Ball And Socket Type Patents (Class 248/288.31)
  • Publication number: 20120248166
    Abstract: A mounting assembly for interconnecting a first object and a second object has a link assembly having a first end that couples the first object, and a second end that couples the second object, and a top plate assembly coupled to the second end of the link assembly. The top plate assembly includes an upper plate having a plurality of holes for attachment to a receiving device or electronic device, and a lower plate coupled to the second end of the link assembly. The lower plate is connected to the upper plate only through a plurality of shock and vibration absorption members, thereby improving the shock and vibration absorption effect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2011
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Inventors: Adam Gold, Wayne Chen
  • Patent number: 8267361
    Abstract: An attachment for a photographic instrument including a camera, comprising a transverse rotatable member having a top arcuate vertical support. A first top arcuate member is comprised of a gap and a second top arcuate member has an arcuate recess, wherein the top arcuate vertical support is connected to the respective first and second top arcuate member, which forms a seat as a housing of a universal joint. The universal joint is affixed to a shaft having a concentric bearing, which is further affixed to the camera mount, so that the camera mount can be rotated. A pin is affixed to the universal joint opposite to where the shaft is affixed. When the shaft having the bearing is downwardly and rotatably positioned inside of the recess, the pin is also upwardly positioned inside of the gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Acratech, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott D. Dordick
  • Publication number: 20120175474
    Abstract: A holder for an electronic device includes a head with elastically flexible portions configured to removably receive the electronic device with a snap-fit interlock, a neck for supporting the head relative to a surface, and a ball and socket connector coupling the neck to the head, the ball and socket connector configured to allow adjustment of the yaw, the pitch, and the roll of the electronic device with respect to the neck when the electronic device is coupled to the head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2011
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Inventors: Brandon Barnard, Karl Fritze
  • Patent number: 8201785
    Abstract: A camera mounting system with a ball swivel mechanism that joins a camera mounting plate to a bracket arm. The bracket arm is joined to a grip plate that can be secured to an object, such as a tree. The bracket arm is optionally joined to a monopod that can be secured to the ground. The camera mounting plates are configured to secure to multiple types of game-security cameras.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Ardisam, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert J. Goodman
  • Patent number: 8196884
    Abstract: A dual-purpose fixing stand for a computer screen and a keyboard holder includes: a main body, having an axial pivoting hole disposed at the middle of a distal surface at an end of an axle pivotal disk and a plurality of positioning grooves coaxially disposed around the external periphery of the axial pivoting hole; a universal connector, pivotally and axially coupled to another end of the axle pivotal disk, and a support plate coupled to the universal connector for selectively mounting the computer screen or the keyboard holder; a fixing base, having a support bottom selectively connected to the top or the bottom of a table, and two stand plates convexly disposed with an interval apart and at the top of a distal surface to accommodate and axially and pivotally couple the axle pivotal disk of the main body, and a positioning pin installed individually at positions on the lateral side corresponding to the positions of a plurality of positioning grooves of the axle pivotal disk for providing an elastic extensio
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Inventor: Vance Chiang
  • Patent number: 8172189
    Abstract: A device in the form of an elongated articulating arm having a base for mounting it on or at the MRI apparatus. The free end of the arm is arranged to releasably mount any type of device, e.g., a clamp, a bracket, a biopsy needle guide, etc. The arm includes a plurality of interconnected segments each of which is arranged to pivot about a respective axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the arm, but restricted from twisting about the longitudinal axis. A flexible elongated adjustable tensioning member in the form of plural sections of a cord extend through respective ones of plural flexible sheaths within the arm between the base and the distal end portion to enable the arm to be moved or bent into a desired shape when tension is released and then held in that shape when tension is applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: CIVCO Medical Instruments Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Roger F. Wilson, Willet F. Whitmore, III, Bruce Ribble
  • Patent number: 8157238
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a stay device for a vehicle comprising a mount having a ball formed protrudely on a front surface thereof and a wire passage formed therein and extended into the ball; a body coupled to the mount through the ball of the mount, the body having a wire passage formed therein; a plate spring provided for pressurizing the body; a body cover for wrapping the body and the plate spring; and a pivot ball assembly having a ball protrudely formed on a rear surface thereof, the pivot ball assembly being coupled to the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: SMR Patents S.a.r.l.
    Inventor: Kyung Jun Lee
  • Patent number: 8104729
    Abstract: A patient care equipment support is transferable between a first device having a first spherical socket and a second device having a second spherical socket. The equipment support comprises an equipment supporting portion configured to support patient care equipment and a coupler extending downwardly from the equipment supporting portion. The coupler has first and second spherical portions configured for receipt in the first and second spherical sockets, respectively. The first and second spherical portions are rotatable within the respective first and second spherical sockets about a multitude of axes to compensate for misalignment between the coupler and at least one of the first and second spherical sockets during transfer of the equipment support between the first and second devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: James L. Walke, David C. Newkirk, Douglas A. Seim
  • Patent number: 8100373
    Abstract: A projector mount securely mounts a projector or other presentation device to a computer workstand. The projector mount comprises a security plate and a projector bracket or projector arm. The projector bracket or arm is connected to the security plate by a hinge or ball pivot to provide vertical and horizontal tilting as well as pivoting capability of the projector or presentation device. A digital presenter mount comprises a vertical plate, a horizontal plate, a security holder bracket, and a locking bracket. The horizontal plate attaches to the vertical plate. The security holder bracket is inserted through slots formed in the horizontal plate and in the locking bracket to prevent theft of the presentation device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Inventors: Christopher E. Meyer, John W. Waguespack
  • Patent number: 8086278
    Abstract: The invention discloses a holding apparatus, which includes a fixed body, a carrying stand and a signal cable. The fixed body includes a ball joint, extending portion and a cable tunnel. The cable tunnel, disposed within the fixed body, is connected to a first opening of the ball joint. The carrying stand includes a casing, a pivot component and a transmitting interface. The ball joint is pivotally connected to the pivot component through a second opening of the casing. The signal cable, disposed through the cable tunnel of the ball joint, is electrically connected to the transmitting interface within the carrying stand. When the carrying stand rotates relative to the fixed body, a limiting portion of the pivot component is used for stopping the extending portion, so as to limit a rotating angle of the carrying stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Quanta Computer Inc.
    Inventors: Chin-Chen Li, Chi-Yuan Wang
  • Patent number: 7984886
    Abstract: A carrying apparatus of an automobile portable electronic device includes a carrying module, a support rod, a quick release mechanism and a universal joint. The carrying module includes a tray, and the support rod is installed under the tray. The quick release mechanism is installed between the tray and the support rod. The quick release mechanism includes a clamping module and a binder turning rod, and the clamping module is connected to the support rod, and the binder turning rod is passed and disposed at the clamping module. An end of the universal joint is connected to the tray, and another end of the universal joint is covered and clamped by the clamping module, and the tray can be turned and deviated in two-dimensional directions with respect to the support rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Inventor: Rocky Yi-Ping Lin
  • Patent number: 7967262
    Abstract: A portable electronic device mount provides a secure attachment point for a personal navigation device, or other electronic device. The mount provides access to the device electronics through interface ports and feature connectors. The mount connects to an attachment mechanism that firmly and reliably attaches the mount to a windshield or other surface. The mount also includes a flexible linkage through which the mounted device may be securely oriented over a wide range of positions. In addition, extendible and retractable extension arms help achieve a compact form factor for convenient carrying and storage of the mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Harman International Industries, Incorporated
    Inventors: Darren Kelly O'Brien, Dannie C. Lau
  • Publication number: 20110036960
    Abstract: A connection device includes a rotatable member and a securing member. The rotatable member includes a connecting block and a post attached to the connecting block. The post is configured for being secured to a first device. The securing member is configured for being secured to a second device and defines a first cover opening and a second cover opening. The first cover opening is in communication with the second cover opening. The rotatable member is rotatable relative to the securing member, and the post is slidable in the first and second cover openings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2009
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Zhan-Yang LI
  • Patent number: 7886903
    Abstract: A protective shell for a portable computer includes an upper shell and a lower shell connected via hinges. The computer can be placed into the shell by slipping a first hinged section of the computer underneath a first clip of the upper shell and then bending back a second clip, made of a resilient material, of the lower shell to allow a second hinged section of the computer to slip into the lower shell. The hinges are positioned on the protective shell so that they will be concentric or approximately concentric with a hinge of the portable computer when the protective shell encases the portable computer. A mounting plate may be removably attached to the shell to allow the shell to be connected to various mounting arm assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Aileron Designs, LLC
    Inventors: Richard T. Wurzelbacher, Jr., Richard A. Kuhn
  • Publication number: 20110014378
    Abstract: Devices for leveling an object for patterning a substrate surface, including an array of scanning probe tips, are provided. A device may include a support structure adapted to mount an object, the object having a plurality of protrusions adapted to form a pattern on a surface of a substrate upon contact of the object to the surface; and at least one flexible joint assembly mounted to the support structure and adapted to allow the object to achieve a parallel orientation with respect to the surface upon contact of the object to the surface. Also provided are apparatuses and kits incorporating the devices and methods of making and using the devices and apparatuses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Inventors: John Edward BUSSAN, Sergey V. Rozhok, Vadim Val-Khvalabov, Joseph S. Fragala, Jason R. Haaheim, Michael R. Nelson, Edward R. Solheim, Javad M. Vakil
  • Patent number: 7857272
    Abstract: This invention provides a holder for an imaging probe that attaches to a flexible arm, which accommodates a variety of sizes and shapes of probes, is lightweight and allows for easy attachment and detachment of probes. The probe holder includes a pair of confronting clamp plates that include clamping jaws for holding a probe or other item at their distal end. The distal ends of the plates can include elastomeric pads that conform to the shape of the probe being gripped. The proximal end of each plate includes a hemispherical well that engages a ball on a base member to define a highly flexible ball joint. This ball joint allows for easy fine adjustment of probe alignment, rotation and tilting, while frictionally maintaining the set position. A variety of alternate alignment and movement-limiting components can be employed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Wellan Medical Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Katherine M. Hickey, Aaron M. Gjerde, James H. Bleck, Leslie Scenna
  • Publication number: 20100320341
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to universal stands for portable electronic devices. In one embodiment, a stand includes a display platform and a gripping pad attached to the display platform for releasably securing a portable electronic device thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2010
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Applicant: CLINGO.COM LLC
    Inventors: Scott Baumann, Brian Wheeler, Brian Johnson
  • Patent number: 7854563
    Abstract: A joint system enables pivotable coupling between a first frame member and a second frame member. The joint system includes a mounting ball assembly affixable to the first frame member, and a connector engageable with the mounting ball assembly at one end and affixable to the second frame at an opposite end. The connector is constructed such that it is movable on the mounting ball assembly in a folding plane and through a clearance amount in a clearance plane substantially perpendicular to the folding plane. A continuous passage is defined through the mounting ball assembly and the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Taylor Made Group, LLC
    Inventor: Edward J. Erskine
  • Patent number: 7832696
    Abstract: Embodiments of camera mounting systems are disclosed. Certain embodiments include a ball swivel mechanism that joins a camera mounting plate to a bracket arm. In some embodiments, the bracket arm is joined to a grip plate that can be secured to an object such as a tree. In other embodiments, the bracket arm is joined to a monopod that can be secured to the ground. Some embodiments of camera mounting plates are configured to secure multiple types of game-security cameras.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventor: Robert Goodman
  • Patent number: 7823849
    Abstract: A self-balanced adjustable mounting system for a flat panel display. A display interface having a hollow, semi-spherical shell portion is attached to the flat panel display. The semi-spherical shell is formed with a generally constant radius of curvature. The center of the radius of curvature is disposed proximate the center of gravity of the flat panel display with the display interface attached. The display interface is received in a guide structure that has a bearing portion engaging the outer surface of the semi-spherical shell, and a second bearing portion engaging the inner surface of the semi-spherical shell through an aperture formed in the semi-spherical shell. The semi-spherical shell is guided between the first and second bearing portions so that the flat panel display and device interface are generally rotatable about the center of the radius of curvature of the semi-spherical shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Milestone AV Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Jay Dittmer, Derek Derks
  • Publication number: 20100224746
    Abstract: The present invention is an auger transport and mounting system which facilitates the drilling and positioning of ice fishing or other holes in an outdoor surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2010
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Inventors: Clint Johnson, Steve Gapp, John Reed Felton
  • Publication number: 20100213151
    Abstract: Accessory holders useful for facilitating the support and positional adjustment of secured accessories. More particularly, a positionally adjustable accessory holder for use with one or more accessories, preferably input or output devices, such as video displays, monitors, keyboards, keypads, laptops and the like. The accessory holder further allows for easy three-dimensional adjustment of two such devices to place the devices in relative positions more ergonomically desirable for a variety of users and workspaces, and features a counter-balance mechanism for balancing the weight of the secured accessories.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Applicant: HUMANSCALE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jeffery Todd Theesfeld, Matthew A. Sommerfield, Jarrett Seng
  • Patent number: 7775495
    Abstract: An adjustable clamp apparatus for use in automated handling equipment includes a ball mount portion that provides rotational adjustment and a clamp portion for securing a support arm in a plurality of different positions. The clamp portion comprises an opening having a rectilinear cross-section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Syron Engineering & Manufacturing, LLC
    Inventors: David Trachet, Richard Hamann
  • Publication number: 20100193649
    Abstract: A mounting device comprises a base for placement on a vehicle dashboard or other surface; an attachment mechanism positioned on the base for removably coupling with the electronic device; a battery system including a rechargeable battery positioned within the base or the attachment mechanism for providing power to the electronic device when it is coupled to the attachment mechanism; and at least one solar cell positioned on or incorporated into the base or the attachment mechanism for charging the rechargeable battery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2009
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Applicant: GARMIN LTD.
    Inventor: Michael R. Wiegers
  • Patent number: 7762509
    Abstract: Gas turbine engine systems involving rotatable annular supports are provided. In this regard, a representative support assembly for a gas turbine engine includes: a rotatable member having a first end located about a first annulus; and a stationary member located about a second annulus; the first end of the rotatable member being rotatably coupled with the stationary member, with at least a portion of the first annulus being coextensive with at least a portion of the second annulus, the first end being operative to rotate locally with respect to a corresponding portion of the stationary member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: United Technologies Corp.
    Inventor: James A. Dierberger
  • Patent number: 7753330
    Abstract: A multi-directional mechanical jointed arm for supporting and suspending articles and its use as a free hand accessory, characterized by comprising at least three ball and socket joints, adjustable at any spatial position and direction providing a three-dimension movability and ability to hold suspended articles in a specific determined point selected at such space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Inventor: Yancu Solomovitz Brief
  • Patent number: 7748670
    Abstract: A television rotational support apparatus provides unlimited rotation of a removably mounted viewing screen, through a full 360 degree rotation. Pivot of the viewing screen mount provides for pivotal positioning of a viewing screen. The apparatus is compact with regard to size and with regard to distance between a mounting object and a viewing screen. The relatively short distance between mounting object and removably mounted viewing screen insures that minimal leverage force is imposed on the mounting object. Components of the apparatus such as the motor, gears, and battery/receiver provide for removal for replacement or service. A remote control provides for remotely rotating the viewing screen mount and hence the viewing screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Inventor: Steven C. Veldez
  • Patent number: 7748669
    Abstract: An adjustable holding frame mainly includes a first bar, a second bar and an adjusting means. The second bar has one end fastened to a lump element which is pivotally located in the adjusting means. The adjusting means is mounted onto the first bar and has a helical structure to adjust the position of a seat in the adjusting means. Thereby releasing or fastening of the lump element of the second bar can be controlled to adjust the posture condition of the holding frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Kinpo Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Kun-Yen Lu, Rui-Lin Wang
  • Patent number: 7726618
    Abstract: The invention includes a mount with a knob including a shaft extending therefrom. A two piece socket housing defines a socket therebetween. The two piece socket has a portion formed as a first clamp element. A ball member is disposed in the socket and includes a slot and an attachment structure. A second clamp element has a connector, preferably an internally threaded nut captured therein. The shaft passes through a first portion of the two piece socket, the slot of the ball member, a second portion the two piece socket and terminates in the second clamp element, such that when the knob is manipulated, the two piece socket fixes the ball member in position and a clamping force is generated between the first clamp element and the second clamp element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventor: G. Daniel Pedemonte
  • Patent number: 7726617
    Abstract: A television mounting system is disclosed. It includes a wall plate adapted to be secured to a wall and a monitor plate mountable on the wall plate. Expansion plates may be secured at selected locations on the monitor plate to accommodate mounting of various sizes of display screens, such as flat panel televisions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Bell'O International Corp.
    Inventors: Michael P. Zambelli, Jimmy An, In-Young Jang, Steven J. Sculler
  • Patent number: 7703733
    Abstract: A support for an electrical display device such as a monitor is disclosed. The support includes a pair of support members (2,3) connected by a pivot joint (4) to enable relative movement of the support members (2,3) about an axis of rotation, the joint (4) including an outer hub (11) mounted for rotation about the axis within a clamping member (5) attached to one support member (2), an inner hub (10) mounted to the other support member (3) coaxial with the outer hub (11) and being rotatable about the axis relative to the outer hub (11) in a first direction and, a clutch member (12) between the inner and outer hub (10,11) engageable in response to rotation of the inner hub (10) in the opposite direction such that the outer hub (11) rotates together with the inner hub (10) when a compressive force exerted on the outer hub (11) by the clamping member (5) is overcome. A universal joint (7) is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Colebrook Bosson Saunders Products Ltd
    Inventors: Oliver Price, Andrew Wills, Alex Lau
  • Patent number: 7681846
    Abstract: A support platform for a video camera allows cushioning of jostling attendant to walking motion so that the video quality is unaffected by the photographer's movements. A sphere of TEFLON polymer floats in a socket plate permitting hand movements about the roll and pitch axes of ±60° and ±360° about the yaw axis without jarring the camera. A second embodiment affords the ability to mount an additional camera to provide shots in a plurality of directions on a single take. Yet another feature of the invention is a hands-free support arm usable with the support platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Inventor: Vladan Mijailovic
  • Patent number: 7669341
    Abstract: In one embodiment is provided an adjustment mechanism wherein the surveying pole moves about a point which is located next to or adjacent the ground surface point at which the pole is being place. In one embodiment the surveying pole moves about a point which located at the ground surface. In one embodiment the surveying pole moves about a point which is located next to the ground surface, but above the ground surface. In one embodiment the surveying pole moves about a point which is located next to the ground surface, but below the ground surface. In one embodiment a tightening means is provided which is concentrically mounted around an axial line passing through the pole. In one embodiment a biasing means is operatively connected to the tightening means. In one embodiment the biasing means is a spring. In one embodiment the biasing means is a conical spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Inventor: Kenneth Carazo
  • Patent number: 7665875
    Abstract: An articulating dental operatory light having an electrically powered light source and a mounting assembly with at least a ball and socket joint, and optionally an additional joint, for multi-axial and multi-directional positioning and adjusting of the lamp head assembly, and a rotational stop for preventing damage to electrical wires passing through the joints. The rotational stop comprises a keyed shaft containing the electrical wires, that cooperates with the ball portion of the joint, and a first stop member connected to a remote end of the keyed shaft that interferes with a second stop member, thereby preventing a full 360 degree rotation of the ball portion relative to the socket member of the joint and minimizing twisting damage to the electrical wires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Inventor: Rick Whitman
  • Patent number: 7665697
    Abstract: An improved scissor-type clamp includes two opposing clam shell type members, one male and one female, that pivot together, are biased outwardly by coil springs and are held together by a thumbscrew. Embodiments feature rectangular and tapered opposed clam shell portions and one embodiment includes identical clam shell members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Inventor: Michael T. O'Connor
  • Patent number: 7637466
    Abstract: A medical instrument mounting and positioning device is disclosed, comprising a platform with bilateral clamps to hold a camera or other instrument, said platform being movable via a swivel ball-and-socket joint and connected to a spring-tensioned articulated arm having a flexible coil and three longitudinal members connected by pivot screw joints. Another swivel ball joint is located at the non-instrument end of the articulated arm, to connect the arm to a support member that is anchorable to a surgical table or other surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Inventor: Kaycell Dillard
  • Patent number: 7637469
    Abstract: A seat sliding apparatus includes a lower rail, an upper rail fixed to a vehicle seat and mounted on the lower rail to move, a lock mechanism having a lock lever for locking the upper rail with the lower rail, a slide supporting member disposed between the rails, a sliding portion provided at both the rails, with which the slide supporting member contact, lock portions provided at one of the rails facing each other, another lock portion provided at the other one of the rails locating between the lock portions, the lock lever being fitted into at least one of the lock portions. The sliding portion of the upper rail is formed along a longitudinal direction over an entire length of the upper rail and the lock portions of the upper rail are arranged at one of an upper side and a lower side of the sliding portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yukifumi Yamada, Yasuhiro Kojima
  • Publication number: 20090308997
    Abstract: The invention concerns to a display device comprising a flat screen, a cabinet and at least one mobile arm capable of taking up first and second positions: in the first position, one end of the mobile arm or mobile arms is space apart from a plane corresponding to the front surface of the screen along a horizontal direction, one part at least of the arm or arms being adapted to maintain the screen in a noticeably vertical position when the device is resting on a horizontal plane, and in the second position, the arm(s) are in the space between the planes parallel to the screen and tangent respectively to the front and to the rear of the cabinet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2006
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventor: Jean-Michel Policar
  • Patent number: 7621492
    Abstract: An improved magnetic mounting assembly for securely attaching a positionable object to be variably fixed in a desired selected position to a support, for universally moving the positionable object to a desired selected position, and for holding the positionable object during operation is provided, including a positioning element with a magnetizable ball attached to the positionable object. A support element includes a nonmagnetizable outer housing supporting a magnetizable inner housing with surfaces configured to support the magnetizable ball. A magnet assembly positioned within the inner housing includes a magnet in contact with the inner housing and a magnetizable cap spaced a functionally optimum distance from the inner housing and from the ball to produce the magnetic forces required to magnetize the inner housing, the cap portion and the ball so that the ball is securely but movably held in the mounting assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Inventor: Justin T. Omps
  • Patent number: 7591446
    Abstract: A bracket comprises a support base configured to be attached to a frame or other structural member of an aircraft; a component base configured to be attached to an ECS duct or other component to be supported on the structural member; and intermediate structure for joining the support base to the component base. The intermediate structure permits relative motion between the component base and the frame base in nearly all directions so that the component may be positioned in nearly any desired orientation relative to the structural member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Spirit Aerosystems, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth E. Istas, Allen D. Gerdes, Eric Victor Paubel
  • Patent number: 7568672
    Abstract: An adjustable attachment mechanism includes an elongate shaft, first and second seats disposed on opposite ends of the shaft, first and second collars, and an actuator. The first and second collars are disposed to translate along the elongate shaft. An inner surface of the first collar cooperates with the first seat to define a first receptacle and an inner surface of the second collar cooperates with the second seat to define a second receptacle. The actuator is in communication with the first and second collars and is actuable to selectively traverse the first and second collars along the shaft in a first direction away from each other and in a second direction toward each other, the movement in the first direction loosening the first and second receptacles and the movement in the second direction tightening the first and second receptacles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Vuzix Corporation
    Inventors: Vincent J. Ferrer, Stephen Glaser, David Alan Vogler
  • Patent number: 7564682
    Abstract: A display is disclosed to include a base, a post coupled to the base through a ball and socket joint for free adjustment at different angles, a holder assembly coupled and movable along the post, a locking device mounted in the holder assembly for locking the holder assembly to the post at the desired height, and a screen pivotally coupled to a pivot member at the holder assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Hannspree, Inc.
    Inventors: Guan-De Liou, Chia-Pine Huang, Li-Li Lai, Stephen Tsai
  • Patent number: 7543788
    Abstract: A mounting construction (1) for suspended loads (L) has a support connector part (3, 3?) with a fastener device having a pivot element socket (4) and having an associated pivot nut (5), pivotably fixable in at least one pivot plane (1a, 1b), having an inside thread (6). The pivot element socket (4) has a guide slot (8) along a first pivot plane (1b) having a width (B) corresponding to a cross-section of a threaded rod (7) capable of passing therethrough. The pivot nut (5) and a marginal zone (9) arranged on both sides of the guide slot (8) each form guide surfaces (10a, 10b) that are saddle shaped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Hilti Aktiengellschaft
    Inventor: Armin Herb
  • Publication number: 20090140112
    Abstract: A quick release T-slot adaptor having a substantially rigid adaptor base plate formed with first and second substantially planar and parallel spaced apart opposing surfaces, and a substantially rigid T-slot connector incorporated in the adaptor base plate. The T-slot connector includes a hook plate spaced away from the first surface of the adaptor base plate and substantially parallel therewith, a stop plate extended substantially perpendicularly between the hook plate and the first surface of the adaptor base plate, and a guide plate positioned substantially central of the hook plate substantially perpendicular to the stop plate and extended substantially perpendicularly between the hook plate and the first surface of the adaptor base plate. The quick release T-slot adaptor also includes a plurality of quick release connectors provided on the second surface of the adaptor base plate opposite from the T-slot connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Carnevali
  • Publication number: 20090114787
    Abstract: A versatile bracket system for display devices includes a component that is attached to a backside of the display device. The component is moveable about the attachment between a first position relative to the backside of the display device and a second position relative to the backside of the display device. The first position of the component allows the component to be attached to an underside surface to thereby place the display device in a hanging viewing position. The second position of the component allows the component to cooperate with the display device and a topside surface to thereby place the display device in a standing viewing position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2007
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Applicant: Sears Brands, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Ellen Glassman
  • Patent number: 7523906
    Abstract: A wall bracket for a loudspeaker or the like, particularly for use in the home theatre context, and comprising a wall plate (20) arranged for attachment to a wall, the plate having at least a pair of raised, laterally outward projecting flanges (21a, 21b); a bracket base arranged for engaging with the flanges and being thereby held to the wall plate, the bracket base having two substantially similar opposing parts (30, 40) each incorporating a substantially hemispherical socket (34); and a bracket mount (50) arranged for attachment to the loudspeaker etc, the bracket mount incorporating a ball member (51) adapted to be gripped between the bracket base sockets in a variety of configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Assignee: B-Tech International, Ltd.
    Inventor: Martin Peter Bennett
  • Patent number: 7516928
    Abstract: A mounting assembly for portable electronic devices includes a mount (12) with a mounting ball (16) that mates with a socket assembly (22) formed in a housing (18) of an electronic device (20). The socket assembly includes an orifice (32) formed in the back of the housing, a seat (34) positioned in the orifice for matingly receiving the ball, and a spring element (36) partially surrounding the seat. The seat includes a concave center portion (38) and a plurality of flexible, interconnected arms (40,42,44) extending from the concave center portion. The spring element substantially encircles the flexible arms to allow the flexible arms to flex outward when receiving the ball and to then contract inwardly to contact the ball when the ball is seated fully in the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Garmin Ltd.
    Inventors: Robert M. Kalis, Joshua C. Reeson, Dale R. Langner, Paul E. Skelton
  • 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
  • Patent number: RE43806
    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: December 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: National Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Carnevali