With Linearly Sliding Movement Patents (Class 248/480)
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Patent number: 12185852Abstract: A self-closing and locking device for hanging objects on a mounting surface is disclosed. The device includes a mounting bracket and a locking arm member translatably engaged with an elongated track portion of the mounting bracket. The track portion comprises a pair of guide portions defining a slot therebetween, and rear recesses in a back side of the guide portions. The rear recesses comprise lower locking portions, and upper rotating portions that are deeper than the locking portions. The arm member comprises a base portion that is positioned within the rear recesses, and an arm portion that extends from the base portion and through the slot. The device is configured such that the arm member is oriented in a closed position when the base portion is engaged with the locking portions, and orientable in an open position when the base portion is engaged with the rotating portions.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2023Date of Patent: January 7, 2025Inventor: Ryan Richman
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Patent number: 11692574Abstract: A fastener system shifting shear stresses away from a collet body and provides clamping action to targeted structures. The fastener system includes feet in the collet body that mate with openings in a sleeve at least partially surrounding the collet body. The sleeve or the collet body includes interior threads that engage with a stud that is configured to extend through the collet body and bend the feet such that they project outward from the sleeve openings in an engaged configuration.Type: GrantFiled: November 11, 2020Date of Patent: July 4, 2023Assignee: Centrix Inc.Inventor: Travis McClure
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Patent number: 11383645Abstract: A vehicular exterior rearview mirror assembly includes a mirror head having a mirror casing and a mirror reflective element, a support structure configured for attachment at a side of a vehicle, with the mirror head adjustably mounted at the support structure. The support structure extends laterally from the side of the vehicle. An adjustment mechanism is disposed at the end of the support structure. The adjustment mechanism is movably received at the mirror head and includes a rotatably driven gear that engages a toothed track of a mirror head bracket. Rotation of the gear causes translational movement of the mirror head bracket and the mirror head relative to the support structure to adjust the mirror head position relative to the support structure between a retracted position and an extended position.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2020Date of Patent: July 12, 2022Assignee: MAGNA MIRRORS OF AMERICA, INC.Inventor: Matthew V. Steffes
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Patent number: 11173842Abstract: A rearview assembly includes a housing. A connector is configured to be secured to a button inside a vehicle. The connector includes a mount connecting feature with a plurality of distinct connection locations. A mount includes a proximal end operably coupled with the housing and a distal end including a location feature configured to engage one of the plurality of distinct connection locations.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2019Date of Patent: November 16, 2021Assignee: GENTEX CORPORATIONInventor: Eric S. Lundy
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Patent number: 10759345Abstract: An external rear view device for a motor vehicle includes a fixed base assembly provided for arrangement on the motor vehicle and a moveable head assembly attached to the base assembly via an articulation assembly. The rear view device may include a camera located within the base assembly or within the head assembly. The rear view device may include a cassette bezel that tilts and closes the rear view device. The rear view device may also include a fixed frame which supports downward load that is applied to the mirror and the articulation assembly of the mirror, and the articulation assembly may be configured to adjust the rear view device between an outboard drive condition, a standard drive condition, a park condition, and positions therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2017Date of Patent: September 1, 2020Assignee: SMR Patents S.à.r.l.Inventors: Andrew Lettis, Graham Rehill, Callum Scott-Collins
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Patent number: 10627201Abstract: The present disclosure discloses a ranging system comprising a signal transmitter, a signal receiver, a ranging wheel, an electronic counter, an angle sensor and a data processing module integrated within a same device. The present disclosure also discloses a ranging system comprising a ranging device and a terminal device in communication with the ranging device, the ranging device comprises a signal transmitter, a signal receiver, a ranging wheel and an electronic counter, the terminal device comprising a data processing module. The ranging device or the terminal device also includes an angle sensor therein. The data processing module displays the received laser ranging information, or generates, in real-time, the travel trajectory of the ranging wheel based on distance information of the electronic counter and angle information of the angle sensor and draws the travel trajectory.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2016Date of Patent: April 21, 2020Assignee: NORTHWEST INSTRUMENT INC.Inventors: Xin Shi, David Xing
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Patent number: 10582769Abstract: A system that includes a cabinet and an accessory that is capable of being stored within a storage compartment of the cabinet. The cabinet may include a mirrored door having a ferromagnetic element. The accessory may include another ferromagnetic element. The accessory may be mounted to the door by magnetic attraction between the ferromagnetic elements. When the accessory is within the cabinet, it may be mounted to a charger so as to charge a power source of the accessory. In some embodiments, the accessory may be automatically transitioned into an active state when it is detected that the accessory is mounted to the door. The accessory may include a user-operated actuator that has a first functionality when the accessory is mounted to the door and a second functionality when the accessory is not mounted to the door.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2016Date of Patent: March 10, 2020Assignee: ROBERN, INC.Inventors: James L. Stanley, Jr., Howard Katz, Marwan Estiban, James A. DeHope, Travis Andren
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Patent number: 10369931Abstract: A quick release mechanism for a pole mounted mirror has a base for receiving a pole. The base attaches to a mirror. The base carries a knob that when tightened, clamps the pole against the mirror.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2015Date of Patent: August 6, 2019Inventor: Michael Ferman
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Patent number: 10166637Abstract: A method and device for location of pipes is disclosed. The method can comprise mounting one or more centering tools, each having a reflector to a first pipe such that the reflectors are either aligned with, or can be used to determine the location of the center of the first pipe and mounting one or more centering tools, each having a reflector to a second pipe such that the reflectors are either aligned with, or can be used to determine the location of the center of the second pipe. The method can further comprise determining a first distance between the center of the first pipe and a light emitting source at an observation point disposed between the first pipe and the second pipe and determining a second distance between the center of the second pipe and the light emitting source at the observation point.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2018Date of Patent: January 1, 2019Assignee: Data Point Targets LLCInventor: Toby Flaucher
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Patent number: 9969333Abstract: An extendable mirror assembly configured to be coupled to a vehicle includes a drive assembly, a mirror moveable between a retracted position and an extended position, and a support arm including a first end opposite a second end. The second end of the support arm is coupled to the mirror and a flange is coupled to the first end of the support arm. A support body is coupled to the support arm by the flange and is configured to translate along an axis in response to actuation of the drive assembly to move the mirror between the retracted position and the extended position.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2017Date of Patent: May 15, 2018Assignee: DEERE & COMPANYInventors: Jacob E. Ervin, Kevin T. McCulloch, Shawn M Bartz, James A. Newhouse
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Patent number: 9796334Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle includes a mirror head having a mirror casing and a mirror reflective element. A mounting arm is configured for attachment at a side of the vehicle, with the mirror head adjustably mounted at the mounting arm. An adjustment mechanism adjusts the mirror head position relative to the mounting arm between a retracted position and an extended position. The adjustment mechanism, when adjusting the mirror head position, also adjusts a mirror head angle relative to the side of the vehicle. When the mirror head is in the retracted position, a mirror head surface is at a first plane, while, when the mirror head is in the extended position, the mirror head surface is at a second plane. The mirror head surface is angled more towards the side of the vehicle when in the second plane than when in the first plane.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2015Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: MAGNA MIRRORS OF AMERICA, INC.Inventors: Kenneth C. Peterson, Matthew V. Steffes
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Patent number: 9644819Abstract: A flashlight may include a housing supporting a light source, a lens, a parabolic reflector and an energy source operatively connected to the light source. An adjustable light beam reflector may be mounted on the housing to intersect/deflect all or a portion of the collimated light rays projected by the flashlight. The adjustable reflector may be movably mounted on the housing for manipulation by a user to produce a wide range of light beam shapes or patterns forward of and/or generally lateral relative to the forward end of the flashlight.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2014Date of Patent: May 9, 2017Inventor: Joseph D Maresh
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Patent number: 9618662Abstract: A forward viewing device allows a cyclist having a head down position to view a scene forward of a bicycle. The device includes a prism fixed to a support which is connected to the bicycle forward of the cyclist. An image of the scene is transmitted through a forward facing surface of the prism, reflected internally by at least two surfaces of the prism, and transmitted to the cyclist through a prism surface as an image which is not mirrored left to right or turned upside down. In an embodiment, multiple prisms are positioned with adjacent ends, to increase the horizontal field of view. In another embodiment, multiple prisms are offset vertically, to increase the vertical field of view. In another embodiment, the device has a single optical element and does not require alignment.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2016Date of Patent: April 11, 2017Inventor: Carl Francis Panek
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Patent number: 9545154Abstract: A shelf assembly includes a shelf and a mounting structure for mounting the shelf on a substantially vertical surface. The shelf is pivotably mounted on the mounting bracket proximate the rear end and pivots from an open position to a closed position and from the closed position to the open position. An engagement structure on the shelf, which may optionally be positioned proximate the rear end of the shelf, is configured so that a force applied to the engagement structure when the shelf is in the closed position will urge the shelf toward the open position. The shelf assembly is particularly useful in hospital settings where hospital staff need to open and close the shelf without the use of their hands.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2014Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: ERGO-INDUSTRIAL SEATING SYSTEMS INC.Inventor: Aaron Duke
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Patent number: 9322654Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relates to a laser tracker for determining the position of an auxiliary measuring instrument that has a retroreflector and a multiplicity of target markings, and also for continuously tracking the auxiliary measuring instrument. The target markings may be arranged in a known fixed spatial distribution on the auxiliary measuring instrument and may be embodied to emit or reflect light beams. The laser tracker may have a first radiation source for producing measurement radiation, a distance measuring module, and a target sensing unit for determining an impingement point for radiation reflected by the retroreflector on a sensor of the target sensing unit and for producing an output signal in order to control a fine targeting functionality and a target tracking functionality.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2014Date of Patent: April 26, 2016Assignee: LEICA GEOSYSTEMS AGInventor: Burkhard Böckem
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Patent number: 9316346Abstract: A mounting system for pivotally mounting a load such as display device to a support arm including a device mounting element for supporting a display, a hoop element defined by a portion of the circumference of a circle, and a support arm mount slidable along relative to, and rotatable about relative to, the hoop. A support system for supporting a load such as a display device includes a mount for a load, a base element and a support arm coupling the mount and base element at, respectively, distal and proximal portions of the support arm, and pivotally connected to at least the base element.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2011Date of Patent: April 19, 2016Assignee: Colebrook Bosson Saunders (Products) LimitedInventors: Alex Lau, Andrew Wills
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Patent number: 9299019Abstract: A method for improving a data collection process is provided. The method comprises: (A) providing at least one Data Generation device, whereas each Data Generation device is configured to obtain a set of data; (B) attaching an ID tag to at least one Data Generation device; whereas each ID tag includes an externally readable code; and (C) employing a Data Collection device having an ID tag reader configured to identify at least one Data Generation device by reading the externally readable code corresponding to its ID tag; whereas the Data Collection device is located within the pre-determined range from the Data Generation device; and whereas the Data Generation device is configured to transmit a set of data to the Data Collection device.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2012Date of Patent: March 29, 2016Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventor: Matthew John Rasmussen
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Patent number: 9180925Abstract: A novel mirror adapter mount for mounting between a handlebar mirror mount and a mirror normally secured thereto. According to one embodiment, the mirror adapter mount having a substantially rigid bracket with a first and second spaced-apart apertures each structured to receive a threaded shaft of the mirror, a threaded coupler having a shaft having a threaded portion thereof that is sized to be received through the first aperture in the bracket; a first securing means for securing the threaded portion of the shaft of the coupler to the handlebar mirror mount with a portion of the bracket secured there between; and a second securing means for securing the threaded shaft of the mirror to the second aperture of the bracket.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2009Date of Patent: November 10, 2015Inventor: Jeffrey D. Carnevali
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Patent number: 9074721Abstract: A support arm system for a load such as a display device. The system includes a support arm (4) rotatable at its proximal end about a mid-joint axis X?, monitor supporting head (5) at the distal end of the support arm (4) has an internal slider element and compression spring, and an arrangement of links and pivots which create a torque to oppose the torque created by a load on the head (5) and keep a monitor plate (6) in the same viewing plane relative to the vertical as the arm (4) moves through its range of movement.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2011Date of Patent: July 7, 2015Inventors: Alex Lau, Andrew Wills
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Patent number: 8864094Abstract: A mirror mount that mounts a mirror to a fender of a vehicle includes a base member having a first end generally vertical when the base member is affixed to a fender and arranged to receive a fastener passing through the first end, through the fender, and into the base member so as to fasten the base member to the fender, a second end, a side portion extending between the first end and the second end and having a contour that follows an exterior profile of the fender, and a reinforcement reinforcing the first end.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2013Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Assignee: Velvac, IncorporatedInventors: Thomas L. Roberts, Jeffery R. Porter
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Patent number: 8746917Abstract: A fan base and illuminated mirror apparatus for use in cooling a user's neck and torso while the user is positioned adjacent the apparatus includes a base member having upper and lower portions. A fan member is pivotally coupled to the base member and selectively movable between upward and downward directed configurations. A length adjustable rod is coupled to the upper portion of the base member and extending upwardly therefrom, the rod being selectively movable between expanded and retracted configurations. A mirror is operatively coupled to an upper end of the rod such that the mirror is vertically displaced from the fan member, the mirror being movable between straight and tilted configurations. The apparatus includes a light coupled to the mirror and electrically connected to a power source, the light configured to illuminate the mirror when energized.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2012Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Inventor: Barbara D. Zimmerman
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Patent number: 8690113Abstract: An adjustable affixation point apparatus comprising an anchor means for providing secure engagement with a wall; a fastener adapted to releasably engage the anchor means and to retain an extension arm between the head and the wall; the extension arm having a channel adapted to slidingly receive the fastener; at least one engagement means for enhancing the frictional contact among the members; a hanger attached to the distal end providing an affixation point which can be mounted into a wall near a desired location, then a sliding and rotational action of the extension arm relative to the allows a user to adjust the hangar to any point within a 360 degree radius and extending outwardly to any point along the length of the arm and to fix the hanger in a desired location.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2013Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Inventors: Jurgen Wright, Shannon Wright, Scott King, Corey King
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Patent number: 8672286Abstract: An adjustable wall hanger includes (1) an elongated bracket with a front surface including markings and a rear surface including serrations, (2) mounting members near each end of the elongated bracket, (3) an elongated slot, (4) a hook assembly including a hook member secured by a hook fastener, including a hook portion distal from a clamp portion including a planar section, jaws, and a cam, and the hook fastener includes a base with a post, serrated teeth, and lugs extending from the post, the post including detents between the base and lugs, wherein closed configuration includes the hook member against the front surface to lock the hook assembly in position, and open configuration includes the planar surface against the front surface so that the hook assembly is movable, and the lugs fit within the jaws to secure the hook member to the fastener and to the elongated bracket.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2012Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Inventors: Laura Darré, Kathryn Pisciotta
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Publication number: 20140061425Abstract: A display system includes a base member, a rear support member which is connected to one end of the base member in an upward and downward direction, a display device, a support unit which is disposed on an upper portion of the rear support member, and supports the display device such that the display device is movable in position and changeable in position in at least two axial directions, a sound output device which is disposed on the display device and the rear support member, and a control device which controls operations of the support unit, the sound output device and the display device. A bed, a mattress, a bedding covering or the like is provided on the base member such that a user can watch a screen of the display device in a posture where the user has lain above the base member.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 6, 2013Publication date: March 6, 2014Inventor: Shik Eoh
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Patent number: 8517331Abstract: A mirror mount includes a one-piece molecularly continuous base member and a mirror arm. The mirror arm fastens a mirror to the base member. The base member may also have first and second ends, a side portion, and a reinforcement. The side portion extends between the first and second ends. The first end is generally vertical when the base member is affixed to a fender, and the first end receives a generally horizontal fastener that passes through the first end, through two portions of the fender, and into the base member so as to fasten the base member to the fender. The side portion has a contour that generally follows a profile of the fender. The reinforcement reinforces the first end.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2010Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Velvac IncorporatedInventors: Thomas L. Roberts, Jeffery R. Porter
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Publication number: 20110240822Abstract: A sliding support assembly includes a sliding rail assembly and an attachment. The sliding rail assembly includes a fixed member, a sliding arm, and a hinge. The hinge has a positioning extension and a second portion, wherein the second portion is pivotally engaged to the positioning extension. The positioning extension is slidably engaged to the fixed member. The sliding rail assembly has a non-pivoted state and a pivoted state, wherein in the non-pivoted state the second portion is positioned substantially parallel to the fixed member, and in the pivoted state the second portion defines an angle with the fixed member. The attachment is engaged to at least a portion of the second portion and in the pivoted state is positioned a desired distance beyond the exterior edge of the partition.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2010Publication date: October 6, 2011Applicant: SIDELINES, INC.Inventor: Charles A. Costa
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Patent number: 7856693Abstract: A self-cleaning exterior mirror for trucks and like vehicles includes a rigid mounting bracket provided with axially opposed first and second ends respectively, and monolithically formed first, second, and third sections respectively. A plurality of coupling plates is integrally attached to the first and second ends of the bracket. The coupling plates are attached to the exterior of the existing vehicle for supporting the bracket above a ground surface. A substantially rectangular shaped frame is pivotally connected to the third section of the bracket, and a mirror is attached to the frame. A mechanism remotely cleans the mirror, and is attached to the frame.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2007Date of Patent: December 28, 2010Inventor: Archie Johnson
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Patent number: 7798463Abstract: The present invention provides, among other things, an adjustable hanging device for securing an object to a wall including a frame defining a number of substantially parallel slots and being securable to a wall, and a hook for supporting an object and being selectively moveable along each of the plurality of slots in a sliding direction to adjust an orientation of the object relative to the wall. Each of the slots can have a closed end to prevent the hook from disengaging the frame while moving in the sliding direction.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2009Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Assignee: Adjustable Picture Hook, LLCInventor: James A. Morgenroth
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Patent number: 7775673Abstract: A non-backboard reflector mirror includes a mirror body with a rim, a locating bar affixed to the back side of the rim of the mirror body, a locating frame, which has a clamping portion coupled to the locating bar and movable along and rotatable relative to the locating bar and affixed thereto at the desired elevation and angle, and a mounting frame selectively fastened to an array of mounting through holes at the locating frame at the desired angle for installation in a ceiling, overhead wall, or vertical wall, short wall. An alternate mounting frame may be used for installation in a post so that the non-backboard reflector mirror is used as a traffic mirror.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2007Date of Patent: August 17, 2010Inventor: Cheng-Shun Liu
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Patent number: 7717576Abstract: A mirror mounting assembly for mounting a mirror on a vehicle bulkhead. The assembly includes a mirror element and a main support arm having a first end and a second end. The mirror element is connected to the first end of the main support arm. The second end of the main support arm is mountable to the vehicle. A pair of brackets are configured to conform to an engine bay side wall of the vehicle. Each bracket has a center portion and two laterally extending flanges that extend at an angle from the center portion in opposite directions. One of the flanges of each bracket is connectable to the bulkhead of the vehicle in the engine bay. A first additional support arm has a first end connected to a first one of the brackets and a second end connected to the main support arm. A second additional support arm has a first end connected to the main support arm and a second end connectable to the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2006Date of Patent: May 18, 2010Assignee: Rosco Inc.Inventor: Benjamin Englander
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Patent number: 7686275Abstract: An adjustable artwork display for suspending a displayed item, such as a picture, away from a wall surface is disclosed. The mounting bracket comprises a rigid, planar base that includes a rigid extension sleeve projecting away therefrom. At least one rigid extension rod is slidably and rotationally receivable within the extension sleeve and fixed therein. A front side of a picture plate includes at least one hook means adapted to support the picture. A rear side of the picture plate includes an extension rod attachment means that may slidably and rotationally receive the at least one extension rod therein. In use, the base is fixed to the wall surface with a mechanical fastener. With at least one extension rod fixed in the extension sleeve and also fixed to the picture plate, the picture may be suspended from the hook means of the picture plate away from the wall surface.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2007Date of Patent: March 30, 2010Inventor: Stephen Joseph Scarcello
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Patent number: 7631977Abstract: A rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle is disclosed, the rearview mirror assembly including a support structure for mounting the mirror assembly to the vehicle. The support structure includes a first part for substantially permanent connection to the vehicle and a second part for selective connection to the first part. A support arm is provided on which at least one mirror is mounted, the second part of the support structure being disposed on the support arm. A locking mechanism is disposed on the support structure for selectively locking together the first and second parts of the support structure to thereby secure the support arm and mirror to the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2002Date of Patent: December 15, 2009Assignee: Lang Mekra North America, LLCInventors: Heinrich Lang, Albrecht Popp, Jürgen Pfanz
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Patent number: 7497411Abstract: A picture hanger has an upper piece, a lower piece, and a screw that extends through apertures in shelves on bases of the pieces. The aperture on the lower piece has threads mating with the screw threads on the shaft so that when the upper piece is fixedly mounted on the vertical surface by an elongated fastener the lower piece is held in place only by the threads of the shaft engaging the threads in the aperture on the lower piece shelf. The base of the lower piece carries a picture wire receiving hook so that turning the screw enables the height of the picture to be changed. Strengthening ribs extend between the base and shelf of both pieces.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2007Date of Patent: March 3, 2009Assignee: Micasa Trading CorporationInventors: David Weck, Edson A. Mejia
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Patent number: 7455414Abstract: A retractable mirror assembly for a vehicle which retracts towards and extends away from a vehicle body wherein the mirror compensates for the change in position so that the same perspective is maintained. The mirror assembly comprises the vehicle body in which a mirror housing that surrounds a mirror backing plate having a mirror glass is retracted and expanded to and from the vehicle body. A second support bracket and a stationary bracket are connected and move in relation to one another in order to rotate the mirror backing plate and mirror so that the mirror maintains the same perspective while the mirror assembly is being retracted and expanded to and from the vehicle body.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2007Date of Patent: November 25, 2008Assignee: Visiocorp Patents S.a.r.l.Inventors: Bernard Duroux, Daniel Dumont
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Patent number: 7441911Abstract: A vehicular external rearview mirror system comprises a twin-arm assembly comprising a pair of parallel support arms connected at one end to a base attached to the vehicle and movably connected at another end to a reflective element assembly through a movable support bracket. The support bracket supports a reflective element assembly and is attached to the twin-arm assembly through a pair of integral bearings which translate along the arms to extend or retract the reflective element assembly. In one embodiment, the bearing imparts a friction force to the arm to enable the bracket to be moved along the arm under the influence of an extension/retraction force, but to maintain the bracket at a selected position along the arm when the force is removed. In another embodiment, the bearing is adapted for frictionless translation of the bracket along the arms under the influence of a powerextend actuator.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2007Date of Patent: October 28, 2008Assignee: Magna Mirrors of America, Inc.Inventors: James A. Ruse, Keith D. Foote, Kenneth C. Peterson
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Publication number: 20080023615Abstract: An adjustable artwork display for suspending a displayed item, such as a picture, away from a wall surface is disclosed. The mounting bracket comprises a rigid, planar base that includes a rigid extension sleeve projecting away therefrom. At least one rigid extension rod is slidably and rotationally receivable within the extension sleeve and fixed therein. A front side of a picture plate includes at least one hook means adapted to support the picture. A rear side of the picture plate includes an extension rod attachment means that may slidably and rotationally receive the at least one extension rod therein. In use, the base is fixed to the wall surface with a mechanical fastener. With at least one extension rod fixed in the extension sleeve and also fixed to the picture plate, the picture may be suspended from the hook means of the picture plate away from the wall surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 30, 2007Publication date: January 31, 2008Inventor: Stephen Joseph Scarcello
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Patent number: 7320526Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 10, 2004Date of Patent: January 22, 2008Inventors: Louis Nickence, Donald Gokey, Sr.
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Patent number: 7293887Abstract: A vehicular exterior mirror system comprises an exterior mirror assembly and an electronic control system. The exterior mirror assembly has a fixed support adapted to be mounted to the side of the vehicle and has a mirror housing supported by a support arm and movable along the support arm from a first position proximate to the fixed support to a second position proximate to a distal end of the support arm. The exterior mirror assembly comprises a first electrically powered mechanism for pivoting the support arm about the fixed support, a second electrically powered mechanism for moving the mirror housing along the support arm and a third electrically powered mechanism operable to adjust a mirror unit of the mirror housing to a desired adjusted position. The electronic control system is operable by the driver of the vehicle to control operation of at least the first electrically powered mechanism independent of operation of the second electrically powered mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2007Date of Patent: November 13, 2007Assignee: Magna Donnelly Mirrors North America L.L.C.Inventor: Keith D. Foote
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Patent number: 7290891Abstract: A mirror mounting assembly for mounting a mirror on a vehicle bulkhead. The assembly includes a generally Z-shaped mirror mounting bracket configured for attachment to a structural portion of the vehicle inside an engine bay of the vehicle, and a support member connected to the mounting bracket. The mounting bracket includes a first flange and a second flange extending laterally in opposite directions from opposed edges of a connecting web. The first flange has two through-holes sized and positioned for connection to the structural portion inside engine bay by existing body panel mounting screws. The second flange and the connecting web are sized and configured so that the second flange extends out of the engine bay upon installation of the bracket. The support member carries a pivot element sized and configured to pivotally support a first support arm assembly for a rear view mirror unit and a second support arm assembly for a cross view mirror unit.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2007Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Inventor: Benjamin Englander
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Patent number: 7270430Abstract: A vehicle external review-view mirror assembly having an extension and retraction mechanism for a telescopic arm support that connects a mirror head to a mirror mounting bracket is disclosed. The assembly comprises: a hollow outer arm extending from the bracket, an inner arm mounted to the head and extending into the outer arm for relative sliding movement out of and into the outer arm; a driving wheel rotatably mounted to the inner arm or the head; a driven wheel rotatably mounted to the inner arm and positioned within the outer arm at a location spaced apart from the driven wheel; and a toothed belt extending between the driving wheel and the driven wheel for power transmission between them. A pair of laterally spaced apart contact rollers are mounted coaxially with the driven wheel, the pair of contact rollers engaging spaced apart bearing surfaces depending from the outer arm.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2005Date of Patent: September 18, 2007Assignee: Schefenacker Vision Systems Australia Pty Ltd.Inventors: Mark L. Olijnyk, Daniel J. Flynn
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Patent number: 7216885Abstract: A trailer mounted and adjustable mirror assembly for attachment to a trailer or hitch being towed by a towing vehicle. The assembly, when secured, helps facilitate securement of the trailer to the towing vehicle while the driver/operator remains in the towing vehicle. The assembly comprises a removable clamp mounting a pair of adjustable, telescopic tubular members on which is mounted a pivotal mirror mechanism pivotal throughout 360° and countless angles relative to the plane of the pivotal mirror mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2004Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Inventor: Brian Stopka
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Patent number: 7210800Abstract: A mirror mounting assembly for mounting a mirror on a vehicle bulkhead. The assembly includes a mirror element and a main support arm having a first end and a second end. The mirror element is connected to the first end of the main support arm. The second end of the main support arm is mountable to the vehicle. A pair of brackets are configured to conform to an engine bay side wall of the vehicle. Each bracket has a center portion and two laterally extending flanges that extend at an angle from the center portion in opposite directions. One of the flanges of each bracket is connectable to the bulkhead of the vehicle in the engine bay. A first additional support arm has a first end connected to a first one of the brackets and a second end connected to the main support arm. A second additional support arm has a first end connected to the main support arm and a second end connectable to the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2006Date of Patent: May 1, 2007Inventor: Benjamin Englander
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Patent number: 7178925Abstract: A retractable mirror assembly for a tractor trailer includes a base component having a pair of arms and a motorized hydraulic cylinder mounted on the upper surface thereof. The arms are pivotally attached at a lower end to the base component and at an upper end to a mirror. The hydraulic cylinder includes an upper distal end that is pivotally attached to an outer edge of the mirror. A control panel within the vehicle passenger compartment activates the motor allowing a driver to automatically extend and retract the mirror between an operable and inoperable position.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2005Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Inventor: Donald R. Tidwell
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Patent number: 7165853Abstract: The present application includes a vehicle mirror which includes an approach light in the attachment assembly. The approach light is a single light source positionable in relation to predetermined inputs for directing light to various areas, depending on the inputs. Additionally, an intercom system is provided for communication between the interior of the vehicle and exterior of the vehicle, by way of the vehicle mirror. Also, a remote sensor is utilized to set predetermined memory positions of interior vehicle components such as seats, steering columns and brake pedals. This allows customization of the interior components upon an individual's approach to the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2004Date of Patent: January 23, 2007Assignee: Schefenacker Vision Systems Australia Pty LtdInventors: Robert W. Gilbert, Kash A. Munir, Mark Olijnyk, Patrick McCaffrey, Paul M. Schwarz, Alex Gersch, Paul van de Loo, Maarten J. Schuurmans, Andrew D. Herps, Adam S. Peacock, Richard G. Teal, Chris Moase
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Patent number: 7159992Abstract: A vehicle mirror assembly is provided which can be moved via a power-transmitting assembly between folded and unfolded positions and the unfolded position and an extended position.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2005Date of Patent: January 9, 2007Assignee: Magna Donnelly Mirrors North America, L.L.C.Inventor: Keith D. Foote
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Patent number: 7104663Abstract: A vehicle memory mirror system of the present invention includes an interior rearview mirror assembly. The mirror assembly includes a mirror casing, with a reflective element, and a support, which is adapted to mount the mirror assembly to a vehicle. An electrical actuator is located interiorly of the mirror casing and is adapted to adjust the orientation of the reflective element to adjust the rearward field of view of the reflective element.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2004Date of Patent: September 12, 2006Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventor: Peter J. Whitehead
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Patent number: 7055973Abstract: A mirror mounting assembly for mounting a mirror on a vehicle bulkhead. The assembly includes a mirror element and a main support arm having a first end and a second end. The mirror element is connected to the first end of the main support arm. The second end of the main support arm is mountable to the vehicle. A pair of brackets are configured to conform to an engine bay side wall of the vehicle. Each bracket has a center portion and two laterally extending flanges that extend at an angle from the center portion in opposite directions. One of the flanges of each bracket is connectable to the bulkhead of the vehicle in the engine bay. A first additional support arm has a first end connected to a first one of the brackets and a second end connected to the main support arm. A second additional support arm has a first end connected to the main support arm and a second end connectable to the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2003Date of Patent: June 6, 2006Assignee: Rosco Inc.Inventor: Benjamin Englander
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Patent number: 6955437Abstract: A mirror assembly is provided for use in “hitching” trailers to towing vehicles. The mirror assembly can be used for conventional ball and socket couplings, fifth wheel couplings and variations thereof. The mirror assembly is magnetically attached to the trailer tongue so it can be easily removed after coupling. The mirror assembly includes a telescoping stanchion mirror post and a swivel joint which can be vertically rotated. A ball joint connected to the back of the mirror allows the mirror to be turned in any of a variety of positions for precise alignment during the hitching process.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2004Date of Patent: October 18, 2005Inventor: Fred H. Roberts
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Patent number: 6939016Abstract: A mirror mounting assembly including a mirror support, a base portion, a pivoting joint between the support and the base portion allowing the support to pivot with respect to the base portion, a link extending between the support and the base portion, a first end of the link being held with respect to either the support or the base portion, an aperture provided in the support or the base portion into which the second end of the link locates, a tight sliding fit between the aperture and the link, the link moving through the aperture allowing the support to be adjusted with respect to the base portion, the fit being such that unwanted movement between the support and base portion is prevented during normal use.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2000Date of Patent: September 6, 2005Assignee: Schefenacker Vision Systems Australia Pty Ltd.Inventors: Andrew Gordon Stuart Munyard, Garry Gordon Leslie Fineri
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Patent number: 6910781Abstract: A mirror assembly for a vehicle is securable to a tubular member that defines a central axis and is secured to the vehicle. The mirror assembly comprises a clamping assembly including a concave surface that is engagable with the tubular member. A housing is coupled to the clamping assembly and supports a mirror. A latching assembly engages the clamping assembly and the housing and is movable between a latched position and an unlatched position. In the latched position, the housing is held substantially fixed with respect to the tubular member. In the unlatched position, the clamping assembly is movable in a direction substantially parallel to the central axis and is pivotable about the central axis, and the housing is pivotable with respect to the clamping assembly about a pin axis that is substantially perpendicular to the central axis.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2003Date of Patent: June 28, 2005Assignee: Velvac, Inc.Inventors: Leo T. Spychalla, Dan H. Schneider