Rod Type Patents (Class 248/251)
  • Publication number: 20120187063
    Abstract: A mounting assembly is used to mount a curved rod to a mounting surface. The mounting assembly includes a base, a guide and a cover. The base is fixed to the mounting surface by inserting screws through holes in the base and into the mounting surface. The guide fits around the base and can move along a length of the base. The cover is placed over the base and secured to the guide, such that the cover can also move along the length of the base. The mounting assembly interfaces with an end of the curved rod that approaches the mounting assembly at a given angle. Movement of the cover allows the mounting assembly to interface with ends of curved rods approaching the mounting assembly over a range of angles. The mounting assembly can include a shaft that is connected to the base and interfaces with the end of the curved rod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2012
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: MOEN INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Alan M. Bauer
  • Publication number: 20120175330
    Abstract: A rod holder that for supporting a hanger rod in a shelving system. The hanger rod holder includes at least two materials, with a central plate that may be made of metal that may be substantially encapsulated in molded plastic. The hanger rod holder is mounted to a shelf bracket, and may be used with either solid or wire shelving systems. The low end of the holder engages a hanger rod, and may be configured to resiliently cradle the rod, with the rod being held in place in the holder by spreading the resilient ends of a C-shaped opening in the lower end of the holder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2011
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Applicant: RUBBERMAID, INC.
    Inventors: Matthew Nicholls, David M. Stitchick, Robert John Warner, JR.
  • Patent number: 8201789
    Abstract: A blind support for installation of a blind rail. The blind support includes a main support body and an engagement member. The main support body has two horizontal support boards and a vertical support board connected between the horizontal support boards to form a support body with an open side. The blind rail can be placed into the main support body through the open side thereof and supported by the main support body. The engagement member has horizontally extending abutment sections that can be slidably received slide channels of the main support body. Each abutment section has a key body projecting therefrom. The key bodies are engageable in engagement holes formed on the main support body to block the open side thereof and enclose and support the blind rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Inventor: Tser Wen Chou
  • Publication number: 20120145661
    Abstract: According to various aspects of the present disclosure, exemplary embodiments are disclosed of systems and methods for supporting hang rods and shelves from support surfaces, such as the walls of a closet or cabinet. In an exemplary embodiment, a system generally includes a pair of end brackets and a plurality of different pairs of interchangeable pieces configured to be selectively coupled to the pair of end brackets. Each pair of interchangeable pieces when selectively coupled to the end brackets, respectively, is operable for supporting a different hang rod from the support surface when the end brackets are coupled to the support surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Applicant: CLAIRSON, INC.
    Inventors: Julio A. Fernandez, Robert P. Kundinger, JR.
  • Publication number: 20120145860
    Abstract: A hanger includes an elongated member having a rod with a plurality of positioning portions spaced in a vertical direction. An engaging portion is formed on a bottom of the rod for engaging with an engagement portion. A coupling block includes a connecting head. The coupling block further includes a body and a resilient plate that are located below the connecting head. The body and the resilient plate together define a passageway having an opening in a lower end thereof. The rod is slideable in the passageway in the vertical direction. The resilient plate includes a free end having a hook that is spaced from the body. At least a portion of the hook extends into the passageway. The hook is releasably engaged with a selected one of the positioning portions. The resilient plate is operable to disengage the hook from the positioning portions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2010
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Inventors: FABIAN RUFFO, James Ko
  • Publication number: 20120132762
    Abstract: A cable wedge assembly that can streamline installation of cabling assemblies upon trees and other structures is provided. For example, the cable wedge assembly need not require specialized tools for installation. Rather, the unique features and functions of the assembly attach to a cable merely by inserting a cable through the assembly, tightening a portion of the connector upon another and establishing tension in the cable. Once cable tension is established, the integral wedges seat causing attachment to and retention of the cable. This attachment and retention is effected by way of split conical inserts disposed within the housing of the assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2011
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Applicant: PREFORMED LINE PRODUCTS COMPANY
    Inventors: Bryan Casenhiser, Randy Cloud, Naji Sahlani, Chris Mook
  • Patent number: 8181928
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a device for fixing a rod-like apparatus in the field of mechanics. The existing problems of the device for fixing the rod-like apparatus, such as infirm fixation and low reliability, are addressed by using the device of the invention. The fixing device of the invention includes a body having a cavity in the interior. One or more notches having recessions are provided on the body. The notches have one or more holding pawls which could be opened and closed at the ends thereof. One or more positioning mechanisms are further provided in the body which could lock the holding pawls, in particular, lock the holding pawls when the notches of the body are closed by the holding pawls. The device of the invention could provide the benefits such as firm fixation, high reliability, an orderly and aesthetic appearance and relatively high practical value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Zhejiang Topsun Logistic Control Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Buqin Ruan
  • Patent number: 8181924
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for hanging textiles such as quilts having a rod pocket attached to the back surface thereof are described. In one embodiment, the hanger includes a center tube, two rods which adjustably fit into the center tube, a permanent magnet disposed inside the center tube at its center, and a bracket effective for mounting on a wall or other surface fabricated from magnetic material, for magnetically holding the center tube. In this embodiment of the invention, the hanging apparatus is hidden from view, is self leveling and requires only one mounting location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Inventor: Daniel Pepe
  • Patent number: 8157231
    Abstract: Positioning apparatus applied on equipment with one or a plurality of single axles is fixed on two bases opposite to each other. Adjusting device is located in each base and corresponding to each cross or single axle, which is configured for adjusting the position of the cross or single axle in a direction parallel to the base. Fixing device is configured for fixing the adjusting device on the base. The fixing device is moved in one direction vertical to the adjusting device adjusted in another direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Chunghwa Picture Tubes, Ltd.
    Inventors: Chiuan-Che Shiu, Chih-chiang Lee, Kuo-Chang Teng
  • Publication number: 20110303811
    Abstract: A hand rail mounting system having a rail with an open end and a barrel with a open end configured to fit about closely about an outer surface of the first rail. The rail may be slidably received within the barrel. A clamp is positioned within the barrel and extends into the open end of the rail, with a portion of the end of the rail between the clamp and the barrel. A screw extends through the barrel and engages the saddle. The screw configured so that rotating the screw will draw the clamp toward the barrel and capture the end of the rail within the barrel between the barrel and the clamp. The end of the rail is generally contained within the barrel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2011
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Inventor: Alan C. Nash
  • Publication number: 20110253864
    Abstract: A temporary shaft support system is provided that can be used with an enclosure such as food processing equipment. The system may include a holder for engaging a shaft to be supported, and a lift that is supported from the food processing equipment at a position that is higher than the shaft to allow the shaft to be suspended and supported without occupying floor space of the food processing equipment. The lift may be supported by a top wall of the food processing equipment or may be supported by a drive mount that attaches a shaft-rotating drive to the food processing equipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventors: Timothy J. Isenberg, John E. Zirbel
  • Patent number: 7997428
    Abstract: A support rod for curtains and the like has telescoping sections the ends of which are threaded for being screwed onto respective receivers mountable on facing walls in axial alignment. The receivers are fixed to the walls by fasteners which are concealed within the bore of at least one of the rod section or its mating receiver. A decorative flange may be mounted between each receiver and its respective rod section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: EMSA Sales Corporation
    Inventor: Allan Goldstein
  • Publication number: 20110179692
    Abstract: A fishing rod transporter includes a hollow tubular holder coupled to an adjustable length bar. The hollow holder defines a compartment for receiving a handle-end of a fishing rod. Slots formed in the peripheral wall of the top end of the hollow holder define a limited space for receiving a neck of a fishing reel, and the adjustable length bar is extendible to securely fit between sidewalls of a bed of a pickup truck. The adjustable length bar is extendible (by threaded engagement or ratcheting action) to securely fit between sidewalls of a bed of a pickup truck. An adjustable clamp is attached to the hollow holder and configured to secure the holder to the adjustable length bar. Optionally, a lock assembly engages the top of the hollow holder and prevents removal of the rod and reel by blocking release of the reel neck from the first slot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2010
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Inventors: Scott McKnight, David McKnight
  • Patent number: 7958577
    Abstract: A shower curtain hanging structure includes a fixture, a first socket, a second socket and a linking rod. The fixture is provided with a connecting unit to secure the first socket. The second socket is accommodated in the first socket and linked with the connecting unit. The linking rod is composed of several sections, with the two ends connected to the second socket to form the hanger. The first socket is adjustable to link the second socket for the linking rod in a different length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Inventor: Shih-lin Chang
  • Publication number: 20110133044
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for hanging textiles such as quilts having a rod pocket attached to the back surface thereof are described. In one embodiment, the hanger includes a center tube, two rods which adjustably fit into the center tube, a permanent magnet disposed inside the center tube at its center, and a bracket effective for mounting on a wall or other surface fabricated from magnetic material, for magnetically holding the center tube. In this embodiment of the invention, the hanging apparatus is hidden from view, is self leveling and requires only one mounting location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2009
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Inventor: Daniel Pepe
  • Patent number: 7950615
    Abstract: A press-fit extendable support rod includes an outer pipe and an inner pipe sheatheable along the outer pipe. An end of a rope is fixed to the inner pipe, and another end of the rope is extendable outward. A press-fit buckle device is sheathed to a joint of the inner and outer pipes. A rotary arm is pivotally coupled to the press-fit buckle device, and an end of the rotary arm has a first operating portion, a second operating portion and a third operating portion. The rotary arm can be pivotally coupled to the press-fit buckle device by one of the operating portions, and another end of the rope is wound onto each operating portion. When the rotary arm is turned, the rope is pulled, turned around, and pressed at each operating portion, and the length of the inner pipe extended out of the outer pipe is adjusted and fixed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Inventor: Jung-Wen Lu
  • Patent number: 7946543
    Abstract: Closet carrousel having a motorized vertical support tube that attaches to the floor and ceiling of a standard closet. horizontal support tube arms radiate from the vertical support tube. Three arms extend out from the out from the upper region of the vertical tube and three arms extend out from the lower region of the support tube. The support tubes are slidably mounted on inner support rods. Each support rod is made of a first rod and a second rod that are hinged together to form one long rod. The support tubes hold standard hangers for hanging garments. The user can slide a horizontal support tube out past the hinged portion of the inner support rod so that the inner rod may be bent by the user thereby exposing and giving access to an inner core of shelving members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Inventors: Donna M. Cotter, Laurie L. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20110101187
    Abstract: An artwork holder with multiple mountings includes a projecting threaded boss having a center axis and a diameter, a first bore through the center axis, and a slot through the diameter adapted to retain the line; a support base having a second bore that is aligned with the first bore; a threaded end cap that threads onto the threaded boss adapted to retain the line on the threaded boss, the end cap having a third bore that is aligned with the first and second bores; and an attachment mechanism adapted to mount the bracket on the surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2009
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventor: Kevin Shaha
  • Patent number: 7934274
    Abstract: A grab bar for attachment to a bathroom wall structure includes a body member that extends between first and second ends. The body member is defined by a non-circular cross-section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: Liberty Hardware Mfg. Corp.
    Inventors: Earl David Forrest, Andrew James Graff
  • Patent number: 7900334
    Abstract: A decorative utility rod assembly that may be attached to a wall or other support surface. The rod assembly has a base rod, a cross rod, a cover plate, a set screw, and a knob or end cap. The proximal (wall) end of the base rod is threaded on its exterior surface. The distal end of the base rod forms a threaded hole. The cover plate forms a threaded hole in a central portion thereof. The cover plate is screwed onto the proximal end of the base rod to hide the wall attachments. One end of set screw is screwed into the threaded hole in the distal end of the base rod. The end cap is screwed onto the other end of the set screw. The cover plate and end cap may be made of a multitude of materials, may have a multitude of surface configurations, may be formed into a multitude of shapes, and may contain indicial of a seasonal, a vanity, an interest of the use, advertising, or decorations to match interior decoration décor. Alternative embodiments include a towel ring, a toilet paper holder, a hook, and shelving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Nifty Nob, Inc.
    Inventor: Susan C. Zimmerman
  • Publication number: 20110042534
    Abstract: A device and/or method for assisting the removal and/or installation of a trunnion roller, the device including: an elongate main body portion including an actuator at one end and an engagement means at the other end for engaging and retaining a trunnion roller; a pivot point disposed at a position along the elongate main body portion between the actuator and the engagement means, wherein operation of the actuator causes the engagement means to move about the pivot point.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Applicant: GLENMARK PHARMACEUTICALS ,S.A.
    Inventor: Michael James Van Koeverden
  • Publication number: 20110017884
    Abstract: According to various aspects of the present disclosure, exemplary embodiments are disclosed of systems and methods for supporting hang rods and shelves from support surfaces, such as the walls of a closet or cabinet. In an exemplary embodiment, a system generally includes a pair of end brackets and a plurality of different pairs of interchangeable pieces configured to be selectively coupled to the pair of end brackets. Each pair of interchangeable pieces when selectively coupled to the end brackets, respectively, is operable for supporting a different hang rod from the support surface when the end brackets are coupled to the support surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2009
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Applicant: Clairson, Inc.
    Inventors: Julio A. Fernandez, Robert P. Kundinger, JR.
  • Patent number: 7874025
    Abstract: A grab bar assembly according to an exemplary aspect of the present invention includes: a grab bar having a first aperture and a second aperture defined along an axis; a post which receives the grab bar; an insert which pass through the first aperture and abut the second aperture; and a fastener mounted through the post and the second aperture along the axis, the fastener receivable into the insert to retain the grab bar within the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Liberty Hardware Mfg. Corp.
    Inventors: Rohn Bowden, Earl David Forrest
  • Patent number: 7861990
    Abstract: Components for constructing and installing an awning and light support system to provide sun and weather protection to a window or door of a structure are disclosed. Included are a pair of uniquely-constructed bracket members having an L-shaped configuration used to removably secure horizontally-disposed supports and awning spars to provide a frame to support the awning material or skin. Also disclosed is an awning support structure comprising a support channel that extends along the top of an awning and supports a corresponding member attached to an awning frame. In some instances, the awning may be further supported by awning projection props secured between the awning frame and the building at a lower portion of the awning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Inventor: Michael S. Barnes
  • Publication number: 20100315641
    Abstract: A kit having a supporting device for maintaining a transparent article having a longitudinal axis A, a proximal end and a distal end. The supporting device including a proximal holder including a port intended to receive the proximal end of the article, and a distal holder including a receiving part intended to receive the distal end of the article, the port and the receiving part being aligned on the same longitudinal axis B. The supporting device further having a compressor for putting the article under longitudinal compression directed towards a center of the article, when the article is mounted on the supporting device with its longitudinal axis A aligned on the longitudinal axis B, and a polarimeter. The invention also pertains to a method for measuring the stress inside an article made of transparent material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: Ronan GARREC
  • Patent number: 7823620
    Abstract: A roller shade mounting system provides a tube-in-tube arrangement for reducing sagging of a roller tube windingly supporting a shade fabric. The mounting system includes a mounting tube received within a roller tube, and first and second annular drive rings located on an outer surface of the mounting tube. The drive rings are secured to the mounting tube and the roller tube secured to the drive rings such that rotation of the mounting tube results in rotation of the roller tube. Each drive ring is located at a distance from an end of the roller tube for limiting sagging deflection of the roller tube. The tube-in-tube arrangement provided by the mounting system provides controlled deflection for the roller tube without necessitating undesirably large increase in the diameter of the roller tube, which could create an undesirable appearance in many roller shade installations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.
    Inventor: David A. Kirby
  • Publication number: 20100252711
    Abstract: A pole mounting device has a rod with a ball at one end and a clamp at the opposite end, and a holder tube with a ball socket that forms a ball joint with the ball on the end of the rod. The holder tube rotates relative to the rod about two transverse axes. A pole is held in one end of the tube and a set screw in the other end adjusts rotational resistance of the ball joint. The mounting device can mount flag poles, and with an adapter, mobile electronic devices or other articles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2009
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Inventor: Michael R. Buchner
  • Publication number: 20100243838
    Abstract: A press-fit extendable support rod includes an outer pipe and an inner pipe sheatheable along the outer pipe. An end of a rope is fixed to the inner pipe, and another end of the rope is extendable outward. A press-fit buckle device is sheathed to a joint of the inner and outer pipes. A rotary arm is pivotally coupled to the press-fit buckle device, and an end of the rotary arm has a first operating portion, a second operating portion and a third operating portion. The rotary arm can be pivotally coupled to the press-fit buckle device by one of the operating portions, and another end of the rope is wound onto each operating portion. When the rotary arm is turned, the rope is pulled, turned around, and pressed at each operating portion, and the length of the inner pipe extended out of the outer pipe is adjusted and fixed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2009
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Inventor: Jung-Wen Lu
  • Patent number: 7802610
    Abstract: An apparatus for the safe closure of the open area of mobile containers, having a tarp connected to a spring loaded tarp assembly and to the container by brackets. These brackets allow the tarp to be lowered and raised using the spring loaded tarp assembly. A metal plate at the bottom of the tarp is used to secure the bottom of the trap while in the closed position. The spring loaded tarp assembly comprises three main components a sleeve, a rod, and tension springs. The rod allows the free flow rotation of the sleeve with the tension spring acting as a back stop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Inventor: Robert Brown
  • Patent number: 7762508
    Abstract: A fixing structure of a rod member for use in shower curtains comprises a holder, a connecting member and two cover pieces screwed at the end portions of the holder, wherein the holder includes a fixing groove formed therein and a gap, the width of which is less than the diameter of the fixing grove, arranged at one side thereof, and includes a connecting member axially disposed in the fixing groove thereof and having pivotal shafts mounted at two end portions thereof, and having an insertion notch for inserting a rod member therein secured on the outer peripheral surface thereof, and includes the cover pieces screwed at two end portions thereof and having axial opening in response to the pivotal shafts of the connecting member attached thereon, thereby utilizing the connecting member to fixing various types of rod members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Inventor: Ming-He Xu
  • Publication number: 20100068403
    Abstract: A roll support apparatus suitable for use in a roll coating machine is described. The roll support apparatus includes a roll support frame for rotatably supporting a roll coating head roll associated with the roll support frame, the roll support frame adapted for pivoting movement relative to a roll support frame mounting base. Furthermore, a roll carriage suitable for use in a roll coating machine is described. The roll carriage includes a roll support frame for rotatably supporting a respective roll and further includes a roll support frame mounting means for movably mounting the roll support frame so that it moves between a coating position and an idle position, wherein the roll support frame mounting means in use is mounted substantially above the respective roll to inhibit contamination of the roll support frame mounting means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2007
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Applicant: FITCH ENGINEERING PTY LTD
    Inventor: Michael Arthur Fitch
  • Patent number: 7648111
    Abstract: An end of a curtain rod is provided with a hook for grasping a mounting tube extending transversely from a wall-mounted flange. The hook may be offset from the longitudinal axis of the curtain rod to permit two rods with similar offset hooks to the mounted end to end, in axial alignment, on a common mounting tube. Alternatively, one rod may be provided with a centrally mounted hook and the other rod with a claw having spaced hooks for receiving the single centrally mounted hook of an axially aligned rod therebetween. Each hook an claw may be mounted on a connector which can be fitted over the end of a segment of a tubular curtain rod, with or without an adapter, depending upon whether the segment is an inner segment or outer segment of a telescoping curtain rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: Source Global Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Allan Goldstein
  • Publication number: 20090314910
    Abstract: There is disclosed a two-part bracket for holding a pole. The two-part pole bracket has a first part, for holding the pole, and a second part, including a cylindrical hollow sleeve, for attaching to a support surface. The first part has an elongate body with a tubular upper section and a tubular lower section. The cylindrical hollow sleeve of the second part is sized and shaped to receive at least a portion of the tubular lower section of the first part. A disengageable rotational interlocking means located between the first part and the second part prevents a rotation therebetween when the first and the second parts are rotationally interlocked. The bracket may be used to hold a light pole, flag pole, umbrella pole, or the like at an angle relative to vertical.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2008
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Inventor: Florent JEANVEAU
  • Publication number: 20090308995
    Abstract: A multi-purpose hanging device is adapted for anchoring on an upright mounting wall, and includes left and right holding frames and front and rear shanks. Each holding frame includes a base segment and front and rear arms extending from front and rear joined regions of the base segment. Left and right spacers are disposed on and extend rearwardly from the rear arms of the left and right holding frames, respectively. Each shank extends lengthwise to terminate at left and right joining ends that are detachably fitted to the front joined ends and the rear joined ends, respectively, so as to provide a relatively large hanging capacity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2008
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventor: Kuo-Yung KUO
  • Patent number: 7628363
    Abstract: An end of a curtain rod is provided with a hook for grasping a mounting tube extending transversely from a wall-mounted flange. The hook may be offset from the longitudinal axis of the curtain rod to permit two rods with similar offset hooks to the mounted end to end, in axial alignment, on a common mounting tube. Alternatively, one rod may be provided with a centrally mounted hook and the other rod with a claw having spaced hooks for receiving the single centrally mounted hook of an axially aligned rod therebetween. Each hook and claw may be mounted on a connector which can be fitted over the end of a segment of a tubular curtain rod, with or without an adapter, depending upon whether the segment is an inner segment or outer segment of a telescoping curtain rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: Source Global Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Allan Goldstein
  • Publication number: 20090278010
    Abstract: Closet carrousel having a motorized vertical support tube that attaches to the floor and ceiling of a standard closet. Horizontal support tube arms radiate from the vertical support tube. Three arms extend out from the out from the upper region of the vertical tube and three arms extend out from the lower region of the support tube. The support tubes are slidably mounted on inner support rods. Each support rod is made of a first rod and a second rod that are hinged together to form one long rod. The support tubes hold standard hangers for hanging garments. The user can slide a horizontal support tube out past the hinged portion of the inner support rod so that the inner rod may be bent by the user thereby exposing and giving access to an inner core of shelving members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Inventors: Donna M. Cotter, Laurie L. Anderson
  • Patent number: 7597297
    Abstract: The system comprises a rod subassembly for suspending articles, supported at extremities by a holding subassembly. The former includes a hollow rod having along its length an upper recessed zone similar to a circular segment and incorporates at each lateral extremity a continuous, capturing recess extending towards an interior of the rod. A protection insert is placed on the zone and retained by the recesses. The rod is covered with longitudinal corrugations. The holding subassembly includes a bracket for attaching to an external recipient and a sleeve flange for supporting the rod and for interengaging with the bracket. The bracket includes a wedge-shaped element, while the sleeve flange has a flange with a recess complimentary to the foregoing element. By inserting the wedge-shaped element into the complementary recess, an interengagement between those parts which incorporate the former and the latter occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Inventors: Christopher Isfeld, Stephen Lawson
  • Publication number: 20090217452
    Abstract: Grab rail assemblies are disclosed for mounting on walls, such as the tiled walls of a showering area or a mud room. The assemblies are designed to aesthetically meld with the surrounding environment by having a front tile mounting panel. They may also be provided with a drainage system to avoid water collecting long term within the rail when the rail is used in a shower.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 29, 2008
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Inventors: Leila M. Rubin, Michael R. Bates, Nicholas T. Pairolero, Katherine A. Stanchak
  • Publication number: 20090211014
    Abstract: A grab bar includes a front facing side and a wall facing side that is opposite from the front facing side. The grab bar is attached to a wall structure with at least one mounting assembly at the wall facing side. A removable decorative insert is supported by the front facing side. The removable decorative insert is easily removed and replaced by other decorative inserts as needed without having to remove the grab bar from the wall structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2008
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventors: Earl David Forrest, Andrew James Graff, Jeffrey Allen DeBoer
  • Publication number: 20090211017
    Abstract: A grab bar assembly according to an exemplary aspect of the present invention includes: a grab bar having a first aperture and a second aperture defined along an axis; a post which receives the grab bar; an insert which pass through the first aperture and abut the second aperture; and a fastener mounted through the post and the second aperture along the axis, the fastener receivable into the insert to retain the grab bar within the post.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2008
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventors: Rohn Bowden, Earl David Forrest
  • Publication number: 20090211016
    Abstract: A bath accessory assembly includes a bar and a seal. The bar includes at least one mounting surface having a groove and a plurality of tabs disposed about a sidewall of the groove. The seal is received within the groove of the mounting surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2008
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventor: Earl David Forrest
  • Publication number: 20090206220
    Abstract: A grab bar for attachment to a wall mount surface includes a mount assembly having a sleeve, a base flange, and a set screw. The sleeve is attached to a wall facing side of the grab bar. The base flange has a base portion to be associated with the wall mount surface and a wall portion extending outwardly from the base portion. Once the sleeve is attached to the grab bar and the base flange is attached to the wall mount surface, the sleeve is received over the wall portion in an overlapping relationship. The set screw is then used to secure the sleeve to the base flange.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2008
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventors: Earl David Forrest, Andrew James Graff, Jian Wen Cui, Yong Chen
  • Patent number: 7571532
    Abstract: A decorative utility rod assembly that may be attached to a wall or other support surface. The rod assembly has a base rod, a cross rod, a cover plate, a set screw, and a knob or end cap. The proximal (wall) end of the base rod is threaded on its exterior surface. The distal end of the base rod forms a threaded hole. The cover plate forms a threaded hole in a central portion thereof. The cover plate is screwed onto the proximal end of the base rod to hide the wall attachments. One end of set screw is screwed into the threaded hole in the distal end of the base rod. The end cap is screwed onto the other end of the set screw. The cover plate and end cap may be made of a multitude of materials, may have a multitude of surface configurations, may be formed into a multitude of shapes, and may contain indicial of a seasonal, a vanity, an interest of the use, advertising, or decorations to match interior decoration décor. Alternative embodiments include a towel ring, a toilet paper holder, a hook, and shelving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: Nifty Nob, Inc.
    Inventor: Susan C. Zimmerman
  • Publication number: 20090139943
    Abstract: A shelving system according to an exemplary embodiment generally includes at least one track and at least one standard. The standard may include an end portion slidably receivable within an opening of the track, such that the position of the standard relative to the track is slidably adjustable along the track. The shelving system may also include one or more of the following, such as a shelving bracket, a hang rod assembly for supporting a hang rod from the shelving bracket, at least one mounting screw, and/or at least one locking member. When in the locked position, the locking member may releasably lock in place a portion of a shelf at least partially supported by the shelving bracket. The mounting screw may have a slotted head with an axial groove.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2007
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Applicant: CLAIRSON, INC.
    Inventor: Julio A. Fernandez
  • Patent number: 7527231
    Abstract: A device for holding shower accessories has an attaching element formed as a vacuum attaching element and having an axis, the attaching element being attachable to a surface in a plurality of positions by turning the attaching element around its axis, a holding element connected with the attaching element and pivotable between an operative position in which one end of the holding element applies a pressure on the attaching element and causes the attaching element to be vacuum attached to the surface and an inoperative position in which the holding element is turned relative to the attaching element from the operative position, the holding element having another end which is opposite to the end applying pressure to the attaching element, the opposite end being provided with a tubular channel having a second axis extending transversely to the first axis of the attaching element and formed so as to receive a shower accessory turnably around the second axis, so that the shower accessory can be spatially oriented
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Inventors: Eli Zhadanov, Sam Zhadanov
  • Patent number: 7503534
    Abstract: A “Universal Unit” is disclosed, for use singly or in pairs, to form a bathroom accessory system. The Universal Unit has a back portion with a substantially flat front surface and a rear surface which is adapted for mounting on a wall. The Universal Unit has an upstanding projecting portion extending perpendicularly outward from the front surface. This projecting portion has two lateral and substantially parallel sides with at least one recess in one side for holding a separate accessory. The recess may be round, in which case the accessory may be a toilet tissue spindle, a towel bar or a grab bar, or it may be elongate in which case the accessory may be a shelf, a soap dish, a tumbler holder and/or toothbrush holder. Advantageously, the projecting portion has two recesses, one round and one elongate, so that a single Universal Unit may be manufactured, warehoused, sold and used for all of the above-mentioned purposes. The projecting portion and the back portion may be separate pieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Inventor: Robert W. Pollack
  • Patent number: 7500867
    Abstract: A cable clip for a connector housing is configured to route a plurality of cables within a server. The cable clip includes a backing, a first portion, and a second portion. The backing configured to be placed in physical communication with the connector housing. The first portion extends from a first edge of a first side of the backing, and has a first hook opposite the first side of the backing. The first portion is adapted to flexibly slide over the connector housing and snap fit the first hook around the connector housing. The second portion extends from a second edge of the first side of the backing, and has a third hook opposite the first side of the backing. The second portion is adapted to flexibly slide over the connector housing and snap fit the second hook around the connector housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Assignee: Dell Products, LP
    Inventors: Jean Doglio, James McKinney
  • Patent number: 7490803
    Abstract: A curtain rod assembly includes one or more support members, such as brackets, that are configured to support a curtain rod from a wall. The support member include a coupler portion that provides a seamless and flush interface between the support member and the rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Beme International LLC
    Inventor: Brian Graves
  • Patent number: 7468491
    Abstract: This accessory is intended for wire cable trays comprising longitudinal warp wires and transverse weft wires linking the warp wires, the wire cable tray having a bottom adapted to receive electric cables or the like and two side flanges. The accessory comprises an upper face (4) raised by at least two feet (2). The upper face (4) comprises not only two first housings (10) disposed parallel to each other and each adapted to receive a weft wire but also at least one housing (12) substantially perpendicular to the first two housings (10). At least one locking device (16) is provided on each side of a median line between the first two housings (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: I.C.M. Group
    Inventors: James Deciry, Stephane Quertelet
  • Publication number: 20080264025
    Abstract: A plurality of elongate mounting brackets mounted in cantilever relation on a frame of a header at sidewardly spaced locations across at least a portion of a width of the header, respectively, support a sensor rod for rotation about its axis. Each of the brackets has a free end including a bearing having a bore therethrough which receives the sensor rod, at least some of the bearings being self-aligning bearings. The self-aligning capability enables accommodating irregularities in the mounting locations for the brackets, and also bends, flexure and other deformities of the header frame and sensor rod, for achieving free rotatability of the sensor rod. This mounting arrangement also facilitates installation by one person, from the bottom side of the header, both initially and in the field. Additionally, the brackets can include features for aligning the bores of the bearings, to facilitate the installation and free rotation of the sensor rod when installed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2008
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventors: Benjamin W. Ditchcreek, Blaine R. Noll, Irwin D. McIlwain