Driven Patents (Class 248/522)
  • Patent number: 11937678
    Abstract: An auto-rotate flat iron assembly that can be turned into a curling iron by a simple press of a button. It automates the rotation of the clamped strands of hair in order to create different curl styles. The hair iron assembly creates curls in hair by adjustably applying heat, clamping around hair strands, and automating rotation of the tongs in either direction, so as to achieve the desired wave or curl in hair. A stop member restricts rotation to 180°. A power button powers on and off a motor. A rotate button rotates the tongs in both directions 180° and up to or greater than 360°. A heat button incrementally increases and decreases heat in tongs. A tong lever controls opening and closing of tongs around hair strands. Different hair curl styles are achieved by changing heat temperature and/or speed of pulling down the iron after the rotation is complete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2024
    Inventor: Natan Ashkenazi
  • Patent number: 11641968
    Abstract: The present disclosure discloses a rotatable electric mounting base and an artificial tree applying the electric mounting base. The rotatable electric mounting base includes a base main body and a mounting shaft. The mounting shaft is inserted into the main body mounting hole of the base main body. An electric device is mounted on the periphery of the mounting shaft in a sleeving mode. The electric device includes an upper joint component and a lower joint component. The rotatable electric mounting base has a novel structural design, good stability and reliability, and convenience in mounting and connecting. The artificial tree includes an artificial tree main body, a decorative light string, and the abovementioned rotatable electric mounting base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2022
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2023
    Inventors: Xinjiang Zou, Lingong Wang
  • Patent number: 11006775
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus has a base assembly, a movable assembly that is movably supported by the base assembly, a structural assembly that is supported by the movable assembly, a plurality of electrical assemblies that are supported by the structural assembly, an actuating assembly configured to move the movable assembly relative to the base assembly, and a first electrical connector that is electrically connectable to the actuating assembly and the plurality of electrical assemblies. The apparatus also has a second electrical connector that is electrically connectable to a power source, and a switch assembly disposed on the second electrical connector. The first and second electrical connectors are electrically connected via one or more contact members that are movably disposed relative to the base assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Assignee: National Christmas Products LLC
    Inventor: Michael M. McRae
  • Patent number: 10862257
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus has a base assembly, a movable assembly that is movably supported by the base assembly and that is movable relative to the base assembly, a structural assembly that is supported by the movable assembly, a plurality of electrical assemblies supported by the structural assembly, and a first electrical connector that is electrically connectable to some of the plurality of electrical assemblies, the first electrical connector being attached to the movable assembly and including a first plurality of electrical members. The apparatus also has a second electrical connector that is electrically connectable to a power source, the second electrical connector being attached to the base assembly and including a second plurality of electrical members, and one or more contact members that are movably disposed relative to the base assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2020
    Assignee: National Christmas Products LLC
    Inventor: Michael M. McRae
  • Patent number: 10670276
    Abstract: Embodiments of the inventive concept provide a double-sealed high-temperature resistant DC ignitor for use with a wood pellet burner assembly. The DC ignitor includes a non-heating element portion. The non-heating element portion is connected to at least one of a battery or an AC to DC electrical transformer attached to the wood pellet burner assembly. A heating element is connected to the non-heating element portion, and extends by at least one inch into a combustion region of the wood pellet burner assembly. The heating element portion is configured to be heated by power received from the battery or the AC to DC electrical transformer. The DC ignitor provides safe, reliable, and fast combustion of wood pellets that congregate in a combustion region of the wood pellet burner assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2020
    Assignee: Original Pellet Grill Company LLC
    Inventor: Joe Traeger
  • Patent number: 10123646
    Abstract: A Christmas tree stand, with a watering spout, comprising: a tree stand apparatus with a build-in tarp that is unrolled from the stand when the tree is to be discarded. The stand comprises: a hollow frusto-conical-like shaped housing covered with a hinged collar that is used to pivot the tree to the floor. The housing further comprises: a rotating wheel with spurs in the base; and a rotating cylinder with baffles connected on the cylinder's top edge. A cable lays on the top of the baffles and against the outer sidewall of the rotating cylinder. The cable also runs between three evenly spaced sets of restraints with screws aligned perpendicularly into the tree trunk. When a tree trunk is placed in the rotating cylinder, atop the wheel, and rotated clockwise, then cable pulls the screws against the trunk, and the tree is then locked into place with a foot pedal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2018
    Inventor: Daniel Fabrizi
  • Publication number: 20150114438
    Abstract: The invention generally relates to an apparatus for controlling tilt and pivot movement of an umbrella, or a sunshade positioning device. In one embodiment, the device comprises an umbrella support receiving member, and a positioning and tilt control unit that can be used to retrofit any umbrella to enable the umbrella for quick and easy positioning for maximizing a shaded area throughout the day. The positioning unit can be coupled to an umbrella's support member, or post, towards the bottom of the support member. A receiving member connects the positioning unit to the umbrella support member, and control of the positioning unit causes the support member to move back and forth, thereby changing the angle at which the umbrella is positioned with relation to a surface. The positioning unit can be controlled by hand, or by a small electric motor that actuates the connector coupled to the umbrella support member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2014
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventor: Mario Jason
  • Patent number: 8899249
    Abstract: A lifting device for an umbrella includes a base, a plurality of fixing seats secured on the base, a plurality of movable members each movably mounted in the respective fixing seat, a pressing module movably mounted on the base and pressing the movable members, a threaded rod mounted on the base and connected with the pressing module, and a drive handle connected with the threaded rod. The pressing module includes a driven rod and two pressing rods. Each of the pressing rods is provided with a straight pressing portion that is movable to press the respective movable member and at least one recessed release portion that is movable to receive the respective movable member. Thus, each of the movable members is rotatable freely so that the lifting device is moved on the ground easily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Galtech Computer Corp.
    Inventor: Jin-Sheng Lai
  • Patent number: 8851093
    Abstract: An outdoor umbrella includes an awning frame, a supporting shaft and an adjustable rotation base including a base housing and a transportation arrangement. The base housing is arranged to couple with the supporting shaft to support the awning frame in an upright manner, and includes a plurality of transferring wheels. The transportation arrangement is provided at the base housing to operate the base housing between an idle mode and a transportation mode, wherein in the idle mode, the transferring wheels are suspenedly lifted up to position above the bottom edge of the base housing such the base housing is sat on the ground surface in a stationary manner, wherein in the transportation mode, the base housing is lifted up by air pressure for allowing the transferring wheels to move out of the receiving cavity at a position below the bottom edge of the base housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Oliver Joen-An Ma
    Inventor: Wanda Ying Li
  • Publication number: 20120285497
    Abstract: An outdoor umbrella includes an awning frame, a supporting shaft and an adjustable rotation base including a base housing and a transportation arrangement. The base housing is arranged to couple with the supporting shaft to support the awning frame in an upright manner, and includes a plurality of transferring wheels. The transportation arrangement is provided at the base housing to operate the base housing between an idle mode and a transportation mode, wherein in the idle mode, the transferring wheels are suspenedly lifted up to position above the bottom edge of the base housing such the base housing is sat on the ground surface in a stationary manner, wherein in the transportation mode, the base housing is lifted up by air pressure for allowing the transferring wheels to move out of the receiving cavity at a position below the bottom edge of the base housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2012
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Inventor: Wanda Ying Li
  • Publication number: 20120285499
    Abstract: An adjustable rotation base includes a base housing and a transportation arrangement. The base housing has a bottom side, an upper side for coupling with the supporting post to support the outer umbrella in an upright manner, and a receiving cavity indently formed on the bottom side of the base housing, wherein the base housing includes a stationary unit provided at the bottom side for sitting on the ground surface in a stationary manner, and a plurality of transferring wheels rotatably supported at the bottom side of the base housing. The transportation arrangement is provided at the base housing to operate the base housing between an idle mode and a transportation mode in which the stationary unit is upwardly lifted to allow the transferring wheels being sitting on the ground surface, such that the base housing is adapted to be transported on the ground surface via the transferring wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2012
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Inventor: Wanda Ying Li
  • Publication number: 20120146878
    Abstract: An antenna base provided of a hollow support body having a fixed lower portion and an upper portion aligned along a longitudinal axis, the upper portion being adapted to support an antenna and being rotationally mounted on the lower portion to rotate, in use, together with the antenna itself, about the longitudinal axis; the antenna base being further provided with an electric motor, which is adapted to rotate the upper portion and is provided for this purpose with a stator integral with the lower integral and of a rotor integral with the upper portion and coaxial with the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2011
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Applicant: Selex Sistemi Integrati S.p.A.
    Inventors: Stefano Pacetti, Lorenzo Piferi, Gianluca Costanesi
  • Publication number: 20110232704
    Abstract: An outdoor umbrella includes an awning frame, a supporting shaft and an adjustable rotation base including a base housing and a transportation arrangement. The base housing is arranged to couple with the supporting shaft to support the awning frame in an upright manner, and includes a plurality of transferring wheels. The transportation arrangement is provided at the base housing to operate the base housing between an idle mode and a transportation mode, wherein in the idle mode, the transferring wheels are suspenedly lifted up to position above the bottom edge of the base housing such the base housing is sat on the ground surface in a stationary manner, wherein in the transportation mode, the base housing is lifted up by air pressure for allowing the transferring wheels to move out of the receiving cavity at a position below the bottom edge of the base housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2011
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Inventor: Wanda Ying Li
  • Patent number: 7942377
    Abstract: A beach umbrella stand is provided including a foot operated drive assembly. A pole of a beach umbrella stand has a hollow interior portion housing the foot operated drive assembly. The foot operated drive assembly includes a ratchet assembly operated by a foot pedal. The ratchet assembly further includes an auger mounted at least partially within the pole, for driving into the sand. The ratchet assembly is positioned for operation of a pedal by a user's foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: H & S Endeavors, LLC
    Inventors: Robert Harold, John Sperry
  • Publication number: 20100147341
    Abstract: An adjustable rotation base includes a base housing and a transportation arrangement. The base housing has a bottom side, an upper side for coupling with the supporting post to support the outer umbrella in an upright manner, and a receiving cavity indently formed on the bottom side of the base housing, wherein the base housing includes a stationary unit provided at the bottom side for sitting on the ground surface in a stationary manner, and a plurality of transferring wheels rotatably supported at the bottom side of the base housing. The transportation arrangement is provided at the base housing to operate the base housing between an idle mode and a transportation mode in which the stationary unit is upwardly lifted to allow the transferring wheels being sitting on the ground surface, such that the base housing is adapted to be transported on the ground surface via the transferring wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Inventor: Wanda Ying Li
  • Publication number: 20100065709
    Abstract: An adjustable rotation base includes a base housing and a transportation arrangement. The base housing has a bottom side, an upper side for coupling with the supporting post to support the outer umbrella in an upright manner, and a receiving cavity indently formed on the bottom side of the base housing, wherein the base housing includes a stationary unit provided at the bottom side for sitting on the ground surface in a stationary manner, and a plurality of transferring wheels rotatably supported at the bottom side of the base housing. The transportation arrangement is provided at the base housing to operate the base housing between an idle mode and a transportation mode in which the stationary unit is upwardly lifted to allow the transferring wheels being sitting on the ground surface, such that the base housing is adapted to be transported on the ground surface via the transferring wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventor: Wanda Ying
  • Patent number: 7523912
    Abstract: A pivot assembly that can be retrofitted to existing traffic poles. The pivot assembly comprises a bearing assembly disposed between a top plate and a bottom plate. The bottom plate connects to the existing pole foundation with the standard anchor bolt arrangement. Similarly, the top plate connects to the base plate of the traffic pole using additional bolts. Bearings in the pivot assembly allow the pole to rotate relative to the foundation. Preferably, roller bearings are utilized, as these can be contained substantially within the pivot assembly without extending down into the foundation or up into the pole. This means the pivot assembly can be installed in existing, standard traffic poles and foundations without modifying either. The pivot assembly does not interfere with existing wiring or access openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Assignee: Pelco Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Raymond M. Woods
  • Patent number: 7503541
    Abstract: A beach umbrella stand is provided including a foot operated drive assembly. A pole of a beach umbrella stand has a hollow interior portion housing the foot operated drive assembly. The foot operated drive assembly includes a ratchet assembly operated by a foot pedal. The ratchet assembly further includes a an auger mounted at least partially within the pole, for driving into the sand. The ratchet assembly is positioned for operation of a pedal by a user's foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Assignee: H & S Endeavors, LLC
    Inventors: Robert Harold, John Sperry
  • Publication number: 20080128574
    Abstract: A ceiling mounting system configured to provide height and viewing angle adjustment for a flat panel display mounted thereon. An adapter plate attaches to at least one rear surface of a flat panel display. A tube, at a first end, is pivotally attached to the adapter plate, while the tube, at a second end is attached to a ceiling decoupler. The ceiling decoupler has integrated therein, a return to zero mechanism configured to withstand impact to the ceiling mounting system and/or flat panel display, and return to a default position once the impact is released. Various related media components can also be secured to the adapter plate, while the tube, in conjunction with the adapter plate allows for cable and cord routing and management. A back cover slidably engages the adapter plate to hide the rear of the flat panel display and any related media components, cables, and cords.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2007
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Inventors: James Duane Walters, Matthew William Stifal
  • Patent number: 7246783
    Abstract: A beach umbrella stand is provided including a foot operated drive assembly. A pole of a beach umbrella stand has a hollow interior portion housing the foot operated drive assembly. The foot operated drive assembly includes a ratchet assembly operated by a foot pedal. The ratchet assembly further includes a an auger mounted at least partially within the pole, for driving into the sand. The ratchet assembly is positioned for operation of a pedal by a user's foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Inventors: Robert Harold, John Sperry
  • Patent number: 7172168
    Abstract: An apparatus for holding an umbrella includes a longitudinal shaft with a lower and an upper end. The lower end is adapted for insertion into the ground. A pivoting lever is used to urge the lower end into the ground by stepping on it. The upper end is adapted to receive and retain a lower end of the umbrella. An intermediate support is provided between the upper and lower ends and is used to steady the apparatus, for example, in the wind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Inventor: Ryan David Kallas
  • Patent number: 6953179
    Abstract: A refined holder structure is provided. The refined holder structure mainly includes a base having at lest one or more prop to surround thereof, wherein one of the prop is designed to be a socket with an extended line for supplying the power, and a hole mounted on a central portion thereof for mounting a sleeve, thereby through seting the sleeve, a Christmas tree can be inserted in the sleeve, and further through the socket mounted on the prop, the plugs of the decorated electric equipments (e.g. Christmas light decoration) on the tree can be put in the socket for conveniently supplying the power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Inventor: Li-Chun Lai
  • Patent number: 6871455
    Abstract: A reinforced ground anchor including a spike, a pressure cap having a planar surface, a rod having a drive section at one end, and a swivel connection connecting said pressure cap with the rod. An opening is formed in the pressure cap. A guide is located adjacent the opening. The pressure cap engages flush with the surface of the ground, due to the action of the swivel connection, when the rod is positioned in the ground soil and the spike passes through the opening to engage in the ground soil at an acute angle. The spike and the cap in combination with the rod provide the anchor with additional resistance against horizontal and vertical pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Inventors: Norman Frank Cockman, Silas E. Winn
  • Patent number: 6739566
    Abstract: A revolving support stand for an ornamental display including a base having a housing and a trunk holder that is seated in the top opening of the base and includes a pair of electrical outlets. An electrical motor is located in one side of the base and provides a drive for gear teeth located on the trunk holder to rotate the trunk holder with respect to the base. A bearing race is centrally positioned in the base so that a bottom portion of the trunk holder is seated on the race, which serves as a truss bearing to overcome axial loads applied on the housing by the ornamental display supported by the stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: Boto (Licenses) Limited
    Inventor: Cheung Chong Kao
  • Patent number: 6565060
    Abstract: An attachment stand frame for spa umbrella which includes a shaft supporting an awning thereon, wherein the attachment stand frame includes a stand base including a reinforcing panel extended therefrom adapted for mounting underneath an outdoor spa wherein the spa umbrella is uprightly supported on the stand base, and a supporting frame perpendicularly extended from the stand base for substantially attaching to the outdoor spa so as to securely mount the spa umbrella to the outdoor spa. The attachment stand frame further includes a base body, having a receiving chamber provided thereon, adapted to support the shaft, a rotor, which is rotatably disposed in the receiving chamber, having a rotor axial socket for inserting the shaft thereinto, and a locking arrangement for locking up the rotation movement of the rotor. Therefore, the attachment stand frame is adapted to be rigidly supported by the outdoor spa and rotatably mount the spa umbrella.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Inventors: Wanda Yiing Li, Raymond J. Carabotta
  • Patent number: 6536721
    Abstract: A revolving support stand for an ornamental display including a base having a housing and a trunk holder that is seated in a top opening of the base and includes an electrical outlet. An electrical motor is located in the base and provides a drive force to rotate the trunk holder with respect to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Boto (Licenses) Limited
    Inventor: Cheung Chong Kao
  • Publication number: 20020185582
    Abstract: A rotation locker stand for outdoor umbrellas includes a rotor, which is rotatably disposed in a chamber of a base housing, including a rotor axial socket for securely and uprightly holding a shaft of the outdoor umbrella, and an actuator for detachably and selectively engaging with the rotor in such a manner that when the actuator is engaged with the rotor, the rotor is in the locking position, when the actuator is disengaged with the rotor, the rotor is adapted for freely rotating in the chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventor: Wanda Ying Li
  • Publication number: 20020134904
    Abstract: A multi-functional adjustable base for a sun shading umbrella having a supporting stem includes a base support, a stem rotary member rotatably supported by the base support and securely holds the supporting stem, and a controlling arrangement mounted on the base support and communicated with the stem rotary member for selectively rotating or locking up the stem rotary member. The controlling arrangement includes a transmission member, which is supported by the base support, having an engaging end adapted for engaging with the stem rotary member, and a paddle pivotally and integrally connected to the transmission member and extended outside the base support for switching the stem rotary member into one of the two states—a freely rotating state and a locked state, wherein in the freely rotating state, the stem rotary member is free to rotate with respect to the base support, while in the locked state, the stem rotary member is locked in position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventor: Wanda Ying Li
  • Publication number: 20020117594
    Abstract: An attachment stand frame for spa umbrella which includes a shaft supporting an awning thereon, wherein the attachment stand frame includes a stand base including a reinforcing panel extended therefrom adapted for mounting underneath a spa wherein the spa umbrella is uprightly supported on the stand base, and a supporting frame perpendicularly extended from the stand base for substantially attaching to the spa so as to securely mount the spa umbrella to the spa. The attachment stand frame further includes a base body, having a receiving chamber provided thereon, adapted to support the shaft, a rotor, which is rotatably disposed in the receiving chamber, having a rotor axial socket for inserting the shaft thereinto, and a locking arrangement for locking up the rotation movement of the rotor. Therefore, the attachment stand frame is adapted for rigidly supporting by the spa and rotatably mounting the spa umbrella.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2001
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Inventors: Wanda Yiing Li, Raymond J. Carabotta
  • Patent number: 6367759
    Abstract: An improved rotational cake decorating apparatus, commonly known as a Lazy Susan, used in the decoration, display and service of cakes. Said improved rotational cake decorating apparatus has a novel gripping means disposed thereon for improved rotational control. A donut shaped apparatus with a novel gripping means disposed thereon to be fixably attached to an existing rotational cake decorating apparatus. Said donut shaped apparatus with said novel gripping means provides for improved rotational control of said existing rotational cake decorating apparatus. A radial extension apparatus with a novel gripping means disposed thereon that can be removably attached to an existing rotational cake decorating apparatus. The radial extension apparatus provides a larger surface for supporting a work product such as a cake whereby the surface for supporting a cake on the existing rotational cake decorating apparatus is increased allowing for the decoration of larger cakes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: NHS Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce R. Simon
  • Patent number: 5979859
    Abstract: A rotating Christmas tree stand that includes a rotating electric supply socket to provide electrical power to the lights decorating the Christmas tree; that includes a fluid reservoir for supplying fluid to the Christmas tree; that includes a mixing mechanism for mixing fertilizing agents into the fluid within the fluid reservoir; and that includes a stand assembly and a rotating tree support assembly rotatably supported on the stand assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Inventors: Arshavir Vartanov, Sergey Vartanov
  • Patent number: 5878989
    Abstract: A new Rotating Tree Stand for providing the ability to rotate a Christmas tree through 360 degrees thus allowing the entire tree to be accessible for decorating and display. The inventive device includes a stationary base member and a rotatable shell member shrouding the stationary base member, wherein the rotatable shell member is rotatable relative to the stationary base member and is adapted to support a Christmas tree. A rotation unit is provided for rotating the rotatable shell member relative to the stationary base member and a musical unit is provided for playing songs, wherein the rotation unit and the musical unit are shrouded by the rotatable shell member. A remote electrical outlet is provided in the rotatable shell member for providing electrical power to an electrical adornment placed on the Christmas tree, such as a string of lights, and a remote control is provided for controlling the operation of the Rotating Tree Stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Inventor: Galen Paul Allman
  • Patent number: 5772172
    Abstract: A roadside standard assembly and maintenance method are provided which facilitate installation, maintenance, and repair of an object suspended over a roadway. The standard assembly comprises a support pole and an arm extending from the pole. The object is supported on the arm, and is normally disposed over a roadway. The standard rotates about the pole, allowing the arm to swing from over the roadway to a roadside position from which the object can be accessed for maintenance without resorting to a road closure. An anchoring structure maintains the upward orientation of the pole, and is optionally retrofittable for existing roadside standard installations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Pablo S. Sampedro, Gordon L. Ritchie
  • Patent number: 5749304
    Abstract: A television stand including a base having a base bearing plate positioned on an exterior surface thereof and a motor drive compartment and a shaft passageway formed therein for receiving a motor drive assembly and a drive shaft respectively; a motor drive assembly positioned within the motor drive compartment, the motor drive assembly including a clutch coupled between a motor output shaft and a turntable drive shaft, the turntable drive shaft having a turntable drive gear attached to second end thereof, the turntable drive gear being positioned exteriorly of the base and above the base bearing plate; rotatable turntable having a turntable drive socket formed therein adjacent to an exteriorly positioned turntable bearing plate; and a turntable thrust bearing having a central bearing aperture, a section of the drive shaft being positioned through the central bearing aperture, the turntable thrust bearing being positioned between the base thrust bearing plate and the turntable thrust bearing plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Inventor: Cornelius E. Turner
  • 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: 5647569
    Abstract: A rotating stand assembly (10) for a stemmed article such as a Christmas tree (24) or a merchandise display rack includes a base (12), a spindle (18), bearings (36, 38) interconnecting the base (12) and the spindle (18). An electric motor (46) drives the spindle (18) through a gear train. A clutch (58) automatically disconnects the motor (46) from the spindle (18) in response to a predetermined force applied to the spindle. The clutch (58) includes a compression spring (78) for establishing the predetermined force required to disconnect the motor (46) from the spindle (18). Snap-fit outlets (86) are located in a top cover (32) of the spindle (18). The outlets (86) are electrically connected to contact rings (90, 92) without solder. A limit switch (84) can provide and audible warning that there is an obstruction to normal operation. A live tree adapter (106) is placed into the spindle (18) to accommodate a live Christmas tree (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1997
    Assignee: HMS, Mfg. Co.
    Inventor: Hugh M. Sofy
  • Patent number: 5621979
    Abstract: A drive attachment device (10), particularly adapted to receive and transmit drive to the handle (31) of a paint brush (30) comprises a body (11) having a socket (12) for receiving the end of a paint brush, and resilient retaining means in the form of tension springs (17) mounted on pegs (16) to span an opening (18) through which the handle (31) of the paint brush (30) is introduced when being fitted to the device. The tension springs exert sufficient force on the paint brush handle both to retain it in position against axial displacement and to transmit rotation when the body (10) is rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 22, 1997
    Inventor: David B. Taylor
  • Patent number: 5255886
    Abstract: A rotating device for Christmas tree comprising mainly a shell and a bracket with a reducing motor and a rotating gear within the shell, characterized by the design of a shaft sleeve extended from the center of a side of the rotating gear, a plurality of longitudinal slots on the shaft sleeve for passing through the conductor wires, a flange on the top end of the shaft sleeve and two annular electric conductors fixed on the surface of the rotating gear so that the sleeve can be positioned within a cylindrical post of the bracket, and the annular electric conductors can keep good contact with two conductors on the bracket, and the shaft sleeve can hold a trunk of a Christmas tree so that the Christmas tree can be rotated slowly. It can also include a support with steel balls beneath the rotating gear so that the rotation can be proceeded smoothly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1993
    Inventor: Hai C. H. Wang
  • Patent number: 5190261
    Abstract: A tree support for receiving a Christmas tree to permit rotation thereof is arranged to include a truncated conical base rotatably mounting a truncated conical rotary head. The rotary head is mounted upon an annular array of bearings mounted within the base, with the base including a transmission plate secured to the base receiving a tubular support shaft therethrough. The tubular support shaft is received to an upper end of a drive motor to effect rotation of the tubular support shaft fixedly secured to the rotary head. The transmission plate is in electrical communication with a plurality of electrical outlets. The transmission plate may be formed of continuous annular electrical tracks, or alternatively of discontinuous annular tracks to effect a twinkling effect of lights and the like mounted to the tree support by the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1993
    Inventor: Michael J. Tetting
  • Patent number: 5119580
    Abstract: A fishing pole holder is pivotally mounted on the upper end portion of an upright tubular housing to rock upwardly and downwardly about a horizontal axis. A battery-operated motor is contained in the housing and is operable to rotate a cam having a plurality of angularly spaced lobes which act against a cam follower on the holder to rock the latter upwardly and downwardly. With this arrangement, a fishing pole supported in the holder may be automatically moved upwardly and downwardly in order to jig a lure in the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1992
    Inventors: Timothy M. Schulte, Richard S. Schulte
  • Patent number: 5065969
    Abstract: The device includes a fixed component (30) which is in two half-shells which clamp, sideways-on, around the fixed mast (3), and a rotatable component (28) which also is in two half-shells which, when assembled around the mast, are guided for rotation relative to the mast. Several rotation apparatuses (one per antenna) may be attached at different points on the height of the mast, so that each antenna (19) may be orientated independently of the other antennas towards the appropriate TV transmitting station. The stub shaft (29) on which the antenna (19) is carried may be rotatable relative to the housing (28), and so geared that a 180 deg rotation of the housing produces a 360 deg rotation of the shaft and antenna.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1991
    Assignee: Bea-Bar Enterprises Ltd.
    Inventor: John A. B. McLean
  • Patent number: 4969290
    Abstract: An apparatus for even exposure of potted plants to sunlight includes a base, a potted plant receiving platter rotatably mounted to said base with the platter having an upstanding peripheral flange bounding an interior portion of the platter. A shroud is mounted to the base and defines a cowl which overlies the platter's peripherlal flange to confine dirt and water to the interior portion of the platter. The platter has peripheral gear teeth and an electric motor and drive assembly is coupled to the platter for rotation thereof at predetermined timed intervals. An optional wheeled carriage can be mounted to the base with the carriage wheels rotatably coupled for movement of a plant across a support surface. A set of slave units including rotatable platters can be interconnected together and to a powered master unit for simultaneous rotation of many plants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 13, 1990
    Assignees: Rudolph Skoretz, Dallas Skoretz
    Inventor: Dallas Skoretz
  • Patent number: 4895339
    Abstract: It is a detachable swivelling structure, which is particular a swivelling structure for mounting a swivelling Christmas tree. The swivelling structure comprises a round base, four supporting legs to be assembled at a perpendicular angle one another or disassembled, a lid, and a turning base. After the four supporting legs being assembled together, they are mounted under the round base so as to have a larger base to hold the swivelling tree in a stable manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1990
    Inventors: Chen Yang, Chu Ven-Chung
  • Patent number: 4890008
    Abstract: This invention relates to a type of multi-function automatic revolving Christmas tree base. Its rotation directions can be changed automatically by means of a DC motor transmission to drive the revolving cylinder of the Christmas tree, which drives a two-way exchanging mechanism to change the polarities of the input current from the DC motor, so that the DC motor can rotate in positive and reverse directions. On the outer walls of the revolving cylinder are two conductive copper collars in connection with outer power source. Part of the two conductive copper collars is extending upwards through the wall of the revolving cylinder and in connection with another socket, which can serve as the power source of the lamps on the Christmas tree. Therefore, when Christmas tree is turning in one direction, there is no worry of the winding and knotting of the power cords.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 26, 1989
    Inventor: Ven-Chung Chu