Post-mounted Patents (Class 248/507)
  • Patent number: 11712848
    Abstract: A standard powder bed fusion additive manufacture apparatus is provided with a device to modify the building space, including the powder feed for the building space, yielding a reduction in the active build area, with a concomitant reduction in the adjacent powder supply. A retrofit kit or assembly which is quickly emplaced on the existing equipment with little modification of the regular building space is provided, and is therefore readily removable when the building space is to be returned to its original condition. One advantage is the relatively quick manner in which the building space can be modified. A reduced area build piston is slideably received in a shaft depending from a cover that is emplaceable on the unmodified build area. The build piston moves with the pre-existing build platform. A like arrangement is provided for the feed container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2023
    Assignee: EOS of North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Ankit Saharan, Erling Richard LaSalle
  • Patent number: 11215207
    Abstract: A threaded shaft extends from a base which has an inner and outer surface. A disc with an inner and outer surface is comprised of a resilient and slip-resistant material, such as emulsion styrene-butadiene rubber (E-SBR). The disc has a non-threaded opening which is slidably received by the threaded shaft, allowing the disc to slide toward or away from the base inner surface. A washer has a non-threaded opening that allows it to be slidably received by the threaded shaft, allowing the washer to move with the disc outer surface. A fastener, with a threaded opening, mates with the threaded shaft and reversibly tightens the disc toward the base inner surface. A section of tarp or other sheet material can be securely held between the base and the disc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2022
    Inventor: Robert C. Varga
  • Patent number: 11041743
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a field device of automation technology, comprising a housing and a sensor unit sensitive for a process variable of a medium. The housing has a passageway to accommodate the sensor unit and the sensor unit protrudes from the housing through a terminal opening of the passageway. A clamping angle and a screw are introduced into the housing in a region of the housing adjoining the opening of the passageway. By means of the screw the clamping angle is shiftable in the housing a predeterminable distance in the direction of the sensor unit, and the clamping angle shifted in the direction of the sensor unit is embodied to press with a first clamping angle section of the clamping angle radially on a clamping region of the sensor unit arranged in the housing and facing the opening of the passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2021
    Assignee: Endress+Hauser SE+Co. KG
    Inventors: Michael Lais, Raphael Schonhardt
  • Patent number: 10794035
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a fastening tab for a construction element, preferably a beam, a panel or a slab, that is adjustable vertically and relative to the horizontal, that can be screwed to a support with inner thread, preferably a foundation screw, successively comprising: a fastening screw comprising a beveled head and a threaded shank; a metal plate pierced with a beveled opening that can accommodate said fastening screw and comprising fastening means to the construction element; a perforated flexible joint; a screw comprising a machined beveled head with an inner thread corresponding to that of said fastening screw; such that the position of the screw relative to the support, which is obtained by screwing/unscrewing, allows vertical adjustment of the metal plate; characterized in that the fastening screw, the beveled aperture of the metal plate and the flexible joint cooperate to allow angular adjustment of the metal plate relative to the horizontal plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2020
    Assignee: RBS SPRL
    Inventors: Pierre Servais, Bernard Servais
  • Patent number: 10370845
    Abstract: A connector includes a receiver member having a hollow rectangular tube to be cast with a structure. An attachment member has a post extending with a pin extending radially through the post at a distal end. The pin is shorter than the longer rectangular dimension and longer than the shorter rectangular dimension. When the attachment member is positioned adjacent the receiver member and oriented with a longitudinal axis of the pin parallel to the longer rectangular dimension, the post can be inserted into the hollow tube and rotated to a position where the pin abuts a distal end of the hollow tube to lock the attachment member to the receiver member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2019
    Assignee: MAESTRO INTERNATIONAL, LLC
    Inventor: Sidney E. Francies, III
  • Patent number: 10099398
    Abstract: Embodiments of a multi-purpose utility clamp may include a component engagement member having a clamp head and a handle. A guide arm is operatively connected to the component engagement member at a first end of the guide arm. A first post is operatively connected to a second end of the guide arm to move linearly relative to the guide arm. A second post at an end of the support post is disposed generally perpendicular to the first post and has a first end connected to the first post and a second end, distal the first end, and the second end is disposed opposite the clamping head. The second post has a generally trapezoidal cross-sectional shape along a length thereof between the first end and the second end, and the second post is configured to be inserted into a channel having a corresponding trapezoidal shape and formed in an auxiliary component to be clamped to another component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2018
    Inventor: Henry Wang
  • Patent number: 9888604
    Abstract: A support rack configured for an aircraft including: a rectangular frame including four substantially straight segments and four feet, wherein upper surfaces of each of the substantially straight segments and the four feet are substantially aligned with a upper plane of the rectangular frame; a first set of attachment holes configured to attach at least one item of aviation electronic equipment, wherein the first set of holes are in the upper surfaces of the straight segments or the, and a second set of attachment holes configured to receive anchoring elements that anchor to a structure of the aircraft, wherein the second set of attachment holes are at a surface of the rack out of the substantially upper planar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignees: Airbus Operations (S.A.S.), Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Benoit Dantin, Serge Senac, Bernard Guirado, Philippe Pedoussaut, Sylvain Carrere
  • Patent number: 9004439
    Abstract: A post anchor for securing a support post for a structure comprises a base with four upstanding sidewalls forming a cavity into which a post is inserted, and means to secure the post inside the cavity. Interior ribs and exterior augmented corners resist deformation under pressure exerted by the post. Interior channels allow water to drain from inside the cavity toward a drain hole. The anchor post is slightly elevated relative to the ground, allowing air and water to circulate around the post and post anchor. The post anchor is made of a thermoplastic polymer which is given a textured surface, and may include an ultraviolet protection additive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Peak Innovations Inc.
    Inventors: John Gross, Simon Walker, Frank Fan, Wei Min Zhu
  • Publication number: 20150053840
    Abstract: An anti-tip device for preventing the tipping of a display device that includes a first portion extending a first portion length between a first portion proximal end and a first portion distal end. The anti-tip device includes a second portion extending away from and extending substantially orthogonal to the first portion, the second portion extending a second portion length between a second portion proximal end and a second portion distal end and configured to be coupled to a holding unit configured to hold a flat screen display. When the second portion is coupled to the flat screen display holding unit and the base contacts the first portion, the first portion is configured to prevent the flat screen display from tipping on the holding unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2014
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Inventor: Giuseppe Mike Cozza
  • Publication number: 20150053839
    Abstract: A tornado protection system and related methods are provided. The tornado protection system includes a concrete pad. At least two anchors are affixed to the concrete pad. A vehicle is in a grounded position on the concrete pad. At least two anchor straps are connected between the vehicle and the at least two anchors, respectively, wherein the at least two anchor straps are connected to at least two sides of the vehicle, respectively. The tornado protection system may allow the vehicle to remain grounded throughout the duration of a tornado having a wind speed of at least 65 MPH, a horizontal wind force of at least 2,959 lbs., and a vector wind force of at least 4,638 lbs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2014
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Inventors: Rolf Hubert, Albin Hastbacka
  • Patent number: 8870149
    Abstract: A hold-down assembly for retaining a portable electronic unit within an avionics equipment mounting tray includes a shaft, a locking collar, and an actuator knob. The shaft is coupled to pivot with the mounting tray. The locking collar slides along the shaft to engage the portable electronic unit. The actuator knob includes a knob body, a ratchet plate having detent holes within the knob body, a ball bearing, and a compression spring within the knob body. As the actuator knob is rotated to move along the shaft, the knob body and the ball bearing rotate with respect to the ratchet plate, and the ball bearing is forced against a spring bias of the compression spring as the ball bearing travels between adjacent detent holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Carlisle Interconnect Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Nicholas P. Rodig
  • Patent number: 8827231
    Abstract: A stanchion is provided for anchoring exercise apparatus that is removably secured in a floor mounted post socket. The stanchion is fitted with a cap ring at the upper end and a number of loops in the middle section thereof. A set of resilient members and a rigid washer are secured to the bottom of the stanchion for frictionally securing the stanchion. In use, a rope or elastic band is placed through a loop and the ends are manipulated by a user for exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Inventor: Donald H. Blair
  • Publication number: 20140138511
    Abstract: The Z Bracket is a bracket that leans the post back from a 90 degree by 10 degrees with an 80 degree angle that allows the post to have more strength to hold a shade connected to the post and to a building opposite the post and bracket and gives the overall appearance unique and practical for patio areas and any area which a shaded area is preferred.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2012
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Inventor: Patrick Howe
  • Publication number: 20140096662
    Abstract: Coupling members and pipe machining apparatuses including coupling members are provided. In one aspect, a coupling member includes a shaft and an engagement member defining a cavity there through and including a projection. The shaft is at least partially positioned within the cavity and extends through the cavity, and the shaft is adapted to rotate relative to the engagement member. The coupling member also includes a plunger at least partially positioned within the cavity and moveable relative to the engagement member, and further includes a biasing member at least partially positioned within the cavity between the plunger and the engagement member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.
    Inventor: Roy C. Coakley
  • Publication number: 20140096462
    Abstract: An adjustable mounting assembly (70a/70b) for installing solar cell modules (58) on a building surface (34) is disclosed. The mounting assembly (70a/70b) includes a mounting device (74), a stud (114) that may be threaded to the mounting device (74), a clamping member (142) that may be positioned on the stud (114), and a nut (128) that may be threaded onto the stud (114) to secure the clamping member (142) to the mounting device (74). A nut (126) is fixed to the stud (114) at an intermediate location along its length. This fixed nut (126) may be used to tighten the stud (114) to a mounting device (74), and furthermore may be positioned such that the stud (114) does not extend into a slot (90) of the mounting device (74).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2013
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Inventor: Robert M.M. Haddock
  • Patent number: 8439322
    Abstract: A mounting post for supporting a plurality of electronic cabinets, each having different bolt patterns, comprising a hollow post configured to receive a hollow mount at the upper end, a stabilizer plate attached to the lower end of the post, and a hollow mount selected from a plurality of hollow mounts, each having a lower end configured to mate to the post, and having a substantially planar upper surface with openings formed therein corresponding to a unique bolt pattern for an electronics cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignees: Windstream Intellectual Property Services, Inc., General Devices Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Michael E. Skudin, Dennis D. Davis, David W. Willis
  • Patent number: 8424549
    Abstract: A tent pole anchor apparatus that includes a barrel member and a cover disposed on the barrel member. The barrel member and cover together form an internal chamber that is filled with water so as to provide a significant weight for anchoring the barrel member. The barrel member has at least one drain to enable liquid to be removed from the barrel member. At least one of the barrel member and cover has a passage for receiving an adjustment strap that interconnects the barrel member with the tent pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Giffy Tent Barrels, Inc.
    Inventors: Howard G. Goldsmith, Richard N. St. Jean
  • Patent number: 8342476
    Abstract: A stirrer stand (10) for a submersible motor stirrer (12) composed of at least one base part (14) and a receiving part (16) for the submersible motor stirrer beyond which a guide member extends, which is used for guiding the submersible motor during assembly, the entire stirrer stand being produced from a single vibration-damping material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: KSB Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Juergen Geinitz, Thomas Pensler, Thomas Koch
  • Patent number: 8261759
    Abstract: A cleaning apparatus, in particular a high-pressure cleaning apparatus, is provided, on which at least one fastening device for fastening the cleaning apparatus to a carrier is disposed. The at least one fastening device comprising at least one tensioning section on which a tensile force, which is directed at the carrier, acts when the cleaning apparatus is fastened to the carrier by means of a tensioning element. At least one retaining section is connected to the at least one tensioning section, for retaining the at least one fastening device on the cleaning apparatus. The at least one fastening device has at least one support section in order to be supported on the cleaning apparatus. The support section is connected to the at least one tensioning section by at least one connecting section, the at least one connecting section yielding if the tensile force exceeds a maximum permissible tensile force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Alfred Kaercher GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Stefan Kelle, Ralph Seitter
  • Patent number: 8177185
    Abstract: A knock down flag pole assembly is provided including a base, a ferrule, and an elongate post. The base may include a coupling with a pocket having a coupling member or portion configured to removably couple to the ferrule. The coupling secures the ferrule to the base, but also permits the flag pole to be knocked out from the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Wind Gear Direct, LLC
    Inventor: Jack C. Priegel
  • Publication number: 20110233372
    Abstract: A hold-down assembly for retaining a portable electronic unit within an avionics equipment mounting tray includes a shaft, a locking collar, and an actuator knob. The shaft is coupled to pivot with the mounting tray. The locking collar slides along the shaft to engage the portable electronic unit. The actuator knob includes a knob body, a ratchet plate having detent holes within the knob body, a ball bearing, and a compression spring within the knob body. As the actuator knob is rotated to move along the shaft, the knob body and the ball bearing rotate with respect to the ratchet plate, and the ball bearing is forced against a spring bias of the compression spring as the ball bearing travels between adjacent detent holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2010
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Inventor: Nicholas P. Rodig
  • Patent number: 7934688
    Abstract: A device for facilitating unassisted donning of SCUBA equipment includes at least one support, a platform connected to the at least one support for supporting at least one SCUBA tank, and a securing element in contact with the device for holding the at least one SCUBA tank in place atop the platform. The platform is height-adjustable for holding the at least one SCUBA tank at about the torso level of a diver so that the diver is able to stand upright when donning the at least one SCUBA tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Inventors: James Wilk, Robert Wilk, Phil Ventura, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7861485
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for installing a stanchion on a tile roof includes a tile which has an aperture and a stanchion which fits through the aperture. An existing roof tile is removed and the stanchion is connected to the roof sheathing at the place of removal. The tile is then placed over the stanchion so that the stanchion project through the aperture. In an embodiment of the invention, a sleeve surrounds the aperture and a seal provides a weather proof seal between the stanchion and the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Inventors: Stuart H. Wentworth, Claudia H. Wentworth
  • Patent number: 7703738
    Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments can comprise a system comprising a first bracket, which can be adapted to be coupled to a first pole. The first bracket can comprise a collar defining a cavity, which can be adapted to receive the first pole. The system can comprise a second bracket, which can be adapted to be coupled to a second pole. The second bracket can comprise a collar defining a cavity, which can be adapted to receive the second pole. The second bracket can be adapted to be rotateably coupled to the first bracket via a hinge. The second bracket can be adapted to be releaseably coupled to the first bracket via a substantially non-destructively removable fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Siemens Industry, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon David Pickens, Arthur Kevin Shumate
  • Patent number: 7697298
    Abstract: A heat dissipation apparatus (10) includes a heat spreader (30), and first and second resilient plates (40, 50) provided at two opposite sides of the heat spreader. The first resilient plate includes a mounting arm (41) and two fixing arms (42) extending from two opposite ends of the mounting arm, respectively. The mounting arm defines a first mounting hole (43) therein, and each of the fixing arms defines a first fixing hole (44) therein. The second resilient plate defines a second mounting hole (53) and two second fixing holes (54) therein. The first resilient plate is fixed on the heat spreader via the first fixing holes. The second resilient plate is fixed on the heat spreader via the second fixing holes. The heat spreader is fixed on a circuit board via the first and the second mounting holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Foxconn Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Rung-An Chen
  • Patent number: 7510162
    Abstract: A two piece plastic support is provided for a plastic mailbox, which upon installation surrounds a support post mounted in the ground. The two pieces are substantially reverse images of one another with confronting post receiving channels on their inward sides. The channels are dimensioned to accommodate warped or slightly over size posts. Corresponding sides of the channels have protuberances, which stabilize the post within the channel. Abutting pockets in the inner and outer walls of each of the pieces aligned openings for fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: RWL Corporation
    Inventors: Robert W. Lackey, Robert C. Beckmann
  • Patent number: 7314205
    Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a system that can comprise one or more brackets adapted to be coupled to a panel. The bracket can define a collar adapted to slideably couple the panel to a pole. The bracket can be adapted to restrain rotational motion of the panel about a longitudinal axis of the pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon David Pickens, Arthur Kevin Shumate
  • Patent number: 6986495
    Abstract: A bracket for connecting to and supporting a beam of a walkway releasably attaches to a helical anchor. The bracket includes a beam restrainer for supporting a beam and a connecting plate releasably attached to a connector assembly. The connector assembly releasably attaches the helical anchor to the bracket and accommodates differences in spacing at various installation locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Inventors: Michael A. Pinkleton, Robert W. Showler
  • Patent number: 6971209
    Abstract: A stabilization system, including a drive head, stabilization cap and anchor is provided for boring an anchor into the ground and engaging the stabilization cap with the surface of the ground. The drive head engages the head of the anchor and the stabilization cap. Accordingly, rotation of the drive head results in rotation of the anchor and stabilization cap. It is by rotation that the anchor bores into the ground, the shaft of the anchor is placed at the center of the stabilization cap, and the stabilization cap engages the surface of the ground. After setting the anchor, the stabilization cap opposes lateral movement of the upper end of the anchor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: Home Pride, Inc.
    Inventor: William Bradford Blevins
  • Patent number: 6932297
    Abstract: One advantageous embodiment of the present invention is a self-locating fastening assembly (14) for aligning and securing a monument (12) to an airframe (16) of an aircraft (10). This self-locating fastening assembly (14) includes a self-locating tie-down member (24), which is fixedly coupled to one of either the air-frame (16) or the monument (12). The self-locating fastening assembly (14) further includes a socket member (26), which is coupled to the other of the airframe (16) or the monument (12). The self-locating tie-down member (24) includes a base portion (32) and a top portion (34) extending from the base portion (32). The base portion (32) is utilized for contacting the socket member (26) so as to guide said self-locating tie-down member into said socket member and secure the monument (12) in a predetermined position along at least one direction. Moreover, the top portion (34) is utilized for further securing the self-locating tie-down member (24) to the socket member (26).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: David R. Steindl, Patrick W. Lucky, Jay W. Colacecchi
  • Patent number: 6779822
    Abstract: A vehicle jack for a vehicle includes (a) a load rest for engagement with an underside of the vehicle, (b) a base having a ground engaging surface, and (c) a raising and lowering mechanism. The jack is stored in a jack retaining space which is formed at least in part by a jack engaging surface of a post member of a mounting element extending from a structural member of the vehicle and the post member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: Ventra Group Inc.
    Inventors: Brent H Foat, Wayne Doswell
  • Patent number: 6726159
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a device for attaching a fuel tank to the leg of a gas grill frame to hold the tank on the grill. However, the device can be manipulated to disengage from the tank so that the tank can be removed from the grill and refilled. The device including an attaching bracket for a attaching the device to the leg of a gas grill frame and a tank clasp for releasably engaging a gas tank positioned on the gas grill frame. The attaching bracket is shaped to fit around the leg of a gas grill frame and snap together or be screwed together to hold the bracket in place. The tank clasp is pivotally connected to the attaching bracket for movement between an engaging position and a releasing position. In the engaging position, the clasp holds the gas tank on the gas grill frame. In the releasing position, the clasp is disengaged from the gas tank so that it can be removed and refilled. The device also includes a stop for holding said tank clasp in the engaging position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Fiesta Gas Grills, LLC
    Inventor: George Brake
  • Patent number: 6655097
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method of using the apparatus to temporarily support a utility pole is disclosed. The apparatus is comprised of a plurality of structural elements which are hinged together to form an articulated frame. The frame is adapted to be connected to a pole and caused to conform to the slope or angle of the pole with respect to the ground. The frame is also adapted to conform to the slope of the ground in which the pole is embedded. The articulated frame of this invention finds particular utility in supporting a utility pole installed in ground subject to collapse due to excavation in the vicinity of the pole. In this regard, the frame is useful to obviate the need to temporarily reroute a power line erected in the vicinity of earth removal operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Inventor: Billy E. Poolaw
  • Patent number: 6634688
    Abstract: The present application discloses a method for mounting a vehicle jack in a stored position on a motor vehicle. The present application also discloses a combination of a vehicle and a jack stored on the vehicle, and a vehicle jack configured to be stored on a vehicle. Further, the present application also discloses a motor vehicle having an arrangement for retaining a vehicle jack thereon in a stored position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: Ventra Group Inc.
    Inventors: Brent H Foat, Wayne Doswell
  • Patent number: 6491272
    Abstract: There is provided a pole step assembly with a removable step for hollow poles and the like. The step assembly includes a mounting subassembly with a mounting stud and a mounting plate with inter-engaging flat surfaces that limit relative rotational movement of the mounting stud and mounting plate about the axis of the subassembly. A clamp is provided to limit radial movement of the subassembly relative to the pole. The mounting stud of the subassembly also may include a handle portion that captivates the components of the subassembly and facilitates ease of installation of the subassembly. The handle also may break away and be removed after installation of the subassembly. The step is mounted to the subassembly and may include flat surfaces that inter-engage with further flat surfaces on the mounting plate to limit rotation of the step about its longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: Senior Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: George J. Franks
  • Patent number: 6273390
    Abstract: A post holder is formed by a lower spike portion and an upper bracket portion. The bracket portion is connected to the spike portion at an adjustable connection formed by a curved seat at the upper end of the spike portion and a curved base at the bottom end of the bracket portion. This adjustable connection enables different aligned positions of the bracket portion with the spike portion and an adjustable tightening member is provided to lock the bracket portion with the spike portion in any one of these different aligned positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Assignee: Royal Capital Stamping and Tooling Ltd.
    Inventor: George Meyer
  • Patent number: 6196782
    Abstract: A push pin is provided for securing pieces of paper, photographs, postcards, posters and similar items to a support surface without puncturing or otherwise damaging the item. The push pin includes a body portion and a pin. In a preferred embodiment, the body portion defines a raised circumferential portion to facilitate insertion and withdrawal of the push pin. In one embodiment, the push pin includes a linear spring extending from the body portion to a distal end. Advantageously, the distal end of the linear spring at least partially contacts the item and urges the item towards the support surface. In an alternate embodiment, the body portion defines a groove defining an elongate member extending from the body portion to a distal end. Advantageously, the distal end of the elongate member at least partially contacts the item and urges the item towards the support surface without piercing or otherwise damaging the item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Assignee: Plush Pins, LLC
    Inventors: David Karl Wagner, Christa Caren Wagner
  • Patent number: 6155937
    Abstract: An in situ self storing net pole is described which has a retracted position and a raised position. The net pole comprises a sleeve flush mounted to a surface, a first telescope member being telescopically and completely received within the sleeve when in the retracted position and a second telescope member being telescopically and completely received within the first telescope member when in the retracted position. The first and second telescope members slide telescopically upward and are securable in the raised position. The net pole is adapted to have a net mounted thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Inventor: Troy Alter
  • Patent number: 5884439
    Abstract: An adjustable concrete form comprises at least one tube and an adjustable stake having a post and a tube cradle. The tube has at least one drainage aperture providing the form with drainage. The adjustable stake is configured for adjustably supporting the tube in spaced-apart relation to an excavation bottom. The post has at least one slender end to facilitate driving the post partially into the excavation bottom. The tube cradle is configured for releasable engagement with the tube to thereby secure the tube relative to the post and to support the tube in spaced-apart relation to the excavation bottom. The tube cradle is adjustably connected to the post so that adjustment of the post relative to the cradle effectuates adjustment of the tube relative to the excavation bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: Hess Bros., L.L.C.
    Inventors: John Hess, III, Harold Hess
  • Patent number: 5678811
    Abstract: A clamp (30) for clamping stacked lumber (72) to prevent twisting and bending of the lumber or theft is disclosed. A horizontal member (36) goes under the lumber and is attached to a vertical member (32) at the back. A pressure bar (42) hinged to the vertical member goes on top of the lumber. A brace (52) between the front of the pressure bar and the vertical member exerts pressure to hold the lumber in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1997
    Assignee: Steven C. Johnson
    Inventor: Steven Johnson
  • Patent number: 5674023
    Abstract: A clip rigidly joins two parts, one part abutting the other. A first part has a hole spaced from the surface of the second part. The clip has two spaced plates connected by a spine. One plate has a hooked or notched tongue which engages the hole. The other plate seats on the second part and both plates have edges abutting the first part. Apertures in the plates accept a screw, rivet or other fastener which holds the clip to the second part and pulls the two parts together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1997
    Assignee: Delco Electronics Corporation
    Inventor: David Ray Williams
  • Patent number: 5580025
    Abstract: A resilient retaining device includes a base member which is adapted to engage and removably attach itself to a dishwasher rack prong and has extending from it a shaft and hook portion. The hook portion releasably engages and retains a cup or article with slight pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Inventor: Robert Cross
  • Patent number: 5558308
    Abstract: The invention consists of a ring that surrounds a vertical post or tube extending from a table, at least one, adapter connected to the ring and an extension arm connected to the adapter. At least three arms are rotatably connected to the extension arm proximate the adapter. One arm contains a cup holder, another arm contains arcuate recesses for securing hand utensils and another is a fiat arm for holding a napkin. The extension arm contains a telescoping arm that extends with an arcuate finger to hold a plate. When brought into alignment with the extension arm the arms nest and have the capability of folding up against the vertical post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1996
    Inventor: Warren P. Edris
  • Patent number: 5535978
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and method for anchoring the central support pole of a beach umbrella in the sand at a beach. The present anchoring apparatus includes a length of tube having a lower edge forming an opening at its lower end and a clamping means at its other end. The other or upper end of the tube is operatively adapted to permit the lower end of a beach umbrella support pole to be inserted there through, and the clamping means is suitable to lock in place the lower end of a support pole so inserted. The edge at the lower end of the tube is preferably serrated and intended to cut into the sand beach. The clamping means may include a threaded hole formed through the wall at the upper end of the tube and a screw that can be hand tightened through the threaded hole to apply a clamping force against the lower end of an umbrella support pole inserted into the upper end of the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1996
    Inventors: Arturo E. Rodriguez, Guillermo P. Rodriquez
  • Patent number: 5117854
    Abstract: A valve holder and a method of use thereof enables convenient securing and releasing of a valve, such as a stopcock valve. The valve holder allows an operator to operate a valve utilizing one hand. The valve holder includes a support block and a chamber fixed to the support block. In operation, the chamber receives a valve to be secured by the valve holder and a clamp member is tightened to the support block to thereby secure the valve in the chamber. A hand operated mechanical fastener such as a thumb screw is utilized to tighten the clamp member to the support block. Cooperating recesses in the chamber and clamp member secure the valve in the holder and prevent movement of the valve within the holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1992
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Department of Health and Human Services
    Inventor: Christopher F. Eve
  • Patent number: 5099785
    Abstract: A tamper proof dispenser containing liquid soap or a liquid detergent including a cylindrical housing having an opening at the top portion thereof and a rotating liquid soap dispensing drum housed within said cylindrical housing with a portion of the dispensing drum being exposed at the opening located at the top portion of the cylindrical housing. In operation, the dispensing drum is rotated about its axis and soap adheres to the surface of the dispensing drum as it passes through the liquid soap. At the time the soap coated surface of the dispensing drum reaches the opening at the top portion of the cylindrical housing, the user's hand will contact the surface of the dispensing drum and hence, soap will be transmitted to the hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1992
    Inventor: Donald J. Reed
  • Patent number: 4928917
    Abstract: A holding fixture for medical use, serving to support and fix articles, such as medical instruments, that are to be sterilized, and intended for mounting on a support panel, composed substantially of two parts: a retaining post, provided at least in part with profiling, that is to be locked into place on the support panel, and a bracket that can be slipped onto this retaining post, the mounting aperture of the bracket being such that it is lockable by positive engagement with the retaining post. By this principle, the most varied kinds of holding fixtures, adapted individually to the position and shape of each instrument, can be devised with a minimum number of different components. These brackets can easily be locked in place and released again by exerting pressure and tension upon corresponding regions of the brackets, making them extremely simple to use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 29, 1990
    Inventor: Hans-Joachim Wolf
  • Patent number: 4923164
    Abstract: Four orthagonally oriented rigid blades are fixed together along a side of each and taper to a common pointed bottom with a rigid top plate affixed across the top of the blades and a steel tube extends upwardly from the plate to receive and support a post such as a sign post, fence post or the like extending upwardly from the device. The invention is adapted to be driven into the ground to support and anchor posts.The invention also includes a "break away" embodiment incorporating a thick high density rubber retainer atop the rigid plate about the tube which has a flanged bottom beneath the rubber retainer and a rigid centrally apertured plate is bolted onto the top plate to hold the rubber retainer and tube on the top plate. A heavy blow to a post mounted in the tube will tilt the tube to pivot the flange thereof to deform the retainer and allow the tube and flange to flip out of the upper apertured plate as a break away feature without damage to the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 8, 1990
    Inventor: Richard A. Stenberg
  • Patent number: 4858878
    Abstract: A device for the securing of protected articles such as computers to the side or a top of a desk, which includes a base plate having an adhesive pad secured between the base plate and the desk or other object. A plurality of posts rise from the base and are engaged by a second plate. The protected article is placed in the spacing between the plates and between the posts. Releasable locking means holds this engagement of the second plate to the posts. A retention bracket is restrained to the assembled plates and posts and includes a pair of shoulders overhanging the spacing between the plates to prevent removal of the article from the spacing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 22, 1989
    Inventor: Mark M. Gassaway
  • Patent number: 4781255
    Abstract: A conduit system for cables adapted for mounting in a vehicle including constant cross-sectional elongate conduit elements 1 having one or more channels 3 formed therein and retention and locking members for holding the cables within the or each channel at intervals along their lengths. The conduit system may comprise a plurality of straight conduit elements 1 connected end to end, for example in an aircraft fuselage. Alternatively, where a change of direction and/or elevation is necessary, the straight conduit elements may be interconnected by curved joining conduit elements 2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1985
    Date of Patent: November 1, 1988
    Assignee: British Aerospace Public Limited Company
    Inventors: Stanley A. Lock, Brian E. Mills