Stand Or Base Patents (Class 248/519)
  • Patent number: 5851001
    Abstract: A sign stand provides a resilient mounting for an upstanding mast member. A composite spring extends in a vertical direction and is clamped at its top and bottom ends by respective framework members. The upper framework provides mounting for the upright mast while the lower framework provides mounting for ground-engaging legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1998
    Assignee: Dicke Tool Company
    Inventors: Grant D. Dicke, Jeffrey A. Williams
  • Patent number: 5848502
    Abstract: A system for mounting road signs and other posts which is simple to use, has few parts and is tamper resistant. The system also allows for the easy dismounting of the post for maintenance and changing of signs. The system uses a metal base driven into the ground, a non-square post with at least one flat side and a bifurcated wedge to lock the post into position in the base. This system also prevents rotation of the post due to winds or other forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1998
    Assignee: S-Square Tube Products
    Inventor: Richard Floyd Schaefer
  • Patent number: 5842676
    Abstract: A stand for supporting a cut tree for display includes an inner bowl with an outer surface in the form of a segment of a sphere. The inner bowl includes a tree-trunk engaging device for holding the tree trunk in a roughly vertical position in the inner bowl. The inner bowl is supported in a rotatable and tiltable manner within an outer bowl-like support member. The inner bowl can be clamped to the outer bowl-like member by clamps spaced about the periphery of the inner bowl. Each clamp includes a bearing member hinged to the inner bowl, which bears against the exterior of the outer bowl-like member. Each bearing member is forced against the outer bowl-like member by an over-center clamp. The tree trunk is held against a vertical support by a strap-and-buckle arrangement including a cam which simultaneously pinches the strap at two different locations in the clamped position of the cam, for providing continuous adjustment of the strap length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Inventor: Steve James Plzak
  • Patent number: 5839714
    Abstract: A basketball assembly for supporting a backboard comprises, a base having a plurality of generally vertical side walls and a base face extending between said sidewalls. The base face and one of said side walls defining a forward edge. The assembly includes a pole, having spaced apart ends. An elongated opening is provided in the base for supporting one end of said pole on said base with said pole at an angle to the vertical to extend the other end of the pile over and beyond the forward edge of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Assignee: Huffy Corporation
    Inventors: James N. Fitzsimmons, David A. Allen, Randy R. Schickert, Michael A. Niver
  • Patent number: 5826852
    Abstract: A bird feeder support which is mounted to a surface including a base member. The base member possesses an open channel which is accessible from the outer surface of the base member. An arm having a first end portion, a second portion, and an intermediate portion connecting the first and second end portions, extends from the base member. The arm also possesses at least one flange which is capable of fitting within the channel. The arm is mounted to the base member to permit the flange to extend in one direction and to reverse its orientation within the channel to an opposite second direction. A bird feeder is easily fastened to the arm and is, thus, positioned in two orientations when the flange of the arm is rotated within the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
    Inventor: Richard H. McKeown
  • Patent number: 5816554
    Abstract: A support base is disclosed through which pipe and related equipment typically found on the roofs of commercial buildings may be supported. The support base consists of a single molded plastic structure, flat on its bottom so as to rest in a stable fashion on the roof, and containing functional features on the top. The functional features include a central recess, supporting ridges radiating outward from the central recess, and recesses positioned on the supporting ridges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Inventor: Ronald G. McCracken
  • Patent number: 5797579
    Abstract: A tree stand featuring a plurality of retaining elements and a single clamping element which acts upon all of the retaining elements via a load transmission element. The load transmission element comprises a flexible, substantially inextensible connecting part having tensile strength which initially moves all of the retaining elements essentially free of a retaining force into contact with the trunk of the tree, and then presses all of the retaining elements against the tree trunk with an essentially identical retaining force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Assignee: Krinner GmbH
    Inventor: Klaus Krinner
  • Patent number: 5791611
    Abstract: A chair base connection assembly for connecting a pipestand to a chair base includes an outer sleeve having opposing flared ends, an inner sleeve having a tapered inner diameter for engaging the pipestand and an outer surface having a taper at an upper end for engaging an inner flared surface at the upper end of the outer sleeve and external threads at the lower end for engaging a tapered intermediate nut having an outer flared surface which engages an inner flared surface on the lower end of the outer sleeve. The chair base connection assembly of this invention provides a stable, strong, wobble-free connection between the base and the pipestand, while allowing greater dimensional variability of the components comprising the chair base connection assembly, thereby reducing the manufacturing costs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Battey, Kurt R. Heidmann
  • Patent number: 5782453
    Abstract: A tree planter stand adapted to stabilize, attractively support, and display a Christmas Tree. The stand includes a support stanchion insert disposed within the planter and a tree trunk riser extending upwardly thereof and operable to receive and support a tree trunk. The stanchion insert has a cover which includes a lower facing generally circular support rim sized to overlie and abut the planter support ridge. A central drain plug is provided in the bottom of the stanchion insert to drain any excess water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Inventors: Lou Ann Tuzza, Nancy Barrie
  • Patent number: 5762311
    Abstract: A Christmas tree stand stores by rotation a decorative electrical light string in an orderly manner on an enclosed rotary drum, and also delivers and electrically energizes the light string for decorating the tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Assignee: Innovative Product Deveopment
    Inventor: Benito Triglia
  • Patent number: 5752684
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a pedestal base for a chair that is capable of supporting safely up to a 500 pound person in normal, continuous commercial or industrial use. The present pedestal base has six legs, a substantially cylindrical hub, and six caster attachment means with a caster or glide in each caster attachment means. Each leg is separated from its neighboring legs by about 60 degrees. The base elements are selected within particular dimensions and are made from materials having minimum selected yield strengths. In particular, the pedestal chair base as a whole can pass BIFMA test No. 8 with a 5000 lb load being applied, instead of a 2500 lb load, and can pass BIFMA tests No. 9 and No. 18, each with a 500 lb load being used instead of a 300 lb load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Assignee: Miller Desk, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert F. Larkin
  • Patent number: 5750915
    Abstract: A launch vehicle pedestal and an umbilical mast in which the pedestal includes a launch mount pedestal and four pedestal adapters. The launch mount pedestal includes a launch vehicle support base having an exhaust opening. Four legs extend downwardly from the support base and pedestal connecting means are secured to lower ends of each of the legs. The four pedestal adapters serve to secure the legs to existing launch vehicle support posts, the pedestal adapters each having adapter connecting means complementarily engageable with the pedestal connecting means. The umbilical mast comprises a plurality of round cylindrical segments connected by means of connectors at their ends. The connectors comprise radially extending flanges with circumferential holes in them. The mast further includes an access door and at least one opening in at least one of the segments for electrical cables and an air conditioning duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Ernest R. Bedegrew, Robert J. MacDonald, Louis E. Rustenburg, Russell E. Godfrey, Daniel H. Hada, Raymond L. Fredrickson, Larry V. Digdigan, David A. Niemann, Russell K. Chun
  • Patent number: 5746031
    Abstract: A wild fire suppressor includes a base wrap, including a fire-resistant, groundcontour-following base panel for installation about the base of a utility pole, and base panel anchors for holding the base panel in place on the ground. A pole wrap includes a rigid pole panel, and fasteners for fastening the pole panel to the utility pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Inventor: James M. Burns
  • Patent number: 5743505
    Abstract: A base extension assembly (20) for a Christmas tree stand (10) includes a platform (22) upon which the tree stand (10) is anchored by way of cantilever fingers (42). The cantilever fingers (42) are secured to the platform (22) by a screw (52), and prevented from rotating by a locking nub (46) which is seated in a depression (50) in the platform (22). The platform (22) can be broken down into two segments (56) for compact storage and shipment of the assembly (20). The segments (56) are joined together in an operational condition by a series of connector plates (60) with accompanying screws (62) beneath the platform (22). Additionally, an array of nut and bolt combinations (60) secure opposing end flanges (64) to help hold the segments (56) together. A bridge bar (70) spans the interior of each segment (56) to maintain structural integrity. An array of support ribs further enhance structural rigidity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Assignee: HMS Mfg. Co.
    Inventor: Hugh M. Sofy
  • Patent number: 5722721
    Abstract: A seat or bench which is readily mounted over a pole or column, and means for supporting the seat or bench. The device requires no assembly at the site of mounting to pole or column, and is readily placed over the pole or column, thus making it extremely easy to mount. The device is composed of a seat or bench in any shape, and a connected supporting sleeve. The sleeve is connected to the seat, and is circular and hollow in nature. In use, the sleeve is placed over a similarly-shaped pole or column, positioned so that one end rests on the ground, while the seat portion is adjacent to an upper portion of the pole or column. In this way, the seat is supported by the sleeve and existing pole or column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1998
    Inventors: William W. Batoff, David L. Auspitz, Alan L. Levine
  • Patent number: 5713554
    Abstract: A pedesdal for holding and supporting a Christmas tree, a flag pole and the like composes of a plural number of separable and foldable base beams, a connection base and a holding tube assembly. The base beams are pivotally engaged with the connection base and can be extended to provided a firm support for a large size Christmas tree or a flag pole, or can be folded into a small space to facilitate transportation and storage. The holding tube assembly composes of an inside sleeve and a bushing which are held within an outside sleeve. There is a protection sleeve disposed within the inside sleeve to allow an electric wire disposed therebetween. A motor is disposed at the bottom of the outside sleeve. The motor can drive the inside sleeve and the bushing to rotate through a gear mechanism. Thereby the Christmas tree or the pole being disposed within the inside sleeve can also be rotated when motor is power on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 3, 1998
    Inventor: Chung Ho Lai
  • Patent number: 5707037
    Abstract: An improved Christmas tree stand comprises a receptacle for receiving the trunk of a tree and a base for receiving the receptacle and tree. The base includes an upper shell which can be easily swiveled to any position with respect to a lower shell so as to position a tree vertically in any desired portion without shimming.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 13, 1998
    Assignee: County Line Limited, L.L.C.
    Inventor: John J. Pastrick
  • Patent number: 5702086
    Abstract: A new Portable Tree Holding Device for creatively and innovatively holding a Christmas tree or the like in a vertical upright position. The inventive device includes a snow sled with runners, a water cup, a cup support supported by a support base, and sled boards with internal arcuate ends and internal arcuate sides. An object of the present invention is to provide a new Portable Tree Holding Device that is capable of watering the tree to keep it fresh while providing a clever, new, ornamental look.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Inventor: Randy D. Hunt
  • Patent number: 5695166
    Abstract: A post support includes a box section which is open at at least one end to receive a post, wherein the material of the box section at a wall location of the box section is horizontally slit in a plurality of axially spaced locations to provide either at least two spaced pairs of tabs of wall material, or a single pair of tabs positioned at a substantially central location axially of the box section, the free ends of which tabs or flaps are bent outwardly away from the wall of the box section to form fixing flanges such that bringing together of a pair of flanges by a fixing means, for example, a bolt passing through holes in said pair of flanges, compresses the tabs or flaps inwardly of the wall of the box section thus decreasing the cross-sectional dimensions of the box section in at least two spaced locations or at a single substantially centrally positioned location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 9, 1997
    Inventor: Andrew Douglas Watts
  • Patent number: 5685517
    Abstract: The present invention is essentially comprised of a deck furniture mounting stand which is removably attachable to a deck's boards. By loosening or tightening nuts threadingly engaging a pair of mounting rods, the stand may be removed from, or affixed to, respectively, a deck. The stand of the present invention includes a base portion having an upper surface, a lower, deck contacting surface, and a predetermined periphery defined by a continuous edge. A cylindrical, pole (umbrella pole for instance) receiving member having a bored hole formed therein for reception of the pole is positioned in centrally, upwardly extending relation to the upper surface. Further included are two apertures formed through the base on opposite sides of the pole receiving member to receive the mounting rods which secure the stand to the decking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1997
    Inventor: Joseph Salibra
  • Patent number: 5651526
    Abstract: A socket member for mounting in the upper surface of a platform includes two O-rings or other resilient retaining members. The socket member defines an elongate bore into which a rod is inserted. The O-rings serve to locate the rod, accommodate any tolerances, and ensure that the rod is not loose within the bore. The socket member can comprise upper and lower socket members which screw together. The upper socket member can be secured by a nut to the surface of the platform. The device can be used to mount mannequins, other display fixtures and the like which have rods secured to them.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1997
    Assignee: Wm. Prager Ltd.
    Inventor: David Spinner
  • Patent number: 5639056
    Abstract: A unitary merchandise display pedestal having a plurality of tubular co-planar legs of polygonal cross section extending radially from a central hub formed by a pair of horizontal parallel spaced weld plates welded to a vertical tubular sleeve post for supporting a vertical mast; the tubular legs being positioned so that opposite exterior corners of their polygonal cross sections engage raised weld beads on the pair of weld plates whereby to produce efficient resistance welding of the legs and weld plates; resistance welds are also employed to secure the tubular post to the lowermost weld plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1997
    Assignee: Athena Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Derek N. G. Mecalf
  • Patent number: 5638851
    Abstract: A modular shelter comprising a framework for supporting a cover sheet, the framework including at least two frames each composed of an upward curved arch having two ends, two upstanding legs, each leg having an upper end connected to a respective end of said arch by means of respective upward angled connecting members, each arch end attached to a respective upper end of said legs, each leg having a bottom end, and anchoring means for anchoring the bottom end of each leg to ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1997
    Inventor: David Baldwin
  • Patent number: 5639055
    Abstract: A crutch stand for the temporary storage of a crutch in an upright position includes a base and upwardly-projecting crutch receivers. The base of the crutch stand preferably is hollow and can receive sand, water, or another fluid to provide stability to the stand. This permits the stand to be shipped in a lightweight form and then to become heavier for use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1997
    Inventor: Robert H. Fritz
  • Patent number: 5568909
    Abstract: A mounting bracket comprised of a base portion having a generally square configuration. The base portion has apertures formed therethrough inwardly of each of four corners thereof. The device contains a square receiving tube having an open first end, an open second end, and four side walls. Drainage holes exist through two of the side walls opposite one another extending upwardly from the open second end. The open second end is secured to the base portion inwardly of the apertures formed inwardly of the four corners thereof. Each of the four side walls has an aperture formed therethrough. The square receiving tube is dimensioned to receive a wood post therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1996
    Inventor: Robert J. Timko
  • Patent number: 5564665
    Abstract: An adapter for securely disposing an elongated member within a candle stick receptacle, the adapter comprises: a first support means disposed about the outer surface of the elongated member and near a first end of the elongated member, wherein the first support means is capable of providing a secure fit between the outer surface of the elongated member and an inner surface of a candle stick receptacle; and a second support means disposed about the outer surface of the elongated member and between the first support means and a second end of the elongated member, wherein the second support means is capable of providing vertical stability for the elongated member disposed within the candle stick receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1996
    Assignee: FRW Inc.
    Inventor: Mark I. Resnick
  • Patent number: 5531419
    Abstract: A mast base comprises a body, formed partly by a generally rectangular container (12), provided with four upper corner fittings (13), located at the upper end thereof, and with four lower corner fittings (14), located at the lower end thereof, and partly by a stationary supporting frame (15), placed upon the container (12) and attached to the four upper corner fittings (13). In order to support the body (12, 15) in a stable position on the ground, four supporting legs (16) are provided, which may be placed in positions, in which they project laterally each from one corner of the body (12, 15). Each supporting leg (16) is composed of one lower arm (18), at its inner end connected to a lower corner fitting (14), and one upper arm (17), at its inner end connected to the stationary supporting frame (15) or to an upper corner fitting (13). Moreover, at its outer end, each supporting leg (16) is provided with a supporting foot (32).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1996
    Assignees: Cue Dee Produktor AB, Telefonaktiebolaget L M Ericsson
    Inventors: Karl M. Gustafsson, Herman P. S. Sylvan
  • Patent number: 5527010
    Abstract: A stand for supporting an elongate object such as a Christmas tree in a substantially vertical orientation has a central tubular support (4) adapted to receive an end of the object, and a plurality of legs (12) releasably securable on the tubular support (4) so as to extend substantially radially therefrom, including lugs (20) which engage in slots (21) in the support to provide releasable fixing of each leg to the central support (4) at a first point on each leg, and a locking collar (10) which is slidably disposed on the support (4) securably overlying lugs (24) to engage each of the legs (12) at a second point thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 18, 1996
    Assignee: Boto (Licenses) Limited
    Inventor: Cheung C. Kao
  • Patent number: 5485700
    Abstract: A new and improved telescopic flag and cone device with a cone portion having an open top and a closed bottom. A pole portion having a plurality of telescoping poles is received through the open top of the cone portion and secured to the closed bottom. An uppermost pole has a securement slot therein. A flag portion is received through the securement slot of the uppermost pole for securement therewith. The flag portion optionally wraps around the uppermost pole thereby permitting the plurality of poles to be telescopically received within the cone portion for storage purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1996
    Inventor: Brian M. Van Vranken
  • Patent number: 5460353
    Abstract: A plurality of corner posts positionable in a rectangular array, each corner post including a cylindrical tube positionable in a vertical orientation, each tube having a lower end and an upper end with a cap with a closed top positionable over the upper end and an extension member positioned over the lower end, the extension member being cylindrical in configuration with an internal shoulder adapted to receive thereagainst the lower end of the tube, the upper cap and lower extension member being formed with outwardly extending rings adapted to support corners of a screen, the lower end of the extension being formed with upwardly extending recesses for forming spring urged tangs therebetween; and a plurality of bases, each base adapted to receive the lower end of the extension member and positionable in a rectangular array beneath the posts and extension members, each base including a planar lower surface and a generally hemispherical upper surface with a vertical recess formed to extend downwardly from the up
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Inventor: Michael R. Rittenhouse
  • Patent number: 5458306
    Abstract: A flat base pivotally attaches to the lower end of a mono or uni pod forming a foot to provide stabilization for a still or a video camera mounted on the upper end of the pod. One end of the foot is a flat platform on which a photographer can place the toe end of his/her own foot to further stabilize a camera during picture taking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 17, 1995
    Inventors: Dave O'Farrill, Ralph S. Colombo
  • Patent number: 5452877
    Abstract: A beach umbrella anchor bag is filled with a loose weighted material (i.e., sand or the like) and secured about the shaft of a beach umbrella to secure the umbrella in place against movement due to wind or other causes. The bag includes a relatively small bottom opening, allowing the shaft to be passed therethrough to penetrate the underlying surface for greater security. The bottom opening may be closed with a flap secured thereover, so the bag may be used for the carriage of other articles when not anchoring an umbrella or the like. The upper portion of the bag includes umbrella shaft attachment panels therein, which secure to the umbrella shaft to prevent relative movement therebetween, and the top opening of the bag includes a draw string to secure the mouth of the bag around the shaft to prevent spillage of material from the bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 26, 1995
    Inventors: Mary A. Riffle, Gilbert L. Riffle, Karen R. Sampson, Penny R. McCeney
  • Patent number: 5427346
    Abstract: A carrying case and anchoring system for a beach umbrella and its support shaft is disclosed comprising in combination:(1) Container means consisting of top, bottom and side members wherein the top and bottom members are operationally connected at one edge by hinge means to allow pivoting of the members about the axis of the hinge means whereby the container is opened and closed; wherein the top, bottom and side members define a hollow cavity when the carrying case is closed of sufficient size to receive a beach umbrella, its support shaft and a weighting medium for anchoring the container means, umbrella and support shaft; the top and bottom members being further characterized by possessing a plurality of paired openings situated through the top and bottom members wherein the openings of each pair are in direct opposition to one another such that when the carrying case is closed, the opening in the top member is juxtaposed upon the opening in the bottom member, thereby forming a channel through which the umb
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1995
    Inventor: Mark Urgola
  • Patent number: 5407168
    Abstract: A portable, collapsible stand for supporting a cut tree or other generally cylindrical object in a vertical orientation, comprising a plurality of formed leg pair members (14) connected at their centers and radially arrayed to form a central, vertically oriented chamber (32) into which the object is placed. The weight of the object forces the chamber downwards causing the upper extremes (18,24) of the chamber to grasp the object by a spring force. This chamber is then clamped circumferentially to the object for stability. Means for adjusting the apparent vertical orientation of the supported object operate by changing the angle of the leg sections (12,28) and simultaneously tilting the vertically oriented chamber (32) in the required direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1995
    Inventor: Jerry L. Shultz
  • Patent number: 5388799
    Abstract: An apparatus for supporting and transporting a Christmas tree including a base having an upper surface with a center point and a lower surface with a periphery. A Christmas tree stand or other support device is disposed generally above the center point of the base for supporting the Christmas tree. A set of wheels are rotatably mounted generally about the periphery of the lower surface of the base for transporting the base. The wheels are spaced from each other to provide balanced support for the base. The wheels can be locked to prevent unintended transportation of the base. An extension member may be attached to hooks on the underside of the base for facilitating transportation of the tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1995
    Inventor: Francis X. Keefe
  • Patent number: 5377976
    Abstract: A portable basketball system with a ballast-fillable base configured to house the component parts of the basketball system is disclosed. The basketball system includes a base, a backboard, a basketball goal, a pole, and means for affixing the backboard and goal to the pole. The base includes molded recesses for retaining the backboard, basketball goal, a plurality of pole sections, which are joined together to form the pole, and the means for affixing the backboard and goal to the pole, such as threaded fasteners. The backboard functions as a lid to retain the component parts within their respective recesses in the base. A handle is located on the exterior surface of the base for transporting the component parts of the basketball system, much like a suitcase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1995
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Lonny R. Matherne, Barry D. Mower, Kelly Taylor
  • Patent number: 5375835
    Abstract: A basketball assemblage capable of assembly into a basketball system includes an inner pole section and an outer pole section which mate in a telescoping manner. The inner pole section contains a plurality of depressions which are releasably engageable by a latch secured to the outer pole section, thereby making the pole movable among a plurality of predetermined positions. The latch includes a pivot arm pivotally mounted for movement between a position engaging a selected depression to prevent telescoping pole movement, and a releasing position which allows movement. A safety lock pin is releasably engageable to prevent movement of the pivot arm. A slider positioned adjacent the inner pole section reduces binding. The pole also includes a sealed chamber for damping movement of the inner pole section to prevent the backboard from moving suddenly downward when the latch is released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 27, 1994
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward G. Van Nimwegen, Barry D. Mower, Robert Adams, Kelly Taylor
  • Patent number: 5354049
    Abstract: A portable basketball system that in a preassembled state is capable of disposition within an outer relatively flat container to assist in shipping. The basketball system comprises a pole, a backboard, a basketball goal, and a hollow ballast-receiving base. The pole has a proximate end and a distal end and comprises a plurality of pole sections. The backboard may be connected to the pole near the distal end of the pole. The basketball goal may be connected to the backboard. The hollow ballast-receiving base supports the pole in a stationary, substantially upward position when connected to the pole near the proximate end of the pole. This provides a pole upon which the basketball goal may be suspended at an elevation above a playing surface and the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Inventors: Lonny R. Matherne, Barry D. Mower
  • Patent number: 5354031
    Abstract: An umbrella base comprises a base portion and a neck portion. The base portion has a disc with an upturned annular collar communicating with and extending from the top surface of the disc. The disc and the collar have hollow interiors filled with cement or sand, and has a central bore provided therethrough for receiving the neck of the neck portion. The neck portion further comprises a core coupled to the neck, with a bore provided through the neck and the core for receiving and holding the shaft of an umbrella.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Assignee: Dayva International, Inc.
    Inventor: Alfred J. Bilotti
  • Patent number: 5337989
    Abstract: A two-piece self-locking pole stand assembly includes a sleeve base that is secured into the ground and a tubular insert that fits snugly into the base, housing two pivot arms that engage the base and automatically lock the insert to it upon insertion of the pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1994
    Inventor: Phillip C. Apple
  • Patent number: 5333828
    Abstract: A foldable Christmas tree stand having a plurality of legs that can be permanently assembled, yet is foldable in the assembled form. When unfolded it receives and supports a Christmas tree in an upright position, and when folded it occupies a flat, compact, planar space for convenient handling, storage, and shipping. The Christmas tree stand comprises pivotally interconnected legs that pivot about one or more substantially vertical axes. When unfolded, the legs can be locked in position by a locking assembly disposed about the pivot axes of the pivotally interconnected legs there by providing a stable base for mounting a Christmas tree thereto. Additionally, the Christmas tree stand is designed to enable the trunk of the tree to rest in a water supply container, partially full with water thereby keeping the tree moist to extend the tree's life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 2, 1994
    Inventor: Donald R. Severeid
  • Patent number: 5248140
    Abstract: A portable basketball system that in a preassembled state is capable of disposition within an outer relatively flat container to assist in shipping. The basketball system comprises a pole, a backboard, a basketball goal, and a hollow ballast-receiving base. The pole has a proximate end and a distal end and comprises a plurality of pole sections. The backboard may be connected to the pole near the distal end of the pole. The basketball goal may be connected to the backboard. The hollow ballast-receiving base supports the pole in a stationary, substantially upward disposition when connected to the pole near the proximate end of the pole. This provides a pole upon which the basketball goal may be suspended at an elevation above a playing surface and the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1993
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Barry D. Mower, Lonny R. Matherne
  • Patent number: 5236166
    Abstract: The device is an improved base support for securing yardage indicating number inserts or a flag holder insert and an attached flag to a sprinkler unit installed on a golf course. The improved base support is secured to the sprinkler unit by means of a base. The flag insert and attached flag are installed on the base during construction of the golf course to prevent operators of heavy equipment from hitting or running over the sprinkler unit. Once the golf course is completed, the flag holder insert is removed from the base and replaced with the yardage indicating number inserts. The flag holder insert and the number inserts are provided with beveled sides and ends. The beveled sides of the flag holder insert and the beveled ends of the number inserts slide between base tracks provided on the base in order to secure the inserts to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1993
    Inventor: Gary E. Darling
  • Patent number: 5222534
    Abstract: A device for the retention of various sizes of containers used in the collection of waste fluids such as anti-freeze, oil and other liquids including a receptacle with a raised platform for supporting a container to be filled and a trough surrounding the raised platform for collecting spilled fluids. The raised platform having a plurality of peg receptacles each capable of receiving a peg for providing support to the container being filled. Drain channels are provided between the peg receptacles and the trough permitting spilled fluids to drain into the trough and providing structural support to the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1993
    Inventor: Charles E. Wilkinson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5207406
    Abstract: An umbrella stand designed to be used principally in conjunction with a beach umbrella with the stand to be located on sand. The umbrella shaft is to be optionally mounted either in a vertical position or inclined position on the stand. The stand is to include a container to which is to be added a quantity of a weighty substance such as the sand to provide a heavy enough base to prevent tipping over of the umbrella during usage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1993
    Inventors: Janice M. Stine, Karen J. Soleri
  • Patent number: 5207407
    Abstract: A base for a basketball support pole comprising, in combination, a plurality of walls arranged at an angle to each other and forming a polyhedron shaped body, support structure within the body defining an elongated opening extending into the body at an angle to the vertical and for receiving a support pole, structure for securing the pole in the opening against rotation about the elongated axis of the pole and against withdrawal from the opening, structure within the body defining a ballast receiving enclosure, and ballast within the ballast receiving enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1993
    Assignee: Huffy Corporation
    Inventors: James N. Fitzsimmons, Michael A. Niver, David A. Allen
  • Patent number: 5188330
    Abstract: A plant support structure including a base support, an elongate staff member, a trunk attachment arrangement for releasably and flexibly connecting the projecting of said staff member to the trunk of the plant, and a mounting block for mounting the staff member on the base support so that the longitudinal axis of the angles inwardly over the base support for attachment to the plant above its center of mass to stabilize the plant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1993
    Inventor: Grant B. Curtis, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5178356
    Abstract: The invention relates to a support assembly to which outdoor games equipment (net, elastic or rope) and folding panels used in shelters, exhibition stands, for decorative or advertising purposes or as general notice boards, can be attached. The assembly is made up of a container (1) and a shaft (5), the container being filled with water, sand or gravel and including a handle (2) and a hole (4) through which the shaft is housed; and the shaft comprising elements nesting into each other which can be placed one on top of the other. The support assembly can be made of plastic or of a light alloy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1993
    Inventor: Jeannine P. Schouwey
  • Patent number: 5154392
    Abstract: Promotional card with easel and standard-holder on reverse. The display unit can be used as a header assembly with a standard (or pre-scored piece of corrugated material) or as a counter-card by folding out the easel wings and locking them into place with the included lock, or as a frame-card in a frame-card holder. The pre-scored piece of corrugated material serves as a standard, but can be folded lengthwise to reduce its length for convenient mailing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1992
    Assignee: Ashland Oil, Inc.
    Inventor: John K. Voight
  • Patent number: 5131618
    Abstract: My invention provides the user with a new and innovative way to display a working model railroad train set traveling around a Christmas tree. My invention enables the user to elevate the train to a varying height to prevent any interference with the placements of gifts at the base of the tree, and also provides the means to place the model train out of the reach of small children and pets. The model train is supported on my invention by a track (FIG. 1) which is attached to supports (FIG. 1) connecting the track to the Christmas tree by an adjustable collar (FIG. 1) and by the use of support legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1992
    Inventor: Michael J. Chapin