Brown
  • Patent number: 6024192
    Abstract: A ladder vise assembly which is adapted for attachment to a step or ladder rung for immovably holding pipes and other suitable work materials. The assembly includes a stationary first clamp attached to one leg of a rung of a ladder with a vice module integrally built on it. A second clamp is adjustably spaced along a horizontal bar away from the first clamp. Both clamps include rotatable knobs for opening to receive a pipe and closing to hold the pipe firm in position. The vice module is slidably connected to a horizontal bar which connects the two clamps. An adjustable pipe-holder attachment is adapted to be affixed either to a wide bottom or narrow upper portion to of virtually any step ladder. A hole for locking the vise to a ladder is disposed within a bottom portion of the adjustable clamp to prevent removal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Inventor: Maurice B. Griffin
  • Patent number: 6012689
    Abstract: A combination accessory container and safety device, or safety ladder accessory container, is designed to be mounted over the top of a ladder and in particular of an A-frame ladder. The safety ladder accessory container comprises a domed top and at least one side container. The domed top sits on the top platform of a ladder and can be mounted to the top platform. The safety ladder accessory container can also comprise a front wall, a back wall and a front platform. The front wall and back wall each extend generally downwardly from the domed top and are either fixedly connected to or integrally formed with the domed top. The front platform extends generally horizontally from the front wall, rests on a step of the ladder, and is fixedly attached or integrally formed with the front wall. Each side container can be fixedly attached to or integrally formed with either the domed top or with the front wall and back wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: Frank J. Sisca
    Inventor: Frank J. Sisca
  • Patent number: 6009976
    Abstract: A ladder rack system which allows a contractor to locate elongated articles alongside the contractor's ladder while the materials are easily accessible to the contractor at work level, yet the elongated articles are not subject to being carried off by wind. A support member is bucket-like, having a bottom wall and sideways at the rectilinear periphery of the bottom wall for captively receiving the end of elongated articles. A pair of mutually spaced apart rung hooks are connected with each of two opposing sidewalls of the support member for hookably interfacing simultaneously with two rungs of an extension ladder in a selectively removable manner at either side rail of the ladder. At least one rectilinear bracket member has a rung hook for hookably interfacing with a rung of a ladder at either side rail thereof. A boss bracket portion partially occludes an opening of the bracket member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Inventors: Michael A. Gorney, Guy T. Jones, Gilbert T. Jones
  • Patent number: 6000669
    Abstract: A tool holder for pneumatic and electric power tools to be used when working on step ladders, extension ladders, scaffolding and other precarious elevated working environments where space for maneuvering and storing tools and materials is diminished. The tool receptacle (2) of the tool holder being especially designed to allow the storage of a wide variety of nail guns in a posture with the safety tip extended and the handle conveniently facing up towards the user facilitating the insertion, removal and operation of the tool being stored. The pivoting mounting assembly enables the holder to mount to support members that are at any angle in a vertical plane. The fastening straps with adjustable, quick release buckles enable the tool holder to be quickly and securely fastened to support members that are a wide variety of shapes and sizes. The storage pockets (24) on the front wall (8) of the holder are large enough to carry full size nail clips or a pair of safety glasses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Inventors: Eric Seward, Mark E. Goshay
  • Patent number: 5960905
    Abstract: An accessory device capable of being mounted on a ladder having hollow rungs includes a pair of primary support arms which are shaped to fit within rungs having flat top sides to prevent rotation of the primary arms therein. Secondary support arms are slidably extensible from the primary support arms to laterally position a tray assembly relative to one side of the ladder. A brace connected to the secondary support arms engages a tray assembly. The level of the tray relative to the slope of the ladder is adjusted by varying the position of arcuate slots found within a pair of flanges mounted on the bottom side of the tray relative to the brace. Thus, a user can adjust the level of the tray while keeping one or both hands on the tray for stability. The device may be mounted to either side of the ladder with the supporting arms and brace optionally remaining mounted on the ladder during transport and/or storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Inventor: Brady I. Gardner
  • Patent number: 5957238
    Abstract: A one-piece, integral device made up of linear rods and having a basket portion and a hook portion, the latter for mounting it on a step ladder. The basket holds an ordinary tool box. Also the basket portion has side hooks for mounting extra tools and instrumentalities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Inventor: Richard A Curvin, II
  • Patent number: 5950762
    Abstract: A ladder hose retainer 10 for use with a ladder 48 having a ladder rung 50, includes an elongated tubular member 12 adapted to fit within a rung 50, and having a first and a second externally threaded end, 14 and 16. An internally threaded fitting 24 threadedly engages first end 14 and incorporates at least one gripping member 30 such that each gripping member 30 is adapted and arranged to securely engage a hose 58. An internally threaded cap member 22, adapted to threadedly engage second end 16, provides for adjustable mounting of the elongated member 12 within rungs 50 of various sizes. The ladder hose retainer 10 allows the secure retention of a vibrating hose 58 of a spray device to a ladder, thus reducing the vibration and discomfort imparted to an operator by the vibrating spray hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Inventor: Gregory George
  • Patent number: 5950972
    Abstract: A container apparatus is provided for use a top step of a ladder. The container apparatus incudes a support platform with upper and lower surfaces, a lower skirt extending from the lower surface, and a strap. The lower skirt includes front and back sides each including a mounting slot therethrough in general alignment with one another. The strap extends through the mounting slots and includes opposite ends configured to selectively fasten together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: C.D.I. Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles D. Irish
  • Patent number: 5941344
    Abstract: A caddy tray having a top side for receiving individual ones of tools, parts and/or components in prescribed locations, also having an underside of defined configuration to fit over the top step of a step-ladder, with adjustable straps in a preferred embodiment to releasably secure the tray to the top step and to the ladder for use, and to detach from the ladder for later storage, in the organization of tools, parts and components for a worker while preventing them from falling from the ladder to the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Inventor: Jerry J. Spadaro
  • Patent number: 5934632
    Abstract: A utility can holder for use with hollow rung ladders. The device includes an annular support member defining a recess into which a can, typically a standard one gallon paint can, or other container can be placed. The can is secured and prevented from falling through the recess by engagement means, such as a shelf surface upon which knobs of the can or a continuous protruding lip will rest. Attached to the annular support member is a rung insert member, comprising a smooth or ribbed tube which can be inserted through the hollow rung in a snug but rotatable fit, allowing the can to self-level by operation of gravity. A locking mechanism comprised of flexible tabs which spring open after the device has been inserted through the rung prevents accidental withdrawal of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Inventor: Norman W. Weaver
  • Patent number: 5931259
    Abstract: A safety attachment for a ladder of the type which comprises a pair of spaced apart parallel side rails and a plurality of rungs extending between the side rails. The safety attachment includes a pair of tubular members, each of which is secured to a corresponding one of the side rails of the ladder. Two extension arms are also provided. One end of each of the extension arms has a friction pad secured thereto. The other end of each extension arm is pivotally attached to the top end of a corresponding one of the tubular members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1999
    Inventor: Dale E. Hoey
  • Patent number: 5913380
    Abstract: The instant invention is a ladder accessory in the form of a toolbox. The toolbox is coupled to support brackets mounted on each front leg of a conventional ladder. The toolbox includes a handle that allows for securing to the brackets when the cover is opened by forcing pinions located in the bottom of the box through pinion apertures located on each support bracket. The support bracket allows lifting of the toolbox so as to provide a safe working area for a worker on top of the ladder allowing ease of access to the necessary tools in order to accomplish a particular task. Bracket release levers are provided on each support bracket to allow lifting of the toolbox in a convenient manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Assignee: C-6 Corporation
    Inventors: Leslie H. Gugel, Joyce A. Gugel, Robert A. Marmesh, Albert Eng
  • Patent number: 5901998
    Abstract: A multi-functional ladder-top tool and parts carrier which has rubber legs for non-damaging support on flat surfaces and a bottom recess conforming to the upper surface of a ladder, a wide handle for easy one-handed or two-handed movement of the carrier to the upper surface of the ladder, and at least one strap attached to the carrier to secure it to the upper surface of the ladder. The carrier also has a variety of different sized openings through its top surface through which different types of tools and parts may be placed which allow for organized storage and ease of access by a person working on or adjacent to the upper surface of the ladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Inventor: Joseph A. Gallo, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5873433
    Abstract: An accessory securable to the top cap of a step ladder for temporary storage of tools, parts and the like. The accessory includes a support which is securable to the top cap by various clamping arrangements which may include bolts, springs or tie downs. A tray member is pivotally attached to the support and in a deployed position extends horizontally forwardly. In a folded or storage position, the tray member is in overlying registry with the top cap of the ladder. In an alternate embodiment, the support is adjustable to accommodate step ladder caps of varying dimensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1999
    Inventor: Gary Edward Katz
  • Patent number: 5865409
    Abstract: A suspending system for supporting one or more brackets from a utility basket includes a pair of conventional, vertically-aligned keyhole slots in a side wall of the basket, but further utilizes a slot in an adjacent horizontal lip of the basket to add rigidity to the basket as well as support for the bracket after installation. The use of the keyhole slots enables a bracket to be installed or removed quickly if desired, without requiring tools for the installation or removal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Inventor: Fred Nimer
  • Patent number: 5855346
    Abstract: A ladder caddy with a tray and handles for carrying tools, supplies or paint cans, which attaches to the side of a ladder by self-clamping action due to the weight of the caddy, but which releases when lifted by its carrying handles to move to another location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1999
    Inventor: John R. Hall
  • Patent number: 5853156
    Abstract: A rail clamp is provided for attachment to a vertical rail such as a side rail of a ladder as are used on the rear of recreational vehicles. The rail clamp is molded from plastic and includes threaded members with knobs which allow the clamp to be tightened in any of a variety of positions along the rail. A pair of rail clamps are generally used for carrying bulky items such as lawn chairs exteriorly of the RV. The rail clamps are molded from durable plastic and will fit different size ladder rails as required. The knobs, threaded members and securing nuts can be reversed for convenience in use to either the right or left sides of the clamp body portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1998
    Assignee: CAMCO Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony D. Moore, William C. Overman
  • Patent number: 5842253
    Abstract: The ladder supported holding tray of the present invention comprises a tray assembly for releasable attachment to a step ladder or to an extension ladder that typically comprises an open top container including at least a front panel, a back panel, a first side panel, an second side panel, and a bottom joined together to define a hollow interior receptacle. First step engagement member are disposed on the container proximate the container bottom to permit secure temporary engagement of the tray to a first step of a step ladder, to a first single rung of an extension ladder, or to first side by side rungs of overlapping sections of an extension ladder. Second step engagement member are disposed on the tray assembly proximate to the open top of the container to permit secure temporary engagement to a second step of a step ladder, a second single rung of an extension ladder, or a second rung of side by side rungs of overlapping sections of an extension ladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Inventors: Frank E. Ahl, Brian E. Ahl
  • Patent number: 5836557
    Abstract: The invention is a utility tray assembly that is capable of being mounted on a support member of a ladder, such as a shelf or a step. The assembly includes a tray having parallel side walls, parallel end walls disposed normal to the side walls, and a bottom defining a plane and disposed normal to the side walls and the end walls. The end walls have slots therein extending in a direction parallel to the plane of the bottom. The assembly further includes a strap having a body portion and opposing end portions. Each of the end portions includes a slot extending in a direction parallel with the longitudinal axis of the strap. A fastener is associated with each end wall and is insertable through the slots in the end wall and the strap for securing the end portions of the strap to the tray end walls in such a manner that the support member of the ladder is captured between the body portion of the strap and the undersurface of the tray bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Inventors: Harold David Bailey, Keith Alan Bailey
  • Patent number: 5826844
    Abstract: A bracket designed to support a paint bucket or similar vessel to the outside of a conventional modern ladder comprised of two rails and a plurality of rungs consisting of a generally--U-shaped form with the capability of attachment to a band and shaped so as to firmly hold onto a rail of said ladder and yet be easy to remove from the ladder with a simple upward motion. One segment, the inner segment is shaped to conform on its lower surface to the upper flat surface of a modern ladder rung. Another segment is of sufficient length to cover the width of a ladder rail and is set to the first segment so that the surface of its greatest plane is at an angle of 95 to 115 degrees to the plane of the first segment's lower surface. The third segment has on its largest surface a means of attachment to a band which may allow movement of the bracket along said band, said band may be adjustable in circumference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
    Inventor: James E. Purdy
  • Patent number: 5816363
    Abstract: A device for supporting a paint container on a ladder includes a tang having a lower surface adapted to impinge on a step of a ladder. Extending from one end of the tang is a gripper portion that is formed to impinge on the bottom surface of the step on which the tang impinges, whereby the device is clamped to the step. An arcuate portion extends from the other end of the tang, and is provided with an opening having a diameter dimensioned to receive a paint container, such as a standard bucket. In one embodiment, the arcuate portion consists of a loop of heavy wire formed in a curve to define the opening that supports the paint container. A pair of parallel, linear member extends from the circle are joined to the tang member. The linear members extend past the tang, and include first and second pairs of right angle bends that redirect the linear members retrograde toward the loop portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Inventor: Marilyn A. Searcy
  • Patent number: 5816549
    Abstract: A bracket assembly for securing a paint roller tray to a paint bucket is provided. The bracket includes a cradle for receiving a paint tray in an angled relation above the bucket. The cradle is centrally fixed atop a first rod, the first rod having a top and a bottom portion. The top portion includes a securing element to secure the paint tray to the cradle. The bottom portion includes a rectangular support element which is affixed centrally and perpendicularly to the bottom portion of the first rod. Intermediate the top portion and the bottom portion is an U-shaped cover which is nested in a downward fashion atop the first rod. The cover has a pair of legs affixed thereto in parallel relation which straddle the rim of the bucket. The legs depend downwardly from intermediate the two lips of the cover. The legs are secured to the lips. A first leg remains outside the bucket, is adjustable in height, and acts as a stabilization support for the main portion of the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Inventor: Charles E. Anderson
  • Patent number: 5813530
    Abstract: An improved apparatus and method for holding articles on a ladder, operable with a combination of a tool belt, a tool box, and/or an apron. In one combination that uses all of these items, the apron has belt loops. The apron attaches to the sidewall of the tool box. The belt loops secure the tool belt. And the tool box with the apron and the tool belt attached is situated on the top step of the ladder. To stabilize the tool box on the top step, the apron has an edge overhang, which extends over at least part of the sidewall of the top step. For further stabilization, the belt loops also extend over at least part of the sidewall of the top step, thereby allowing the tightening of the tool belt around the sidewall of the top step. Additionally the tool box is stabilized on the step ladder by straps attached to either the tool box or to the apron itself. The straps extend underneath the top step of the step ladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1998
    Inventor: David A. Kornblatt
  • Patent number: 5806817
    Abstract: An attachment device securable to a ladder having a series of rungs. The device includes a container having a bottom and sidewall attached to its bottom so as to form an interior compartment in which materials and/or objects can be contained, such as a paint can, brushes, and related items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Assignees: Bruce K. Loud, IIDLLC
    Inventor: Bruce K. Loud
  • Patent number: 5797571
    Abstract: A combined ladder hook and bracket assembly including a bracket section with a first face angled with respect to a second face, a pair of opposing rung engaging gaffs on the distal ends of the bracket section and an arm interconnected with the bracket section. The arm includes a hook for attaching an article to the arm. The combined ladder hook and bracket assembly attaches to a ladder and a paint can or a tool attaches to the hook.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Inventor: Hugh Joseph Brophy
  • Patent number: 5792312
    Abstract: A hook assembly including a hook adapted to be releasably attached to a portable masking device that adheres tape to masking material to form a composite masking material having a portion of the coating of pressure sensitive adhesive exposed so that the exposed adhesive can adhere the composite masking sheet along a surface to be masked. The hook includes an attachment portion having adapted to lay along a handle for the masking device, and a generally C-shaped engagement portion extending from the attachment portion that defines a recess. The engagement portion can be positionable around a structure with the structure in the recess to hang the masking device on the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Perry S. Dotterman, Laura L. Clark
  • Patent number: 5788198
    Abstract: A bracket is attachable to a ladder to form a convenience support or other attachment that attaches to the rails or rungs of a ladder, and is readily reconfigured, moved or adjusted as to angular orientation, without substantial assembly steps or tools. The bracket has at least two and preferably three mounting members, each folded at a right angle to define two flat plates, e.g., with one of the plates longer than the other. Each plate has a least one array of spaced openings for fasteners. The fasteners and some of the openings are dimensioned so that the fastener heads or nuts fit through such openings of the plates and the shanks of the fasteners engage in a slot, which can require turning non-round fastener heads for alignment with the slot before insertion, and turning the non-round heads of the fastener back after insertion, or alternatively passing the head through a larger hole joined to the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Inventor: Charles C. Sharpe
  • Patent number: 5782314
    Abstract: A lightweight organizer with upper and lower trays and receptors for supplies and tools which can be mounted on the top platform of a stepladder. No tools are required in the process. The organizer has four sides extending downward and outwardly and opened on the bottom. It may either be made as single unitary molded plastic structure or its upper tray may be removable from the organizer's lower portion. An interior ledge with a notch in the organizer's apron portion fit on the lower side of the ladder's top platform to firmly secure the mounted organizer to it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Inventor: Gary J. Zeitler
  • Patent number: 5740883
    Abstract: A height adjustable ladder tool accessory box for holding tools, hardware, supplies, paint containers, and the like for use on ladders, including step ladders and extension type ladders. The invention includes a tool and hardware box which removably attaches to a pair of support members. In one embodiment, the support members removably and adjustable slide into a pair of mounting brackets that attach to either side of a step ladder. In another embodiment, the tool accessory box is supported by a pair of support brackets that removably attach to either side of an extension ladder. The tool accessory box includes a removable opening lid that covers internal compartments for storing an assortment of tools, hardware, and supplies. The lid includes a series of external concentric raised rings to hold standard sized paint containers, and has a raised perimeter to retain articles set on the lid. The tool accessory box includes a handle and a plurality of external tool holders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1998
    Inventor: Robert D. Trank
  • Patent number: 5727649
    Abstract: A tool storage container is provided, wherein the container includes a support shelf for resting atop and covering the uppermost platform surface of a ladder. A removable, adjustable hook is attached to the support shelf extending outward, and can clamp the ladder's uppermost platform between the hook and the sidewall of the container. A plurality of separate compartments neatly organize supplies, such as tape measures and screw drivers. A swing-out parts tray further provides easy storage and retrieval of nails, screws, and the like. A hinged lid and a carrying handle in order to accommodate use as a conventional tool storage container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1998
    Inventor: Kevin C. Buckley
  • Patent number: 5692581
    Abstract: A cover for a rung of a ladder consisting of an elongate member (12) configured to spring clamp over the rung of the ladder and a layer (16) of anti-skid or anti-slip material removeably fastened to the external surface of the cover. The elongate member includes at least one aperture (13) at each terminal end to receive a bolt for fastening the elongate member to the rung of the ladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Inventors: John Robert Nelson, Richard Forbes Donald-Hill
  • Patent number: 5687941
    Abstract: A universally adaptable hanger for suspending a can from a ladder has a ladder rung engaging member which fits over the top and front and rear faces of a ladder rung, and a hanger arm attached generally perpendicularly to the ladder rung engaging member to laterally traverse front and side surfaces of a side vertical member of a ladder and an outboard distal end which extends laterally beyond the side vertical member of a ladder to provide a stable hanging point for a can handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Inventor: Suzanne M. Quintile
  • Patent number: 5673885
    Abstract: A paint tray (10) for a stepladder (12) which comprises a structure (14) for storing work materials (16), tools (18) and a paint bucket (20) in an organized manner, so that a person can conveniently utilize the work materials (16), tools (18) and paint bucket (20) therefrom. A facility (22) is for retaining the storing structure (14) to the stepladder (12) in a safe dependable manner, so that the work materials (16), tools (18) and paint bucket (20) are maintained within the storing structure (14), while the storing structure (14) will be firmly held in place onto the stepladder (12) by the retaining facility (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1997
    Inventor: Paul Pham
  • Patent number: 5649623
    Abstract: An improved apparatus and method for holding articles on a ladder, operable with a combination of a tool belt, a tool box, and/or an apron. In one combination that uses all of these items, the apron has belt loops. The apron attaches to the sidewall of the tool box. The belt loops secure the tool belt. And the tool box with the apron and the tool belt attached is situated on the top step of the ladder. To stabilize the tool box on the top step, the apron has an edge overhang, which extends over at least part of the sidewall of the top step. For further stabilization, the belt loops also extend over at least part of the sidewall of the top step, thereby allowing the tightening of the tool belt around the sidewall of the top step. Additionally the tool box is stabilized on the step ladder by straps attached to either the tool box or to the apron itself. The straps extend underneath the top step of the step ladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 22, 1997
    Inventor: David A. Kornblatt
  • Patent number: 5649682
    Abstract: A container holder for supporting a container (12), such as, for example, a paint can, or other item, on a ladder (16) using the interior of a hollow ladder rung (18) for support, into which rung is inserted a flattened, rod-like, projecting arm (14) integrally formed with a completely encircling cincture (10) securing the container, with over-lapping members (14/14A) making up the arm held together under compression by a simple fastener (20) at the point where the cincture and the support arm members join. When unfastened, the cincture is placed around the circumference of the paint can either below the side handle protrusions (FIG. 4) or between them and the laterally extending top lip of the can (FIG. 5B), with the over-lapping arm members then being brought together in over-lapping fashion and fastened together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 22, 1997
    Inventor: Julius F. Martin
  • Patent number: 5641142
    Abstract: A ladder tray (10) is provided with a generally rectangular tray (11 ) having a panel (12) surrounded by a flange (28) which projects both above and below the panel. Two pairs of slides (31) can slide along the flange (28) at respective ends (15, 16) and the slides (31) carry the upper ends of legs (32) of U-shaped tray supports (26). The slides also include lockable pivot screws (33) which can lock both the legs (32) and the slides (31) against movement and allow bridge portions (25) of the tray supports (26) to bear against a portion of a ladder to which the tray assembly (10) is attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 24, 1997
    Inventors: June Arlene Hanson, John Hanson
  • Patent number: 5636817
    Abstract: The present invention has a top plate with a receptacle and handle on its top surface, a bottom plate with cut-outs for holding tools, a fastener assembly for screwing the top plate to the bottom plate and a demountable leg assembly. The receptacle is designed to closely hold a gallon can. An insert enables the receptacle to hold smaller cans. When used with the leg assembly attached to the top plate, the top plate is screwed tightly against the bottom plate. The invention is designed so that the top plate does not interfere with the cut-outs. Preferably the legs telescope so that the invention can be placed on uneven surfaces and the height of the receptacle can be varied. When used without the leg assembly, the top plate is screwed to the bottom plate around any convenient horizontal support member. The screws force the top and bottom plate to clamp securely to the member. The member can be the rung of a ladder or the step of a step ladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Inventor: Marvin E. Beachy
  • Patent number: 5628381
    Abstract: A ladder safety apparatus (10, 60, 70, 80) stabilizes a ladder (36) residing against a structure (38) by effectively securing the upper end of the ladder (36) to the structure (38). The safety apparatus (10, 60, 70, 80) includes at least first and second side members (12, 13) that are interconnected at a transverse angle, preferably ninety degrees. An opening (22) is located in the second side member (13) for receiving and passing one of the ladder rails (39a, 39b) therethrough. The opening (22) has a first part (24) for passing the rail (39a, 39b) and a second part (26) that interconnects the first part (24) to a boundary edge (28) of the second side member (13). The second part (26) enables installation of the apparatus (10, 60, 70, 80). Optionally, one or more apertures (16) may be disposed in the first wall (12) for receiving and passing a gutter ferrule (52) or other pin-like member therethrough for further stabilization of the ladder (36).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1997
    Assignee: David H. Markovich
    Inventors: David H. Markovich, William M. Foster
  • Patent number: 5624093
    Abstract: A paint tray assembly includes a ladder clamp to secure the tray to a ladder or scaffold and magnetic holder and swing-away rod providing mechanisms for retaining paint brushes in the tray. A detachable handle attaches to the tray to permit relocation of the tray from one area to another minimizing the possibility of unwanted spillage of paint from the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1997
    Inventor: R. Wayne Gemmell
  • Patent number: 5603405
    Abstract: A ladder top storage rack includes a rigid tool box having securable to a ladder top. A pair of side pouches are secured to two side walls of the tool box. Each of the side pouches has a zippered opening. A rear pouch is secured to the rear wall of the tool box. The rear pouch has a zippered opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1997
    Inventor: William H. Smith
  • Patent number: 5584453
    Abstract: In a paint can assembly adapted to be releasably attached to the rung of a ladder, a relatively wide spring-like metal or plastic strap is attached to the side of a cylindrical or cone shaped paint can body. This strap bends into a downward facing U-shape so as to slip over and tightly conform to a horizontal ladder rung having a generally rectangular cross section. In this manner, the strap snugly conforms to the external surface of the ladder rung and supports the paint can relative thereto. A resilient cord is attached to the bottom of the can body at a position generally opposite to the strap. Tension applied to this cord as the cord is stretched over the lower end of the strap operates to removably secure the paint can to the ladder rung. A removable cover is provided for the can. A disposable liner lines the can body. A resilient cover is provided to convert a ladder rung of circular cross section to a ladder rung of generally rectangular cross section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1996
    Inventor: David A. Morter
  • Patent number: 5542535
    Abstract: A carrier assembly for transporting and supporting fluorescent lamps, the carrier assembly comprising a container including a flexible bag having open and closed ends, the bag having a length between the open and closed ends, and the bag defining a volume; and the container including a tube support, the tube support including first and second parallel spaced apart surfaces, the first and second surfaces being perpendicular to the length of the bag, the first surface having an array of lamp receiving apertures therethrough, the second surface having an array of lamp receiving apertures therethrough which are aligned with the apertures through the first surface, the tube support being attached to the open end of the flexible bag to support and arrange a plurality of fluorescent lamps in spaced apart relation wherein portions of respective lamps extend into the volume in the bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1996
    Assignee: Square Peg Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: John Dalton
  • Patent number: 5507363
    Abstract: A universal portable support platform for a ladder base is formed from a plurality of interfitting elements capable of left and right interconnections so that a horizontal support can be located selectively adjacent an elevated work site. Adjustment means are provided to level the horizontal support, regardless of the angulation of the ladder base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1996
    Assignee: Richard A. Tredup
    Inventor: Richard A. Tredup
  • Patent number: 5505302
    Abstract: A toolbox for a stepladder comprising a container having a holding space therein, a sealable opening for selectively allowing and preventing access to the holding space, and an outwardly extending lip adapted for hanging items thereupon; and a coupling mechanism for coupling the container to a stepladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1996
    Inventor: Scott R. Ferley
  • Patent number: 5493751
    Abstract: A versatile paint pan has a receptacle and a bracket removably attached to the back of the receptacle. The bracket has a base and two legs. The bracket may be pivoted to dispose the paint pan on a horizontal surface. The bracket may be supported transversely on a step of a ladder such that the receptacle is suspended vertically externally of the side rail of the ladder. The bracket may also be supported substantially parallel to a step of the ladder and such that the receptacle is suspended vertically between the side rails of the ladder. The paint pan has a paint brush holder and a removable cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1996
    Inventors: Daniel Misiukowiec, Juan R. Lo Porto
  • Patent number: 5431249
    Abstract: A universal portable support platform for a ladder base is formed from a plurality of interfitting elements capable of left and right interconnections so that a horizontal support can be located selectively adjacent an elevated work site. Adjustment means are provided to level the horizontal support, regardless of the angulation of the ladder base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 11, 1995
    Assignee: Richard A. Tredup
    Inventor: Richard A. Tredup
  • Patent number: 5413296
    Abstract: Paint can and paintbrush holding apparatus. A paint can is mountable to a step-ladder by a paint can holder having a handle which may be inserted in a hollow ladder rung. A second member is detachably attachable to the top plate of a step-ladder and disposes an elongate member for engagement with the handle for alternatively mounting the paint can to a step-ladder. A paintbrush holder is composed of air impermeable material and shaped and sized to retard air flow to the paintbrush bristles to maintain their moistness for perhaps at least an hour during temporary cessation of painting and to maintain during that time the shape of the bristles. The paintbrush holder includes a clip for attachment thereof to a paint can rim with the holder hanging along the outer surface of the paint can. The clip is shaped and sized to permit easy yet secure attachment whereby inadvertent detachment may be prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1995
    Assignee: Inventures Niagara Inc.
    Inventor: Roy A. LaFontaine
  • Patent number: 5370263
    Abstract: A ladder caddy (10) includes a rigid tray (12) and a ladder-engaging handle (14)which together define a generally rectangular mounting opening (80) positioned laterally adjacent a mounting side (38) of the tray. The mounting opening is of a size and shape for receiving therein an apex portion (82) and portions of leg pairs (86, 88) of an A-frame ladder (84) when the legs are in a separated, deployed configuration, but sufficiently small that the ladder-engaging handle and the rigid tray contact the separated leg pairs of the ladder near the apex portion whereby the ladder caddy remains mounted on the A-frame ladder. The ladder-engaging handle comprises two follower arms (54a and b) which are slidably engaged in track slots (48a and b) of the rigid tray. The ladder-engaging handle also includes an outer member, or yoke bar, (60) which is rotatably attached to the follower arms and which can be rotated to change the size of the mounting opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1994
    Assignees: Harry L. Brown, Lyle L. Tatroe
    Inventor: Harry L. Brown
  • Patent number: 5342008
    Abstract: Brackets (30, 40) are mounted to respective sides of a hinged step ladder by spaced apart divergent channel forming means (31, 32) on each bracket fitting onto respective swing apart limbs (14, 16) of the erect ladder. The brackets (30, 40) each include a support portion (36), extending beyond one of the channel forming means (32), both to the same side of the ladder, onto which a tray or the like (50) is secured by fastening means (41) so as to provide a stable platform for tool and materials at a convenient height for a user of the ladder. One of the channel forming means (32) may be pivotally adjustable.In an alternative embodiment (FIGS. 13 to 15) one of the channel forming means of each bracket is adjustable in position relative to the other so that the channels may be selectively disposed substantially parallel to each other to fit to a single limb of a ladder or divergent from each other for engagement around opened limbs of a hinged ladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 30, 1994
    Inventor: Derek J. Kay