Ground Inserted Patents (Class 248/530)
  • Patent number: 6328046
    Abstract: A self-anchoring beach umbrella having an umbrella canopy and an umbrella pole. The umbrella pole having an upper member for supporting the canopy and a lower member for self-anchoring the umbrella into a ground surface. The upper member being an elongated tubular sleeve having a first end communicating with and supporting the umbrella canopy, an axial lumen formed within the elongated tubular sleeve, and a second end for receiving a pole standard into the axial lumen. The lower member being a pole standard having a length, a first end formed for insertion into the axial lumen of the elongated tubular sleeve, and a second end formed for anchoring into the ground surface. A hammer is fixed to the elongated tubular sleeve, the hammer included for transmitting an axial force applied to the elongated tubular sleeve onto an anvil. The anvil fixed to the pole standard for receiving the axial force from the hammer and transmitting it to the pole standard to anchor the pole standard into the ground surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Inventor: Eric K. Doreste
  • Publication number: 20010035201
    Abstract: A beach umbrella stabilizer comprising an outer tubular sleeve and a telescoping inner tubular sleeve which interact to form an impact-type slide hammer arrangement is disclosed. The inner tubular sleeve of the stabilizing device can be forced into the sand by the slide hammer arrangement. After the stabilizing device is securely anchored into the sand, a beach umbrella can be attached to the end thereof by means of a clamp. The height of the stabilizing device can be adjusted thus permitting the overall height of the beach umbrella to be similarly adjusted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2001
    Publication date: November 1, 2001
    Inventor: Dragan Karl Kuzmic
  • Patent number: 6308927
    Abstract: A breakaway sign post connector includes a shear member and a bushing. The shear member includes a first end, a second end, and a necked down section intermediate the first and second ends. A shoulder is attached to the second end, and a resilient bushing is positioned over the shoulder and surrounds the shear member. When attached to an anchor plate and a support plate for a sign post, the bushing strengthens the connector and resists wind shear while allowing the shear member to fracture in the necked down section at a predetermined impact load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Inventor: Lawrence E. Leahy
  • Patent number: 6308468
    Abstract: An earth anchor for a pole that includes a base, a spike, and attaching apparatus. The base has a lowermost face for contacting the earth, an uppermost face opposite to the lowermost face, and a longitudinal axis. The spike is for insertion into the earth, and depends from the lowermost face of the base. The attaching apparatus is for engaging a pole, and is disposed on the uppermost face of the base. The base is disk-shaped with a circular periphery for providing a blunt round edge that eliminates corners when tipped on which a player could fall and be injured, and is wide for leaving enough room for the pole to still be pushed into the earth using foot pressure. The attaching apparatus includes a stop boss disposed on the uppermost face of the base, along the longitudinal axis of the base, which centers the attaching apparatus for allowing the pole to have identical stability in all directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Inventor: Anthony Caruso
  • Patent number: 6308926
    Abstract: A post holder is formed by a post receiving bracket fitted to a spike which embeds into a ground supporting surface. The bracket, which is located above ground level, has a base part secured to the spike, a first bracket part which is fixedly attached to the base part and a second bracket part free of the base part and adjustably secured at spaced apart locations to the first bracket part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Royal Capital Stamping & Tooling Ltd.
    Inventor: George Meyer
  • Patent number: 6298618
    Abstract: A constructional support including three tubes secured to a central support member with the tubes defining guides for drilling holes into the ground and for guiding anchor members as they are being driven into the holes to secure the support with respect to the ground. In one embodiment, the longitudinal axes of the tubes intersect at a point along the longitudinal axis of the central support member. In another embodiment, the longitudinal axes of the tubes each lie in a respective plane which is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the central support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Inventor: Robert Lawson
  • Patent number: 6299125
    Abstract: Structure is disclosed for supporting immature plants and small trees to assure straight and healthy stem and trunk growth until the stem and/or trunk reaches a growth phase where it is self-supporting. Several embodiments of two part stakes are discussed including detachable upper and lower portion stakes and telescoping upper and lower portion stakes. Plant feeding features in the stakes are described and structure for providing cooperating stake pairs with novel interconnecting straps and stem/trunk engaging apparatus is disclosed. Stabilizing structure for the stakes is also disclosed, so that stem trunk support is strong enough to accomplish the intended purpose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Inventor: Esmail Zayeratabat
  • Publication number: 20010017150
    Abstract: A self-anchoring beach umbrella comprising an umbrella canopy and an umbrella pole. The umbrella pole having an upper member for supporting the canopy and a lower member for self-anchoring the umbrella into a ground surface. The upper member being an elongated tubular sleeve having a first end communicating with and supporting the umbrella canopy, an axial lumen formed within the elongated tubular sleeve, and a second end for receiving a pole standard into the axial lumen. The lower member being a pole standard having a length, a first end formed for insertion into the axial lumen of the elongated tubular sleeve, and a second end formed for anchoring into the ground surface. A hammer is fixed to the elongated tubular sleeve, the hammer included for transmitting an axial force applied to the elongated tubular sleeve onto an anvil. The anvil fixed to the pole standard for receiving the axial force from the hammer and transmitting it to the pole standard to anchor the pole standard into the ground surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2000
    Publication date: August 30, 2001
    Inventor: Eric K. Doreste
  • 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: 6269825
    Abstract: A tent pole ground anchor and support device is disclosed as including a substantially flat base that is configured for placement on the ground. A pair of stake-receiving openings are defined in the base so that a ground stake may be inserted through one of the openings and into the ground. A wall projects upwardly from the base, with the wall and base cooperatively defining a pole-retaining recess that is configured to receive an end of the tent pole therein. With respect to known recreational tents, the recess is oversized relative to the tent pole so that the pole may be retained in the recess in the desired oblique orientation relative to the ground. The wall is preferably discontinuous and consequently presents spaced apart ends that cooperatively define a pole-receiving hole therebetween. The pole-receiving hole is provided so that the tent pole may be nested therein when in the desired orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Inventor: Ronald L. Yager
  • Patent number: 6267127
    Abstract: A self-anchoring beach umbrella comprising an umbrella canopy and an umbrella pole. The umbrella pole having an upper member for supporting the canopy and a lower member for self-anchoring the umbrella into a ground surface. The upper member being an elongated tubular sleeve having a first end communicating with and supporting the umbrella canopy, an axial lumen formed within the elongated tubular sleeve, and a second end for receiving a pole standard into the axial lumen. The lower member being a pole standard having a length, a first end formed for insertion into the axial lumen of the elongated tubular sleeve, and a second end formed for anchoring into the ground surface. A hammer is fixed to the elongated tubular sleeve, the hammer included for transmitting an axial force applied to the elongated tubular sleeve onto an anvil. The anvil fixed to the pole standard for receiving the axial force from the hammer and transmitting it to the pole standard to anchor the pole standard into the ground surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Inventor: Eric K. Doreste
  • Patent number: 6263601
    Abstract: A lighted real estate sign having at least one translucent face with indicia to convey marketing information pertaining to a parcel of real estate. An internal light illuminates the translucent face and clearly displays the indicia at night. The sign is powered by a battery, and controlled by a control circuit in response to inputs from a solar panel used to recharge the battery, a photocell used to detect appropriate light conditions to illuminate the internal light, and a timer to turn off the light. The real estate sign is attached to a mounting bracket, which, in turn, is anchored to the parcel of real estate. The sign is locked to the mounting bracket to prevent theft and to rigidly maintain the sign and position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Inventor: David Scot Emert
  • Patent number: 6263608
    Abstract: A fishing rod anchor made of a single section of pipe for holding an unattended fishing pole at an angle relative to the ground. The pipe is hollow with one end cut so as to form a tapered point that can be inserted into the ground. The opposite end of the pipe is open to receive the handle of the rod and may optionally be provided with one or more cut out portions for allowing the user to set the hook without removing the rod from the anchor or to allow the anchor to accommodate rods with casting type reels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Inventor: Loyd Ernst
  • Patent number: 6234444
    Abstract: A plant supporter is disclosed utilizing a pole having lugs attached to it. Apertures extend into each lug and cantilevered arms extend from the apertures outwardly from the pole to provide support to a plant. The lugs may have a resilient clip portion such that they may be easily mounted or removed from the pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Inventor: Richard Y. Haddad
  • Patent number: 6227845
    Abstract: A torch holder includes a supporting portion, a receiving portion and a engaging portion. The supporting portion includes an L-shaped upper portion and a lower portion with one end connected to the upper portion and the other end inserted into the ground. The engaging portion is also an L-shape and so positioned that both L-shaped structures are in the same plane to keep the holder from rotating and fixed in the vertical position. The receiving portion is mounted on the upper portion of the supporting portion, which includes a cylindrical holding portion mounted on the supporting portion with a screw or the like for securing the torch in a cylindrical holding portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventors: Thomas M. Pillow, Richard F. Pillow
  • Patent number: 6216998
    Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, a fishing rod holding assembly, including: a first cylinder having an open top end and a generally closed bottom end, the first cylinder having a diameter selected such that the first cylinder can receive therein an end of a fishing rod such that the first cylinder can support the fishing rod at a selected angle with respect to a substrate; a first spike removably attachable to the generally closed bottom end of the first cylinder, the first spike extending from the generally closed bottom end and being adapted to be inserted in the substrate; a closure for substantially closing the open end of the first cylinder; and the first cylinder and the closure having conjointly a length sufficient to accommodate in a chamber delimited by the first cylinder and the closure the first spike when the first spike is removed from the closed bottom end of the first cylinder, without any portion of the first spike extending from the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Inventors: Richard Butrymowicz, Walter Zimnoch
  • Patent number: 6202369
    Abstract: An anchor system for alternate types of signage includes an elongated anchor member and an attached, lowermost formation engageable with an underlying foundation to firmly support the anchor member in a substantially vertical disposition. A bore within the anchor member slidably receives the lower portion of an elongated sign pole or marker device, with a stop element within the anchor member serving to limit the length of the sign pole inserted therewithin. Secure attachment of the sign pole relative the vertical anchor member is achieved by the application of a compression element comprising a collar and having a tapered, inner surface engageable with the upper portion of the anchor member. The inclusion of a plurality of slots in the upper portion of the anchor member provides individual segments which are subsequently deflected radially inwardly upon the tightening of the compression element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Inventors: Stanley E. Partee, Mike Conner, Donnie L. Reagan
  • Patent number: 6168129
    Abstract: Disclosed is a device for the vertical arrangement of a pole or post-like object (4) on a fixing device (6) located in the ground, comprising a substantially cylindrical, longitudinally extended holding drift (10) which protrudes upwards from the free upper side of the fixing device (6) and which can be inserted into a receiving bore hole (12) on the lower front face (14) of the pole or post-like object (4). Also provided is a support plate (16) which is separate from the fixing device (6) and can be fixed onto the lower front face (14) of the pole or post-like object (4). At least one fixing attachment (18) protrudes upwards therefrom. In the middle of the support plate (16) there is an orifice (24) which is at least partially adapted to the cross-section of the holding drift (10). The support plate (16) also has a clamping section (26) which borders on the central orifice (24) and which is oriented in the same direction as the at least one attachment (18).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Inventor: Klaus Krinner
  • Patent number: 6149119
    Abstract: A device for providing stability to a utensil (1) comprises an elongate spigot (5) arranged to be inserted into an apertured support or the ground, and a retaining member (4) arranged to be secured to, or formed on, the base (2) of the utensil (1). The spigot (5) is releasably retainable by the retaining member (4) in either a first position in which the longitudinal axis (14) of the spigot (5) is generally perpendicular to the base (2) of the utensil (1) so as to enable the spigot (5) to be inserted into the apertured support or in the ground, or a second position in which the longitudinal axis (14) of the spigot (5) is substantially parallel to the base (2) so as to store the spigot (5) when not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventor: Andrew Mark O'Connell
  • Patent number: 6123311
    Abstract: The base assembly is removably received in a hollow end portion of a column which is used to support such things as handles of umbrellas, flag poles or legs of chairs and tables. The assembly includes a plug which is received in the end portion and which has a number of longitudinally extending cavities formed in it. The upper portions of a number of legs are received in the cavities and a plate is bolted to the plug for holding the leg portions in place. Instead of a plug the assembly can have upper and lower plates which are spaced apart from one another. The upper leg portions are received in openings in the plates and are held in place by means of a leg-retaining plate which is bolted to the first two plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Inventor: Paul Edward Trinier
  • Patent number: 6085452
    Abstract: A device and method for marking a location with a marker stake. An elongate wire-like rod is partially inserted in the ground at a location to be marked, and the rod is received in a pre-sized panel having a pair of flag faces and an open-ended longitudinal channel, the channel being dimensioned to receive the rod in friction fit. The flag faces are separated by a plurality of spacers in generally parallel orientation to each other, with the spacers defining the plurality of channels, and the panel has two longitudinal ends each having a sighting notch. While inserting the rod into the ground, the panel may be disposed at the ground to serve as a guide to retain the rod against deflection. Two or more panels and rods may be joined together to produce a larger marker stake, and the panels may be oriented at right angles to each other to give the marker stake a greater three-dimensional profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Inventor: R.P. Stephen Davis
  • Patent number: 6082157
    Abstract: A combination safe and umbrella stand for securely storing valuables and other items therein and vertically supporting a beach umbrella. The combination safe and umbrella stand includes a container with a top opening therein. A lid substantially closes the top opening of the container. A rod is extended through the holes in the lid and container to prevent removal of the lid from the container without removal of the rod. One of the ends of the rod has a stop coupled thereto. The rod has a transverse bore therethrough adjacent the other of the ends of the rod. An auger is downwardly extended from the bottom wall of the container. A pair of spaced apart brackets for supporting a pole of an umbrella are outwardly extended from the perimeter side wall of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Inventor: Stuart T. Boyce
  • Patent number: 6050034
    Abstract: An anchoring apparatus for securing a pole into ground, which includes a tubular section being retained in the ground for supporting the pole. A support element is disposed on the open end of the tubular member, for supporting the pole proximate to the open end. The support element includes an annular outer member, which is rotatably disposed on the tubular section, and includes a support aperture eccentrically offset with respect to the center of the outer member. An annular inner member is rotatably disposed within the support aperture, and includes a receiving aperture eccentrically offset with respect to the center of the inner member, for supporting the pole. The outer member and inner member are respectively rotatable to vary the positions of the support aperture and the receiving aperture, so as to selectively tilt the poles longitudinal axis to a desired position with respect to the direction of the longitudinal axis of the tubular section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Klaus Krinner
    Inventor: Klaus Krinner
  • Patent number: 6039298
    Abstract: A post support apparatus for retaining a mounting post in generally upright disposition and including an elongated support body which includes a lower stake portion adapted to be driven into the earth, and an upper or above-surface post receiving portion. The post receiving portion includes a cavity adapted to rigidly and clampingly retain the base of a post therewithin. The stake portion consists of a continuously tapered body of generally crisscross or "X" configuration, having outer edge surfaces therealong, and with a distal tip end for engaging the earth and a proximal end for above-surface post retention. The stake portion body is tapered continuously from its proximal end to its distal tip end so that the outer edge surfaces remain in firm contact with the subterranean earth or soil. The stake body is dual tapered along its length with the portion adjacent the distal tip being steeply angularly tapered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Inventor: Peter Stier
  • Patent number: 6036161
    Abstract: A sand bar system including a lower support bar. The lower support bar is positionable in a horizontal orientation and has a generally cylindrical configuration and an upwardly extending projection in the central extent thereof formed with female screw threads therewithin. The sand bar system also includes an upper support bar. The upper support bar is spaced above the lower cross bar and extends in a horizontal orientation at right angles with respect to the lower support bar. The upper support bar is cylindrical over the majority of its extent. The upper cross bar has a laterally extending projection with a generally oval head extending from one side thereof. A coupling member is formed in a generally cylindrical configuration and is positionable in a vertical orientation with the central aperture therethrough for receiving the lower portion of the pole for coupling with respect to the projection in the lower cross bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Inventor: Teresa M. O'Shea
  • Patent number: 5988194
    Abstract: An anchoring system and method for temporary structures is disclosed. The system comprises: At least a first stake having a shaft with a lower end for insertion into the ground, and an upper end including a loop; at least a second stake having a shaft with a lower end for insertion into the ground, and an upper end including at least one hook. When the lower ends of the at least first and second stakes are inserted into the ground, the lower ends of the stakes are angled away from each other, the shaft of the second stake is received through the loop of the first stake, and a portion of the shaft of the first stake is received within the at least one hook, whereby the at least first and second stakes are in a mutually interlocked condition which prevents the at least first and second stakes from being independently extracted from the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Inventor: Larry Phillip Collins
  • Patent number: 5984587
    Abstract: A ground stabilization apparatus and method for using the same in the installation of an elongated post such as a fence post, mailbox post, or sign post. The ground stabilization apparatus has a central ground support collar to which a plurality of radially extending stabilization arms are attached. By changing the position of the stabilization arm when it is inserted into the central ground support collar, a variety of post sizes and shapes can be installed using the apparatus. The ground stabilization apparatus is used to maintain the post in its upright and plumb position over time by distributing the force action on the post to a large area surrounding the post near the surface of the ground. The method of using the ground stabilization apparatus describes installing the device in a shallow channel that surrounds the post hole into which the post is to be placed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Stanley W. Odle
  • Patent number: 5957424
    Abstract: A device for the vertical arrangement of a pole or post-like object is disclosed. A securing device is disposed at the ground end and includes a substantially cylindrical, elongated mounting mandrel which projects upwards from the free upper side of the securing device. This mandrel can be inserted into an accommodating bore in the underside of the pole or post-like object. A support plate on which the underside of the pole or post-like object rests, has at least one securing projection that protrudes upwards from the support plate and penetrates the material of the pole or post-like object. The mounting mandrel is substantially thinner than the accommodating bore in the underside of the pole or post-like object such that a play is provided between the outer periphery of the mounting mandrel and the inner circumferential area of the accommodating bore seen substantially over the entire axial extension of the mounting mandrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Assignee: Klaus Krinner
    Inventor: Klaus Krinner
  • Patent number: 5927677
    Abstract: A fence post anchor that adjusts for vertical post alignment by providing a post engagement support portion that swivels on a ground securing portion. The post engagement portion is defined by a split box sleeve secured to an adjustment dome. A fastener assembly interconnects the adjustment dome to the ground engagement portion that has multiple engagement flights on which the dome can be movably positioned and secured thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Assignee: The Steel City Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen Speece, Kenneth Baker
  • Patent number: 5913778
    Abstract: A basketball mounting system for an in-ground basketball system has a flanged basketball support pole and a flanged ground sleeve receiving a portion of the pole in overlapping relationship. The flanges are connected together by removable fasteners such as threaded bolts. In addition, the mounting system may include jacking members in the pole flange to facilitate removal of the pole from the ground sleeve. The jacking members include members such as threaded bolts passing through the pole flange that, when rotated in one direction, press against the ground sleeve flange causing the pole and the ground sleeve to separate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Assignee: Huffy Corporation
    Inventors: Clement F. Hying, Ronald A. White, Randy R. Schickert
  • Patent number: 5884874
    Abstract: A fence post anchor that adjusts for vertical post alignment by providing a post engagement support portion that swivels on a ground engagement portion. The post engagement portion is defined by a split box sleeve secured to an adjustment dome. A fastener assembly interconnects the adjustment dome to the ground engagement portion that has multiple engagement flights on which the dome can be movably positioned and secured thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: Steel City Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen Speece, Kenneth Baker
  • Patent number: 5881495
    Abstract: A combination turf stake and frame construction assembly for establishing a framework construction upon a ground surface. The turf stake includes an elongate spike portion having a first inserting end, a second supporting end and a plurality of vane portions projecting in circumferentially spaced apart and axially directed fashion substantially along the spike portion. A substantially polygonal shaped body defining a hollowed and interior cavity is integrally formed atop the second supporting end of the turf stake and substantially corresponds to a likewise polygonally shaped and inserting end of a selected elongate frame construction member so as to engage the elongate member in a friction fit manner. A plurality of turf stakes and frame construction members can be employed to assemble any desired framework construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Assignee: Roll-Tech, Inc.
    Inventor: J. Matthew Clark
  • 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: 5803426
    Abstract: A post support socket, in which an end portion of a post is supportable by a wedge member, and the post support socket has an elongate body in which a longitudinal bore extends from an inlet end of the body. The body includes a peripheral wall which has an internal surface defining the bore. A slot defined by the peripheral wall extends longitudinally from the inlet end of the body and opens to the bore along its length. The peripheral wall has a laterally offset portion which bridges the slot over part of the length of the slot from the inlet end of the body. In use of the post support socket, a post having an end portion received in the bore can be secured by forcefully driving a wedge member longitudinally into the slot from the inlet end, between the offset portion and the post end portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Inventor: James Fowler Hart
  • Patent number: 5791635
    Abstract: Fence post construction including a main post which is installed in an upright vertical position within a post hole, with the post having at least one bracket fixedly attached thereto, with the bracket being located substantially just below the ground surface when the post is installed within the post hole and the bracket is of a shape and size to slidably receive a rod there through, thus the bracket and the rod in combination provide an anchor for securing the post within the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Inventors: Harold L. Hull, Daniel Boyd
  • Patent number: 5758857
    Abstract: A stake assembly for the support of soccer poles and other tubular structures includes a pair of generally parallel vertical members affixed together and spaced a desired distance apart by an upper lateral member interposed between the vertical members proximate their upper portion, and a lower lateral member interposed between the vertical members proximate their medial portion, such that the distance between the outside surfaces of the vertical members is generally equal to, and preferably slightly greater than, the inside diameter of the pole to be supported. Furthermore, the upper lateral member has a lateral extent generally equal to the inside diameter of the pole to be supported, while the lower lateral member has a lateral extent generally equal to the outside diameter of the pole to be supported. The vertical members terminate in a basal portion each preferably bearing an angled tip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1998
    Inventor: Jason Andrew Gray
  • Patent number: 5749386
    Abstract: A combination telescopically adjustable golf umbrella stand and self-supporting golf umbrella adapted to be engageable into the ground by a spike extending from the lowermost portion. A spike attachment fitting allows the spike to be removably secured to and/or stored within the umbrella's uppermost portion. An umbrella handle mount on the umbrella stand has adjustable straps that engage and encircle the umbrella handle positioned within. An integral deployable umbrella extends from the self-supporting golf umbrella providing an all in one unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Inventor: Vincent D. Samuel, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5740684
    Abstract: A security system for securing personal property at a beach including two augers is provided. A pair of augers (15,16,50,100) are screwed into the sand. A crossbar (11,102) placed in loops (13,14,56) on the exposed ends of the augers. The crossbar is locked to the augers so that the augers may not be unscrewed from the sand. Items of personal property (31,140) may then be locked to the security device formed by the augers and crossbar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1998
    Inventors: Thomas M. Sherlock, Eric W. Kramer
  • Patent number: 5740827
    Abstract: A new Tent Anchoring System for allowing users to set up a tent without the tent poles falling over. The inventive device includes an elongated bar which includes an elongated bar and at least three tent pole supporting posts mounted thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1998
    Inventor: Richard A Swarringim
  • Patent number: 5709366
    Abstract: A fence post support for securing a synthetic resin fence post in the ground in a vertical position. The fence post support comprises a ground engaging spike whose upper portion receives the end of the fence post thereover and which can be expanded wedgeably securing the post on the support. A pounding plate is provided for driving the post support into the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 20, 1998
    Assignee: Steel City Corporation
    Inventor: Stephen Speece
  • Patent number: 5704188
    Abstract: A post structure which includes a support pole, a casing, and spring clips for securing the casing to the pole. The spring clips each include a spiral portion which grips the pole, and arms which project outward to engage the inner sidewalls of the casing. The spring clips are constructed to permit the casing to be moved downwardly over the spring clips during installation. However, the spring clips effectively anchor the casing to the pole to prevent any upward movement of the casing for removal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Assignee: Associated Materials, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark L. Coulis
  • Patent number: 5697190
    Abstract: A pole and pole support for anchoring the pole to the earth is provided having an earth anchor having an earth attaching portion on one end and an attaching head on the other end thereof. The pole has a pole attaching member attached to one end and a pole to earth anchor attaching mechanism rotatably attaches the pole to the earth anchor by connecting the earth anchor attaching head to the pole attaching member such that the pole can rotate relative to the earth anchor. A support base has a flange plate having an upright support sleeve attached thereto which can be positioned over or around one end of the pole and over the earth anchor attaching mechanism and attaching head to hold the pole in an upright position while allowing the rotation of the pole. The support base can be attached to the pole for rotation therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Inventor: Marshall N. Scribner
  • 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: 5692720
    Abstract: An anchoring device for supporting two umbrellas, which each include a shaft, above the ground. The anchoring device includes a vertical tubular member that has an upper end and a lower end in the form of a pointed tip. The shaft of one of the umbrellas is slidably receivable in the vertical tubular member through the upper end thereof. A horizontal tubular member extends perpendicularly from the vertical tubular member and has a distal end. The shaft of another umbrella is slidably receivable in the horizontal tubular member through distal end thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Inventor: George J. Griggs
  • Patent number: 5687946
    Abstract: An umbrella coupler for the support of an umbrella having a shaft and a handle comprises an umbrella coupler assembly having a lower portion either integral with or capable of being connected to a supportive base to maintain an umbrella in an upright active position when engaged in the umbrella coupler assembly. Varying embodiments of the umbrella coupler assembly are provided with a preferred umbrella coupler assembly having a lower portion supporting a seat member, an upper portion, and a middle wall portion extending at least partially upwardly from the seat member and to the upper portion and further having an opening dimensioned to receive and support either a vertically orientated handle or a J-shaped umbrella handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Inventor: Donald D. Cho
  • Patent number: 5639057
    Abstract: A fishing pole handle support having an earth penetrating spike which is retractable within the housing of the device so that the device can be safely stowed and transported.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1997
    Inventor: Robert Yeomans
  • Patent number: 5636944
    Abstract: An anchor for a beach umbrella having a canopy and a support post therefore comprising a container having a predetermined hollow, solid geometric configuration capable of being buried in and containing sand, the container including an open top, a bottom and a side wall extending from the open top to the bottom, the bottom having an aperture therein coaxial of a longitudinal axis of the container; a cylindrical member secured in the aperture and extending at least downward from the bottom externally of the container coaxial of an extension of the longitudinal axis to receive an end of the support post; and an arrangement to secure the cylindrical member to the one end of the support post and, hence, to secure the container to the support post. Three embodiments are disclosed, but the compression nut embodiment of FIG. 1 is preferred due to ease of (tool-less) fastening the container to the support post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Inventor: Edward P. Buttimore
  • Patent number: 5632464
    Abstract: A ground pocket support device is disclosed for removably mounting a post having variable cross-section shape and size. The ground pocket support device includes an elongate ground engaging member having upper and lower end portions. The member is adapted for placement in the ground and defines a hollow post-receiving portion for receiving and supporting a post in a substantially upright position. The ground engaging member further includes elongate wall members and a post wedging mechanism positioned toward the lower end portion for firmly engaging the lower end of a post inserted therewithin. A post-engaging member is disposed at the upper end portion of the ground engaging member. The post-engaging member includes members for removably anchoring a post inserted within the ground engaging member and for adjusting the vertical alignment of the post independent of the vertical alignment between the ground engaging member and the ground in which it is placed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 27, 1997
    Inventor: Steven C. Aberle
  • 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: 5546693
    Abstract: A hinged fishing rod holder allows the base portion to be fixed in the sand or ground, with the opposite rod holder portion being hinged or pivoted to the base portion. The two portions are formed of tubular material, and are concentric with one another when extended to position the fishing rod in a fishing position, with the hinge assembly having a stop to prevent relative motion beyond the aligned position in a forward direction. When a fish is hooked, the angler may grasp the rod and pull it rearwardly to set the hook, and also to pivot the rod holder portion rearwardly to an essentially vertical intermediate position, where a predetermined interference in the hinge holds the rod holder and rod vertically. With the rod holder and rod in this position, a fish may be reeled in and easily removed from the line, and the hook rebaited as required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Inventors: Stanley C. Stockton, Mary J. Stockton