Adjustable Patents (Class 248/323)
  • Patent number: 7255204
    Abstract: An apparatus for moving elevator equipment, particularly an elevator car when stuck in a shaft, comprises a suspension point which is connected to the elevator equipment by an adjustable-height connection. Contrary to the prior art, the suspension point includes a length-adjustable assembly configured for engagement with opposing walls of the shaft or opposing guide rails within the shaft at any chosen location along the shaft. The invention thus provides a localized solution that can be used conveniently at any position within the shaft and is therefore independent of the position, and indeed the presence, of any lifting hooks within the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: Inventio AG
    Inventors: Pius Elmiger, Carlos Latorre Marcuz
  • Patent number: 7228669
    Abstract: A suspended table assembly includes a first support and a second support that are vertically spaced from each other. A plurality of legs is provided. Each of the legs has a first end and a second end. Each of a plurality of first brackets is pivotally coupled to one of the first ends. The first brackets are attached to the first support. A plurality of second brackets is also provided. Each of the second brackets is pivotally coupled to one of the second ends and each of the second brackets is attached to the second support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Inventor: Steven M. Yaraschefski
  • Patent number: 7195220
    Abstract: A support arm for stored devices, which is pivotably seated in a holder fastened to a fastening surface and can be horizontally adjusted into a pivoted-in position and a pivoted-out position. In the pivoted-in position the support arm extends approximately parallel with the fastening surface and in the pivoted-in position extends perpendicularly with respect to the fastening surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: Rittal GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Paul Root, Markus Neuhof
  • Patent number: 7147194
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of a hanging tool support assembly provide a portable, adjustable support to hold and/or position a tool, such as a flashlight. For example, the hanging tool support assembly may hang or otherwise suspend from a support line proximate to a work area. According to an exemplary embodiment, the hanging tool support assembly includes a pair of inverted, J-shaped hangers, a downwardly extending arm, a movable support piece connecting the downwardly extending arm to a tool support base, and the tool support base. The hanging tool support assembly may further include attachments for supporting and/or holding a tool to the tool support base. In some embodiments, the hangers may further include additional safety and/or positioning components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: BellSouth Intellectual Property Corporation
    Inventors: Paul Brent Rivers, Frederick Diggle, III
  • Patent number: 7124991
    Abstract: A lighting and transport system includes a cabinet having an interior with an access panel that can be opened and closed for enabling a user to access the interior when the panel is open. The interior has a plurality of receptacles that include at least one vertically extending tall receptacle that is about as tall as the cabinet. A larger receptacle is provided that is shorter than the vertically extending tall receptacle and a plurality of smaller receptacles are provided that are each smaller in volume than the larger receptacle. At least one tripod is provided that is sized and shaped to be stored inside the cabinet within the tall receptacle. A plurality of electric lighting units are sized and shaped to be contained with the smaller receptacles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventor: John P. Williamson
  • Patent number: 7090186
    Abstract: An automotive video display console assembly 18 for installation in a vehicle 10 is provided. The automotive video display console assembly 18 includes a console housing 20. The automotive video display console assembly 18 further includes a horizontal support element 34 including a first end 36 engaging the console housing 20 and a second end 38. The second end 38 is movable between a support stowage position 42 and a horizontally extended position 44 horizontally distanced from the support stowage position 42. A video display element 26 is pivotably mounted to the second end 38 such that the video display 26 can be moved between a display stowage position 28 and a display active position 30 when the second end 38 is in the support stowage position 42. The video display 26 can be further moved to a display extended position 32 when the second end 38 is positioned in the horizontally extended position 44.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: James Quinno, Jeff Donovan, Brian Sutcliffe, James B. Cook
  • Patent number: 7090185
    Abstract: A device is provided to support a medical element over a bed. The device includes a base mountable to the bed, a clamp to hold the medical element, and a rod between the base and the clamp to support the element over the bed. The rod is connected to the base with a universal joint to permit movement of the medical element between use and non-use positions. The rod is adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Inventors: Judith Lynn Bryan, Wanda Morgan White
  • Patent number: 7055790
    Abstract: A ceiling mounting device for a display screen having a positioning mechanism constructed such that it enables the display screen to be positioned in the opening in its home position such that the back side of the flat panel display is essentially flush with the ceiling and an operating position wherein the display screen hangs generally vertically from the ceiling. The invention includes a pivoting mechanism to rotate the display screen when in its operating position in order to allow the display screen to be viewed from any location in the room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Inventor: Uwe Schröeter
  • Patent number: 7032871
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a linear adjustment device for altering the position of a load comprising, wherein the linear adjustment device comprises a positioning mechanism comprising: a rod; a first pipe slidably engaged with the rod; and a second pipe slidably engaged with the rod. The linear adjustment device further comprises a load sleeve, wherein the load sleeve is secured to the first pipe; and an anchor sleeve, wherein the anchor sleeve is secured to the second pipe. Further disclosed herein is a system incorporating the linear adjustment device disclosed herein, and a method of use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Inventor: Michael J. Akrep
  • Patent number: 7004437
    Abstract: The present invention relates to swivel arm (21) of a ceiling-mounted stand, said arm consisting of a hollow profile and comprising an upper side (5) and a bottom side (6) arranged opposite thereto, a lateral opening (11) that corresponds to the profile cross-section and can be closed with a cover (3), an upper opening (9) in the upper side (5) that is provided for a bearing point, and a mounting opening (4) in the bottom side that is arranged opposite to the upper opening. By providing the mounting opening (4) in the bottom side (6) opposite to the opening (9) of the arm (21), insertion of a cable harness or tube package from the upper opening (9) into the arm (21) is facilitated to an essential degree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Trumpf Kreuzer Medizin Systeme GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Georg Bauer, Willibald Hiemer
  • Patent number: 6988698
    Abstract: A universal adaptor for facilitating the mounting of appliances. The universal adaptor includes upper and lower bracket plates. Either the upper or lower plate may include a mounting connector for engaging a commercially available mounting system. Bracket arms with slots may be located and clamped between the plates. A location pin may be used to engage the plates and the bracket arms, while mounting pins may be used to connect the bracket arms to the appliance. The bracket arm slots permit the bracket arms to be adjustably moved toward or away from the adaptor, facilitating connection between the bracket arms and receptors on the appliance. The bracket arm slots also permit the position of the location pin to be adjusted relative to the center of gravity of the appliance to further facilitate mounting of the appliance. The spacing of the adaptor relative to the appliance may also be adjusted to facilitate the mounting of appliances having varying surface mount topographies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: Lucasay Manufacturing Co.
    Inventor: Edward L. O'Neill
  • Patent number: 6896233
    Abstract: A support (1) for bearing at least one piece of equipment (2,3,4), in particular video display units and other medical equipment. The support includes a support arm (5), to which the equipment (2,3,4) can be at least indirectly fixed and a fixing device (6), which engages in a connecting section (7) of the support arm (5) for suspending the support (1). The point of engagement (12) can be changed, to displace the center of gravity (16) of the support arm (5) and its load for a predetermined angle of the support arm (5), so that it lies at least approximately below the suspension point, at which the support (1) is suspended by the fixing device (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Mavig GmbH
    Inventor: Peter Kuhn
  • Publication number: 20040251390
    Abstract: An operating room having an operating table, an overhead supported system including illuminating fixtures and a television system is disclosed. The system includes an overhead mounted tubular support arm having a supported end adapted to be rotated about a vertical axis. The arm also includes a horizontal section including a bend remote from the supported end. A television camera is positioned to image a patient on the table and a TV monitor is supported by the arm. The system includes a coaxial cable connected operably to the camera and connected to the monitor for transmitting image producing signals from the camera to the monitor. A helical pulley is in the supported end. The pulley includes a helical perimetral groove and a portion of the cable engages the groove, the cable extends from the pulley through the arm to the monitor and includes a coiled portion disposed in the arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2003
    Publication date: December 16, 2004
    Applicant: MJM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric Wachob
  • Publication number: 20040227047
    Abstract: An article hanging system (1) capable of easily changing an exhibit position and an exhibit height of an article such as a goods exhibited in a shop, a hanger and a display shelf comprises a ceiling rail assembly (10), a wire holder (50) slidably retained to the ceiling rail assembly (10), a wire (100) hanging down from the wire holder (50), a gripper (120) fixably attachable at a desired position along the wire (100), a wire holder (70) attached to a lower end of the wire (100) and a floor rail assembly (40) to which the wire holder (70) is slidably retained. Each of the rail assemblies (10), (40) comprises longitudinal rails (21), (11Y) extending in a longitudinal direction (the Y-direction) and lateral rails (11), (11X) slidable with respect to the longitudinal rail as being spanned between the longitudinal rails. Each of the wire holders (50), (70) are slidable along the lateral rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2004
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Applicant: A. G. K. LTD.
    Inventor: Hideo Arakawa
  • Publication number: 20040217249
    Abstract: A merchandising hanger is described that has a planar surface adapted to receive printed indicia thereon and characterized by having a top and a base. The top of the planar surface is formed as a hook, cutout, or hole so as to allow the merchandising hanger to be suspended from a conventional merchandising rack. A tab extends from the base of the planar surface and includes a stud integral with the tab and a stud-receiving aperture in another portion of the tab. The aperture has a flange associated therewith. Intermediate between the stud and the aperture is a tab portion having a thickness less than the tab portion proximal to the planar surface. The relative thicknesses of tab portions and the interaction between the stud and complementary aperture afford a theft deterrent without compromising the merchandising function.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2004
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Inventor: Kenneth D. Eisenbraun
  • Publication number: 20040211872
    Abstract: An adjustable tamper-resistant overhead mounting system for a projector. The system includes brackets attachable to the projector and a suspension member attached to an overhead structure. At least one tamper resistant fastener is used at each connection of the brackets, the projector and the suspension member, to deter theft and tampering. The arrangement of the brackets may enable easy adjustable positioning of the projector about pitch, roll and yaw axes. The projector may also be enclosed in an enclosure system to protect against contact by foreign objects. The enclosure is adapted to be installable without removing the projector or otherwise disturbing the mounting system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2004
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventors: Jay Dittmer, Jeff Bremmon
  • Patent number: 6789832
    Abstract: An article attachment system is disclosed for a vehicle having one or more receiving members. The system includes a base having an attachment device to couple and uncouple the base with the receiving member. The base is configured to interchangeably receive an article and includes a retention device to selectively retain and release the article. A universal mounting adapter is also disclosed for interchangeably attaching articles to a receiving member and includes a base adapted to couple to the receiving member, a selectively deployable attachment device adapted to engage a portion of the receiving member and couple the base to the receiving member, an article interface to couple an article to the base, and a retention device between the article interface and the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: Dale A. Gort, Leif A. Norland, David B. Fry
  • Publication number: 20040159761
    Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for supporting two or more overhead medical instruments in a single operating room such that each medical instrument can be moved between an operating position in proximity of the patient table and a stored position out of proximity of the patient table so as not to hamper access to the patient. The apparatus includes a set of primary rails connected to the ceiling and at least two support carriages engaging the primary rails such that the support carriages can be moved in a longitudinal direction across the length of the operating room. Each support carriage includes an overhead medical instrument mounted to a trolley which can be moved along the support carriage in a lateral direction across the width of the operating room.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventor: William Lipsky
  • Patent number: 6719255
    Abstract: A suspending device for suspending an item such as a speaker onto a bar has a plate, a body and a retaining member. The plate is pivotally connected to an end of the body and the retaining member is connected to the other end of the body by screws. A first recessed end and a second recessed end are respectively formed on the body and the retaining member so as to firmly sandwich the bar between the first and second recessed ends. The item is connected to the plate so that the item can be securely suspended on the bar. Moreover, the item can be rotated with respect to the body so as to adjust its facing direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Inventor: Ting-Pang Chen
  • Patent number: 6708939
    Abstract: The present invention provides a retail store information display device for suspension from a ceiling over merchandise displays or aisles. The retail store information display system comprises one or more panels containing information, an elongated horizontal track, a plurality of carrier means slidably supported by said track, and connecting means for suspending the track from a ceiling a sufficient height above any merchandise displays or aisles. The panels can be positioned with respect to the merchandise displays or aisles by sliding them along the horizontal track. The retail store information display device assists retailers in hanging panels, such as signs and banners, quickly and uniformly throughout a store.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventor: Don Walker
  • Patent number: 6688568
    Abstract: The invention concerns a fixing device comprising a vertical rod (10) used for fixing an object in front of a wall (2) hanging from a horizontal rail (1) by it top end zone (12) which is deformed so as to co-operate with the rail to maintain the rod stable by the effect of its own weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Groupe SMS
    Inventor: Claude Moufflet
  • Publication number: 20030183737
    Abstract: The invention relates to a support (1) for bearing at least one piece of equipment (2,3,4), in particular video display units and other medical equipment. Said support comprises a support arm (5), to which the equipment (2,3,4) can be at least indirectly fixed and a fixing device (6), which engages in a connecting section (7) of the support arm (5) for suspending the support (1). The point of engagement (12) can be changed, to displace the centre of gravity (16) of the support arm (5) and its load for a predetermined angle of the support arm (5), so that it lies at least approximately below the suspension point, at which the support (1) is suspended by means of the fixing device (6).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventor: Peter Huhn
  • Patent number: 6616112
    Abstract: A suspension device for a ceiling lamp includes a tubular body connected to a base member of the ceiling lamp and a shaft having a first end received in the tubular body and a second end connected to a lamp set. A through hole is defined in the tubular body and two P-shaped channel defined in an inner periphery of the through hole. Two blocking plates are located in the P-shaped channel. Two protrusions are diametrically extending from the shaft and selectively engaged between the two blocking plates to hold the shaft in place in the tubular body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Inventor: Ming-Chi Tseng
  • Patent number: 6571426
    Abstract: An adjustable hanging rod comprising a main body and at least one gliding rod with a contact element and an adjusting mechanism. The main body has a central gliding groove. The gliding rod is inserted in the gliding groove. The contact element is attached to a far end of the gliding rod for contacting a wall. The adjusting mechanism is mounted inside the main body and further comprises a gliding block, inserted in the gliding groove, a guiding rod, attached to the gliding block, a spring, put on the guiding rod between the gliding block and the gliding rod, and a fixing screw for fixing the gliding block. The position of the gliding block is adjusted, so that the gliding rod extends outward by a suitable length and suitable pressure of the contact element against the wall is maintained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Inventor: Yin-Wen Chen
  • Patent number: 6527238
    Abstract: The invention provides a stabilizing system for an image-producing means operated on a non-stable platform, the system including a yaw axis attachable at one of its ends to the platform; an angularly bent arm comprising two limbs, to the first of which limbs the other end of the yaw axis is fixedly attached; a front roll axis mounted on, or integral with, the first limb; lateral structures rigidly linked by a connecting member and at least indirectly supported by the bent arm, between which lateral structures the image-producing means can freely perform a pitching movement; at least one pitch axis supported by at least one of the lateral structures; a rear roll axis fixedly attached to the connecting member and freely passing through the end portion of the second one of the limbs of the bent arm, the front roll axis and the rear roll axis being parallel, the front roll axis being positioned at a point above the lateral structures; a cross member pivotably mounted on the front roll axis, and at least one uprig
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Top I Vision LTD
    Inventors: Gad Shental, Nir Shental, Ran Shental, Lev Hasharon
  • Patent number: 6484993
    Abstract: A display lifting device which is mounted within a ceiling plenum and is arranged for concealing a support framework, lifting arm and display within the ceiling area. A support arm for the display is pivotally mounted within the framework and is biased in the downward position and supported by a cable mounted on a cable drum drivingly connected to a reversible motor. The support arm comprises at least two telescoping sections with the cable connected to the end of the inner lower most section so that as the cable is extended the arm pivots downward with the telescoping sections extending through gravity to their fullest extent. In this way, the display can extend a considerable distance from the ceiling for viewing by the audience while in the retracted position a very small opening and space within the plenum is required for concealment. Mechanical stops and limit switches are provided at both extremes of the movement of the display and support arm to restrict the angular movement of the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: Safety Lock & Lift, Ltd.
    Inventor: Charles E. Huffman
  • Patent number: 6464189
    Abstract: A hanger device has a support seat, a control rod, and a cantilever. The support seat has an upper lug, a pair of middle lugs, a semicircular slot, a plurality of threaded holes, and a longitudinal through aperture. The upper lug has a center hole and a plurality of grooves. A post is disposed on the control rod. The cantilever has a distal end and a proximal end having a through hole. The proximal end of the cantilever is inserted in the semicircular slot of the support seat. The control rod passes through the center hole of the upper lug, the longitudinal through aperture of the support seat, and the through hole of the proximal end of the cantilever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Inventor: Ming-Ti Yu
  • Publication number: 20020121847
    Abstract: A loudspeaker box arrangement has a plurality of loudspeaker boxes. Adjacent boxes are actively connected to one another by connecting elements in a positionally adjustable manner. Adjacent boxes are pivotally connected at their front sides and joined by the connecting elements at their rear sides for adjusting the pivot angle between boxes. The connecting elements are automatically adjustable as to angle and/or length by a control unit for achieving the individual positional adjustment of a particular loudspeaker box.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2001
    Publication date: September 5, 2002
    Applicant: d&b audiotechnik AG
    Inventor: Matthias Christner
  • Patent number: 6394873
    Abstract: A balloon suspension device for a plurality of air-filled balloons for simulating a cluster of lighter-than-air balloons. An elongated rod suspended vertically supports a plurality of horizontal brackets slidably mounted thereon, each bracket having a flange for attachment of a balloon. A weight tethered to the balloons gives the impression the balloons are floating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventor: Robina B. Bernard
  • Publication number: 20010046904
    Abstract: A stabilizing strap includes an elongated flexible strap having a neck strap connected to a thumb strap with an adjustable buckle. The neck strap includes an operable fastener permitting the formation of a neck loop to hang the neck strap around the neck of a person. The thumb strap portion includes a thumb loop formed therein to permit the thumb of a person's hand to be journaled through the thumb loop. The method of use of the strap includes journaling a person's head through the neck loop of the strap, journaling a person's thumb of the arm to be stabilized through the thumb loop of the strap, and then moving the arm to be stabilized outwardly to place the strap in tension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2001
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Inventor: Mike Arvanitis
  • Patent number: 6299118
    Abstract: A plant hanger is provided for adjustably supporting an article, such as a potted plant and a plant holder along a vertical axis. The plant hanger includes a first piece having an elongated body provided with a support arrangement spaced therealong, and a hook at one end thereof adapted to be suspended from a support structure. A second piece has a series of flexible rods provided at one end with bent portions adapted to engage and support the plant holder and provided at the other end with a common hook bracket adapted to be engaged with the support arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Inventor: Brian P. Farrell
  • Patent number: 6296219
    Abstract: A suspension rail for a folder or binder of a flexible sheet material, which has an edge formed by a reversed V-shaped fold comprising a free leg, the suspension rail includes two longitudinally extending side walls having lower edges and defining a longitudinally extending recess for receiving the edge of the folder or binder, the free leg having a length of about 2 to 10 mm, and at least one of the lower edges of the side walls having a flange extending inwardly into the recess, the reversed V-shaped fold of a folder or binder inserted into the recess from below may be snapped into engagement with the flange for holding the object in the recess of the rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Assignee: Avanti GmbH
    Inventor: Lutz Köbele
  • Patent number: 6237501
    Abstract: A suspension system for suspending a tool from a pair of parallel rails. The suspension system consists of a support structure, a tool mounting interface and exactly three trolley assemblies. The support structure has three trolley assembly mounting structures with a first one of the trolley assembly mounting structures positioned on a first side of the support structure and the remaining trolley assembly mounting structures are positioned on the opposite side. The tool mounting interface is adapted to couple the tool to the support structure. Each of the trolley assembly mounting structures is coupled to a trolley assembly. Each trolley assembly has at least one trolley set with a plurality of wheels adapted to roll on one of the parallel rails. The three trolley assemblies collectively adapted to exert a reaction force onto the pair of parallel rails equal to the weight of the suspension system and the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Terry W Miller, Timothy A Dering, Emad Z Attalla
  • Patent number: 6145798
    Abstract: A quick release mount for mounting a fan to a static structure includes a handle for moving a movable member between a locking position and a non-locking position. The handle being operable to move the moving member into and out of an opening in the fan such that the fan can be removed from the quick release mount by moving the handle and moving member to the non-locking position. Some embodiments do not require any tools for removal of the fan and allows the mount to be locked at a predetermined angle relative to the static structure. The other embodiment only requires simple tools. Thus, once the fan is reattached, it need not be readjusted to return to its desired angled position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Assignee: Markrep Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark T. Janisse, Kevin Kayne, Jeffrey Kayne
  • Patent number: 6119997
    Abstract: An assembly suitable for supporting an electronic appliance, which assembly comprises a bracket to be fixed to a wall or a ceiling and a supporting platform, which is pivotable connected to one end of the bracket by means of a coupling piece. The coupling piece is provided with a rectangular blind recess in which the rectangular end of the bracket is positioned, whereby the rectangular end is fully embraced by the coupling piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Vogel's Holding B.V.
    Inventor: Petrus Theodorus Wilhelmus Maria Van Lieshout
  • Patent number: 6109578
    Abstract: The apparatus is for engaging a generally cylindrical borehole, and includes first and second chock portions, the first chock portion being generally spherical, the second being a trough-shaped wedge. The wedge-shaped second chock portion has a thinner end and a thicker end, and first and second primary surfaces. The first primary surface is cylindrically convex and dimensioned to seat flush against the wall of the borehole. The second primary surface is shaped as a concave, inclined trough dimensioned to permit the spherical first chock portion to slide freely therewithin. A primary tether affixed to the first chock portion is used to position the apparatus in the borehole, and includes a loop from which a user's body weight or gear may be suspended. A chock control cable operable with a finger pull bar is affixed to and operable to move the second chock portion in the borehole, lateral to the first chock portion. Sheaths protect and separate the primary tether and the chock control cable from one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Inventors: Karl Guthrie, Joseph Schwartz
  • Patent number: 6092777
    Abstract: An adjustable suspension system is provided for use from a ceiling. The system effectively comprises a grid including grooves interrupted by recesses. At least one suspension means having a base or retainer adjacent it proximal end depends from the system. The suspension device and associated retainer are free to move along the grooves to relocate the object(s) being suspended therefrom. The retainer rests within a recess to maintain the suspension device in the desired location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Assignee: Eagle Inventors, LLC
    Inventor: William E. Kuntz
  • Patent number: 6062520
    Abstract: Opposing sling object holding device that includes a first flexible strand and a second flexible strand that have at least a first and a second intersection with a loop defined therebetween. The overlapping portions of the strands and the first and second intersection are held in a relative relationship by holding members. The holding members are not fixedly mounted to the strands or are releasably fixedly mounted so that the size and location of the loop can be changed to accommodate different sized pots and different hanging arrangements. The components of the hanging device preferably withstand environmental degradation and have a multiplicity of arrangements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Inventors: Richard L. Ralston, Rhonda J. Ralston, Robert E. Ralston, Aron P. Ralston, John Timothy Coslow
  • Patent number: 6056274
    Abstract: An apparatus for selectively raising, storing, and lowering a recreational water craft that includes a first cable. The first cable is attached at one end to a winch for selectively shortening or lengthening the first cable. The first cable is attached at the other end to a ring and the first cable passes through a first pulley. A proximal strap is releasably and adjustably attached to the boat and is connected to a second cable. The second cable is connected at one end to the proximal strap and at the other end to the ring. A distal strap is releasably and adjustably attached to the boat. The distal strap is connected to a third cable, with the third cable being attached at one end to the distal strap and at the other end to a size adjustment assembly. The size adjustment assembly is connected to the ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Inventors: Jane Eldredge Naas, Robert Lee Naas
  • Patent number: 6012694
    Abstract: A monitor suspension method and apparatus for adjustably suspending a monitor to a work surface so that the distance and angle between the monitor and the work surface can be adjusted by a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: Sullivan Construction Company
    Inventor: Thomas J. Sullivan, III
  • Patent number: 5996728
    Abstract: A speaker rigging system that features a modular speaker cabinet that incorporates an internal load bearing frame and an internal speaker to speaker coupling mechanism. Speaker to speaker coupling is accomplished by means of a plurality of small, easy to handle coupling pins that allow for the creation of vertical speaker arrays with a minimal gap between speakers in the array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Eastern Acoustic Works, Inc.
    Inventor: James M. Stark
  • Patent number: 5967481
    Abstract: A staging component mounting system having a suspension assembly coupled to a support surface and including a first fastener element embedded in the support surface, and at least one elongate, strong, suspension segment coupled to an exterior coupling region of the first fastener element. The system further includes a primary truss that is strong, yet fully collapsible so as to facilitate storage and transportability thereof, and is removably coupled to the suspension assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Inventor: Gabriel Lobo
  • Patent number: 5964438
    Abstract: An improved wall-mounted storage unit system which uses a reversible mounting bracket and which places the majority of the unit's gravitational stress upon the bracket itself, rather than on the interlocking edges of the panel or rail members. A rail member having a small, upwardly protruding lip is mounted to a wall. The mounting bracket is then affixed within a cutout section of a vertical side panel in either of two desirable reversed positions such that the bracket may be attached to the mounting rail and the rear edge of the panel able to be placed flush against the wall. An adjacent panel may then be mounted using the same type of bracket. At no point does the vertical panel itself ever engage the mounting rail. Means are then provided to permanently secure the bracket and panel to the rail and to adjust the vertical height of a panel, if necessary, after it is attached to the mounting rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Inventor: Charles Camilleri
  • Patent number: 5946875
    Abstract: A clean room filter unit mounting system including a bracket, a bracket and fastener assembly, and individually mounted filter units. The bracket and fastener assembly includes a bracket having a relatively fixed member and a relatively movable member to allow misaligned mounting of parts such as the filter units in a clean room ceiling to fixed suspension rods without perfect registration of the bracket fixed member with the suspension rods, and a fastener able to pass through both bracket members in a first arrangement and to block such passage in a second disposition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: HEPA Corporation
    Inventor: Peter Jeanseau
  • Patent number: 5873556
    Abstract: A ceiling fixture hangar having an adjustable elongated first support and an adjustable elongated second support. Each of the first and second supports have first and second ends. Each of the ends of the first support is securable to a ceiling joist. The first end of the second support is slidably connected between the two ends of the first support. A mounting plate is secured to the second end of the second support which is adapted to receive a fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1999
    Inventor: Kenneth H. Reiker
  • Patent number: 5862925
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a hanging plant track system (10) which comprises a track (12) securely fastenable by at least one track fastener (12A) to a bottom of a horizontal surface. The track (12) comprises a left track (12L) having a left track horizontal member (12LA) longitudinally disposed thereon. The track (12) further comprises a right track (12R) securely fastened longitudinally along abutting edges to the left track (12L) by a middle track (12M). The right track (12R) comprises a right track horizontal member (12RA) longitudinally disposed thereon.The hanging plant track system (10)further comprises at least one carriage (14) slidably mounted within the track (12). The at least one carriage (14) comprises a left carriage (14L) having a left carriage horizontal member slot (14LA) longitudinally disposed therein. The left carriage horizontal member slot (14LA) is complimentary in configuration to the left track horizontal member (12LA).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1999
    Inventor: David Grzywinski
  • Patent number: 5819959
    Abstract: Truss bars are pivotally joined together through locking slip sleeves and are locked at selected splay angles relative to one another by a locking splay bar. The truss bars support columns of audio equipment cabinets with lengths of cabling attached to pivotal plates locked into mounting brackets installed in the side walls of the cabinets. The columns of cabinets are tilted by cables connecting a pull back clip installed on the bottom most cabinet of each column to the rear of an extension bar removably mounted to each truss bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Inventor: Andrew T. Martin
  • Patent number: 5797546
    Abstract: A mixing and dispensing system for two reactive fluids, such as two-component polysulfide sealants, in which the dispensed fluids are supplied to a hand operated mixing and dispensing gun through a pair of flexible hoses suspended above the floor from a pivotal boom. The flexible hoses are pivotally attached with swivel joints onto the inlets of the gun that are spaced on opposite lateral sides of the gun, and the swivels are rotatable about a common generally horizontal pivot axis. The gun is fully weight supported in an operative position above the floor with a tool balancer attached to the boom. The tool balancer includes an adjustably tensioned and extendable line that is pivotally attached to the top of the gun body and rotatable about a generally vertical pivot axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Assignee: Morton International, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Reed, Richard L. Frazier
  • Patent number: 5779216
    Abstract: An improved power tool torque and weight balancing apparatus for use in in-line assembly processes that require power tools, such as in the assembly of automotive engines. The power tool and weight balancing apparatus consists of a pivoting mounting frame, either suspended from a rail or fixedly mounted on a four-roller trolley, attached to a balancer frame that holds an air or spring powered balancer mechanism. The balancer mechanism has a cable with a swivel connector attachment which travels inside a set of telescoping tube members and attaches to a mechanism for holding a power tool. The mechanism for holding a power tool may hold a horizontally or vertically mounted power tool and is pivotable 360 degrees for operator convenience.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Assignee: Ohio Tool Systems, Inc
    Inventors: Gregory J. Grace, David A. Lemaster
  • Patent number: 5758852
    Abstract: A loudspeaker suspension system for suspending a plurality of individual loudspeakers from an overhead support in spaced apart relationship for adjustment to different related positions and orientations relative to one another to selectively focus the acoustic throw of the loudspeakers. The system includes a plurality of frame members mounted to the respective loudspeakers and a plurality of connectors for connection between respective adjacent pairs of frame members. The connectors include a pair of elongated oppositely disposed connecting arms for connection from their respective distal ends with the respective loudspeakers and further include a pivot joint connecting the medial ends of the connector arms together so that the respective connecting arms may be pivoted to angle the respective adjacent pair of loudspeakers relative to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1998
    Inventor: Andrew Terry Martin