Biased Latch Patents (Class 248/408)
  • Patent number: 11878615
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a method of manufacturing a headrest stay formed end. The method includes cutting teeth on the insertion end of a headrest stay and pressing the teeth inwardly to form a chamfered endform on the insertion end. A headrest stay having a chamfered endform comprising a plurality of curved teeth is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2024
    Assignee: Innotec, Corp.
    Inventors: Hassan Salim Rabe, Micah Lane Schreur, Ryan Scott Hoek
  • Patent number: 11668112
    Abstract: Disclosed is a tent that includes at least three telescopic stand columns. Each telescopic stand column has an inner tube and an outer tube sleevedly connected to each other, and a lock mechanism fixing the inner tube and the outer tube together. The inner tube has an open end portion inserted to the outer tube, and at least one side wall of the open end portion is opened with a strip-shaped opening. The lock mechanism has a tensioning component providing a tension to expand the open end portion outward along a direction perpendicular to a length direction of the inner tube, and a matching assembly fixed to the open end portion to fit with the tensioning component. Operation holes corresponding to the tensioning component are provided on side walls of the inner tube and outer tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2023
    Assignee: WEIZI E-COMMERCE (SHANGHAI) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Shengyong Yang, Jing Bian
  • Patent number: 11234513
    Abstract: A fixing device for a cabinet, and the cabinet with such fixing device, hold vulnerable components steadily in place at all times. The cabinet includes a door panel, internal components, and at least one fixing device. The door panel defines at least one locking hole and supports at least one component. Each fixing device includes a telescopic portion and an operation portion and each telescopic portion is aligned with one locking hole. The operation portion is rotatable one way to extend the telescopic portion to abut and hold the component in place, and rotatable in the reverse direction to unlock and release the component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2022
    Assignee: HONGFUJIN PRECISION ELECTRONICS (TIANJIN) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Ti-An Tsai, Hung-Liang Chung, Hsueh-Chin Lu
  • Patent number: 11166561
    Abstract: A locking positioning pin assembly comprising a shaft extending between opposing first and second ends, a nut threadably engaged with the shaft and rotatable to thread along the shaft between a closed position relatively closer to the first end of the shaft and an open position relatively closer to the second end of the shaft, a knob having a plunger, the knob rotatable about the shaft to cause rotation of the nut. When the nut is in the open position, the knob is translatable to allow the plunger to move between a disengaged position and an engaged position. When the nut is in the closed position, the plunger is in an engaged position and is prevented from translating relative to the nut and the shaft due to abutment of the knob with one or more features of the nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2021
    Assignee: Allsalt Maritime Corporation
    Inventors: Daniel Bennett Charboneau, Mark Leighton Foster, Daryl Peter Peereboom, Ryan David Lee
  • Patent number: 11148571
    Abstract: A vehicle seating assembly includes a seat, a seatback, and a lower leg support. The seat includes a forward end and a rearward end. The seatback is pivotably coupled to the seat. The lower leg support includes an interior surface and an exterior surface. The lower leg support is rotatably coupled to the forward end of the seat and is movable between a stowed position and a deployed position. The stowed position of the lower leg support places the lower leg support in an area below the seat. The stowed position of the lower leg support forms an acute angle with the seat. A linkage assembly is coupled to an underside of the seat and the interior of the lower leg support. The linkage assembly is responsible for transitioning the lower leg support between the stowed position and the deployed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2021
    Assignee: Ford Global Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Johnathan Andrew Line, Carol Diane Casey, Spencer Robert Hoernke, Jimmy Moua, Brian Boland, Sean Bayle West, Kevin Wayne Preuss, Keith Allen Godin
  • Patent number: 10702431
    Abstract: A keyed and indexed tube and a taper lock system are suitable for use with a wheelchair, especially a pediatric wheelchair, which may require frequent adjustments during the growth of the occupant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2020
    Assignee: Ki Mobility
    Inventors: Thomas J. Whelan, Alan Nicholas Ludovici
  • Patent number: 10604032
    Abstract: A seating assembly includes an anchor that has a post that is surrounded by a main body. The post extends above and below the main body and terminates in an upper head and a lower head. The post surrounds a locking pin that can be actuated within the post. An electrical connector extends outward from the anchor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2020
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Alan George Dry, Marcos Silva Kondrad, Kevin Wayne Preuss, Johnathan Andrew Line
  • Patent number: 10206509
    Abstract: The present invention aims to adjust the height of a musical instrument chair, including an upright rod seat, a pressing plate, a return spring, and an upright rod, wherein the upright rod seat comprises an up-to-down through receiving space and a side opening horizontally communicated with the receiving space; the pressing plate is disposed at the side opening and pivoted to the upright rod seat; the return spring is disposed between the pressing plate and the upright rod seat; and the musical instrument chair is disposed at an upper end of the upright rod, and the upright rod penetrates into the receiving space from up to down, and is provided with a plurality of height-different fastening slots in which the pressing plate is fastened at the normal position so as to fix the upright rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Inventor: Tsun-Chi Liao
  • Patent number: 10099590
    Abstract: A headrest support structure includes: a support member configured to support a protruding member projecting from a headrest; a bracket provided in a seatback and having an accommodation chamber in which the support member is accommodated in a tiltable manner in a front-rear direction perpendicular to a width direction of the headrest; a spring provided in the accommodation chamber and deforming in a bending manner due to tilting of the support member relative to the bracket in the front-rear direction; and a projection portion projecting, in the front-rear direction, from one of an outer surface of the support member and an inner surface of the bracket which are opposed to each other. The projection portion is provided at a position different from the spring in a regulation direction perpendicular to both the front-rear direction and the width direction of the headrest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2018
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Gen Takahashi, Hideyuki Kato, Hideki Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 10022858
    Abstract: A mechanic's chair with a movable tray includes a support and a seat pad disposed on the support. The tray is disposed below the seat pad and can be pulled to move and engageably fixed in place such that the distance by which the tray is pulled depends on a user's need for accessing the tray for a tool, and the tray is moved and fixed in place efficiently by an engagement mechanism composed of a lever disposed beside the tray and rails disposed on the support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2018
    Assignee: HIEVER CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Tony Huang
  • Patent number: 9895005
    Abstract: A support device for children includes a base assembly comprising a frame, and a plurality of interchangeable support assemblies configured for removable attachment to the base assembly. The base assembly includes a first coupling element and each of the interchangeable support assemblies include a second coupling element for cooperative engagement with the first coupling element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2018
    Assignee: KIDS II, INC.
    Inventor: Cesar Corral Castilla
  • Patent number: 9888776
    Abstract: A seating/reclining furniture comprising a seat part, a backrest part, and a cantilever support structure. A foot support device is provided which comprises a support frame and a first and a second foot support portion, and the first foot support portion is pivotally mounted on the support frame and can be adjusted between a storage position and a working position. The second foot support portion can be adjusted linearly relative to the first foot support portion between a retracted position and an extended position. The foot support device comprises a working device which causes the first foot support portion to be pivoted relative to the support frame by means of a first fitting and the second foot support portion to be moved relative to the first foot support portion by means of a second fitting independently of a change of the relative position of the backrest and the seat part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: HIMOLLA POLSTERMOBEL GMBH
    Inventor: Robert Brandhuber
  • Patent number: 9884573
    Abstract: A headrest supporting structure is provided with a lower spring and an upper spring, which are located at different positions in the vertical direction of a seat. The structure elastically supports a headrest stay with the springs. When a stopper section, which changes the position in the front-back direction in accordance with pivoting of the headrest, comes into contact with a support bracket, further pivoting of the headrest is restricted. The stiffness of the upper spring located relatively distant from the stopper section in the seat vertical direction is higher than that of the lower spring located closer to the stopper section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Gen Takahashi
  • Patent number: 9730523
    Abstract: A bed frame which can be assembled without the use of additional tools and may be collapsed for shipping. The bed frame comprises a pair of side rails, three cross rail assemblies and mounting brackets. Each of the cross rail assemblies is adjustable in length and comprises multiple movable members. Each cross rail member has a projection which fits inside a cavity of a leg assembly secured to one of the side rails. To disassemble the bed frame, the cross rail assemblies may be removed from the side rails without any tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Assignee: L&P Property Management Company
    Inventors: Robert A. Bartelsmeyer, John J. Case, Philip E. Herrin
  • Patent number: 9725046
    Abstract: A height adjustable load carrier rack for a vehicle including a base member and an upright leg is disclosed. The base member can be mountable on a vehicle. The upright leg can be configured to be variously coupled to the base member at discrete locations along a length of the upright leg. Additionally, the upright leg can have a demarcated portion including a plurality of position labels, each label can signify individual ones of a plurality of discrete position settings of the upright leg relative to the base member. The base member can be configured to alternately engage with each of the plurality of the discrete locations along the length of the upright leg for height setting the load carrier rack in dependence upon user-selection among the position labels of the demarcated portion of the upright leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: Thule Sweden AB
    Inventor: Steven Robert Perry
  • Patent number: 9622622
    Abstract: A juvenile tub is configured to support an infant during bath time. The tub is foldable to assume a compact shape for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Assignee: Dorel Juvenile Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian C Sundberg, Joseph D Langley, Jorge Tomas
  • Patent number: 9603451
    Abstract: An armrest device for a chair includes a lower support rod that rises at a side of a chair seat and has a tubular upper end portion; and an upper support cylinder that has an armrest provided in an upper end thereof, is externally fitted to the lower support rod so as to be slidable in an up-down direction, and has a plurality of engaging portions therein. The armrest is made height-adjustable with respect to the lower support rod by disposing the locking member and a biasing member at an upper end portion of the lower support rod and providing the rotating rod inside the lower support rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: OKAMURA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hiroshi Masunaga, Yuuichirou Takagi, Youichirou Oda, Alexander Hurford
  • Patent number: 9499081
    Abstract: A seat assembly having a seat back that may include a cross member that is mounted to a side frame member. The cross member may have a support post opening, a collar, and a spacer band. The spacer band may be disposed in the support post opening between the collar and the headrest support post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Matthias Zimmermann, Karsten Mueller, Timo Schroeder, Inko Eberhardt, Vaibhav Tonge
  • Patent number: 9499224
    Abstract: A bicycle seatpost assembly comprises a first cylinder, a second cylinder, and a positioning structure. The second cylinder is configured to be telescopically received in the first cylinder. The positioning structure is configured to relatively position the first cylinder and the second cylinder. The positioning structure is configured to switch a state of the bicycle seatpost assembly among a first adjustable state and a second adjustable state. In the first adjustable state, a positional relationship between the first cylinder and the second cylinder is continuously adjustable within a first adjustable position range. In the second adjustable state, the positional relationship between the first cylinder and the second cylinder is continuously adjustable within a second adjustable position range different from the first adjustable position range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Assignee: SHIMANO INC.
    Inventor: Toyoto Shirai
  • Patent number: 9453590
    Abstract: A method of installing a pipe mounted to a stanchion, which has three parallel vertical beams for guiding an adjustable pipe holder mounted to a center and two outer beams, and securing the pipe holder to the stanchion via a spring loaded U-channel inserted into the spaces between the two outer beams and the central beam via a tab and a set of intermeshing teeth on the U-channel, and affixing the pipe to the adjustable mount at a fixed dimension between the pipe mount and the plane surface. When two or more stanchions and associated pipe mounts are used to insert a pipe, the distance between the pipe mounts and the mounting surface create a pitch of the pipe in the direction of the sink and away from the source of a liquid insuring the proper rate of gravitational flow of the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2016
    Assignee: The MidSunGroup, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Allendorf, John Poplawski
  • Patent number: 9144909
    Abstract: A robot quick-release assembly has a first joint member and a robot component mounted thereon, the first joint member has a first coupler and a second joint member, a robot arm mounted thereon, has a second coupler, a clamp, and a locking collar. The first coupler can be coaxially aligned with the second coupler and pressed into the second joint member, and detachably connected to the second joint member. The first mechanical coupler is detachably connected to the second mechanical coupler for transferring power across the quick-release assembly. The robot component can receive an additional electrical connector, the additional electrical connector supplying power to the robot component. The quick-release assembly coupling assembly further exerts large forces with the application of a relatively small torque to the locking collar by applying a two stage wedge engagement and can further include a sequencing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Assignee: RE2, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark DeLouis, Jorgen Pedersen, Jesse Easudes, Keith Gunnett, John Culbertson, Timothy Davison
  • Patent number: 8944390
    Abstract: A connection mechanism is configured in particular for the connection of armrests to cosmetic tables or cosmetic chairs. The mechanism includes a base element (1). The base element (1) has a fastening section (1a) for fastening to a piece of furniture, in particular a piece of furniture for sitting or reclining. The base element also has a fastening element (2) configured for attachment to a part to be connected to the piece of furniture, in particular an armrest. The fastening element (2) is configured for a detachable connection to the fastening section (1a). The fastening section (1a) has a receiving device (1b) for receiving a region (2b) of the fastening element (2). A securing device (3) is provided that engages in the receiving device (1b) in the region (2b) of the fastening element (2) when said fastening element is received therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Soleni Classic GmbH
    Inventors: Manuel Deerberg, Tom Orlitz
  • Patent number: 8702046
    Abstract: A telescoping mount includes an outer member, an inner member at least partially received in the outer member such that one member is movable relative to the other member between an extended position and a retracted position, a platform coupled to one of the outer and inner members for supporting a device, and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is operable to substantially lock the position of the outer and inner members relative to one another in a plurality of non-predefined positions between the extended position and the retracted position. The locking mechanism is movable manually by a user to an unlocked position allowing adjustment of the mount between the extended and retracted positions, and the locking mechanism is movable automatically, upon release of the locking mechanism by the user, to a locked position in which the outer and inner members are substantially prevented from moving relative to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: L&P Property Management Company
    Inventor: Jeramie Cooper
  • Patent number: 8579242
    Abstract: An elevating mechanism for a projection apparatus includes a bottom cover, a resetting element having a first elastic member, a sliding mount, a screw stud sleeve, a screw stud, and a second elastic member. The sliding mount is disposed on a first side of the bottom cover and leans against the resetting element, and the sliding mount has an opening, at least one slot and a thread structure. The screw stud sleeve has a plurality of engaging teeth engaging within the slot. The screw stud has a thread structure and the thread structure of the screw stud meshes with the thread structure of the sliding mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Coretronic Corporation
    Inventors: Chien-Chang Huang, Fan-Chieh Chang
  • Patent number: 8485488
    Abstract: An adjustable leg for a device includes first and second legs telescopically received relative to one another. The second leg has multiple adjustment holes. An externally located lever is supported relative to the first leg. The lever cooperates with a detent received in one of the adjustment holes in a latched position in which the first and second legs are fixed relative to one another. The lever includes an area spaced from the detent that is rotatable about a pivot from the latch position to an unlatched position in which the detent is disposed outside one of the adjustment holes. In the unlatched position, movement of the first and second legs in an axial direction relative to one another is permitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Liberty Hardware Mfg. Corp.
    Inventors: Earl David Forrest, Andrew James Graff
  • Patent number: 8418974
    Abstract: A mounting assembly for mounting a piece of equipment, such as a power distribution unit to a rack. The mounting assembly includes a mounting bracket attached to the rack, a mounting plate attached to the equipment and a hinge assembly connecting the mounting plate to the first end of the mounting bracket while an attachment mechanism connects the mounting plate to the mounting bracket. A method of accessing the interior of the rack is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Chris F Felcman, Gary S. Landrum, Brandon W Fears, Wolfram A Rudiger
  • Patent number: 8348072
    Abstract: A tension-mounted pole caddy for mounting between two substantially parallel surfaces is disclosed. The pole device generally includes a first tubular body, a second tubular body, a toothed rack, a locking pawl, and a base-mounted lever for operation of the locking pawl. Preferably, the first tubular body includes a base end for contacting a surface and a telescoping end, while the second tubular body has a base end for contacting a second surface and a telescoping end coupled with the telescoping end of the first body. The toothed rack is affixed within the first body portion proximate the telescoping end, with the locking pawl within the second body and capable of movement to engage and disengage the toothed rack. The lever is coupled to the locking pawl via linkage, such that operation of the lever between a first and second position actuates the locking pawl to engage and disengage, respectively, from the toothed rack, wherein the lever is positioned at the base end of the second tubular body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Helen of Troy Limited
    Inventors: Richard Whitehall, Jonathan Cedar, Alec Drummond
  • Patent number: 7980519
    Abstract: A telescopic adjustable positioning device comprises an outer sleeve; a telescopic tube receiving into the outer sleeve at one end thereof and having a plurality of positioning holes; a retaining seat being a hollow tube and enclosing a connection of the outer sleeve and the telescopic tube; one side of the retaining seat being formed with a receiving portion; a slot being formed in the receiving portion; and a bottom side of the slot having a through hole which is smaller than the slot; a pin capable of passing through the retaining seat and the outer sleeve to be retained to the positioning hole of the telescopic tube; and an operation unit assembled to the receiving portion of the retaining seat. The pin is received in the slot and the through hole; and two springs are attached to the pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Inventor: Chao-Ken Chen
  • Patent number: 7967259
    Abstract: An extension device includes the first tubular member, the second tubular member movably inserted into the first tubular member, and the third tubular member movably inserted into the second tubular member and a regulating device that regulates movement of the third tubular member with respect to the second tubular member. The regulating device includes a regulating member protruding from the inner hole portion to the outside of the third tubular member band is brought in the outer hole portion, and a pressing member for pressing the regulating member in the protruding direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Velbon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Koichiro Nakatani
  • Publication number: 20100258701
    Abstract: An adjustable user support apparatus for exercise equipment has a lever driven adjustable user support which can be unlocked, adjusted to a user desired adjustment location and locked in the desired location. The preferred embodiment has a user support attached to an elongate member having a longitudinal central axis situated along a line of desired adjustment, a structure capable of holding the elongate member in alignment with the central axis, the structure allowing the elongate member to move only in a slideable fashion along the central axis, lever means for driving the elongate member in a slideable fashion along the central axis, and means for locking said elongate member in a user selectable position, wherein lever means and means for locking can be operated simultaneously with one hand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2009
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Inventor: Glenn Foreman
  • Patent number: 7771325
    Abstract: A unique structure for an indoor exercise bike that provides strength in its design, as well as the flexibility to create an aesthetically appealing frame structure. The monocoque frame design, including two symmetrical halves joined together, forms a very strong, light shell that can take on a variety of shapes and sizes. The seat structure, handlebar structure, drive train and support platforms are all able to be readily attached to the primary frame structure to provide an exercise bicycle that is sturdy, easy to manufacture, and light enough to easily move when necessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.
    Inventor: William A. Baker
  • Patent number: 7708251
    Abstract: The present invention is a seat height adjustment mechanism for exercise equipment having a seat. Examples of such exercise equipment include: stationary exercise bicycles; road or mountain type bicycles; resistance strength training supporting racks or platforms (e.g., preacher curl benches, military or shoulder press racks, etc.) for use with free weights; and resistance strength training machines that employ as resistance weight plates, deflectable members, elastic bands, springs, hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic cylinders, etc. The mechanism comprises a member, a telescopic member, and an engagement member. The member extends upwardly and includes a rack. The telescopic member includes a first end telescopically received in the member and a seat end. The engagement member is coupled to the telescopic member and adapted to engage the rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan B. Watt, Jonathan Harrach-Salazar, Mark N. Holtan
  • Patent number: 7703737
    Abstract: A pole mounting system includes a pole having at least one channel, and a spike having a finger configured to be received in the channel of the pole. The finger is attached to a neck that is configured to extend out of the channel and connect to a connector. The connector may be configured in a number of different ways depending on the particular type of device to be suspended on the pole. For example, the connector may be configured to connect to different types of arms that may be used to hold a flat panel display, or may be configured to hold other things such as a table. The finger is elongate and configured to engage the interior of the channel when the weight of the flat panel display is placed on the spike. Optionally, a spring-loaded pin may be provided to temporarily hold the spike in place while the spike is screwed into place in the channel through the use of set screws. Wire management may be provided within the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Bretford Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Petrick, Robert Coon, Clifford Krapfl, Jimmy-Quang Viet Doan, John B. Freese, Bjorn Gunderson
  • Patent number: 7694930
    Abstract: Apparatus for operation of a vehicle seat swivel or rotation mechanism are disclosed. A disclosed apparatus includes a cable assembly having a first end and a second end. The first end of the cable assembly is configured to be operatively coupled to a rotation mechanism of a vehicle seat. A release member is operatively coupled to the second end of the cable assembly so that the rotation mechanism is urged toward a locked condition in the absence of a force being applied to the release member by a person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Allen Ritter, Bobby Leo Woodward
  • Publication number: 20100012810
    Abstract: A flat panel display (FPD) support has a panel bracket attached to an FPD and a supporting assembly attached to and supporting the panel bracket and the FPD. The supporting assembly comprises a pivoting leg, an adjustment bracket, a stationary bracket and a lock. The adjustment bracket is pivotally and slidably connected to the pivoting leg. The lock selectively engages the adjustment bracket. The stationary bracket holds the lock to prevent the lock from sliding relative to the panel bracket. Therefore, a visual angle of the FPD relative to a plane can be easily adjusted by the supporting assembly and held by the lock. The FPD with the FPD support is light, simple and portable and can be conveniently packaged for sale or transportation and does not occupy a large area when in use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventor: Chi-Lung Hu
  • Patent number: 7624534
    Abstract: A flexible strand is wound around a pole of adjustable height into a plant supporting helix forming a plurality of loops connected to the pole by quick-release fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Inventor: Pierre Maeder
  • Publication number: 20090256047
    Abstract: An exemplary support stand for a flat-panel display monitor, includes a base member, an elevating mechanism, and a rotatable mechanism. The elevating mechanism includes a support member and an elevating member. The support member is fixed on the base member. The elevating member is slidably connected to the support member. The rotatable mechanism includes a rotatable body. The rotatable body is rotatably positioned on the elevating member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2008
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD ., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: CHENG-HE ZHAO, ZHI-GUO SUN, ZHI-BIN LIU
  • Patent number: 7552900
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for regulating a height of a music rack capable of improving convenience and operability of a use by allowing a strut length of the music rack to be regulated conveniently and easily while simplifying its structure to improve manufacturability and assemblability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Inventor: Kuk-Won Yoon
  • Patent number: 7458554
    Abstract: A portable sign assembly is provided and includes a sign assembly that is selectively interconnected with a base assembly. The sign assembly includes a vertical brace extending therefrom that is in sliding engagement with an upright of the base assembly. A sign release mechanism is further provided and is disposed on the upright for releasably securing the sign and base assemblies. The release mechanism includes a lock-pin that is slidably disposed through the upright and is biased in a first position by a spring member disposed within the upright. The lock-pin selectively engages the vertical brace for prohibiting sliding motion between the vertical brace and the upright.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Marketing Displays, Inc.
    Inventors: Yevgeniy M Levin, David U Hillstrom
  • Patent number: 7422224
    Abstract: An adjustable-height bicycle seat post assembly comprises a hollow seat post for supporting a bicycle seat slidably on plastic guides or shims inside a hollow tube. The hollow tube clamps into the frame of a bicycle. A mainspring forces the post upward, but a locking mechanism interconnects the post with the tube in various fixed positions relative to the tube. The locking mechanism includes a housing, which supports a plunger for reciprocating movement into and out of engagement with holes on the post. The locking mechanism is affixed to the outside of the tube to bear shearing forces on the plunger. An endcap on the locking mechanism and a topcap on the tube protect the assembly from foreign debris. The locking mechanism may be manipulated remotely using a magnetic switch assembly or manually using a mechanical assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: Kimir Seatpost
    Inventors: Wayne Sicz, Arlen Wisseman
  • Patent number: 7410135
    Abstract: By providing a hand holdable, reusable, holding system which enables users to insert any small diameter, shaft supporting pyrotechnic device, such as a sparkler, into an aperture and be assured that the shaft of the pyrotechnic device is securely locked to the holding system for protecting the individual from harm, an easily constructed, easily used holding system is attained which is capable of enabling any elongated, small diameter wire or shaft to be quickly inserted into the holding system and securely lockingly engaged therewith. In this way, the pyrotechnic material which is adhered to the upper portion of the elongated shaft or wire is easily held by the user in a safe and effective manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Inventors: Mark Dibble, Robert Budnik, Eric Wider
  • Publication number: 20080099651
    Abstract: A support device is provided including first and second telescopic members, the distal end or ends of the members engaging with a suitable surface in use. Locking means are provided on the first and/or second members to lock the members in a required relative position. The locking means includes a locking portion movably mounted on the first and/or second members and actuating means. The actuating means move the locking portion between a first unlocked position, wherein the locking portion is movable relative to the first and/or second members, and a second locked position, wherein the locking portion engages with the first and/or second members to lock the members in the required relative position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2007
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Inventor: Peter Hewson
  • Patent number: 7363666
    Abstract: A cross member that can be used with a bed frame or bed rails to provide support for a box spring and mattress. The cross member is attachable to the side rail of the bed by a snap-in system where the ends of the cross member are comprised of slide ends that interfit into receptacles located along the side rails. A leg is used to support a bed frame member that is self adjusting by a mechanism that can be unlocked by a person to drop the leg downwardly by gravity to contact the floor and is then lockable in that extended length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: Finger Lakes Intellectual Property, LLC
    Inventors: Richard S. Polevoy, Howard Scott Ryan, Paul Eric Carlson
  • Patent number: 7364533
    Abstract: A unique structure for an indoor exercise bike that provides strength in its design, as well as the flexibility to create an aesthetically appealing frame structure. The monocoque frame design, including two symmetrical halves joined together, forms a very strong, light shell that can take on a variety of shapes and sizes. The seat structure, handlebar structure, drive train and support platforms are all able to be readily attached to the primary frame structure to provide an exercise bicycle that is sturdy, easy to manufacture, and light enough to easily move when necessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.
    Inventor: William A. Baker
  • Patent number: 7344117
    Abstract: An adjustable lift support apparatus includes a base, a sleeve attached onto the base, at least one meshing device, a shaft, and a support attached at the shaft. At least one groove is formed on an inner surface of the sleeve along a first axial direction. Each meshing device corresponds to one of the at least one groove and includes a flexible protrusion. The shaft is inserted into the sleeve. At least one rack is provided on an outer surface of the shaft along a second axial direction, such that the flexible protrusion of the meshing device is meshed between two neighboring teeth of the at least one rack. The support is lifted or lowered by an external force to make each of the at least one rack move with respect to the flexible protrusion of the corresponding meshing device, so as to adjust the height of the support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: Benq Corporation
    Inventor: Wei-Shin She
  • Patent number: 7280348
    Abstract: In one embodiment, the invention provides a pen-based computing system. The system comprises a tablet unit including a display screen and an electronic assembly housed within an enclosure; and a separate base unit including two panels connected via a hinge, a first one of the panels bearing a keyboard, and a second one of the panels being arcuately displaceable relative to the first panel to prop the tablet unit in a viewing position in which the display screen makes a viewing angle with the keyboard of greater than 90 degrees, wherein the tablet unit and the first panel have complementary formations to prevent sliding movement of the tablet unit relative to the first panel when in the viewing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventor: Prosenjit Ghosh
  • Patent number: 7104203
    Abstract: A height adjustable device is received in the inner tube which is retractably inserted in an outer tube, and includes a base which is fixed in the inner tube and two stop plates are pivotably connected of the base. Two respective first ends of the two stop plates extend through apertures defined through the inner tube and are in contact with two respective insides of the outer tube so as to position the inner tube. A member is movably connected to the base and includes a driving portion for pivoting two respective second ends of the two stop plates. A cable is connected between the movable member and a pivotable member fixed to the inner tube. The pivotable member is pivoted to pull the cable and the two stop plates are pivoted inward so that the inner tube can be freely moved in the outer tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Inventor: Chiu-Hsiang Lo
  • Patent number: 7086631
    Abstract: A telescoping stand with a quick-release locking mechanism for binding and releasing a telescoping section including an inner extension member that telescopes into and out of an outer receiving member. The locking mechanism includes a pair of opposed actuator members, each with a hole through it and disposed so that the inner extension member of a telescoping pair passes through the holes. When the actuator members are generally perpendicular to the extension member, the extension member slides freely through the holes. In the normal configuration the actuator members are biased so that each is canted with respect to the extension member and so that the two actuator members are canted in opposed directions. In this configuration the actuator members provide a double binding frictional engagement with the extension member to hold it in fixed relation with respect to its associated receiving member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: EML Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Wade Lee, You De Zhong
  • Patent number: 7025522
    Abstract: An adjustable height bicycle seat post assembly comprises a hollow seat post for supporting a bicycle seat slidably supported on plastic shims inside a hollow tube. The hollow tube clamps into the frame of a bicycle. A main spring forces the post upward, but a locking mechanism interconnects the post with the tube in various fixed positions relative to the tube. The locking mechanism includes a foundation and a projection extending from the foundation having a counterbore for guiding a plunger into holes on the post. The locking mechanism adheres to the outside of the tube to bear shearing forces on the plunger. An endcap on the locking mechanism and a top cap on the tube protect the assembly from foreign debris. The locking mechanism may be manipulated remotely using a magnetic switch assembly or manually using a manual assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Inventors: Wayne Sicz, Arlen Wisseman
  • Patent number: 6857378
    Abstract: A table has an adjustable support wherein the ratchet mechanism that locks the position of the tray with respect to the base may be moved to the unlocked position with the user's leg while the tray of the table is held by the user's hands. The table may also have a locking detent that extends entirely across the width of the support leg attached to the tray of the table to provide a strong, secure, and stable support when the table is used with heavy objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: Randolph Tool Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick L. Franze, Donald L. Franze, Russ Goodman