For Ground Insertion Patents (Class 248/545)
  • Patent number: 6702239
    Abstract: An adjustable-length shaft implanted in the ground for supporting trees. A helical screw is mounted on the lower end of the shaft. A lever arm, passed into a lever fitting attached to the shaft, is rotated about the shaft, causing the helical screw to penetrate and lodge in the ground. An anchoring bracket is attached to a portion of the shaft immediately above the ground. An anchoring rod is driven through the bracket into the ground, preventing further rotation of the shaft. A rigid fastening arm extends outwardly from the upper end of the shaft. The outer end of the fastening arm has a flexible strap with a free end. After adjusting and securing the shaft at the desired height, the free end of the strap is looped around the tree trunk and back through a ratchet mechanism in the fastening arm, which holds the free end fast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Inventor: Jim R. Boucher
  • Patent number: 6691973
    Abstract: A universally applicable fishing rod support capable of being utilized on any type of terrain and/or surface for the effective support and proper angling position of any type and size fishing rod placed thereon, wherein an angler is able to move from passive to active engagement upon the quick and unhindered removal of the fishing rod from the fishing rod support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: James Barfield
  • Patent number: 6685155
    Abstract: A net fixing rack structure includes a base, a fixing tube, and a mounting tube. The base is formed with an oblique through hole. The fixing tube has a first end formed with a pin rod and a screw portion and a second end formed with a transverse through hole. The mounting tube is mounted on the fixing tube. The oblique through hole of the base has a determined inclined angle, so that the fixing tube is fixed in the ground with a determined inclined angle. Thus, after the whole net fixing rack structure is assembled, the mounting tube is inclined relative to the ground with a determined angle, thereby enhancing the supporting effect of the net fixing rack structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Inventor: Benjamin Chen
  • Publication number: 20030205647
    Abstract: An adjustable-length shaft implanted in the ground for supporting trees. A helical screw is mounted on the lower end of the shaft. A lever arm, passed into a lever fitting attached to the shaft, is rotated about the shaft, causing the helical screw to penetrate and lodge in the ground. An anchoring bracket is attached to a portion of the shaft immediately above the ground. An anchoring rod is driven through the bracket into the ground, preventing further rotation of the shaft. A rigid fastening arm extends outwardly from the upper end of the shaft. The outer end of the fastening arm has a flexible strap with a free end. After adjusting and securing the shaft at the desired height, the free end of the strap is looped around the tree trunk and back through a ratchet mechanism in the fastening arm, which holds the free end fast.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: Jim R. Boucher
  • Patent number: 6612320
    Abstract: A double-story umbrella includes an upper umbrella formed by an upper umbrella cloth; a lower umbrella having a shaft and a rib assembly pivotally secured to the shaft for securing a lower umbrella cloth on the rib assembly; a plurality of detachable restorable buckling devices each coupling the upper umbrella cloth with the lower umbrella cloth; and a supporting device adjustably detachably secured on a lower portion of the shaft and operatively anchored on or under a ground for stably erecting the shaft and the double-story umbrella.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: Fu Tai Umbrella Works, Ltd.
    Inventors: Chung-Kuang Lin, Jung-Jen Chang
  • Patent number: 6585221
    Abstract: A garden post enabling the mounting of fixtures and electrical devices at a variety of user-selected heights in an outdoor setting. A top member includes a junction box for accepting wiring connections for a fixture, a box-mounted electrical device, or some combination of the two. A base member includes a large entryway to allow lead in of electrical cables and radial projections to enhance anchoring to the ground. Securing the top member directly to the base member provides a short garden post. One or more extenders may be inserted between the top and base members of the garden post to raise the height. The garden post may be used for mounting fixtures and devices that are typically used in a landscape setting such as lights, cameras, photocells, motion detectors, receptacles, ground fault circuit interrupters, switches, and other similar devices. A service portal provides access to the outlet box from one side of the post and is typically provided with a removable cover that is secured thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Patent number: 6547204
    Abstract: A stake for holding a sign upright and comprising at least two leg elements, one end of which is adapted for inserting into the ground, and the other end of which is bent into a shape for compressively or frictionally holding the sign in place above the ground. Cross bar support members and connecting portions are provided to give stability to the stake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Inventor: Robert Peck
  • Patent number: 6527246
    Abstract: An apparatus for firmly positioning in a trench and securing against movement, while fill is added to the trench, an underground utility pipe and means for marking the utility pipe. An underground positioning and anti-movement apparatus in the form of an underground stake adapted to be driven into a base fill, that includes an integral preferably curvilinear-shaped pipe engaging member which engages the outer surface of an underground pipe to secure the pipe in position above the base fill at the bottom of the trench while additional fill is added to the trench.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Inventor: Thomas M. Stinnett
  • Patent number: 6487977
    Abstract: A portable beach/outdoor table includes a table top adapted to be removably mounted onto the top end of a support pole. An auger is attached to and projects vertically from the lower end of the support pole. A diametrically-extending rod is attached to the support pole adjacent the auger. The rod functions as a wrench to aid in inserting the support pole into the ground. The rod also functions as a stabilizer for the table-mounted support pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Inventors: Steven Williams, William Smith
  • Patent number: 6488255
    Abstract: A device for positioning a lawnmower such that the undercarriage may be accessed for maintenance and/or repair includes a stabilizer for insertion into the ground and a retainer connected to the stabilizer for holding the lawnmower handle adjacent the ground, thereby tilting the lawnmower relative to the ground such that the undercarriage is accessible. The device may further include a handle connected to the stabilizer for inserting the stabilizer into and removing the stabilizer from the ground. The handle may be connected to an extender to reduce the amount of bending required of the user when inserting the device into and removing the device from the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Inventor: Gary K. Lowmaster
  • Patent number: 6412748
    Abstract: A ground anchoring mechanism for attachment to an article, such as a beach umbrella, comprises an anchor post defining a lower pointed end and a horizontal step section extending sideways from the anchor post such that the anchor post may be translationally driven into the ground by using a person's foot onto the horizontal step section and driving the anchor post in the ground using the person's weight. The ground anchoring mechanism also includes at least one strap, and preferably a pair of such straps, which defines an opening for receiving an upper end of the anchor post and which comprises an elongated band, typically resilient, which is used to encircle the pole of the beach umbrella and secure the same to the anchor post. The strap also defines on an inner side thereof a concave recess which is adapted to receive part of the circumference of the umbrella's pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Assignee: Fix Plus
    Inventor: Martin Girard
  • Patent number: 6408590
    Abstract: A breakaway utility pole preferably made from plastic material. The pole includes a first portion buried in the ground and protruding therefrom. A second elongated portion is interfitted into the first portion above the ground, and is designed to fracture upon impact by a car or truck. The pole includes an upper portion, interfitted into the second portion, and which carries the utility wires. When the second portion is fractured, it can be removed and replaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignees: Armand G. Cote, Jr., Armand G. Cote, III
    Inventor: Armand Cote
  • Patent number: 6386214
    Abstract: An umbrella operating system allows for the simple opening, closing and locking of an umbrella while allowing the frame to freely rotate about the pole, wherein the pole is held in a stationary position. The umbrella includes a pair of hub members mounted about a pole member wherein the lower hub member is slidable up and down the pole. A pulley system with locking cam member may be employed to allow the umbrella to safely and easily open to any desired level. A locking stabilizer arm may be used to secure the main hub member in the fully open position and a stabilizer base provides strong support to the pole member to help it withstand severe weather conditions. The umbrella is rotatable about the pole axis regardless of the degree to which it is opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Inventor: Dougan H. Clarke
  • Patent number: 6382583
    Abstract: A safety device may be used to provide separation in the event of a side impact collision. The device may be used in a utility pole guy wire system, interposed between the guy wire and the ground anchor. The device operates in bending. A lateral force of sufficient magnitude applied to the device by the errant vehicle causes a rod within the device to break in tension, even though the tensile strength of the rod may be greater than that of the guy wire. In operation, certain massive portions of the device are tied safely to the ground, while other portions are pulled over the moving vehicle by the tension of the guy wire. The invention may be designed to tolerate axial loads, but to fail reliably when a side force exceeds a desired threshold. When installed in series with a utility pole guy wire, the invention will withstand all normal tensile and incidental loads, and will release when subjected to a high side force as from an automobile impact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: UTD Incorporated
    Inventors: John L. Hill, III, Joram Shenhar, Stephen G. Solga, Donald B. Harris, Eugene L. Foster
  • Patent number: 6371139
    Abstract: A bracket for supporting a parasol and facilitating displacement of the parasol in an arcuate path includes a clamp configured for receiving and clamping a shaft of the parasol vertically, an arm, at least about ½ m long, connected to the bracket, and a vertical peg connected to the opposite end of the arm and configured for anchoring the bracket in an underlying surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Inventor: Dror Simchori
  • Publication number: 20020014570
    Abstract: A ground anchor comprises a threaded portion, a head portion and a spreading means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Publication date: February 7, 2002
    Applicant: Plica Werkzeugfabrik AG
    Inventor: Rudolf Jenny
  • Patent number: 6343446
    Abstract: There is disclosed a sign post anchor system that provides omni-directional stabilization of a sign post. The inventive anchor system includes a tubular anchor sleeve having a square cross-section for receiving at one end the sign post and at the other end the tubular post anchor. The anchor sleeve includes a plurality of spaced apart holes located along the longitudinal axis of the sleeve for permitting selective mounting of the sign post. The anchor sleeve further includes a plurality of fins secured to the corners of the anchor sleeve and extending outward from the sleeve. The plurality of fins provide stabilization of the anchor sleeve and accompanying sign post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2002
    Assignee: Unistrut International Corporation
    Inventor: Ty Beard
  • Patent number: 6341756
    Abstract: A holder for a fishing pole includes a relatively moveable ground engaging member for pivotal attachment to the end of the fishing pole handle and can be selectively moved from an unextended storage position to an extended working position, the ground engaging member having a generally arcuate cross-section and tapering in both length and height and having an arcuate distal end for insertion into the ground to maintain a fishing pole at a desired operating position without the need for a user to physically hold the fishing pole. The fishing pole holder can be permanently attached to the fishing rod handle so that the holding feature is always available for use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2002
    Inventor: Allen J. Morris
  • Publication number: 20020008186
    Abstract: A device for positioning a lawnmower such that the undercarriage may be accessed for maintenance and/or repair includes a stabilizer for insertion into the ground and a retainer connected to the stabilizer for holding the lawnmower handle adjacent the ground, thereby tilting the lawnmower relative to the ground such that the undercarriage is accessible. The device may further include a handle connected to the stabilizer for inserting the stabilizer into and removing the stabilizer from the ground. The handle may be connected to an extender to reduce the amount of bending required of the user when inserting the device into and removing the device from the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Publication date: January 24, 2002
    Inventor: Gary K. Lowmaster
  • Patent number: 6334281
    Abstract: A ground anchor (10) for boring in soil (90) generally includes an elongate shank (20) having auger blades (34) on its lower end (30) and a attachment mechanism (41) on its upper end (40) for attachment of anchor lines (48), a compression cap (60), and one or more biasing springs (50). Biasing springs (50) operate between upper end (40) of shank (20) and compression cap (60) for maintaining cap (60) biased in a downward direction so that soil between cap (60) and auger (34) remains compressed at all times. Compression cap (60) includes a plate (62) that is freely journaled on shank 20 above blades (34) such that plate (62) can freely tilt through a tilt angle to align with surface (91) of soil (90).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2002
    Inventors: James Oliver, Evon L. Oliver
  • 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: 6298611
    Abstract: A ground anchor (10) for boring in soil (90) generally includes an elongate shank (20) having auger blades (34) on its lower end (30) and a attachment mechanism (41) on its upper end (40) for attachment of anchor lines (48), a compression cap (60), and a bearing member (80). Compression cap (60) includes a plate (62) that is freely journaled on shank 20 above blades (34) such that plate (62) can freely tilt through a tilt angle to align with surface (91) of soil (90). Bearing member (80) includes a bearing surface (85) adapted for applying coupled bearing forces on compression cap (60) over the tilt angle such that compression cap (60) compresses soil between cap (60) and auger blades (34). In exemplary embodiment, bearing surface (85) is inverse conical or spherical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Inventors: James Oliver, Evon L. Oliver
  • Patent number: 6272798
    Abstract: A post anchor capable of being in ground soil comprising an elongated metal rod, a drive section located at a first end of the rod and a boring section located below the drive section and substantially adjacent a second end of the rod. The drive end includes a drive connector, a stabilizing cap, and a mounting apparatus. The mounting apparatus mounting the stabilizing cap for swiveling motion relative to the drive end so that the stabilizing cap is adjusted for surface alignment with the ground soil when the anchor is set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Inventor: Norman F. Cockman
  • 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: 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: 6230451
    Abstract: An ice skating rink structure comprising a plurality of boards and a plurality of brackets is provided. Each of the brackets has a U-shaped support for holding one or more of the boards and has at least one downward projection for insertion into the ground. The downward projection of the bracket is inserted into the ground and boards are placed within the U-shaped support such that the boards define the shape of an ice skating rink. A liner is placed inside of the ice skating rink and water is poured onto the liner and allowed to freeze and form an ice skating rink. By using boards with different heights, the present invention allows for the quick assembly of an ice skating rink on level or unlevel ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Assignee: Sto-Cote Products, Inc.
    Inventor: James E. Stoller
  • Patent number: 6178651
    Abstract: A reusable support for a batter board member is provided comprising at least one sleeve for receiving a batter board member attached to an elongate spike such that a batter board member received within the sleeve is supported in a substantially vertical orientation when the spike is driven into the ground. Elongate legs may be attached to the sleeve for better stability in the ground and multiple sleeves may be used for better support of the batter board member. A batter board assembly is provided wherein at least two reusable supports are driven into the ground and two batter board members are received in the supports such that the members extend substantially vertically from the ground. A horizontal batter board member is then secured between the two vertical batter board members and a control string is attached to the horizontal member. When the batter boards are no longer required, the horizontal members may be detached from the vertical member and the vertical members removed from the reusable supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Inventor: Steven Mark Yancey
  • 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: 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: 6032880
    Abstract: A beach umbrella support is provided including a rigid hollow post. Also included is a spiral flange fixedly coupled to an outer surface of the post. At least one ear is fixedly coupled to the post and further fixed with respect to the flange for affording leverage. An umbrella rod is removably mounted within a top end of the post for being supported by the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Inventors: Robert H. Verrills, Daphne Verrills
  • 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: 5921035
    Abstract: An anchoring device for anchoring a shaft in relatively hard ground including an elongated shaft having a ground penetration member. The penetration member includes a coiled extension portion extending longitudinally beyond the shaft lower end to facilitate penetration of the ground when rotated in one direction. The coiled length of the extension portion is sufficiently short to resist substantial uncoiling of the coiled extension portion during penetrating movement into the relatively hard ground. In another aspect, a retaining device is provided for selective penetration of the ground at a second location spaced-apart from the first location to substantially prevent rotational movement of the shaft about the longitudinal axis for removal thereof from the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Inventor: Brian J. Kempf
  • 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: 5833181
    Abstract: An outdoor support post includes an anchor ground rod, a base post member including a tubular sheath, an extension post member including a tubular sheath, and a cross post member including a tubular sheath that is perpendicularly mountable to the extension post member for supporting an article thereon. The anchor member includes an angle-iron and two inverted L shaped extensions. One of the L-shaped extensions partially penetrates the ground with the angle-iron and partially extends with the angle-iron in engaging abutment within the base post member for bracing support of the base post member. The second L-shaped extension partially extends with the angle-iron in engaging abutment within the extension post member and in engaging abutment within the base post member for bracing support of both the extension post member and the junction of the base post member and the extension post member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Assignee: Signlite Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel P. DesNoyers
  • Patent number: 5819720
    Abstract: A stand for a portable barbecue grill. The stand includes a connecting flange, a telescopic sleeve with a height adjustment pin, and a spike. The connecting flange has a seat portion that is bolted through holes in the base of a portable barbecue. Further, the connecting flange has a mounting sleeve. The telescopic sleeve has a flange end and a spike receiving end. In the preferred embodiment the flange end of the telescopic sleeve is threadably received by the mounting sleeve of the flange. Finally, the stand includes a spike with a spiked end that is inserted into the ground. The spike is slidably received by the telescopic sleeve. Both the spike and the telescopic sleeve have a plurality of holes along their length that can be aligned for receiving a height adjusting cotter pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Inventor: Robert L. Schubert
  • Patent number: 5797226
    Abstract: A drive anchor (10) for use with a stabilizing foundation system of a manufactured home mounted upon piers includes an elongated rectilinear, C-shaped in cross section support bracket (12) that defines sets of offset holes (20 and 26, 24 and 30, and 22 and 28) that receive drive rods (31, 32, 33) which are driven through the holes and into the ground. The anchor can be installed in all densities of soil, including rock, by driving the rods through and between the rocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Inventor: Charles J. MacKarvich
  • 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: 5713383
    Abstract: An anchor (10) for blankets, towels and the like comprising a clamp (22) located atop a post (20). The clamp comprises a base piece (24) and a head piece (40) hingedly attached to one another by a pin (50). A coil spring (60) mounted in the pin urges the teeth (32, 42) of the clamp closed. Alternatively, flipper tabs (70) can be used to hold the teeth closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 3, 1998
    Assignee: YUM Incorporated
    Inventors: Yvonne E. Ramirez, Martin A. Carlton
  • 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: 5662304
    Abstract: A hollow, molded, cylindrical screw-threaded device for removably anchoring objects such as beach umbrellas, ropes, pet leashes, and the like into sand comprises a hollow cylinder with two fixed molded perpendicular winglike projections for its insertion. A thumbscrew in the side of the cylinder allows for grasping and release of objects inserted into the anchoring device. Screw threads which taper in diameter and depth successively as the tip is approached allow for easier insertion into compact deeper sand and also for firmer anchoring in looser surface sand. Beveled lower thread surfaces allow for easier insertion of the device and flat upper thread surfaces afford greater resistance against forcible removal of the device from the sand. Moveable loops of two alternate designs allow for pivoting attachment points for ropes, pet leashes, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1997
    Inventor: William R. McDaniel
  • Patent number: 5605314
    Abstract: A staking system which may be combined with a blow molded figure having a flange at the base, includes at least two stakes each having a first elongated portion terminating in a first bend leading to a second portion and a second bend leading to a third portion, and at least one additional stake having an engagement portion at one end thereof for contacting the outside of the blow molded figure. At least two stakes driven into the ground have either the second portions or third portions in contact with the flange. The additional stake has the engagement portion thereof in contact with the blow molded figure to provide at least three angularly separated points of contact between the blow molded figure and the stakes. The angle defined by the first bend is less than about 60.degree. and the angle defined by the second bend is less than about 30.degree..
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1997
    Assignee: Santa's Best
    Inventor: William F. Protz, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5586742
    Abstract: Light standard apparatus includes a post made of nonconductive (plastic) material topped or closed at the top by a plastic cap. A light fixture or other electrical element is secured to the cap either directly or through a bushing. A noncorrosive ground element is secured to the cap on the bushing for grounding the fixture or element to a ground conductor which extends into the post along with current conductors. The post is secured to a base, and the base is appropriately secured to a pad or to the earth. Appropriate fasteners are used to secure the base and the post in place. Earth anchors may be used, as required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1996
    Inventor: E. Ray Carter
  • Patent number: 5582477
    Abstract: Finned airport junction box container base apparatus and associated installation method are disclosed for an airport edge lighting fixture or an airport sign in an airport runway, taxiway, or other aircraft ground traffic area. Vertical finned vanes are welded to the side of an airport junction box container base spaced apart around the circumference and extending radially outward for providing lateral stability and strength to the junction box to permit push-it installation and to support loads. A bottom edge on the finned vanes extends radially outward from the container base positioned at a penetrating angle from the horizontal to the junction box base bottom end for penetrating earthen or asphalt material when pushed downwardly. A top edge on the vertical fins extends downwardly from a welded point underneath the top flange, wherein the junction box is reusable by removal and reinstallation at another location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1996
    Inventor: Gary L. Reinert, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5579798
    Abstract: The present invention includes a covering anchor device capable of anchoring various types of coverings, including beach towels and picnic blankets, to the ground. In accordance with the preferred embodiment, the covering anchor device includes a restraining portion which defines a V-shaped passageway extending through the restraining portion. The restraining portion includes a plurality of opposite protrusions which extend into the passageway to engage and exert restraining forces on a portion of a covering residing within the passageway. The opposite protrusions divide the passageway into a plurality of subpassages and form gaps between each pair of opposing protrusions. The width of subpassages and gaps decreases for each subpassage and gap located progressively nearer an end of the passageway, thereby increasing the restraining force exerted on a portion of the covering passing through such subpassages and gaps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Inventor: Anthony E. Pruitt
  • Patent number: 5579599
    Abstract: A display sign formed into a single unit having an outer first flange that defines a display section integral to a step section. A display panel bisects the outer first flange forming a flange section extending along the periphery of each side of the display panel. The step section has a U-shaped flange depending from the display section and a rectangular flange spaced inwardly the outer flange, below the display section. A rider display panel is mountable on the display section and includes an outer rectangular flange and a display panel extending therewithin. A pair of clamps are attached to the bottom of the rider display and are adapted to fit the first flange of the display section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Assignee: Neem, Inc.
    Inventor: David J. Haeseler
  • Patent number: 5547315
    Abstract: A socket for receiving a post, column or rod has a closed end forming a seat against which the post, column or rod may be seated when installed, the socket being secured within the ground or other solid body which may be entered when pierced. The socket is a unitary member which, in one form, may be a sheet of metal folded to have an internal cross sectional configuration corresponding to the post, column or rod and has folds which form the closed end, portions of the folds converging to an oblique leading edge which may pierce and penetrate the ground or other solid body. In an other form of the invention the socket is a hollow tube swaged closed at one end and may be ground to an oblique edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Inventor: Charles F. Halloran, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5502910
    Abstract: A temporary sign pole installation is disclosed which includes a hollow passage in a vertical pipe having a pointed bottom end. Vertical slots in the side of the hollow passage permit a handle to pass through the slots and into and/or through a pounder weight which can be moved up and down in the hollow core of the pipe. For the installation the pounder weight is moved by the handle emphatically downwards hitting the end of the vertical slot to pound the pipe into the ground. For removal of the pipe, the pounder handle constrained by the limits of the vertical slot is moved emphatically upward and drives the vertical pipe out of the ground. Various horizontal attachment pieces can be attached to the top of the vertical pipe to support an advertising sign or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1996
    Inventor: Frank Lucchesi
  • Patent number: 5462004
    Abstract: An emergency warning flag system adapted to mark areas for use solely by emergency vehicles including a vertically extending, elongated flag pole having an upper end and a lower end; a flexible flag secured with respect to the upper end of the flag pole; a horizontal aperture extending diametrically through the lower end of the flag pole; a base unit formed generally in the shape of an inverted truncated cone with a vertical slot extending through the upper extent of the cone; attachment means extending downwardly from the base member for securement to the ground; a pin extending horizontally through the hole in the lower end of the flag pole and secured at its ends into the base at a central extent of its vertical slot; and a spring adapted to secure the flag pole in a vertical orientation during normal operation and use of warning motorists not to park thereadjacent, the flag being pivotable about the pin to a generally horizontal orientation when hit by a vehicle moving in contact with the pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 31, 1995
    Inventor: Clayton E. McGlothin