Of Sheet Material Patents (Class 248/300)
  • Patent number: 7331555
    Abstract: A recessed fixture for mounting into an opening in a wall structure defining front and rear wall surfaces comprises a pot defining a fixture chamber to be received in the opening of the wall structure and having a peripheral wall, an end wall and a peripheral flange for abutment with the wall structure. A clip is provided having a surface-abutting portion. The clip is so mounted to the peripheral wall of the pot so as to reciprocate between a retracted position where the clip is inside the fixture chamber and an extended position where the surface-abutting portion is outside the fixture chamber and abuts the rear surface of the wall structure. A fastener is coupled to both the clip and the pot for reciprocatively moving the clip between retracted and extended positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Assignee: Les Luminaires Eureka Lighting
    Inventor: Guy St-Pierre
  • Patent number: 7325367
    Abstract: The present invention is a mounting bracket for the construction of a deck. The mounting bracket has a separating flange, a joist-fastening portion, a support flange, and a plank-fastening flange. The separating flange and the plank-fastening flange are generally located in a first plane. The joist-fastening portion is generally located perpendicular to the first plane. The joist-fastening portion has a joist-fastening hole for securing the mounting bracket to a vertical joist. The support flange includes an access hole to provide access through the support flange to allow an installer to install a first fastener in the joist-fastening hole. The plank-fastening flange includes a plank-fastening hole for securing the mounting bracket to a horizontal plank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Assignee: Menard, Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew Paul Burgess
  • Patent number: 7306191
    Abstract: A suspension structure for a ceiling fan is primarily composed of an L-shape plastic seat and a bracket, wherein by abutting a right-angle inner surface of the L-shape plastic seat on a right-angle portion of a beam, and then by transfixing screws into the bracket and the L-shape plastic seat to fix the seat under the beam, the bracket can be used to hang a ceiling fan. The L-shape plastic seat can be temporarily fixed under the beam conveniently, by the thorns of L-shape locking device, so as to facilitate the assembling and to enhance a structural intensity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Inventor: Bi-Ju Chen
  • Patent number: 7281696
    Abstract: A mounting fitting (3, 5) is made of a metallic plate material, wherein a first mounting panel (7, 14) to be mounted on a casing (1) is defined on one surface, and a second mounting panel (8, 16) to be mounted on an inner panel (2) is defined on the opposite surface. A reinforcing edge (12, 18) is formed by bending at a peripheral edge portion of the mounting fitting (3, 5) such that an edge end thereof faces in the same direction. The reinforcing edge (12, 18) is continuous along the longitudinal direction thereof without any cut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yuji Kida, Yoshinao Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 7260920
    Abstract: A mounting structure, for attachment to a building, for mounting articles such as satellite dishes, flags and other articles, comprises a unitary rectangular substantially flat panel having top and bottom flanges, side edges and an inner surface. Bosses are formed in each flanged spaced apart and adjacent side edges. A central embossed portion extends up from the flange at top and bottom. A central protrusion, and two side protrusions, extend inwardly from the inner surface of the panel, in lateral alignment. An inclined portion extends inwardly from the inner surface of the panel at each side and bending into the side ends of the upper flange. Flange portions extend between the central embossed portion and the bosses and between the bosses and the side edges at the top and bottom flanges. In position, the flange portions, central protrusions and the side protrusions contact the siding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Inventor: Kenneth C. Weir
  • Publication number: 20070181764
    Abstract: A mounting bracket is adapted for mounting a field device, as well as to a field device that for the purpose of attachment to a mounting surface comprises such a mounting bracket. The mounting bracket comprises (a) a first bracket strap which includes a first rotary bearing, (b) a second bracket strap, spaced apart from the first bracket strap by a space, including a second rotary bearing and (c) at least one movable lock on one of the two bracket straps. The rotary bearings are designed to articulate on two opposing sides a field device that may be arranged in the space so that the field device may be rotated, on an imaginary axis that extends through the space, from a first angle position to a second angle position. The lock is designed to engage the field device in order to in this way resist a torque of the field device in that said lock converts the torque to a pair of forces which is removable by way of one of the rotary bearings and by way of the lock itself.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2007
    Publication date: August 9, 2007
    Inventors: Josef Fehrenbach, Klaus Kienzle, Christian Sum, Juergen Motzer, Thomas Deck, Juergen Skowaisa, Holger Sack
  • Patent number: 7252273
    Abstract: The invention discloses unique brackets, which form a bracket assembly that may be placed at any location of various components to form an assembly piece, such as furniture. An assembled furniture piece made of furniture panels interconnected with attached engaging and receiving brackets is provided. The engaging and receiving brackets are positioned on components to facilitate the connection of the components. A method to assemble furniture having preformed arm, base, seat and back components is provided. This method of assembly saves on shipment costs, and facilitates the repair of damaged furniture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Inventors: Chris Lewellen, Larry Owens, James D. Hobbs
  • Publication number: 20070164183
    Abstract: A bracket for electrical outlet boxes that includes: a first end section, a middle section and a second end section, wherein each section has a substantially planar surface, a first side, a second side, a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the middle section is offset from and substantially parallel to the first and second end sections; first and second offset portions connecting the middle section to the first and second end sections; first and second opposing ends extending upwardly and substantially perpendicular to the first and second end sections; a first tab and a second tab extending in opposing relation to each other from the first side of the first and second ends; a first leg and a second leg extending downwardly from the second side of the first and second end sections; and a bendable member extending from the first side of the middle section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2006
    Publication date: July 19, 2007
    Inventors: Alain Michaud, Michael DiLillo
  • Patent number: 7243891
    Abstract: A bracket for attachment to a support for mounting a fixture, and method for installing the same are provided. The bracket includes a base having first and second sides. The bracket also includes first and second flanges extending from the first side of the base, the first and second flanges defining an elongate aperture therebetween. The elongate aperture further extends from the first side of the base towards the second side of the base. The elongate aperture is adapted to movably receive one end of the fixture so that the fixture may be mounted to, and demounted from, the bracket by sliding the end of the fixture at least partially along the length of the elongate aperture and wherein the first and second flanges are structured to contact the support to provide lateral support to the base and the fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Assignee: Lowe's Companies, Inc.
    Inventors: Wen-Chang Wu, Jeffrey F. Jacumin, Brian J. Severson
  • Patent number: 7240770
    Abstract: A roof anchor including a pair of blocks positioned side-by-side. The blocks have adjacent, inner surfaces with notches cut therefrom for receiving a standing seam of a metal roof. The blocks also have outer surfaces remote from the inner surfaces. A bracket is positioned over the pair of blocks. The bracket includes a base portion having a pair of legs, each being positioned adjacent a respective one of the outer surfaces of the blocks, and a crosspiece, positioned adjacent the tops of the blocks, joining the legs together. A loop portion is affixed to the base portion for securement of a workman's safety lanyard. A threaded fastener penetrates the pair of blocks and the pair of legs for: fastening the pair of blocks together, securing the bracket to the pair of blocks, and clamping the pair of blocks upon a standing seam of a metal roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Assignee: Construction Specialty Anchors LLC
    Inventors: Douglas Wayne Mullins, Douglas Scott Mullins
  • Patent number: 7229051
    Abstract: A support device for supporting at least one medical wire adjacent a supporting surface. The support device comprises a plate-shaped holder portion defining a peripheral edge, the holder portion comprising a support slot defining a loading opening made in the peripheral edge of the holder portion, a holder well made transversely in the holder portion spacedly from its peripheral edge, and a channel made transversely in the holder portion and extending between the holder well and the loading opening. The holder well is dimensioned such that it is broader than the medical wire the support device is destined to support. The support device further comprises attachment means connected to the holder portion for attaching the support device to the supporting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Inventor: Robert Mailhot, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7223044
    Abstract: A frame member miter guide or brace has first and second legs configured for insertion and engagement with adjoining frame members at a mitered joint, the miter guide having a stop with stop edges which accurately position intersecting walls of the frame members for precise alignment of the mitered joint. Stop edges of the stop correspond with the correct positions of the frame members, so that the members are held in place for final attachment and installation. Positive engagement of edges of the frame member walls with the stop edges insures highly accurate orientation of the mitered joint. A fracture line for welded installation of the frame members, and a leg profile which minimizes damage in handling and installation is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Assignee: Anchor Tool & Die Company
    Inventor: Mark J. Quintile
  • Patent number: 7222830
    Abstract: A bracket for securing an elongated support member elevated against a wall or adjacent a ceiling for attachment of a window or wall covering, is described. The bracket comprises a single flat metal piece bent to form a top horizontal flange and an integrally formed vertical flange. Holes are provided in at least one of the flanges to receive fasteners therethrough for securement of the bracket. The top horizontal flange has an elongated flat stem punched therefrom and bent out of an inner surface thereof to extend downwardly at an angle about 90° thereto and spaced forwardly of the vertical flange. A plurality of thread indentations are formed in opposed side edges of the stem whereby to receive and retain a threaded nut about the stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Assignee: Métaux Satellite Inc.
    Inventor: Howard Sirkin
  • Patent number: 7198242
    Abstract: The invention concerns a bracket, e.g., for securing a vent cover to a vent. The bracket includes a plate having a front face, a back face, a length, a width, and opposing side edges extending in respective length and width directions. The plate includes at least two openings in the plate, each opening wholly contained within the front and back faces so as to not intersect with the side edges. The plate also includes at least one pair of orifices in the plate, the pair of orifices located adjacent opposite side edges of the plate along the length of the plate so as to form a weakened zone widthwise for bending the plate along the weakened zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Inventor: John F Bently
  • Patent number: 7195218
    Abstract: A rod hanger adapter selectively mounted to an associated cabinet includes a first wall comprising an opening for mounting the rod hanger adapter to a wall of the associated cabinet and a second wall connected to, spaced from and at least substantially parallel to the first wall. The second wall includes a slot for receiving an associated rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: Metal Fabricating Corporation
    Inventors: Gary W. James, Gary R. Kish, Bernard J. Golias, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7182305
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a product display. The product display can hold printed materials, literature, and other goods. The product display is a one-piece construction that is flat when it is in an unassembled position. In the assembled position, the product display includes a front panel section, a bottom section connected to the front panel section, and a back section connected to the bottom section. The front panel section connects to the back section either directly or by way of a brace section on the front panel. The product display includes an opening in the panel that holds products in an upright manner. Preferably, one of the bottom panel, back panel or brace section includes a flap. The present product display does not require an added on or formed pocket that extends outwardly from the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: Dempsey Printing, Inc.
    Inventor: Martha A. Dempsey
  • Patent number: 7178776
    Abstract: A mounting device for contactlessly-operating proximity switches includes a continuous cylindrical or cuboidal recess for holding the proximity switch which is formed by at least two legs. The mounting device can also include at least one through pocket, connected to the recess, into which an actuating tool can fit. The recess of the mounting device, when in a relieved state, has a smaller diameter than the proximity switch which is to be mounted. Additionally, the recess can be spread into an enlarged state by the actuating tool being positioned into the pocket and turned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Assignee: IFM Electronic GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Buck, Franz Sauter, Berthold Schocker
  • Patent number: 7152841
    Abstract: A post support having a post receiving box. The box includes a pair of adjacent sides having internally raised portions and a pair of opposite sides being free of such raised portions and being substantially open along one edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Assignee: United Steel Products Company
    Inventor: Gerald E. Callies
  • Patent number: 7134252
    Abstract: Retrofit connectors that secure together the outside sheathing and underlying structural members of wood-frame or masonry houses, preventing damage when subjected to lateral stresses from a hurricane, or transverse loads from an earthquake. The connectors have special bushings and bearing surfaces that tie the outside sheathing and underlying structural members together, but allow deflection, and transfer of energy to other structural members. Different embodiments of the connectors allow them to adapt to most wood-frame and masonry homes, and to most roof pitches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Inventor: Thomas C. Thompson
  • Patent number: 7134636
    Abstract: A post support having a post receiving box. The box includes a pair of adjacent sides having internally raised portions and a pair of opposite sides being free of such raised portions and being substantially open along one edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: United Steel Products Company
    Inventor: Gerald E. Callies
  • Patent number: 7128303
    Abstract: Some embodiments of the present invention provide a spacer configured to mount a fan housing to a surface of a structural support. In some embodiments, the spacer includes a body, a first aperture passing through the body and having a first length through the body, and a second aperture passing through the body and having a second length through the body, wherein the second length is different than the first length. The body can be oriented in a first orientation with respect to the fan housing and structural support or in a second orientation with respect to the fan housing and structural support to mount the fan housing at different distances from a mounting surface of the structural support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: Broan-Nu Tone LLC
    Inventors: Robert G. Penlesky, Danny W. Bothe
  • Patent number: 7104022
    Abstract: The present invention is a mounting bracket for the construction of a deck. The mounting bracket has a separating flange, a joist-fastening portion, a support flange, and a plank-fastening flange. The separating flange and the plank-fastening flange are generally located in a first plane. The joist-fastening portion is generally located perpendicular to the first plane. The joist-fastening portion has a joist-fastening hole for securing the mounting bracket to a vertical joist. The support flange includes an access hole to provide access through the support flange to allow an installer to install a first fastener in the joist-fastening hole. The plank-fastening flange includes a plank-fastening hole for securing the mounting bracket to a horizontal plank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Menard, Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew Paul Burgess
  • Patent number: 7073757
    Abstract: An electrical box bracket has an adjustable member to facilitate securing the bracket to supports of varying sizes. The bracket has first and second legs that are connected by a third leg. A cut-out extends from the first leg onto the third leg. The adjustable member is formed by the cut-out to facilitate securing the bracket to the support. A centerline on the third leg of the bracket is adapted to be aligned with corresponding indicia on the support. The support indicia is visible through the cut-out to facilitate positioning the bracket on the support. A plurality of weld projections on the second leg facilitate securing a variety of different electrical boxes to the electrical box bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Steven J. Johnson, Robert W. Jorgensen
  • Patent number: 7066433
    Abstract: A channel for an adjustable extension arm for mounting an electronic device. The channel includes a U-shaped body having first and second spaced apart ends, including a pair of spaced apart sidewalls and a bottom wall. A rib assembly is provided within the body between the sidewalls overlying the bottom wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Innovation Office Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Odd N. Oddsen, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7057104
    Abstract: Large-radius conduit box bodies for connecting electrical or telecommunications conduits have a body defining a chamber with an axial hub at one or both ends and at least one perpendicular hub defining passageways communicating with the chamber. The perpendicular hubs are adjoined to the body chamber with a large outwardly curved interior radius. The inner surface of the large radius eliminates sharp corners at the intersection of the hub passageways with the body chamber and provides a maximum radius of curvature for cables pulled through or passing through the chamber and hub passageways.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Inventor: Price C. McCleskey
  • Patent number: 7055786
    Abstract: A device for fixing a mesh cable tray to a profiled support section having a plurality of apertures formed in a surface for supporting the tray includes an element having a substantially semi-cylindrical engagement portion which can enclose a portion of a wire of the tray and can restrain it against the support surface. A tail plate is provided which can cooperate with the section on the side opposite to the support surface. The tail plate is connected to the support section by a screw connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Legrand S.p.A
    Inventors: Luca Garassino, Alan Finco
  • Patent number: 7053510
    Abstract: An electrical actuator has a DC motor which is provided with a rotor having a permanent magnet for forming a plurality of magnetic poles around a periphery thereof and a stator having a plurality of energizing coils and being disposed around a periphery of the rotor to thereby generate a rotary force for the rotor. In mounting this DC motor on a heat-generating member which generates radiant heat, a member for shielding radiant heat from a heat-generating member is disposed between the DC motor and the heat generating member. In this manner, the radiant heat from the heat-generating member is prevented from reaching the DC motor, whereby the problems in the DC motor associated with the radiant heat can be prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Hirofumi Doi
  • Patent number: 7043824
    Abstract: An electric-component mounting system wherein a determining device is operated for presently required operations of working devices disposed on a common main body, to determine a cycle-time-determinant working device which determines a cycle time of the system such that the cycle time is determined by a required operating time of the cycle-time-determinant working device as calculated when the presently required operation is performed at predetermined maximum acceleration and deceleration values or a predetermined maximum operating speed, and a slowdown device determines actual acceleration and deceleration values or an actual operating speed of each of non-cycle-time-determinant working device, so as to be lower than the predetermined maximum acceleration and deceleration values or operating speed thereof, such that the presently required operation of each non-cycle-time-determinant working device can be completed within the cycle time determined by the cycle-time-determinant working device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: Fuji Machine Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinsuke Suhara, Toshiya Ito
  • Patent number: 7025317
    Abstract: The invention includes an angle bracket with a hole for a fastener and a flange for coupling a wire to the angle bracket. The flange is lanced and it is coupled to the wire by crimping. According to a first embodiment of the invention, the flange is provided with two horizontal lances. According to a second embodiment, the flange is provided with at least three alternating horizontal lances. According to a third embodiment, the flange is provided with a horizontal lance and a vertical lance. According to a fourth embodiment, the flange is provided with a vertical lance in the shape of a hook and an eyelet is provided for connecting the wire. According to a fifth embodiment, the flange is wrapped to form a slotted cylinder. The wire is inserted into the slotted cylinder which is then compressed and crimped onto the wire. According to a sixth embodiment, the bracket is provided with two wire connecting flanges. A seventh embodiment combines features of the second and sixth embodiments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Inventor: Fernando R. Masas
  • Patent number: 7017876
    Abstract: A three-piece stabilizing and adjustable bracket member for constructing an A-frame style swing set/play set system, ideal for erection by a do-it-yourself builder. The system includes a first cross beam securing member that features a face plate for selectively mounting a pair of angularly disposed leg support members. The face plate is provided with a single pivotal fastener and plural openings spaced an equal distance from the single pivotal fastener, such that the leg support members may be selectively pivoted about the fastener then secured in one or a pair of the plural openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Inventor: Noel LeCher
  • Patent number: 7017875
    Abstract: A mounting bracket (10) for holding a disk drive (30) includes a bottom wall (12), a first sidewall (14) extending upwardly from one side of the bottom wall with two locating pins (16) protruding inwardly therefrom corresponding to two fixing holes defined in a sidewall of the disk drive, a second sidewall extending upwardly from an opposite side of said bottom wall for sandwiching the disk drive with the first sidewall, and locking means for engaging with a second sidewall of the disk drive to retain the disk drive in the mounting bracket. In assembly, the disk drive is placed in the mounting bracket, and the locating pines are inserted into the fixing holes of the disk drive. With the other sidewall of the disk drive secured to the fixing structures of the mounting bracket, the disk drive is secured in the mounting bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., LTD
    Inventors: Li Ping Chen, Yuan-Lin Hsu
  • Patent number: 7017788
    Abstract: An adapter bracket for use with a vehicle article carrier side rail to allow the side rail to be secured to channels formed in an outer body surface of the vehicle. The adapter bracket includes a channel coupling portion adapted to be secured to a bottom wall of the channel. An intermediate portion extends from the channel coupling portion to perpendicularly extending flanges of an outer surface portion. The flanges of the outer surface portion are coupled to the support foot of the side rail to allow the support foot to be mounted essentially flush against the outer body surface without the need for drilling additional holes outside of the channel. The adapter bracket thus allows a conventional elevated side rail to be quickly and easily secured to an existing channel formed in the outer body surface of a vehicle roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: JAC Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Claude Trambley, Donald R. Potter
  • Patent number: 7014383
    Abstract: A connector for securing a first building structural member to a second building structural member is provided. The connector includes a seat member with an opening for receiving an anchor bolt that secures the connector to the second building structural member. The connector also includes first and second side members that connect to the seat member and a back member that extends between the first and second side members, wherein the back member includes a plurality of shear openings for receiving shear fasteners that secure the connector to the first building structural member and resist shear forces only and at least one tension opening for receiving a tension fastener that secures the connector to the first building structural member and resists tension forces only.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Inventors: Ben L. Schmid, Stephen C. Tobin
  • Patent number: 7004435
    Abstract: A bracket for supporting a container of absorbent sheet products includes first and second side walls each having a flange section perpendicular thereto for mounting to a substantially vertical mounting surface. A cross member extends between the first and second side walls as a front member. At least one bottom portion extends between the first and second side walls perpendicular to the cross member. The bottom portion is structured and arranged to be spaced apart from the mounting surface so that various containers of absorbent sheets can be arranged in the bracket to be dispensed from the top, bottom or front depending on the particular container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: SCA Tissue North America LLC
    Inventor: John Formon
  • Patent number: 6981682
    Abstract: A support device for displaying individual objects, such as books in a readable position, comprises a backrest having a substantially planar upper portion having an upper edge and a substantially curved lower portion comprising a cradle having a free edge. A support means is adapted to support the upper portion whereby in operation the upper portion of the backrest is rearwardly inclined from the cradle, and object restraining means are affixed substantially perpendicular to the free edge of the cradle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Inventor: Paul Gerhard Kind
  • Patent number: 6959937
    Abstract: A running board support assembly (200) for fastening a running board step (104) to a vehicle includes a support bracket (204) for engagement with the running board step, and a mounting bracket (202) for coupling the support bracket (204) to the vehicle. The mounting bracket (202) includes a hooking end (212) and a pin (214). The support bracket (204) includes a hook (226) for engagement with the hooking end (212), and an aperture (218) for engagement with the pin (214). When assembled, the hook (226) and the aperture (218) cooperate to tension the mounting bracket (202) and thereby secure the support bracket (204) to the mounting bracket (202).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2005
    Assignee: Decoma International Inc.
    Inventors: Steven E. Schneider, Michael A. Quesenberry, Thomas M. Pilette, Leszek T. Derbis, Bruce E. McDougall
  • Patent number: 6957518
    Abstract: A two-plate splice connection assembly for connecting the lower end of an upper tubular pole member to the upper end of a lower tubular member which eliminates the need for having an individual positioned on the outside of the tubular pole member and an individual positioned on the inside of the tubular pole member when the splice plates are secured together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Dan A. Koch, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6951324
    Abstract: The invention is a mounting bracket having a generally rectangular, flat body with an outside edge, a front and a back. A first support guide for a first pipe is positioned proximate to and within the boundary of the outside edge, the first support guide having a substantially complete enclosure. A handle is formed within the boundary of and proximate to the outside edge of the body, for lifting the mounting bracket. A base is coupled to and extends outwardly from the outside edge of the body and further provides support to the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2005
    Inventor: John Chris Karamanos
  • Patent number: 6941712
    Abstract: A mounting bracket having a vertical member with a back portion and side flanges where the back portion has a plurality of slots and holes and the side flanges have slots at both ends. Adjustably connected to the vertical member is a shoe with a bottom portion and side flanges that extend upwardly and are aligned with the side flanges of the vertical member. The shoe is positioned substantially perpendicular to the vertical member to form a generally L-shaped bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Sukup Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Steven E. Sukup, John A. Hanig
  • Patent number: 6913236
    Abstract: A mounting track for electrical components including a base that is designed to attach a track to a support surface. A wall extends from the base to a mounting rail. The rail includes a number of large tool receiving apertures located directly above mounting apertures in the base to facilitate mounting of the track to a support surface. The apertures in the wall facilitate routing wires between components on the mounting rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: Phoenix Contact Inc.
    Inventor: David Alan Weyandt
  • Patent number: 6896644
    Abstract: A weight stand having a weight support that extends between opposing side frame members of a frame assembly is disclosed. The opposing side frame members are provided with a series of pegs adapted to maintain the weight support at various heights. The space between the opposing side frame members is suitable for placement of a weight bench, and also is sufficient to admit a person acting as a spotter. The weight support, in at least one embodiment, includes upper and lower support pieces arranged at an angle to each other so as to form a wedge-shaped area in which dumbbells can securely rest. The configuration of the weight support is such that dumbbells can readily be retrieved and replaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Inventor: Werner W. Voigt
  • Patent number: 6886799
    Abstract: A structure for mounting a heavy article 27 to a carrier body 31 via an intermediate member 20, capable of temporarily fixing the heavy article during the mounting operation, wherein the intermediate member 20 is provided in a lower part thereof with a lower attachment portion 21 having holes 26 for fixing the heavy article 27 and in an upper part thereof with upper attachment portions 23 having engagement portions 25 for being temporarily fixed to the carrier body 31 and fixation portions 24 for being firmly fixed to the carrier body 31. To fix the intermediate member 20 to the heavy article 27, the lower attachment portion 21 of the former is sandwiched between a pair of elastic members 28 made of soft material, and fastened to the heavy article 27 by fastening members 30 through the holes 26, for allowing a slight vibration of the heavy article 27.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventor: Satoru Yamanashi
  • Patent number: 6886790
    Abstract: In order to accommodate differential expansion between thermal protection panels and a structure to be protected, the present invention provides a stand-off for holding the panels, the stand-off comprising a first portion allowing displacements to take place in a first direction and a second portion allowing displacements to take place in a second direction. Each of the two portions also presents a high degree of stiffness in a direction corresponding to tear-off and crushing forces applies to the panels. The stand-off is made as a single piece having first and second recesses formed therein in order to make the first and second portions respectively in determined orientations so that the resulting stand-off allows displacements to take place in two distinct directions perpendicular to the tear-off and crushing directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: Snecma Propulsion Solide
    Inventor: Philippe Soyris
  • Patent number: 6883880
    Abstract: A system for creating a floating sub-top into an open space of a counter upon which tiles may be applied. The float characteristic of the sub-top eliminates cracking and breaking of tiled corner pieces and grout due to expansion of the sub-top. Used with the system is a support member attachable to vertical upstanding walls of the counter on the ends of the walls or on the inner surfaces; and attachable to the sub-top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Inventor: Leo Flores
  • Patent number: 6883765
    Abstract: A novel holder in the form of a structural volume for holding a container and a flexible strap coupled to the structural volume. The structural volume is made form a disposable unitary blank composed of a biodegradable material and having a central base with legs extending therefrom to form a cruciform shape. Fold lines are provided between the base and the legs that enable the blank to be folded into a prism to form the structural volume. A ring is attached to one of the legs remote from the base and has a tab for coupling with the opposite leg to complete the structural volume. A container can be carried in the structural volume and be supported on the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Inventors: Jorge Pablo Lozano, Juan Carlos Alberto Seco
  • Patent number: 6871827
    Abstract: An electrical outlet box mounting bracket for mounting large size and small size standard electrical outlet boxes. The bracket has a flat section of material having a cutout pattern formed therein. The cutout pattern has a generally octagonal opening formed therein with a first, a second, a third and a fourth diagonally offset corner, and straight edges therebetween. A first, a second and a third closed keyhole slot is located inwardly of the first diagonal corner of the bracket, the keyhole slots having a wider end and a narrower slot portion with a terminal end. A first, a second and a third open slot are located diagonally opposite the keyhole cutouts in the third diagonal corner and opened therein. The open slots have a terminal end therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: PW Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Randy Petak, Joshua Kueng
  • Patent number: 6866316
    Abstract: Vehicle pull out drawer frame mounting system can include an angled bracket having a first end and a second and which projects substantially normal to the first end, the first ends each having a fastener-receiving hole. The angled bracket can be employed as a mediating bracket in combination with a stationary frame for a vehicle pull out drawer device or system, which includes a cross-member that can receive the first end of the angled bracket and accommodate fastening of the bracket through a fastener that is received by the fastener-receiving hole of the first end of the bracket. The combination can be fastened to a cargo area of a vehicle that has a wall defining a boundary of the cargo area that can receive a fastener which fastens the mediating, angled bracket through the fastener-receiving hole of the second end of the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: Durakon Acquisition Corp.
    Inventors: Scott Brant Harder, Clover Suzanne Aguayo, Richard Euel Henderson, Robert Chris Tanton, Gerard A. Whitney
  • Patent number: 6862172
    Abstract: A mounting mechanism for multiple computer storage drives mounts at least one drive so that it may be swung out for easy access to the drive and to its cable connectors. The mechanism comprises a drive cage mounting bracket, a hinge, and appropriately adapted chassis, so that the mounting bracket is hingeably connected to the chassis to swing open for access and to swing closed for operation. The bracket is adapted so that, when in the open position, the cable connector of at least one mounted drive is distal from the hinge and chassis and thus easily accessible. A preferred embodiment provides for releaseably locking the bracket in the closed position. Furthermore, the bracket preferably mounts a hard drive so that it is suspended within the airspace above the computer motherboard for easier cooling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: Gateway, Inc.
    Inventors: Vernon D. Erickson, David R. Davis, Thomas R. Carson, Robert S. Williams, Alejandro Puentes
  • Patent number: RE38881
    Abstract: A plastic building wall mounting bracket assembly comprises a one-piece mounting bracket with a back wall and an integral continuous peripheral wall extending axially therefrom, a flange member having an outside flange and an integral flange wall extending axially therefrom to be received by the mounting bracket so that only the flange member is visible from outside the building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: Tapco International Corporation
    Inventors: Norman L. Chubb, Richard J. MacLeod, Charles E. Schiedegger
  • Patent number: RE39638
    Abstract: A hanging shoe rack for supporting shoes in an angular manner. A pair of side frame members having an elongate body section. A plurality of support arms project outwardly and downwardly from each main body section. Pairs of retaining bars are positioned between said frame members and are aligned in a plane forming an acute angle with respect to vertical, to thereby support thereon shoes in an angular manner, with the shoes directed downwardly toward a vertical surface upon which the shoe rack is placed. The support arms, upon opposite side frames, traverse side sections of the shoes to form a barrier against lateral movement of the shoes. Unique socket structure, into which the retaining bars are positioned, permit easy assembly of the shoe rack. Additionally, each side frame member includes unique attachment structure, upon upper and lower ends thereof, so that multiple shoe racks of the present invention may be vertically suspended one from another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Assignee: Lynk, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard B. Klein, Chris Serslev