Stand-mounted Depending Links Carry Support Surface Patents (Class 248/370)
  • Patent number: 11673065
    Abstract: The present invention provides a swing that is operable to promote attunement between a child and caretaker. The swing comprises two seats, one of the two seats being configured to be occupied by a caretaker, such as a parent, and another of the two seats being configured to be occupied by a child. The two seats are arranged so that the caretaker and the child can face one another and comfortably see each other's eyes. The two seats are also configured such that, during operation of the swing, both the caretaker and child share the experience of swinging. Thus, using the swing of at least one embodiment of the present invention, a caretaker and child may share the mutual enjoyment of the swinging action while maintaining eye contact with one another, resulting in attunement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2022
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2023
    Assignee: PLAYCORE WISCONSIN, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas Robert Norquist, Kim Corvin Blackwood, Charles Lebron Griffith, IV
  • Patent number: 11503904
    Abstract: A leg/footrest apparatus includes an adjustable-length axle having a compression rod to force first and second ends of the axle away from one another, and a rest platform that is rotatable about an axis of the axle. The apparatus may include a U-shaped member having first and second ends that extend from the axle and a base portion that extends between the first and second ends coupled to the rest platform. The rest platform may be rotatable about the base portion and may be balanced such that a rest surface of the rest platform remains substantially horizontal as the U-shaped member rotates about the axle. The rest platform may be rotatable between an in-use orientation and a storage orientation. A rotational lock may releasably secure the rest platform in the storage orientation. A foot pedal may be configured to rotate the rest platform between the in-use and storage orientations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2022
    Inventor: Michael Giacopelli
  • Patent number: 11320087
    Abstract: A portable video display system includes a base container and a display monitor mounted to a display support structure. The display support structure is hingedly coupled to the base container and can be moved between; (i) a closed position wherein at least a portion of the display support structure is stored within the case interior space; and (ii) an open position wherein at least a portion of the display support structure is in a deployed position outside of the case interior space. In the open position, the base container acts as a stand and supports the display support structure in the deployed position. The display support structure is configured to protect a display monitor when the display support structure is in the open position and includes a translucent shield that is positioned over the display monitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Inventor: David Wojciechowski
  • Patent number: 11260308
    Abstract: A swingset has a swingset frame. A horizontal member has a first horizontal section, and a second horizontal section. The first horizontal section has a swaged connection to the second horizontal section. The first horizontal section and the second horizontal section are formed of tube metal. A first horizontal section swaged portion fits within the second horizontal section. A pair of first legs support the first horizontal section, and a pair of second legs support the second horizontal section. The pair of first legs engage to a pair of first leg sockets formed on the first horizontal section. The pair of second legs engage to second leg sockets formed on the second horizontal section. A swing is suspended from the horizontal member. A lower tension bracket is mounted on a lower wall of the first horizontal section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2022
    Inventor: Samuel Chen
  • Patent number: 10822281
    Abstract: A process for densification of a ceramic matrix composite comprises forming a reinforcing ceramic continuous fiber stack having a central zone bounded by an outer zone adjacent; locating first particles within the central zone; coating the first particles and the ceramic fibers with silicon carbide through chemical vapor infiltration; locating second particles within the outer zone; coating the second particles and the ceramic fibers with silicon carbide through chemical vapor infiltration; forming the stack into a predetermined three dimensional shape; and densifying the stack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2020
    Assignee: Raytheon Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Ying She, James T. Beals, Xia Tang, Richard Wesley Jackson
  • Patent number: 10012286
    Abstract: Vehicle vibration device for a vehicle seat or a vehicle cabin, comprising a lower part and an upper part which is resiliently mounted relative to the lower part by a damper means, wherein the upper part is mounted in a suspended manner on the lower part by means of at least one pivot bearing, wherein the at least one first pivot bearing comprises at least one first lever, the first end of which is attached to the lower part by a first pivot axis and the second end of which is attached to the upper part by a second pivot axis, wherein the second end is located below the first end when viewed in a vertical direction, wherein at least the position of the first end of the lever can be changed by an adjustment means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2018
    Assignee: GRAMMER AG
    Inventors: Erwin Haller, Jens Kolb
  • Patent number: 9987693
    Abstract: A table saw includes a height adjustment wheel including a threaded shaft; a blade suspension mechanism secured to a lock crank; a rod secured to both the blade suspension mechanism and a bottom of the cutting surface; an electric motor including a driving shaft and a link extending forward to secure to the blade suspension mechanism; a circular saw blade operatively connected to the driving shaft; first and second mounting plates each secured to the link and including a slanted slot element; and an interconnection including two end holes moveably disposed in the slot elements of the first and second mounting plates respectively, and an intermediate threaded hole secured to the threaded shaft. A rotation of the height adjustment wheel moves the saw blade up or down.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2018
    Inventor: Chin-Chin Chang
  • Patent number: 9603452
    Abstract: A reclining seating unit includes: a base; a seat having a seat frame; a gliding unit configured to allow the seat to reciprocate relative to the base; a backrest mounted and pivotally interconnected to the seat frame; a footrest unit; a reclining mechanism attached to the seat and the backrest, the reclining mechanism configured to control relative movement of the seat and backrest between upright and reclined positions; a footrest mechanism attached to the seat and the footrest unit, the footrest mechanism configured to control relative movement of the footrest unit and the seat between retracted and extended positions, the footrest mechanism being decoupled from the reclining mechanism; a first linear actuator attached to the reclining mechanism and to the seat configured to move the seat and backrest between the upright and reclined positions; and a second linear actuator attached to the footrest mechanism and to the seat frame configured to move the footrest unit between the retracted and extended positi
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Ultra-Mek, Inc.
    Inventors: Marcus L. Murphy, D. Stephen Hoffman
  • Patent number: 9506832
    Abstract: A portable machine includes a base assembly defining a vacuum chamber, the base assembly including a decking having a machine way. The portable machine also includes a machine component releasably coupled to the machine way, and a plurality of load-equalizing members coupled to the base assembly that evenly distribute and support a load positioned on the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2016
    Assignee: Laurel Valley Power Company, LLC
    Inventor: Jason Sinkhorn
  • Patent number: 9463391
    Abstract: A motion base, comprising a pivot structure having a pivot point near the center of gravity of the pivot structure; a platform support by the pivot structure, the platform having a generally horizontal position and a generally vertical position; and, a drive for rotating of the pivot structure at the pivot point to move the platform from the generally horizontal position to the generally vertical position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Assignee: Dynamic Structures, Ltd.
    Inventors: Richard Job, Emile Van Vuuren, Ye Zhou, David Halliday, Nathan Loewen, Mike Gedig
  • Patent number: 9052157
    Abstract: In some embodiments, a revolving sling mount for a rifle (e.g. AR-15/M4/M16) includes a stack comprising a fixed plate configured to be secured to the rifle in a fixed position, a revolving sling-attachment plate rotatably attached to the fixed plate, and fixed ring securing the revolving sling-attachment plate between the fixed plate and stop ring. Each of the fixed plate, sling-attachment plate and stop ring defines an inner aperture sized to slide over a buttstock tube of the rifle. The revolving plate rotates relative to the fixed plate about an axis perpendicular to a major plane of the fixed plate. The revolving plate includes a sling-attachment loop for attaching a sling. One or more rotation stops constrain a rotation of the sling-attachment plate so that the sling-attachment loop does not obstruct the rearward motion of a charging handle assembly of the rifle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2015
    Assignee: Phase 5 Weapon Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth Montes
  • Patent number: 9004436
    Abstract: A pedestal structure of a cash register display is disclosed, including a base, a supporting arm, a retaining shaft lever, at least one extension spring and a display loading plate. Multiple retaining grooves and an inclined slide walls are arranged on each of two side plates of the base. The supporting arm is pivoted between the two side plates through a first pivot unit, and a first end section of the supporting arm is provided with a slide opening. The retaining shaft lever passes through the slide opening and is positioned in one of the retaining grooves or on the inclined slide wall of each of the side plates. The extension spring is installed between the first pivot unit and the retaining shaft lever. The display loading plate is pivoted on a second end section of the supporting arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Posiflex Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Huang-Yan Chen
  • Patent number: 8857773
    Abstract: Adjustable stand assemblies for portable electronic devices are provided, which allow portable electronic devices to stand-alone in multiple incline positions in both portrait and landscape orientations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: JTK Enterprises
    Inventors: James T Krohn, Craig B. Stucko
  • Patent number: 8851563
    Abstract: Fitting system including base seat surface and leg support segments. The seat surface segment is displaceable in relation to the base segment, and the leg support segment is pivotable between a storage position and a use position, and wherein the relative positions of the seat surface and leg support segments with respect to the base segment are forcibly coupled to each other. The seat surface segment is connected to the base segment by a first bracket. The leg support segment is pivotable about a pivot axis fixed in position with respect to the base and leg support segments. The leg support segment is connected to the seat surface segment by a second bracket pivotable about a pivot axis on the leg support and seat surface segment sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Kintec-Solution GmbH
    Inventors: Andreas Hortig, Boris Besler
  • Patent number: 8550419
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an erection system for a photovoltaic open-space installation support stand and a method for assembling this type of erection system. The present erection systems provide a permanently settable inclination favorable for generating solar power for the photovoltaic equipment on open ground with linear bearings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Schletter GmbH
    Inventors: Martin Hausner, Ludwig Schletter
  • Patent number: 8534634
    Abstract: A support mechanism for supporting an electronic device is disclosed. The support mechanism comprises two support assemblies detachably assembled together, each support assembly comprising an adjustable member defining a latching groove; and a support member rotatably connected to the adjusting member, the support member of one of the two support assemblies being capable of being partially received in the latching groove of the adjustable member of another one of the two support assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Wu-Zhu Hu, Ben-Xiang Zhao, Wu-Qi Li, Tang Li
  • Patent number: 8517413
    Abstract: A mobile tool stand includes a base frame unit, a support unit connected to the base frame unit for supporting the base frame unit on the floor, and a carrier unit. The carrier unit includes a carrier plate for carrying a machine tool, a pair of links pivotally connected between the carrier plate and the base frame unit and movable relative to the carrier plate to move the stand between a collapsed position and a supporting position, and a pair of coupling rods pivotally connected to the carrier plate and slidingly coupled to the base frame unit, such that the coupling rods are movable in and out of the base frame unit. Thus, the tool that is carried on the carrier plate can be safely moved from place to place when the mobile tool stand is set in the collapsed, transporting condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Rexon Industrial Corp., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jung-Huo Chen
  • Patent number: 8454366
    Abstract: An actuated support frame for transmitting motion to a seat with respect to a ground as a function of motion signals associated with video output, comprises a frame. The frame is expandable/retractable along translational degrees of freedom. Support surfaces are provided on the frame. The support surfaces are displaceable with respect to one another by expansion/retraction of the frame so as to be sized to support a seat. Actuators are provided between the frame and the ground. The actuators receive signals and selectively displace the frame with respect to the ground in synchronization with a video output, whereby a seat supported on the frame is displaceable within the frame. A method for installing a seating system of a motion simulator system is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: D-Box Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Gauthier Orban, Michel Bérubé, Philippe Roy
  • Patent number: 8328153
    Abstract: A display apparatus includes a display body for displaying information and a stand for supporting the display body. The stand includes a base, a first supporting member comprising a first positioning portion adjustable disposed on the base and a first supporting portion connecting with the display body; and a second supporting member comprising a second positioning portion adjustable disposed on the base and a second supporting portion pivotally fixed on the first supporting portion to form a triangle. A distance between the first positioning portion and the second positioning portion is changeable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Xin Yang, Wei Wu
  • Patent number: 8286930
    Abstract: The invention provides an angle-adjustable display with an adjusting unit related to a body of the display in shape. The angle-adjustable display comprises a display body, a connecting rod and an adjusting unit. The connecting rod, at each of its two ends, respectively connects to the display and the adjusting unit. As the adjusting unit rotates along a rotating axis of the connecting rod as a rotation shaft, the adjusting unit contacts a surface in a contact position. A distance between the rotating axis and the surface is variable by rotating the adjusting unit along the rotating axis, and would change in the rotation of the display body, and the inclination of the display can be adjusted by rotating the adjusting unit along the rotating axis to change the contact position in opposition to the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Hannspree, Inc.
    Inventor: Wen-Hung Huang
  • Patent number: 8220767
    Abstract: A supporting stand with an angle adjustment function includes two plates and an angle-adjusting means. The angle-adjusting means includes a locking ring, two protruding rings and an adjusting rod. The locking ring is provided on one plate and has axial grooves. The two protruding rings are provided on the other plate. The locking ring is coaxially disposed between the two protruding rings. One of the protruding rings is provided with a restricting slot aligned with the axial grooves. The adjusting rod penetrates the two protruding rings and the locking ring. The adjusting rod is formed with an engaging key engaged with one axial groove and the restricting slot. When the engaging key is removed from the axial groove, the two plates rotate relative to each other by using the adjusting rod as the center of rotation, thereby adjusting the inclination angle of the supported object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Inventor: Chin-Sheng Lin
  • Patent number: 8136783
    Abstract: A system for assisting solar power generation contains several racks for fastening power conversion modules. The racks each have a pivot axis and are mounted for pivotal movement about the pivot axis. The racks each have a lever, a movement of the lever causing a respective one of the racks to pivot. A coupling rod is provided on which the levers are each carried for rotation. The coupling rod couple the levers of the racks together and are further coupled to a linear drive unit so that the racks may be caused to pivot together through an action of the linear drive unit. A common mounting configuration mounts the racks so as to have the pivot axis carried on the common mounting configuration. The linear drive unit has a first end hinge-linked to the common mounting configuration and a second end hinge-linked to the coupling rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Solar Integrated Technologies GmbH
    Inventor: Arnd Pietrzak
  • Patent number: 8047487
    Abstract: A display apparatus including a display main body displaying a picture, and a base supporting the display main body about an installation surface. The display apparatus further includes a tilting unit provided between the display main body and the base and allowing the display main body to be tilted about the base; a pivoting unit provided between the display main body and the tilting unit and allowing the display main body to be pivoted about the base; a lifting unit provided between the tilting unit and the base and allowing the display main body to move up and down about the base; and a swiveling unit coupled to the base and allowing the display main body to be swiveled about the installation surface. With this configuration, the present invention provides a display apparatus of which a display main body not only rotates about a base in various directions, but also moves up and down about the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kwang-sung Hwang, Byung-jo Kang
  • Patent number: 7966757
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for supporting a banner. The apparatus includes a plurality of frames, each being formed by stacking a plurality of plates, a connection unit having an interior cover and an exterior cover connected to each other by inserting the plurality of frames into the interior and exterior covers, respectively, a supporter provided to each end of the plurality of frames to support the banner, and a support frame connected to one side of the connection unit to support the plurality of frames. In the apparatus, the plurality of environmentally friendly bamboo plates are adhered to each other and integrated into a single body, thereby obtaining both elasticity and rigidity of bamboo.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Inventor: Cho Hyung-Chul
  • Patent number: 7753323
    Abstract: A diving board lift assembly for lifting a diving board from a substantially horizontal diving position to a substantially upright position is provided. The diving board having a diving end and a hinged end with the hinged end hingedly connected to a diving board support member. To raise the diving board, an actuator is rotated in a clockwise direction which rotation causes a portion of the top assembly to the lift mechanism to make contact with and raise the diving board to a near vertical position. To lower the diving board to its original position, the actuator need simply be rotated in a counter-clockwise direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Inventor: David Volk
  • Patent number: 7677518
    Abstract: The adjustable stand has lower and upper components spaced vertically apart. The upper component supports a monitor of a computer and is movable upwardly and downwardly relative to the lower component while the lower component remains fixed in position. An operator of the computer can accordingly adjust the monitor to eye-level whether the operator is standing or is seated. A platform supports a keyboard and is movable with the upper component. The level of the platform may be adjusted selectively upwardly and downwardly relative to the upper component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Inventors: Guy Chouinard, Monique Amyotte, Ghislain Chabot
  • Patent number: 7637463
    Abstract: A height-adjustable support includes a stand unit, a friction-providing assembly including a stationary member disposed stationarily on the stand unit and a movable member movable relative to and in frictional contact with the stationary member, a link assembly coupled to the movable member such that pivoting movement of the link assembly results in movement of the movable member relative to the stationary member, a mounting seat disposed on a distal end portion of the link assembly and adapted to support a load, and a biasing assembly coupled to the movable member and to the stand unit. A biasing force exerted by the biasing assembly on the movable member and a frictional force generated between the stationary member and the movable member cooperate to balance the weight of the load and position the link assembly to sustain the load at an arbitrary height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Syncmold Enterprise Corp.
    Inventors: Ching-Hui Yen, Cheng-Feng Wu
  • Patent number: 7637468
    Abstract: An adjustable notebook computer support includes a carrier member holding a notebook computer, a base member having a sliding slot, a first link that has one end pivoted to one end of the carrier member and the other end pivoted to one end of the base member, a second link that has one end pivoted to the other end of the carrier member and the other end coupled to and movable along the sliding slot of the base member, a braking unit movable between an unlocking position for allowing adjustment of the elevation and angle of the first and second links relative to the carrier member and a locking position where the first and second links are locked to the carrier member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Inventor: Ming-Hsing Huang
  • Publication number: 20090045015
    Abstract: A portable apparatus for lifting a television to be mounted on a wall has a base frame assembly with at least three support members, and a connecting member that is connected to a first end of a first support member, and a first end of a second support member and a first end of a third support member are pivotally connected to the base frame support member. A mast assembly having at least two segments is removably connected to the connecting member of the base frame assembly, and a trolley device is removably engaged with the mast assembly, where the trolley is capable of translating along the length of the mast assembly. A electronic device holding assembly that has at least two support arms, and a cross-member to which the support arms are connected, is removably engaged with the trolley, and a driving mechanism causes the trolley to translate along the length of the mast assembly. Thus, a flat screen television can be readily installed on a wall by operating the apparatus of the invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventors: Robert Anstead, Marco Guerrero
  • Publication number: 20080272265
    Abstract: A motion platform assembly having a motion platform including a user support assembly. The motion platform being rotatable about a plurality of bearing axes which are perpendicular or aligned with the user support assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Inventors: Thomas J. Ciesielka, Sean P. MacDonald, Michael Boardman
  • Patent number: 7389603
    Abstract: A modular signpost including a first section, a second section that mounts onto the first section, and a third section that mounts onto the second section. The first section includes a ground mounting structure, a base tube and a guide tube. The second section includes a bracket for holding a flyer box. The second section includes a body tube that is able to slide over the guide tube on the first section. The third section is slide fit into the second section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Inventor: Donald U. Brumfield
  • Patent number: 7296653
    Abstract: A sound controlling apparatus adapted for combination with a speaker unit, comprising a stand configured to support the speaker unit, a reflecting panel or panels associated with the stand to reflect sound waves transmitted by the speaker unit, a side panel or panels associated with the stand, there being a reflected sound transmission path or paths defined by at least one of the following: i) the stand ii) a side panel, or panels, iii) the stand and a side panel or panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Inventors: Harold N. Smith, Jr., Harold N. Smith, III
  • Patent number: 7186183
    Abstract: A mounting system for mounting a swing to a support beam includes a first bracket member coupled to the support beam, a second bracket member coupled to the support beam opposite the first bracket member, a first swing hanger directly connected to the first bracket member for supporting a first elongated support member, and a second swing hanger directly connected to the second bracket member for supporting a second elongated support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: PlayStar, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian K. Zeilinger, Richard R. Popp
  • Patent number: 6935064
    Abstract: The invention disclosed is a device for use as a shooting platform. The shooting platform may be attached to a receiver hitch on a vehicle and may be collapsed against the vehicle for storing and for transportation on the vehicle. The shooting platform may be adaptable for right and left handed shooters. The device may include a seat for the user. The platform and the seat may have height adjustments to fit the preferences of a user and may also have adjustments to permit the leveling and/or the preferences of a user for angular positioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Inventor: Douglas E. Thompson
  • Patent number: 6921058
    Abstract: A frame of a motor vehicle seat with a longitudinal guide (20), a seat carrier (26), a front pair of oscillating cranks disposed between the longitudinal guide (20) and the seat carrier (26), and a padding support for a seat padding. A pinion (48) is rotatably disposed on one of the oscillating cranks (22, 23), an actuator (71) being associated with the pinion. A pivot unit (54) is disposed between the two oscillating cranks (22, 23) and is rotationally linked to the two oscillating cranks (22, 23) so as to be pivotal about an axial line. The pivot unit (54) is provided with a sector gear (62) that is centered on the axial line and meshes with the pinion (48), and an adjusting arm (64) is provided which is disposed between the pivot unit (54) and the padding support (30) so that the height of a front edge of the padding support (30) is adjustable by adjusting the sector gear (62).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: C. Rob Hammerstein GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Burckhard Becker, Wilfried Beneker
  • Patent number: 6585214
    Abstract: An extended travel lift system including a support frame and a display device frame. First and second arms are connected at first ends thereof by a hinge connector. A second end of the first arm is pivotally attached to a first slide mechanism on the support frame and a second end of the second arm is pivotally attached to the support frame. Third and fourth arms are connected at first ends thereof by the hinge connector. A second end of the third arm is pivotally attached to a second slide mechanism on the display device frame and a second end of the fourth arm is pivotally attached to the display device frame. A biasing mechanism is provided to bias the display device frame to an extended position. A height control mechanism is provided to retain the display device frame in either a retracted position or the extended position. The first and second arms are typically located in a first plane and the third and fourth arms are located in a second plane parallel to the first plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Chief Manufacturing Incorporated
    Inventor: Jay Dittmer
  • Patent number: 6550740
    Abstract: A shock absorbing platform includes a bottom plate and a top plate joined to one another at their respective rearward and side peripheral edges by elongate rigid links that enable the plates to remain in parallel relation to one another as the top plate moves in relation to the bottom plate. In a first embodiment, an opening formed in the bottom plate accommodates the upper end of a platform-supporting pedestal so that the platform may be retrofit onto a pre-existing pedestal. The forward edge of the platform is open so that height-adjusting and seat-rotating pins are readily accessible. A cylinder is pivotally mounted on each outboard side of the platform and its plunger bears against a roller of a truncate link assembly that interconnects the top and bottom plates at their respective forward edges. Downward forces applied to the top plate are resisted by the cylinders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventor: Peter J. Burer
  • Publication number: 20020190180
    Abstract: A linkage mechanism for mounting a movable support to a fixed member for movement between a first position and a second position. The mechanism includes a first linkage arm respectively connected at each end to the fixed member and the movable support and second linkage arm having one end connected to the movable support and the other to a connector located intermediate the ends of the first linkage arm. A third linkage arm extends between the movable support and the connector. The connector controls the movable support during the movement between the first and second positions. A two link arrangement is also disclosed having a pair of linkage arms extending between a movable support and a fixed member. The linkage arms being linked by a connector intermediate their respective ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventor: Michael John Cotterill
  • Publication number: 20020007690
    Abstract: A six-degrees-of-freedom parallel mechanism for micro-positioning work is disclosed. This mechanism freely performs a desired motion of translation and rotation of a moving platform using internal and external links actuated by linear actuators capable of precisely controlling the link positions, thus being effectively used as a 6d of parallel mechanism required to carry out a variety of micro-positioning works within a limited workspace. In the mechanism of this invention, a moving platform 10 is placed at an upper position, with a multiaxial spherical joint 40 mounted to the central portion of the moving platform 10. A base platform 20 is placed at a lower position of the mechanism. Three external links 30 couple the moving platform 10 to the base platform 20, while three internal links 50 couple the multiaxial spherical joint 40 to the base platform 20. In this mechanism, the internal links 50 are commonly coupled to the multiaxial spherical joint 40 so as to form a tetrahedral structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2000
    Publication date: January 24, 2002
    Inventors: Se-Kyong Song, Dong-Soo Kwon
  • Patent number: 6120095
    Abstract: The gliding seating unit of the present invention comprises: A base configured to reset upon an underlying surface; a seat overlying the base; a unitary front glide member, and unitary rear glide member. The front glide member is connected with the base and the seat and comprises an upper panel fixed to the base, a lower panel connected with the seat, and a gliding panel hingedly attached at an upper end to the upper panel and hingedly attached at a lower end to the lower panel. The rear glide member is connected with the base and the seat and comprises an upper panel fixed to the base, a lower panel connected with the seat, and a gliding panel hingedly attached at an upper end to the upper panel and hingedly attached at a lower end to the lower panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Inventor: W. Clark Rogers
  • Patent number: 6092870
    Abstract: A rocking mechanism for mounting a piece of furniture, such as a chair, sofa or cradle, on a support arrangement, the rocking mechanism allowing the piece of furniture to rock relative to the support arrangement. The mechanism comprises a unitary front link, a unitary rear link and first and second lower links. The unitary front link has an upper end adapted to be pivotally mounted to the support and a lower end that defines an elongated bottom front bearing member. The unitary rear link has an upper end adapted to be pivotally mounted to the support arrangement and a lower end that defines an elongated bottom rear bearing member. Each of the lower links has a front end and a rear end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Assignee: Dutailier International Inc.
    Inventors: Charles Desnoyers, Pierre Bellefleur
  • Patent number: 5934014
    Abstract: A stand for potted plants includes a tubular member for placement on a free standing post with base. Arms of rod stock are carried by the tubular member and are shaped to support and confine in place a centrally located potted plant. Hooks at the arm ends receive the bails of other potted plants. The arms are inclined downwardly and outwardly and carry their respective plants offset below the centrally located plant and contribute toward stability of the stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Inventor: Gerald L. Carrothers
  • Patent number: 5901936
    Abstract: A six-degree-of-freedom multi-axes positioning apparatus is comprised of a geometry of six independent angle connectors. Each angle connector connects two fixed length rods to a pivot on one of two opposing platforms. The combination of an angle connector, at least two pivots and at least two rods having free ends connected to the pivots comprises a leg assembly. The spatial location of the upper platform is changed in relation to the lower platform by angular changes within each angle connector. This angular change results in degrees of motion within the apparatus defined as X, Y, Z, Tip, Tilt, and Rotation, or a combination of the above. This invention is known as a ROTOPOD.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventor: Lothar F. X. Bieg
  • Patent number: 5833198
    Abstract: A lift table includes a support table assembly mounted on a scissor arm mechanism. The support table assembly is raised and lowered automatically upon the imposition or removal of loads so that the height of the plane on which articles are being handled remains generally constant. Raising and lowering is effected via a lift spring assembly that acts without the assistance of any pneumatic or hydraulic actuators. The scissor arm mechanism of the lift table has angled arms and low-friction rollers to facilitate raising and lowering of the support table assembly and optimizing operation of the lift spring assembly. The resulting mechanically operated lift table is simple, reliable, and can be easily transported from location to location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Assignee: Graetz Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventor: Alton Graetz
  • Patent number: 5765913
    Abstract: A glider chair including an improved glider linkage mechanism having a pair of front and rear glide links which are laterally preloaded such that non-precision bearing may be utilized. The glider chair further includes a rigid "box-like" chair frame surrounding the glider mechanism and having ample clearance therein so that extended glide links may be utilized to further provide a smooth and relatively flat glide motion while maintaining an appropriate height between the seat and floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Assignee: La-Z-Boy Incorporated
    Inventors: Larry P. LaPointe, Jonathan R. Saul, Richard E. Marshall
  • Patent number: 5657586
    Abstract: A method for supporting a tombstone, including the steps of boring a hole into the ground which extends to the vault. A polystyrene column is placed into the hole so that it is supported by the top surface of the vault. A rigid platform is attached to the top of the post to provide a platform on which the tombstone is set. The apparatus according to the invention includes the polystyrene column and a rigid platform made from extruded polystyrene foam insulation. The platform is attached to the post by galvanized nails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1997
    Assignee: All Mighty Building Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Otto Bezler, Joseph D'Alto
  • Patent number: 5593118
    Abstract: A furniture frame, especially a table frame, that includes a support having upright support parts. Intermediate link members are pivotably connected to the support parts. A carrier member is provided that carries a panel and has carrier parts that are pivotally connected to the intermediate link members. The carrier member is movable between a lower position of use and an upper position of use in which the support parts, the intermediate link members, and the carrier parts extend upwardly and together with the panel enclose a free space. At least one connecting member is provided and has a center portion as well as end portions that are pivotably connected to the intermediate link members at pivot locations. The end portions extend upwardly from these pivot locations, and the center portion in the upper position of use, extends at least substantially in a region beyond the free space when viewed in the direction of the pivot axes of the furniture frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Assignee: Robert Krause GmbH & Co. KG Zweigniederlassung Weilheim/Teck
    Inventor: Karl Kneile
  • Patent number: 5509631
    Abstract: A motion platform that is displaceable along three axes includes first, second and third carriage assemblies. There is an apparatus connected to each of said carriage assemblies for linearly displacing each of the carriages along a single planar axis. Therefore, the first carriage assembly is linearly displaceable along a first plane, the second carriage assembly is linearly displaceable along a second plane that intersects the first plane, and the third carriage assembly is linearly displaceable along a third plane that intersects at least one of the first and second planes. Each of the carriage assemblies is comprised of a circumferential array of frame members that define a substantially planar parallelogram configuration having a substantially open central portion, with the carriage assemblies being arranged in a nested array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1996
    Assignee: Ridefilm Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas De Salvo
  • Patent number: 5485763
    Abstract: This device provides tailored motion of one object relative to a second object. The device consists of mechanical linkages which change length as a function of pivot angle. The linkages consist of simple pivot arms and pivot points. The pivot arm lengths and pivot point positions are selected to provide a chosen path of relative motion for the objects connected by the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1996
    Inventor: Cary Pincus
  • Patent number: 5427433
    Abstract: A highly compact, stable mechanism for enabling a chair to perform rocking and gliding movements, and optionally swiveling movement, includes a channel-shaped frame mounting member mounted to a chair frame, and an inverted channel-shaped base mounting member mounted on a base. The mounting members are interconnected by one pair of front and one pair of rear swing arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1995
    Assignee: Parma Corporation
    Inventor: Raymond E. Holobaugh, Jr.