Foldable Patents (Class 248/472)
  • Patent number: 11319681
    Abstract: A bollard system may include a bollard, a carrier device having a recess adapted to carry the bollard in a stowed configuration, and a pivot rod fixedly secured to the bollard and received by a pivot carrier of the carrier device. The bollard may be adapted to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the pivot rod between a deployed configuration and the stowed configuration. The bollard system may also include a lock plate adapted to be received by the carrier device to maintain the bollard in the deployed configuration. The bollard system may further include a cover plate carried by the carrier device and adapted to cover at least a portion of the recess of the carrier device in both the stowed configuration and the deployed configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Assignee: 8-Koi, Inc.
    Inventor: Otto Edward Herrera
  • Patent number: 11317526
    Abstract: An electronic device and a display thereof are provided. The electronic device includes a display and a supporting device. The display includes a display panel, a back cover, and a connecting member. The back cover is disposed on the display panel, and includes an inner surface, an outer surface opposite to the inner surface, and a mounting hole penetrating the inner surface and the outer surface. The inner surface faces the display panel. The mounting hole is disposed on a central region of the back cover. The connecting member is disposed on the inner surface at a position corresponding to the mounting hole, and includes a screw hole. The supporting device includes a detachable fixer connected to the screw hole. Thus, it is convenient for a user to connect the display to different supporting devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2022
    Assignee: ASUSTEK COMPUTER INC.
    Inventors: Kai-Chieh Hsu, Chih-Wei Chuang, Yu-Chiao Chang, Tsung-Ju Chiang, Szu-Han Lai, Yaw-Huei Chiou
  • Patent number: 10406992
    Abstract: A male and female mounting assembly include a female fastener body, a male fastener body, a locking mechanism, and a release button to secure electronic devices or any other apparatus to a flat surface. The female fastener body that independently functions as an ornamental body and the male fastener body that is connected to a device are operatively coupled to each other through the locking mechanism that is positioned within the female fastener body. The release button is operatively coupled with the locking mechanism so that the release button can separate the male fastener body and the female fastener body from each other by applying pressure to the release button. Resultantly, the female fastener body and the male fastener body collectively function as a mounting assembly to secure a device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Inventor: Leo Green
  • Patent number: 9004438
    Abstract: A display stand includes a base, a leg and a bracket. The bracket is mounted to a backside of the base and includes a bridge for receiving the at least one portion of the leg. The bridge includes a first detent and a second detent. The portion of the leg that is received by the bridge is movable into a first position or a second position. A different portion of the leg mates with the first detent to support the display stand at a first viewing angle when the leg is rotated while in the first position. Yet another portion of the leg mates with the second detent to support the display stand at a second viewing angle that is different from the first viewing angle when the leg is rotated while in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Target Brands, Inc.
    Inventor: Kent D. Katterheinrich
  • Patent number: 8695939
    Abstract: A display device includes a body, a supporting member and a fastening member. The body has an accommodating portion, and the supporting member assembled to the accommodating portion for supporting the body is in the first state or the second state. The supporting member in the first state is switched to the second state when pivoting in an angle. The fastening member is detachably assembled to a first position or a second position of the supporting member, such that the supporting member is fastened to the accommodating portion of the body by the fastening member. The fastening member is assembled to the first position of the supporting member when the supporting member assembled to the accommodating portion is in the first state, and the fastening member is assembled to the second position of the supporting member when the supporting member assembled to the accommodating portion is in the second state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Au Optronics Corporation
    Inventors: Yin-Ting Lee, Chun-Yuan Chen
  • Patent number: 8393749
    Abstract: A free-standing and adjustable tri-fold mirror preferably includes a tri-fold mirror having first, second and third reflective surfaces, a mounting bracket statically attached to a rear side of the tri-fold mirror, a swivel device pivotally mated to the mounting bracket, a stand attached to the swivel device and extending away from the tri-fold mirror, and a base member attached to a bottom end of the stand. Advantageously, the tri-fold mirror is freely pivotal along an x-axis and a y-axis while the stand remains stationary and further while the tri-fold mirror is freely adjusted between folded and unfolded positions respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Inventor: Andrea Daicos
  • Patent number: 8047499
    Abstract: A support stand assembly includes a base, a stopper, a guiding member, a connecting member, a supporting member, and a resilient member. The guiding member, the connecting member, and the supporting member are movably disposed on the base. The resilient member is disposed between the guiding member and the base. The stopper is rotatable disposed in the base. The guiding member is engaged with the stopper. The connecting member abuts the guiding member. The supporting member is pivotally connected with the connecting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hai-Yang Yu, Er-Zheng Zhao, Hong-Wei Zhu
  • Patent number: 7907312
    Abstract: A rotation of an original cover and a hinge member in a vertical setting state of an image reading apparatus is locked by a simple operation. A locking mechanism which fixes the hinge member to the image reading apparatus is provided. The locking mechanism is fixed in a state in which the image reading apparatus has vertically been set by using its side surface on the hinge side as a setting surface and its fixture is released in a state in which the other surface is used as a setting surface. The locking mechanism has a construction in which a movable lock member provided in the hinge engages with the lock receptacle of the image reading apparatus upon vertical setting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Atsushi Miyahara
  • Patent number: 7850132
    Abstract: A supporting mechanism for an electronic device includes a connecting bracket configured to connect to the electronic device and a supporting bracket connected to the connecting bracket and configured to support the electronic device. The supporting bracket includes a supporting portion having a receiving space, a locating member received in the receiving space, a supporting plate, and a resilient sliding member engaged in the locating member. A sliding slot is defined in the locating member. The resilient sliding member is secured on the supporting plate through the sliding slot. The resilient sliding member is compressed to disengage from the locating member, and slide in the sliding slot with the supporting plate relative to the locating member and the supporting portion along an extending direction of the supporting portion to change a length of the supporting bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yun-Lung Chen, Bang-Chun Ding, Gang Su
  • Publication number: 20100084538
    Abstract: A support assembly for a digital photo frame is provided. The support assembly comprises a base member, a pivot member, a support arm, a positioning structure, and a an elastic member. The base member comprises two side walls spaced from each other. The support arm comprises a connection end disposed between the two side walls and is rotatably attached to the base member via the pivot member. The connection end comprises a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other. The pivot member is attached across the two side walls. The positioning structure is disposed on the first surface and the side wall opposite the first surface and comprises a projection portion and at least two concave portions. The projection portion is capable of being received in the at least two concave portions, the two concave portions intersect to form an edge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (SHENZHEN) CO., LTD., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: MING LI, CHI-HSIE FONG, KUN-CHIH HSIEH
  • Publication number: 20100038515
    Abstract: A support stand assembly includes a base, a stopper, a guiding member, a connecting member, a supporting member, and a resilient member. The guiding member, the connecting member, and the supporting member are movably disposed on the base. The resilient member is disposed between the guiding member and the base. The stopper is rotatable disposed in the base. The guiding member is engaged with the stopper. The connecting member abuts the guiding member. The supporting member is pivotally connected with the connecting member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen)Co., LTD., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hai-Yang Yu, Er-Zheng Zhao, Hong-Wei Zhu
  • Patent number: 7518768
    Abstract: A support structure which can hold an image reading apparatus in a vertically placed condition is provided. On a bottom portion of an apparatus main body 1 in such a horizontally placed condition that a document table glass 2 is installed nearly horizontally, a storage portion 1c for storing the support structure is provided, and support structures 31, 32, 33 are released from the storage portion and get into around the side of a document cover 6 and a hinge 7, from the bottom portion, and holds the apparatus main body 1 in a vertically placed condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Naho Kurokawa, Tsuyoshi Yamauchi, Naofumi Sekine
  • Patent number: 7484326
    Abstract: A display apparatus (1) includes: a plate-like display apparatus main body (2); a leg portion (3) whose upper end is rotatably connected to a rear surface (6) of the display apparatus main body (2) and whose lower end is opened to thereby support the rear surface (6) of the display apparatus main body (2); and an urging mechanism (9) arranged between the display apparatus main body (2) and the leg portion (3) and urging the leg portion (3) so as to open the leg portion (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: King Jim Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Junya Tamura, Tatsuya Haneda
  • Patent number: 7467773
    Abstract: A support structure for a display device includes a base member fixed to a rear surface of the display device, a support member which is fixed pivotably to the base member and supports the display device in a supporting position in an opened state where the display device is inclined at a predetermined angle and capable of being stored in a closed state, a holding member fixed to the base member including a regulation portion that regulates rotation of the support member beyond the supporting position, a pressure member that presses an end portion of the support member, and a compression coiled spring that urges the pressure member toward the support member. The pressure member includes a protruded portion having a triangular cross section, and inclined surfaces contacting with the support member while pressing the end portion when the support member rotates from the closed state to the opened state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: Funai Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masuo Ogawa, Katsuhiko Makino
  • Patent number: 7467488
    Abstract: A device for displaying photographs or other similar flat items comprising a first panel, a second panel connected to the first panel, first and second flap segments connected to bottom edges of the first and second panels, respectively, and a third and fourth panel connected to left and right side edges of the first and second panels, wherein all panel connections are along fold lines. A sloping cut disposed on each of the first and second panels is designed to create a ā€œVā€ shaped slit in the middle of the device. A hole disposed at the midpoint of the slit accommodates a single point hanging means. Two holes disposed at the extreme ends of the slit accommodate a line hanging means. A folded state is achieved by folding the device along the fold lines and by maintaining suitable angles for the panels and flap segments. In both the folded and unfolded condition, adhesive on the third and fourth panels is used to secure the device on to the back of a photograph or other similar flat item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Inventor: Tony Lee
  • Patent number: 7434938
    Abstract: A display device has a screen, a housing, a mirror, and a projector. The housing extending away from one side of the screen and has an opening. The mirror is disposed within the housing. The projector is moveable relative to the housing to selectively engage the opening for projection at the mirror and to extend away from a second side of the screen for projection onto a surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Robert M. Schneider, Daniel R. Dwyer, James R. Cole, James P. Dickie
  • Publication number: 20080191114
    Abstract: The invention concerns a support (100) for presenting a visual object designed to receive a visual object and maintain same in a desired position and/or at a desired distance relative to a background, said support extending generally along a support surface and comprising at least one fixing lug (102, 103, 104, 105), the fixing lug having at least one locating mark (132-135, 142-145) designed to indicate a folding line of the lug (102-105), such that the lug can be arranged in a first storage position wherein the lug is not folded and extends along the support surface or in a so-called extended second position wherein the lug is folded along the folding line(s) and extends projecting relative to the support surface to maintain the object in predetermined positions and/or at predetermined distances relative to the background.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2005
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Inventor: Tulga Yesilaltay
  • Patent number: 7320526
    Abstract: A portable wide-view mirror apparatus that allows a driver to see the rear half of the right blind-side of a trailer and right-side obstacles during a right blind-side backing maneuver. Generally, a notebook-like design wherein the mirror opens up from the attached base for use. The mirror is placed on the passenger side of the dashboard inside the passenger compartment of the vehicle, is positioned by the driver at the beginning of the backing maneuver to provide a wide rearward view out the passenger side window, and is adjusted when necessary by the driver during the backing maneuver. The mirror is folded down when not in use. The portable mirror is especially useful to the commercial truck driver as an aid in the right blind-side backing maneuver of a semi-tractor trailer. In the event the driver changes trucks, the driver retains the portable mirror for use in the new truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2008
    Inventors: Louis Nickence, Donald Gokey, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6962421
    Abstract: A folding full length mirror and carry apparatus includes a foldable reflective surface support assembly which includes support panels connected together with panel-interconnection hinges. A non-folded reflective surface assembly is supported by the foldable reflective surface support assembly. Preferably, a handle is connected to the foldable reflective surface support assembly. A shoulder strap can be connected to the foldable reflective surface support assembly. Preferably, a folded condition locking assembly is connected to the foldable reflective surface support assembly for retaining the apparatus in a folded up, carrying condition. With one embodiment of the invention, the non-folded reflective surface assembly includes panel-mounted non-folded reflective surfaces mounted one side of each of the respective support panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Inventor: Peter Yang
  • Patent number: 6773123
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided that allows drivers of motor vehicles to see the face of infants or children sitting in rear facing car seats in the rear of the car. A foldable “L”-has approximately the same width as a conventional infant car seat. The bottom portion of the “L” is secured under the car seat by friction and weight. The other portion of the “L” extends up the back of the automobile seat, and is provided with a reflective surface such that a child in a rear facing car seat will look directly into it. The top portion is an adjustable viewing mirror with which the driver will be able to see the child. The angle between the two “L” sections is adjustable to compensate for seat design and viewing angle. The frame around the reflective plastic mirror section can be decorated with an appropriate child pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Inventor: Pamela R. Hatchett
  • Patent number: 6682198
    Abstract: A circular mirror has a frame with peripheral groove and a peripherally mounted gooseneck which is dimensioned to be wrapped around the periphery of the frame and received in the groove. According to the invention, the gooseneck is long enough so that it can be used to support the mirror in a variety of ways. For example, the gooseneck can be extended its full length with its end bent into a hook and then hung from a door. The gooseneck can also be bent into a semi-circle or similar configuration to be used as a table top stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Ingenious Designs LLC
    Inventor: Joy Mangano
  • Publication number: 20030019997
    Abstract: A hinge assembly for adjustably connecting a picture frame strut to a picture frame back includes a mounting plate having length and a width. A first fastener, such as rosettes, are provided on the mounting plate for affixing it to the picture frame back. A hinge member includes a first plate that is slidably connected to the mounting plate. A second plate is rotatably connected to the first plate. A second fastener, such as rosettes, are provided on the second plate to affix a picture frame strut thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2001
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventor: Armand E. Roy
  • Patent number: 6322222
    Abstract: A pair of folding orthogonal mirrors is disclosed, including first and second plates, each provided on a face thereof with a surface mirror; hinges, attached to the first and second plates to movably join the two together, so that the plates are movable from an unfolded position, in which the surface mirrors on each of the plates are arranged orthogonally, to a folded position, in which the surface mirrors on each of the plates face one another. The pair of folding orthogonal mirrors is provided with a magnet assembly, attached to the first and second plates, for maintaining the plates in the unfolded position by magnetic attraction; and include means for adjusting the angle between the surface mirrors in the unfolded position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Inventor: Shigeki Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 6276808
    Abstract: A mirror assembly for use on an automotive vehicle comprises a support base or fixedly mounting the mirror assembly to the vehicle. The mirror assembly further includes an upper and lower support arm, each extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end. A collar having an upper chamber and a lower chamber is fixedly secured to the first ends of the support arms and pivotally coupled to the support base for pivoting the support arms about a generally vertical axis between an operative position extending laterally from the vehicle and a folded position pivoted adjacent and generally parallel to the vehicle. A housing is slidably coupled to the second ends of the support arms and slidable therealong between a retracted position adjacent the first ends and an extended position adjacent the second ends. A mirror pane is operatively coupled to the housing for providing an adjustable reflective view from the mirror assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Assignee: Magna Mirror Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Keith D. Foote, Ian Boddy
  • Patent number: 6003260
    Abstract: A photograph frame assembly includes a rectangular photograph frame, a rectangular back plate secured to the photograph frame, and a supporting member which is retained on the back plate by a retainer. The retainer extends through the back plate to couple with the supporting member, thereby retaining the supporting member on the back plate in such a manner that the supporting member can rotate freely on the back plate. The supporting member supports the back plate in an inclined position, and can be folded on the back plate. Preferably, the supporting member includes a plate body having a horizontal bottom side and a coupling upper end portion, a unitary plastic fixed element fixed on the coupling upper end portion, and a unitary plastic movable element mounted movably on the fixed element. The movable element is coupled with the retainer, and is rotatable synchronously with the retainer on the back plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: Fanthing Electrical Corp.
    Inventor: Tung-Ming Chang
  • Patent number: 5950969
    Abstract: A frame for supporting a sign comprises three members which are interconnectable in such a way as to form a three-sided figure with one side forming a base and at least one of the other sides forming a mounting for the sign, each member being in the form of a hoop of tubular section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: British Gas plc
    Inventors: Robert Neal Bennett, Anthony Dennis Elgar, Brian Thomas Sales
  • Patent number: 5927676
    Abstract: A foldable light reflector apparatus having a panel with a reflecting surface and a pivotally support base frame support. In one embodiment the reflecting surface resembles an arrow pointing a motorist in one direction. End frame members engage holes in the panel's perimeter flange to support the panel in an upright position. By selecting engaging the end frame members with different flange holes and turning the panel upside down, the direction the reflecting arrow points can be reversed. To collapse the two part frame into the panel and its surrounding flange, only the frame member with its end in the bottom flange hole need be disengaged as the other two frame ends pivot in their respective side holed mounts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Inventor: Sheldon Lefton
  • Patent number: 5792010
    Abstract: A basketball net clip for a breakaway net attachment system that detachably mounts a basketball net to the rim of a basketball goal at predetermined locations along the rim. The net clips are resilient and include a base portion attachable to the rim and a retainer portion for detachably retaining the net in association with the rim. The rim preferably includes a plurality of studs located along an undersurface thereof for engaging within apertures formed in the clips whereby the clips are retained in engagement with the rim. In one embodiment, the clips are provided with fingers for retaining the net wherein the fingers will release the net in response to a predetermined force being applied to the net. In a further embodiment, the clip is adapted to be pulled off of the rim when a predetermined force is applied to the net.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Assignee: Huffy Corporation
    Inventors: David A. Allen, Ronald A. White, Joseph K. Bohrman, James N. Fitzsimmons
  • Patent number: 5371924
    Abstract: A hinge for use with a picture frame and a set-up base, includes first and second hinge leaves, each hinge leaf having claws, the claws of the first hinge leaf for fastening the first hinge leaf to a picture frame and the claws of the second hinge leaf for fastening the second hinge leaf to a set-up base. A hinge joint is disposed at first ends of the hinge leaves, configured of knuckles through which a hinge wire passes for connecting the first and second hinge leaves to one another. A connecting web is movably articulated to the first hinge leaf at an end edge of the first hinge leaf opposite the hinge joint. When the hinge is in an opened position, the connecting web is arranged at an angle to the first hinge leaf and is supported on the second hinge leaf. When the hinge is in a closed position, the connecting web is pivoted into a position essentially parallel to the first hinge leaf.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1994
    Assignee: Schmale GmbH & Co. KG.
    Inventor: Karl E. Schmale
  • Patent number: 5359461
    Abstract: A portable cosmetic mirror which includes a stand that may be adjusted to various heights for allowing a user to accurately position the mirror such that both hands may be utilized for cosmetic application, hairstyling, or the like. Alternate embodiments of the apparatus further include a hair dryer holding assembly for positioning a hair dryer for hands-free use with the mirror and a magnification assembly in which a magnifying lens is removably positioned upon the mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 25, 1994
    Inventors: Virginia Rice, Maybelle I. Gailas
  • Patent number: 5301068
    Abstract: A mirror in aid of a user of an ostomy appliance by holding it between the users' legs whether the user is lying down, sitting, or reclining, and utilizing a post between the users legs, a base for the post, under the legs, and an extension on the post holding a mirror, all parts being detachable and capable of being carried in a kit, pocket or handbag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1994
    Assignee: Brenda E. Minisci
    Inventor: Vincent L. Minisci
  • Patent number: 5270871
    Abstract: The present invention provides for an athletic skill practice mirror which is light weight and relatively portable. The mirror can have an alignment image whereby a participant can stand in front of the practice mirror and compare his reflective image with that of the alignment image to detect and correct improper body alignment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1993
    Inventor: Raymond J. Florian
  • Patent number: 5211791
    Abstract: A stand for displaying photographs includes a photograph (12) bonded to laminate sheets (22, 24) on both the pictorial face (16) and rear surface (18) and a support strip (14) fabricated from cellulose fiber material. The opposite end portions (36, 38) of the strip (14) are adhesively attached to the laminated rear surface (18) adjacent to the photograph (12) lower edge (20). A moment arm (50) is located between the end portions (36, 38). The moment arm (50) extends outwardly from the photograph (12), to an intermediate fold line (48) located midway between the end portions (36, 38) to form an inverted "V" shape which extends from the end portions (36, 38) to an apex point (58) at the intermediate fold line (48). In the upright position, the lower edge (20) of the photograph (12) and the apex point (58) rest upon a support surface (62) in a rearwardly inclined display position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1993
    Assignee: Saxon, Incorporated
    Inventors: Scott D. Best, James F. Turner
  • Patent number: 5124857
    Abstract: A support tube including inter-folded legs is readily mounted upon a support surface, with a telescoping rod received within the tube. The upper terminal end of the rod includes a socket connection mounting rotatably therewithin a convex mirror for positioning rearwardly of a vehicle to permit an operator to visually observe operation of tail light assemblies of the vehicle. A modification of the invention includes signal alert apparatus removably mounted to the rod for use as an alert device during maintenance of vehicular light assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1992
    Inventor: Francis G. Pitz
  • Patent number: 5098056
    Abstract: A dual position support arrangement for a decorative plaque or other associated object includes a support bracket which can be attached to a rearwardly facing surface of the article, and a support loop movably connected to the support bracket. The support loop is movable between a first lower position, wherein the article can be supported in a generally upright position, and a second upper position wherein the article can be supported by hanging from the support loop. The support loop includes at least one locking element which cooperates with the support bracket for releasably retaining the support loop in either of its upper or lower positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1992
    Assignee: The Norman Rockwell Gallery, Limited
    Inventors: Andrew L. Alger, Ray Zinn
  • Patent number: 5093748
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a portable water resistent rotating mirror device which may be conveniently affixed to a bathroom wall or placed on a counter surface and which prevents the accumulation of moisture on a rotating mirror in a high moisture environment such as hot showers or saunas. The device comprises a water resistent housing having a generally hollow interior for containing a battery-powered motor which can be activated with a water resistent control switch mounted on a front portion of the water resistent housing. The motor is directly connected to the mirror so that actuation of the motor in turn rotates the mirror at high angular velocities. Attached to the back of the water resistent housing is a suction cup which can be affixed to a vertical wall by compressing the device against the wall. In addition, a pivotal bracket is connected to the lower, rear portion of the water resistent housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1992
    Assignee: Higdon Mirror Corporation
    Inventor: Joel W. Higdon
  • Patent number: 5092555
    Abstract: A stand for displaying photographs includes a photograph (12) bonded to laminate sheets (22, 24) on both the pictorial face (16) and rear surface (18) and a support strip (14) fabricated from cellulose fiber material. The opposite end portions (36, 38) of the strip (14) are adhesively attached to the laminated rear surface (18) adjacent to the photograph (12) lower edge (20). A moment arm (50) is located between the end portions (36, 38). The moment arm (50) extends outwardly from the photograph (12), to an intermediate fold line (48) located midway between the end portions (36, 38) to form an inverted "V" shape which extends from the end portions (36, 38) to an apex point (58) at the intermediate fold line (48). In the upright position, the lower edge (20) of the photograph (12) and the apex point (58) rest upon a support surface (62) in a rearwardly inclined display position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1992
    Assignee: Saxon Incorporated
    Inventors: Scott D. Best, James F. Turner
  • Patent number: 5029784
    Abstract: A display stand has a base having a front and a rear, and a back support extending up from the rear of the base. Stops are provided at the front of the base. Means are provided for bracing the base and the back, in conjunction with an object, to form a stable triangulated structure. The bracing comprises a frictional finish on the stand for gripping an object and a horizontal support surface, with resilient stiffening elements between the base and the back and between the stops and the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1991
    Inventor: Michael Blahout
  • Patent number: 4875302
    Abstract: The present invention provides a collapsible sign apparatus that is readily portable and usable for temporary applications, wherein the apparatus is formed with a pair of hinged leg-support frame members which are adjustable controlled from a folded mode to a fully extended mode by means of a slidable frame member having guide members that movably engage the hinged leg-support frames. A stretchable elastic fabric is secured at its opposite ends to each respective leg-support frame member, the intermediate portion of the fabric being mounted for engagement with the slidable perpendicular frame member, whereby the elastic stretching of the fabric will bias the support frame members to a sustantially secure open position by placing an outward and upward force on the respective leg-support frame members. When in a folded position, the fabric is forced upwardly, thus preventing the leg-support frame members from moving to an open position, unless forced to do so against the fabric's spring-like tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1989
    Inventor: Alfred A. Noffsinger
  • Patent number: 4794712
    Abstract: A portable display device for displaying educational material or student's work comprising a plurality of panels, each panel separated from the next adjacent panel by a score line to permit relative movement between adjacent panels, each panel comprising a base portion including a first and second corrugated substantially rigid section separated by a substantially rigid member and a writing surface adhered to the outer surface of the first corrugated substantially rigid section, the score line formed between adjacent panels extending entirely through the second corrugated substantially rigid section and a portion of the first corrugated substantially rigid section such that adjacent panels may be folded relative to each other for storage and transport or extended relative to each other for display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1989
    Assignee: Showboard, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald L. Wood
  • Patent number: 4610417
    Abstract: The desk of the folding music holder with a support part and a rest running approximately transversely to it consists of at least two folding hinged portions, in particular rest parts, which hang together through hinge bands. Each hinge band is preferably designed as material thin point in the area of a groove between the hinged portions. The rest or the entire desk can thus be formed as a one-piece plastic part, where the rest in the operating position provides a flush work surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1984
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1986
    Inventor: Dietmar Kuss
  • Patent number: 4509712
    Abstract: An easel for display objects such as pictures and placards is formed by two flexible tabs hinged at the back of the display object and adapted to be locked in crossed relation in order to support the display object in an upward position.Cardboard and plastics are preferred flexible materials for making the novel easel. A flexible sheet can be die-cut to produce the two tabs that remain hinged to the sheet. The easel, with or without a picture frame, can also be produced by injection molding of a plastic.The easel tabs can be locked in adjustably crossed relation to vary the tilt of the upwardly held display object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1983
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1985
    Inventor: Carl Moller
  • Patent number: 4397526
    Abstract: A foldable mirror has a peripheral two-piece frame with an offset supporting leg and a pair of oppositely disposed hinges connecting the pieces together. The frame includes stacked channels forming an E in cross-section with the hinges at the center end of the E so the frame folds book-like to form a compact small structure. When folded, the stacked channels form a single enclosed large channel that preferably extends completely across the frame. A non-glass single flexible sheet of reflecting mirror material is secured in the frame between the hinges with the hinges centerline in the same plane as the reflective surface. The arrangement is such that, on folding, the mirror forms a tear drop fold disposed and protected in the large channel across the back of the mirror to prevent permanent mirror distortion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1981
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1983
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Gary E. Van Deursen
  • Patent number: 4371077
    Abstract: A jewelry display device includes a frame, a support for the frame and a plate pivotally carried on the frame for movement about an essentially horizontal axis. The plate carries, on one side thereof, an outline shape simulating at least the head and a part of the upper body of a human being and on the reverse side carries a reflective surface or mirror. The outline shape is capable of having pieces of jewelry displayed in a realistic environment so as to assist a potential purchaser in evaluating the desirability of the jewelry. A modified form of the invention includes a display pad to which the basic display unit just described is pivotally attached so that the display unit per se can be moved from a stored position to an elevated display position. In this form of the invention, the frame support is pivotally mounted to the supporting base or display pad and the frame is then pivotally mounted itself so that it can swing out for display purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1981
    Date of Patent: February 1, 1983
    Inventors: Samuel G. Solitt, Jerry Shaw
  • Patent number: 4269382
    Abstract: A mirror assembly which frees the user's hands and allows viewing the back of the head while using two hands for hair styling purposes, has a mirror attached to a frame with three legs, connected by hinges which allows the frame to close flat for storing against wall. Frame is of such a height as to allow the mirror to free stand in middle of the floor, thus freeing both hands for styling back of hair. The mirror is vertically adjustable on the frame which has a number of spaced holes for hanging the mirror by means of bolt heads extending out from the mirror's frame. The free standing back viewing hair styling mirror is designed to stand alone in the center of the hair dressing area and provides a large angle view of the back of a lady's head with plenty of arm room for styling movement using two hands. The mobility of this assembly enables the person using it to move the mirror from left right-angle viewing to right right-angle viewing easily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1979
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1981
    Inventor: Blanche E. Coulson
  • Patent number: 4268121
    Abstract: Dual-use mirror apparatus comprising a pair of upright rectangular frames with reflecting mirror surfaces on the front sides. The mirror frames are pivotally connected at their top and bottom edges to the ends of telescopic rods. A free-standing model has both frames supported on caster wheels. The apparatus may be unfolded to an open position in which the frames are spaced apart a distance permitted by extension of the rods. In this open position, the reflecting mirror surfaces diverge forwardly and outwardly to provide side and partial rear views of a user. Alternatively, the apparatus may be folded into a compact, closed position, one frame lying over the other with the front frame facing forwardly for use as a single, direct-viewing, front-on single mirror. A modified form shows one mirror frame supported on a vertical member such as a door or wall and the other mirror frame supported on caster wheels for movement between open and closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1980
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1981
    Inventor: Samuel Peskin
  • Patent number: 4146308
    Abstract: A mirror construction having two separate mirrors and a frame assembly. The frame assembly serves to support the mirrors in an upright use position such that one may optically view oneself simultaneously in the two mirrors. The construction is furthermore foldable to a storage position wherein the frame assembly and the mirrors substantially nest with each other to present a substantially flat configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 1978
    Date of Patent: March 27, 1979
    Assignee: Trina, Inc.
    Inventor: Elihu Cohen
  • Patent number: 4004850
    Abstract: A portable mirror for use in hunting includes a tripod base having individually adjustable legs for adapting to various terrain configurations. A central vertical post is mounted on the tripod and supports a pair of articulating mirrors. The mirrors are individually rotatably adjustable about their own longitudinal axes as well as pivotally adjustable about the longitudinal axis of the post. The mirrors are vertically slidable along the post relative to the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1975
    Date of Patent: January 25, 1977
    Inventor: Arlan L. Nelson