Plural Joints Patents (Class 248/276.1)
  • Publication number: 20120057278
    Abstract: A consumer electronic product assembly includes a consumer electronic product and a bracket holding the consumer electronic product. The bracket includes a supporting seat, a holding member and a connecting bar. The holding member holds the consumer electronic product. Opposite ends of the connecting bar hinge on the holding member and the supporting seat, respectively. The connecting bar is rotatable with respect to the supporting seat, and the holding member is rotatable with respect to the connecting bar, whereby the consumer electronic product held by the holding member can be adjusted to various positions with respect to the supporting seat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Applicants: FOXCONN TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD., FU ZHUN PRECISION INDUSTRY (SHEN ZHEN) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: MENG FU, BANG-JIE XIE, CHUN-CHI CHEN
  • Patent number: 8118272
    Abstract: A link rod type adjustable screen fixing apparatus includes: a fixing base, having at least one operating slot; at least one distal plate device, having at least one pair of distal plates embedded in the operating slot, and slidably moving in the operating slot, and an upper frame plate disposed at an external side of the distal plate; at least one contractible device, formed by pivotally coupling link rods, and installed in the operating slot, and a side of the contractible device being pivotally coupled to the distal plate; and a containing space, defined by the upper frame plate of the distal plates for installing a screen. The distal plate is contractible in the operating slot for adjusting the containing space, such that the invention can fit screens of different sizes, and provide a convenient replacement and a dynamic adjustment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Portwell Inc.
    Inventor: Jen-Jia Liou
  • Patent number: 8109485
    Abstract: A display wall mount comprising a wall bracket configured to couple to a wall and having a first wall bracket edge, a display bracket configured to couple to the display and having a first display bracket edge, and a curvilinear bar moveably coupled between the first wall bracket edge and the first display bracket edge. The display bracket is moveably coupled to the wall bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventors: Lee T. VanLanen, Douglas M. Galletti
  • Patent number: 8104727
    Abstract: An adjustable support for holding an article such as a notebook computer. The support has a base; an article holding platform; and a single, adjustable, articulated, link connected at one end to the base and at its other end to the platform. The link has two spaced-apart lockable pivots, the pivots dividing the link into a base link member connected to the base, an intermediate link member, and a platform link member connected to the platform. The pivots are of the type having a locking member movable toward the pivot to unlock the pivot. The pivots are normally locked to hold the platform is a desired working position for a user of the notebook. The support has an unlocking mechanism, operable by one hand, for unlocking the pivots simultaneously. While the pivots are unlocked, the platform can be manipulating by the one hand on the unlocking mechanism to adjust the platform to a new working position and then locked in the new position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventors: Denis Joanisse, Paul Rossetto
  • Publication number: 20110315843
    Abstract: A supporting arm assembly has an upper arm, a lower arm, a display-connecting device and a holding device. The lower arm is pivotally connected to the upper arm. The display-connecting device is mounted on the upper arm and has a pivotal pin, a connecting base, a display mount, an engaging panel and a display holding panel. The pivotal pin is mounted rotatably on the upper arm. The connecting base is connected pivotally to the pivotal pin. The display mount is mounted securely on the connecting base. The engaging panel is mounted in the display mount. The display holding panel is mounted detachably in the display mount and detachably engages the engaging panel by an engagement between at least one engaging protrusion and at least one engaging recess. The holding base is mounted on the lower arm at an end opposite to the upper arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2010
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Applicant: MODERNSOLID INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Chin-Jui HUNG
  • Patent number: 8083196
    Abstract: A support mechanism for operation auxiliary tools includes a fixing unit, a support lever movably mounted on the fixing unit, a first bar movably connecting with an end of the support lever, a limiting unit engaging with another end of the first bar, and a second bar connecting with the limiting unit. The fixing unit engages with the operation bed, and operation auxiliary tools are placed on the second bar. The support lever, the first bar and the second bar are adjusted freely and positioned by the limiting unit. The limiting unit maintains the first bar and the second bar at desired freedom. The support mechanism is placed firmly with a predetermined angle and position, making operations more stable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: United Orthopedic Corporation
    Inventor: Jen-Kun Chang
  • Patent number: 8081873
    Abstract: A hands-free hair dryer mounting apparatus adapted for holding a hair dryer in an oscillating universal hair dryer holder assembly is disclosed. The apparatus includes a wall mountable housing that is removably affixed to a wall mounting plate adapted for secure attachment to a wall or other supporting surface. A universal hair dryer holder, adapted for receiving and holding any type, size, or style of handheld hair dryer, projects outward from the housing. The hair dryer holder is connected to an oscillating arm via a horizontal pivot connection that allows for manual angular adjustment and affixation of the hair dryer about a generally horizontal pivot axis. The oscillating arm extends into the base and is connected to an electric motor by mechanical linkage such that angularly adjustable side-to-side oscillation is enabled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: JRD International Enterprises, LLC
    Inventors: Jeff Dannenberg, William J. Weiss, Carl J. Regan, Jr., Manuel Duarte, Hendrik A. Theron, Stephen J. King
  • Patent number: 8074950
    Abstract: A wall affixed vertically articulated flat panel display mount having a first frame assembly secured to a wall and a second frame assembly operatively connected to the back of a flat panel display. Two pairs of horizontally spaced parallel links extend between the first and second frame assemblies and have respective ends pivotally connected thereto. A pair of pneumatic springs and a linear actuator are connected between the first and second frame assemblies. Knob clamps are provided for holding the mount in a desired position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Inventor: David Michael Clary
  • Patent number: 8074949
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to extension arm apparatuses that are adapted to support user devices throughout a range of positions. A given apparatus may include one or more arms that position the user device remotely from a support position. An extension and retraction device such as a gas cylinder is received within each arm, and provides a force to support the user device as the arm is placed into a given position. A variable force clevis is connected to the extension/retraction device within the arm. The variable force clevis is connected to a pair of locations in the arm as well. As the arm moves, for instance up or down, the variable force clevis rotates within the arm and dynamically adjusts the force provided by the extension/retraction device. Thus, the arm may be positioned as desired, as such force adjustment stabilizes the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Innovative Office Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Odd N. Oddsen, Jr., Steve Bowman, Bradley A. Derry, Howard M. Williams, Jr., David VanDuzer, Robert Altonji
  • Publication number: 20110297720
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for supporting a personal electronic device are provided. The device incorporates a support frame structure comprised of three legs. A vertical leg is attached to a shoulder strap, while the horizontal legs are attached to a chest strap. A lower joint is located between the two horizontal legs and this lower joint is also attached to an electronic device support leg. The electronic device support leg is attached to the lower joint and also to a ball joint at the end opposite the lower joint. In use, the lower joint allows for the electronic device to be moved into a viewing position at a desired angle. The ball joint allows rotation of the device between portrait and landscape orientations. A case may also be attached to the electronic device support leg to contain the personal electronic device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2010
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Inventors: David C. Yu, Michael D. Yu
  • Publication number: 20110297810
    Abstract: The attachment device has a fixing member fixed to an attachment surface, first and second operating parts are configured to be manipulated from one side in the first direction parallel to the attachment surface, a first member fixed movably in the first direction relative to the fixing member, the first member being configured to move the display device in the first direction relative to the fixing member based on the operation amount of the first operating part, and a second member fixed rotatably relative to the first member, the second member being rotated based on the operation amount of the second operating part and being configured to move the display device in the second direction relative to the fixing member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Inventor: Toshitaka Tachibana
  • Patent number: 8070114
    Abstract: A support stand includes a mounting assembly mountable on a table top, a suspension arm coupled to a rod member of the mounting assembly to hold a rotary barrel, a swinging arm pivotally connected to the rotary barrel of the suspension arm, a stretcher mounted in a frame bar of the swinging arm and a holder frame assembly coupled to the swinging arm to support an object. The stretcher includes a sleeve coupled to arched sliding slots of the frame bar of the swinging arm by a pivot pin, a connection frame plate pivotally coupled between the pivot pin and a mounting lug at the rotary barrel, a spring member and an adjustment screw assembly mounted in the sleeve for allowing adjustment of the elevation of the supported object with less effort and positive positioning of the supported object after an elevation adjustment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Chen-Source Inc.
    Inventor: Hong Jen Chen
  • Publication number: 20110290971
    Abstract: A rotatably adjustable mounting bracket for attachment to a display device and a mounting system affixable to mount surface and providing rotational adjustability of the attached display about an axis substantially perpendicular to the principal plane of the display device. The device mounting bracket including at least one set of openings comprising a plurality of openings located in the plate to substantially align with mounting holes located on the display device. Each of the openings having an adjustment portion adapted to receive a portion of the display device fastener attached to the display device and moveable within the adjustment portion to permit rotational movement of the display device relative to the mounting bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventor: Daniel E. Molter
  • Patent number: 8061678
    Abstract: When locking a medical imaging device detector in position to generate a medical image, an articulating arm includes top and bottom portions, coupled to a gantry and to a distal portion that is coupled to a detector. The top and bottom portions each include an over-the-center bell crank locking mechanism with a shank couple to a central handle. Each shank includes a pair of flanges that are coupled to a pair of actuators by both a pivot pin and a spring mechanism. Each actuator is coupled to a crank. When the handle is rotated to a locked position, a sliding lock extends to lock the articulating arm in position relative to the gantry, and a lever arm is extended to cause a shaft to rotate. Rotation of the shaft actuates a sliding pin linkage, which urges a pair of pins outward to lock the articulating arm in position relative to the detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventor: Joseph J. Stefan
  • Patent number: 8056874
    Abstract: Positioning apparatuses mountable to a wheelchair or other such device are disclosed. An illustrative positioning apparatus can include a base unit, a number of armatures each defining an extension of the apparatus, a number of rotatable joints adapted to permit movement of the armatures, and a platform adapted to support one or more objects. A number of actuation levers connected to the rotatable joints can be used to simultaneously unlock each of the joints in a single step, allowing the apparatus to be easily repositioned. A locking mechanism within each joint may permit one or more user-defined locking positions to be set on the joint. A temporary lock-out mechanism within each joint results in the unlocking of each joint until the armatures are rotated away from the locked position, allowing operation of the device with one hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Blue Sky Designs, Inc.
    Inventors: Dianne M. Goodwin, Nicholas K. Lee, Lisa E. Petersson, Sherry M. Rovig, Andrew L. VonDuyke
  • Patent number: 8054388
    Abstract: A support apparatus is provided for supporting a television or other video display for movement between a viewing position and a storage position. The support apparatus is attached to the frame of an article of furniture such as a bed. The support apparatus may allow the video display to rotate from a vertical, viewing position to a horizontal position in which the video display can be retracted beneath the article of furniture for storage. The movement of the support apparatus may be manual or automatic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Inventor: Daniel S. Hurd
  • Publication number: 20110266407
    Abstract: An instrument assembly support apparatus is disclosed. In some embodiments, the instrument assembly support apparatus may be for supporting an instrument assembly. The instrument assembly may include an instrument support arm. In some embodiments, the instrument assembly support apparatus may include a base fixedly mountable onto the external frame, a pivot assembly mounted for pivoting relative to the base, an arm assembly extending along a longitudinal axis, and a support assembly configured to support the instrument assembly on the arm assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2011
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventors: Richard F. Kronner, David D. Kronner
  • Patent number: 8047484
    Abstract: A patient care equipment support is transferable between a first device having a first coupling member and a second device having a second coupling member. The equipment support comprises an equipment supporting portion configured to support patient care equipment and a coupler coupled to the equipment supporting portion and having first and second clamps. The first clamp is configured to grip the first coupling member and the second clamp is configured to grip the second coupling member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: David C. Newkirk, Cristian J. Daugbjerg
  • Publication number: 20110253865
    Abstract: An apparatus for positioning a device. The apparatus includes a coupling member, a first arm, a second arm, and a sloped support member. The coupling member defines a first opening and a second opening. The first arm passes through the first opening, and the coupling member is movably connected to the first arm. The second arm passes through the second opening. The sloped support member is releasably connected to the second arm. The apparatus has at least five degrees of freedom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Applicant: CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Brett Zubiate, Sarjoun Skaff, Amir Degani, Howie Choset
  • Patent number: 8020824
    Abstract: An adjustment assembly for a satellite antenna has a first bracket, a second bracket, a pivotal bolt and an adjustment device. The second bracket is mounted pivotally on the first bracket. The pivotal bolt is mounted through the first bracket and the second bracket and serves as a fulcrum when the brackets pivot relatively. The adjustment device is mounted between the first bracket and the second bracket and has a positioning fastener, a driving fastener and an adjustment shaft. The positioning fastener is mounted on the first bracket. The driving fastener is mounted on the second bracket. The adjustment shaft is mounted rotatably through the driving fastener and into positioning fastener and has a threaded section and a positioning section. The threaded section allows the driving fastener to move along the adjustment shaft when the adjustment shaft is rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Jonsa Technologies Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tien-Chih Pan
  • Publication number: 20110215210
    Abstract: The present invention involves a projector mount and leveling system for securely connecting and aligning a working unit, such as a projector, to the ceiling of a room. The present invention has a ceiling component with upper and lower sections, the upper section of the ceiling component attaches to a mounting surface, typically the mounting surface is a ceiling, a mounting bracket connects to the lower section of the ceiling component; a plurality of offset articulated legs, each offset articulated leg having a proximal end, and a distal end with a threaded leveling barrel opening; and threaded leveling barrels, wherein the offset articulated legs connect to the mounting bracket at the proximal end, and the offset articulated legs connect at the distal ends to a projector with the threaded leveling barrels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2011
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Applicant: Premier Mounts
    Inventors: Leonard B. Dozier, Michael F. Bouissiere
  • Patent number: 8011627
    Abstract: A compact mounting device for releasibly securing a GPS receiver or other electronic accessory to a handlebar of a motorcycle or other handlebar-steered vehicle is described. The device includes a clamp releasibly attachable to a motorcycle handlebar; a cylindrical mounting post rotatably attached to the upper surface of the clamp; a mounting yoke pivotally attached to the mounting post; and a mounting plate to support a GPS receiver or other accessory rotatably attached to the yoke. The face of the accessory can be oriented toward the vehicle rider by rotating the post, tilting the yoke and/or rotating the mounting plate, so that the device is useable with a wide variety of handlebar orientations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Inventor: Eric Andkjar
  • Publication number: 20110205703
    Abstract: Gimbal system, including apparatus and methods, with forced flow of external air through a channel to remove heat. The system may comprise a support portion including at least one electronic component and defining a channel, a gimbal assembly pivotably connected to and supported by the support portion, and a payload pivotably orientable with respect to the support portion by the gimbal assembly. The support portion alone or collectively with the gimbal assembly may define a chamber in which the electronic component is disposed. The support portion may include a forced-air device configured to drive flow of external air through the channel, thereby removing heat transferred to the channel from the electronic component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2011
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Inventors: James H. Weaver, Gerard A. Morelli
  • Publication number: 20110198467
    Abstract: An adjustable support which enables any element to be positioned mainly those concerned with visual communications, preferably having a flat form (plasma screen, LCD, TFT, poster advertisement etc.) at any angle and in any position with respect to the initial plane with the normal vector to the screen covering a wide three dimensional angular range (stereoradian). Due to its special configuration the adjustable support formed by at least three rods which are adjustable in length, permits the one way definition of a plane on which a supported visual element is placed, a plane which may form a solid angle such that it permits optimum viewing from any position of the user since the normal vector to the screen may be made to coincide with the visual line of the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2008
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Applicant: Woxter Tecnology Co. Limited
    Inventor: Javier Parraga Gimeno
  • Patent number: 7997550
    Abstract: The invention relates to a mount (A) for holding at least one display device, comprising a first mounting arm (1) which has an essentially vertical mounting arm segment (1a) and at least one second mounting arm (2) which extends essentially in a horizontal direction across from the mounting arm segment (1a) of the first mounting arm and is provided with at least one connecting element connecting said second mounting arm to the device (B). In order to improve the mount (A) so as to better position the at least one mounting location for the at least one display device (B), at least one side wall of the second mounting arm (2) is shaped in a converging manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Mavig GmbH
    Inventor: Peter Kuhn
  • Patent number: 7995332
    Abstract: A support structure for at least two flat panel display devices that permits adjustment of the at least two display devices in or about one or more axes, and a display system including such support structure and display devices while maintaining a constant space between the display devices in various configurations, alignments and orientations of the display devices. Such support structure, as provided in accordance with embodiments of the invention, provides for configuration of the at least two display devices, in a plurality of alignments in which fronts of the two display devices are generally aligned in a plane, for viewing together. Embodiments of the support structure provide for the two display devices to be positioned in a landscape and/or portrait configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Inventors: Helmars E. Ozolins, Eric Nelson, Masamichi Udagawa, Peter D. Scott
  • Patent number: 7988113
    Abstract: A display device includes a seat, a support member, an adjusting member, and a display panel. The adjusting member is moveably attached to the rear of the display panel. The adjusting member includes a pair of first linkage poles, a pair of second linkage poles, a pair of third linkage poles, a fixing member, a first rotating shaft, a second rotating shaft, a third rotating shaft, and a fourth rotating shaft. The linkage poles and rotating shaft form a transmutable quadrilateral.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Xin Yang, Wei Wu
  • Patent number: 7984888
    Abstract: A supporting device of a display unit includes a stationary bracket securable to a wall, a body coupling device to mount a body of the display unit thereto, and a plurality of connecting devices to connect the stationary bracket with the body coupling device, each connecting device having first and second ends thereof coupled to the stationary bracket and the body coupling device, respectively, to rotate in left and right directions, and having at least one point between the first and second ends thereof to bend in the left and right directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: SAMSUNG Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jae Hoo Park
  • Patent number: 7971839
    Abstract: An apparatus for mounting equipment on a waterborne vessel includes a base member configured to support an instrument. An elongate spacer arm is connected to the base member. A selectively deployable elongate transducer arm is pivotably coupled to the spacer arm. The transducer arm is configured to pivot between a deployed position and a stored position. The length of the transducer arm is at least sufficient for the transducer end to reach the water surface when the transducer arm is in the deployed position. The spacer arm is substantially parallel to or collinear with the transducer arm when the transducer arm is in the stored position, allowing the apparatus to be folded for compact storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: John Upchurch
  • Patent number: 7967265
    Abstract: A mounting apparatus includes a horizontally supportable beam and one or more mounting brackets for coupling an electronic device thereto. The beam is supportable from any number of support surfaces. The mounting brackets are provided with a projection to prevent twisting of the bracket during installation on the beam. One or more circular ribs within the bracket accommodate the use of curved beams. The mounting brackets enable positioning of the electronic device longitudinally along the beam at predetermined positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Innovative Office Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Odd N. Oddsen, Jr., Bradley A. Derry
  • Patent number: 7967269
    Abstract: A roller type adjustable screen fixing apparatus includes: a fixing base, having at least one operating slot; at least one distal plate device disposed at an external side of the distal plate, having at least two distal plates embedded in the operating slot, and slidably moving in the operating slot, and a frame plate disposed at an external side of the distal plate; at least one linking device, having at least one roller installed in the operating slot and linked with the distal plate; and a containing space, defined by the upper frame plates of the corresponding distal plates for installing a screen. The distal plate is contractible in the operating slot for adjusting the containing space, such that the invention can fit screens of different sizes, and provide a convenient replacement and a dynamic adjustment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Portwell, Inc.
    Inventor: Kun-Pei Liu
  • Publication number: 20110133028
    Abstract: A display mount is provided for a vehicle, such an aircraft. The display mount includes, but is not limited to a support frame and a display accommodation device. The support frame is designed for incorporation in a supply channel, and the display accommodation device is designed to receive a display. The display accommodation device is connected to the support frame such that the display accommodation device is movable with a combined rotational movement and translational movement relative to the support frame between a first operating position and a second operating position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2010
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicant: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBH
    Inventors: Christian RIEDEL, Guenter SCHMITZ
  • Patent number: 7954777
    Abstract: An alignment unit, which is of simple and robust design and can be adjusted well, for directional radios, in particular directional radio antennas, is distinguished by two attachment brackets, which are articulated on a common centre part such that they can pivot about two mutually orthogonal swivel axes, as well as two operating units for separate adjustment and fixing of the pivoting angle of the two attachment brackets relative to the centre part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Huber+Suhner AG
    Inventors: Daniel Bohm, Romeo Premerlani
  • Publication number: 20110127397
    Abstract: The present invention provides a mounting system for securely mounting display equipment, such as a monitor or a display screen. The mounting system comprises: a support structure (5) to which the display equipment (D) is to be mounted to thereby support the display equipment (D); and a mounting component (1) adapted to be rigidly attached to the display equipment, the mounting component (1) comprising mounting means (4) for mounting the display equipment to the support structure (5). The support structure (5) comprises a first support frame (10), the first support frame having a plurality of connection means (12) for secure connection with the mounting means (4) of the mounting component (1). In one aspect of the invention, the plurality of connection means (12) are arranged and adapted for selective connection with the mounting means (4) thereby to select and/or adjust the position of the display equipment (D) in two dimensions relative to the support structure (5).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2009
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Inventors: Rainer Sonntag, Carsten Huge, Gottfried Wolf
  • Patent number: 7938372
    Abstract: An apparent need exists for compact devices to ergonomically support such items as laptop computers, keyboards and projectors. The AIRDESK® desk/stand design positions such items with full 3D positioning using all 6 directions of adjustment. Each direction of motion has the correct friction and range of motion for easy and secure re-positioning. Unique accessory shelves and cup holder may be attached to the device frame. A unique, flat, very thin, trip-free base provides unparalleled positioning flexibility of the unit, furniture legs may be placed directly on the base sheet. Additionally, a unique universal and quickly installed folding frame for an automobile or truck seat is provided for supporting the AirDesk positionable tray in a vehicle. AirDesks allow computing from any chair, recliner, sofa, bed, while standing or in a vehicle. The unique trip-free base may also be used for such applications as supporting medical equipment and crowd control stanchions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignee: MTI Research Corporation
    Inventor: Edward N. MacLeod
  • Patent number: 7922137
    Abstract: The present invention provides a device for holding a laptop computer or other portable devices. The laptop is placed on a support having a generally planar surface. A pair of adjustable arm members is pivotally connected to the support. The user may adjust one or both of the arm members to accommodate portable devices of different sizes. Clips or other connectors are used to secure the laptop to the holding device. The clips connect to the arm members and to the support. The clips may have one or more components, and may be configured to slide along the arm members and the support. The support may include a number of projections that can be arranged in an X-shaped configuration. A release plate or other connector couples the holding device to an extension assembly. The release plate provides a quick release from a tilting device of the extension assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Innovative Office Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley A. Derry, David VanDuzer, Odd N. Oddsen, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7922132
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an accessory holder capable of supporting a plurality of accessories and positioning those accessories in three-dimensions. A preferred embodiment supports the accessories in a curvilinear shape that optimizes the viewing position by the user. The accessories include flat panel displays, touch screens, telephones, and other devices used in an office or home office environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Humanscale Corporation
    Inventors: Manuel Saez, Bradley Augustine, Aaron Tsui, Lachezar Tsvetanov
  • Patent number: 7922138
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a dental apparatus having a flexible arm for a dental apparatus. A benefit of the inventive flexible arm is the ability to make fine adjustments in orientation of one end of the arm relative to the other. More specifically, the ability to adjust or optimize the horizontal attitude of a movable end of the arm quickly and easily without resorting to expensive and time consuming remanufacture of the arm components. Adjustment of the end of the arm is accomplished via an adjusting mechanism with a rotatable shaft having an offset pin, where rotation of the shaft caused the pin to translate as defined by the offset of the pin center relative to the shaft center.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Dental Equipment, LLC
    Inventors: Tom Benfield, Joe Bria
  • Patent number: 7918426
    Abstract: An adjustable mount for mounting a flat panel display screen on a support comprises a first component adapted for securement to the support and forming a rear of the mount, a second component engaged with the first component and forming a front of the mount to which the screen is intended to be secured, in use, and an adjustment device acting between the first and second components to alter the relative positioning therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: AVF Group Limited
    Inventors: Mark Short, Kenneth Gary Nicholls, Raymond Worrall
  • Patent number: 7905460
    Abstract: Improvements are provided for hubs for wall mounting systems for screens, and in particular to a hub for a wall mounting system for a flat panel screen, such as a plasma display or television screen, which enables the screen to be tilted. The hub comprises a casing, means for attaching the hub to a screen bracket, means for attaching the hub to an arm of a wall mount, and a tilt member. The tilt member has a sliding member which is located within an arcuate cavity in the casing such that the sliding member and casing are slidable relative to each other to enable a screen attached to the mounting system to be tilted about a horizontal pivot axis. The arc is defined by the cavity having its centre, which forms the pivot axis; offset from the centre of gravity of the screen. The hub further comprises a compression spring located within the casing and biased to provide a counterbalancing force so that the screen remains stationery in any position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Path Products Limited
    Inventors: Alan Woods, David Lees
  • Patent number: 7903331
    Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a microscope is provided comprising a microscope assembly and a lens positioner. The lens positioner comprises a tension control assembly, an adjustable lens extension assembly, and a tensile cord coupling the tension control assembly to the adjustable lens extension assembly. The tension control assembly is configured to control the degree of tension in the tensile cord. The adjustable lens extension assembly comprises a flexible linkage subassembly and a lens support subassembly. The flexible linkage subassembly comprises a proximal end and a distal end and is configured such that the distal end is movable relative to the proximal end through a plurality of degrees of freedom of movement. The lens support subassembly is secured to the distal end of the flexible linkage subassembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Volk Optical, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven D. Cech
  • Patent number: 7891622
    Abstract: An improved tilt mounting system for mounting flat panel televisions and similar devices or displays. In various embodiments, at least one mounting bracket includes a plurality of guide mechanisms that are adjustable in orientation relative to each other. When the guide mechanisms are adjusted, the angle between guide structures contained therein changes. As the angle between the guide structures increases, the mounting system becomes more suitable for larger devices or display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Peerless Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Dugan O'Keene
  • Publication number: 20110038064
    Abstract: Flexible arms with structural features revealed by embodiments (22), (26), (30), (34), (38), (50), and (52). Flexible arms have cross sections perpendicular to the longitudinal axis that are elongated in the vertical direction, cross sections being longer in size vertically than horizontally. The above flexible arms are referred generically as novel arms (38). Structures of novel arms (38) derive from the detailed analysis of forces and torques exerted on loaded arms at work. To provide full adjustments of the arms in three dimensions, novel arms (38) are joined linearly with circular arms (46) into combined arms (54) as shown in several exemplifying applications. Other specific applications may employ arms (38) alone. Novel arms (38) and (54) have increased weight-bearing and reduced footprints compared to the prior art.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2010
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Inventor: Ilo Kristo Xhunga
  • Patent number: 7887248
    Abstract: A swivel attachment and/or branch line restraint device with angular versatility and mobility for facilitating connection of installation components to support a pipe or other load relative to a support surface is provided. Advantageously, embodiments of the device provide a plurality of rotational or swivel degrees of freedom, which are substantially independently controllable, for its mating portions, which respectively engage corresponding mating portions of other installation components. The device embodiments can desirably be configured in male-female, male-male or female-female arrangements to enhance device utility and/or versatility, thereby advantageously allowing for use in a myriad of applications and installations, such as construction, utilities and the like, among others, to reliably support loads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Nibco Inc.
    Inventor: Richard W. Heath
  • Patent number: 7884735
    Abstract: A patient care equipment support includes power and data connectors configured to be coupled to power and data connectors of patient care equipment when the patient care equipment is coupled to the equipment support to provide a power coupling and a data coupling between the patient care equipment and the equipment support. The equipment support is transferable between a first device, such as a hospital bed, and a second device, such as an overhead support arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventor: David C. Newkirk
  • Patent number: 7881050
    Abstract: A video display unit support bracket (100) that facilitates greater integration of TV, internet, gaming, and computer peripheral devices. The bracket (100) can include a rigid casing (105) defining a first outer shell (205). An engagement structure (110) can be disposed on a portion of the rigid casing (105). The engagement structure (110) includes one or more receivers (220) that are configured for rotatably securing a proximal end (121) of a video display unit support arm (120) to the rigid casing (105). The rigid casing (105) can enclose a first internal cavity (306), which, in turn, can enclose one or signal processing circuits (300) selected from the group consisting of an RF modem (310), a multiplexing device (305), and a control signal interface circuit (315).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignees: PDI Communication Systems, Inc., TVR Communications LLC
    Inventors: Julian Eric Johnson, Ron Knollman, Herb Amster, Tim Beatty
  • Patent number: 7876392
    Abstract: A liquid crystal display includes a liquid crystal panel and a height adjustable base. The height adjustable base further includes a main base, a fixing frame and an elastic locating device. The main base provides at least a sliding rail, which has a stationary member attached to the main base and a movable member capable of sliding along the stationary member. The fixing frame is connected to the movable member for being mounted with the liquid crystal panel. The elastic locating device provides an acting end, which is disposed against the fixing frame for supplying an elastic ascending force to the fixing frame, and a joining end, which is detachably connected to the main base with an elastic coupling force for restoring the elastic ascending force automatically. Therefore, the liquid crystal display can be simply operated to release or restore the ascending elastic force needed at the time of height adjusting the liquid crystal panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: United Fu Shen Technology Corp.
    Inventor: Hsiu-Mei Shen
  • Patent number: 7861447
    Abstract: Provided is a lamp supporting device mounted in an illuminating advertising signboard, particularly which is formed as an assembly type that makes carrying and storage thereof convenient thereby being generally used without limitation in various sizes (length) of lamps with simple replacement of a center frame, and can arrange lamps in a way being overlapped thereby avoiding blackening and in a plurality of lines while freely adjusting the width between the lamps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Inventor: Jae-Kil Park
  • Patent number: RE42060
    Abstract: Couplers with ball-shaped heads are mounted on a pair of objects, and a split arm assembly is interposed along a line of juncture between the pair of couplers and clamped together about the heads thereof. However, before that time, a spring is interposed between the pair of elongated arm sections in the assembly to produce a differential in the reaction of the respective pairs of end portions in the arm sections to the clamping forces so that the assembly is formed into a bifurcated arm assembly at one of the heads. That one head is also compressible so that after the split arm assembly has been rotated in relation to the one head, or vice versa, to set the angle of the line of juncture with respect to one or both of the objects, further clamping of the assembly operates to interlock the assembly with the heads of the pair of couplers to rigidify the connection made by the assembly between the pair of heads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: National Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Carnevali
  • Patent number: RE42581
    Abstract: Couplers with ball-shaped heads are mounted on a pair of objects, and a split arm assembly is interposed along a line of juncture between the pair of couplers and clamped together about the heads thereof. However, before that time, a spring is interposed between the pair of elongated arm sections in the assembly to produce a differential in the reaction of the respective pairs of end portions in the arm sections to the clamping forces so that the assembly is formed into a bifurcated arm assembly at one of the heads. That one head is also compressible so that after the split arm assembly has been rotated in relation to the one head, or vice versa, to set the angle of the line of juncture with respect to one or both of the objects, further clamping of the assembly operates to interlock the assembly with the heads of the pair of couplers to rigidify the connection made by the assembly between the pair of heads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: National Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Carnevali