Open Hook Patents (Class 248/692)
  • Patent number: 11940001
    Abstract: An attachable hanger for hanging equipment includes a body defining a receiving cavity and a coupling portion. An end portion or an end of a shaft can be inserted into the receiving cavity while a projection of the shaft is coupled to the attachable hanger via the coupling portion. A hanger portion is connected to the body to allow the attachable hanger to be suspended from an elevated object, such as a wall hook or rail. Optionally, the coupling portion may include a securing slot and a coupler through-hole, each adapted to selectively attach the attachable hanger to a variety of equipment shafts having various connecting and alignment features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2024
    Inventor: David P. Dault
  • Patent number: 11705024
    Abstract: A display apparatus includes a display module, a support configured to rotate and support the display module, and a mounting device configured to mount a mobile device on the display module. The mobile device is configured to be paired with the display module. The mounting device includes a mounting portion including a mounting groove having a shape corresponding to a frame forming borders of the display module. The mounting portion is coupled to the frame when the frame is inserted into the mounting groove, and an accommodating portion is positioned below the mounting portion, and accommodates the mobile device such that the mobile device is mounted on the display module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2022
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD
    Inventors: Hyunyong Choi, Jisu Kim, Hunsung Kim, Boum-Sik Kim, Seungjae Kim, Chul-Yong Cho, Tae-Hun Kim
  • Patent number: 11375813
    Abstract: An apparatus for holding a computer peripheral device (including, but not limited to, an external hard drive, a smartphone, and an external CPU) securely and conveniently to a flat screen monitor is presented. A system for securing a computer peripheral device to a laptop computer to optimize the use of space and practice clean organization is also presented. Further presented is a method and system that provides privacy during the use of a laptop computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Inventor: Gerald Dwayne Holt
  • Patent number: 11134332
    Abstract: An ear tip for a hearing device includes a body member having a receiver retention portion that is communicably coupled to a sound port. The receiver retention portion is configured to receive and capture a receiver such as a balanced armature receiver. An electrical interface of the receiver is accessible via an opening in the receiver retention portion. The ear tip also includes an ear interface portion that is disposed at least partially about the body member. The ear interface portion is configured to be disposed in a user's ear canal. The ear interface portion and the body member are integrally formed as a unitary member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2021
    Assignee: Knowles Electronics, LLC
    Inventor: Matthew Manley
  • Patent number: 10250783
    Abstract: This application is directed to a physical assembly including a magnet mount for physically receiving a physical module that includes a housing having a rear surface of a first shape. The magnet mount includes a first surface, a second surface and a magnetic material. The first surface is configured to attach to a mounting surface. The second surface has a second shape that is substantially complementary to the first shape, and is configured to engage the rear surface of the housing of the physical module. The magnetic material is disposed between the first and second surfaces and configured to magnetically couple to a magnetic material of the physical module. When the physical module is magnetically coupled to the magnet mount, an adjustable union between the magnet mount and the physical module is formed permitting adjustment of an angle of orientation of the physical module with respect to the magnet mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2019
    Assignee: GOOGLE LLC
    Inventors: Gregory Daniel Louis Germe, William Raeming Dong, Jason Evans Goulden, Adam Duckworth Mittleman, Nicholas Webb, Poll Shih
  • Patent number: 8960635
    Abstract: A fastening tool rafter hook system supporting a power tool includes a power tool round section proximate to a tool handle. The round section has multiple pairs of indexing apertures, each positioned incrementally from a successive pair. A two piece rafter hook system includes: a first piece having a rafter hook band with a semi-circular band portion positioned in direct contact with the round section; and a second piece defining an ā€œLā€ shaped rafter hook. The rafter hook includes: a first hook portion having first and second indexing bolts connected to the first hook portion; and a second hook portion oriented normal to the first portion. The first and second indexing bolts create detent connections when engaged with the indexing apertures. Connection of the first and second indexing bolts to any pair of indexing apertures releasably retains the rafter hook at selectable predefined orientations on the round section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Lee M. Brendel, Michael P. Baron, Stuart E. Garber, Larry E. Gregory
  • Patent number: 8905363
    Abstract: A paint brush is attached to the rim of the mouth of a paint can such that the bristles of the brush are vertically above the mouth of the can and are oriented at an angle of between about 0 and about 90 degrees from the vertical. A notch is formed on the side of the mid portion of the brush between the handle and the bristles or in the ferrule of a paint brush where the brush is provided with one. The notch is defined by an upper face oriented toward the handle of the brush, and a lower face oriented toward the set of bristles. The upper face, the lower face as well as the space between the upper and lower faces are all dimensioned such that when the brush is attached to the rim of the paint can, the rim bears against the notch at a point adjacent to its upper face while the lower face of the notch bears against the rim sufficiently to position the brush at an angle from the vertical of less than about 90 degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: LDRRS Inc.
    Inventor: Glenn Nelson McCaul
  • Patent number: 8881939
    Abstract: An inverted bottle holder intended to hold two bottles with necks upside down inside a container is described. The bottle holder includes a clip having an inner wall and an outer wall spaced to accept the exterior wall of the container in between, where the clip is formed at an arc corresponding to the arc of the exterior wall of the container, and a deck connected in a permanently fixed relationship to the clip and extending into the container. The deck includes two apertures each sized to accept the neck of one of the bottles, such that each bottle is held upside down in the container when inserted into the aperture. In addition the bottle holder may include an integral bottle opener in either the single bottle or double bottle designs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Inventor: Alexander K. Miller
  • Patent number: 8863980
    Abstract: An inverted bottle holder is described for holding a bottle with a neck upside down inside a container having an exterior wall. The bottle holder includes a first clip that is intended to fit glasses with a first range of angles of exterior wall, and a second clip that is intended to fit glasses with a second range of angles of exterior wall, wherein each clip is formed having an arc corresponding to the arc of the container, and a deck integrally formed with the first and second clips and extending into the container, the deck including an aperture sized to accept the neck of the bottle, such that the bottle is held upside down in the container when inserted into the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Inventor: Alexander K. Miller
  • Patent number: 8752744
    Abstract: The present invention includes a portable tool including a tool body having a handle, a hook including a hook body, and a mounting device. The mounting device enables the hook body to be mounted to the handle with the hook body oriented in any one of a plurality of different directions and positioned at any one of a plurality of different positions along the oriented direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Makita Corporation
    Inventors: Yukiyasu Okouchi, Shingo Umemura, Takayoshi Yoshimura, Jiro Oda, Kenichi Miyata
  • Patent number: 8720756
    Abstract: A clip for releasable engagement with a user-operated device and for releasable attachment to a user's person, and devices that comprise such clips.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Armament Systems and Procedures, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin L. Parsons
  • Publication number: 20140097326
    Abstract: A fastening tool rafter hook system supporting a power tool includes a power tool round section proximate to a tool handle. The round section has multiple pairs of indexing apertures, each positioned incrementally from a successive pair. A two piece rafter hook system includes: a first piece having a rafter hook band with a semi-circular band portion positioned in direct contact with the round section; and a second piece defining an ā€œLā€ shaped rafter hook. The rafter hook includes: a first hook portion having first and second indexing bolts connected to the first hook portion; and a second hook portion oriented normal to the first portion. The first and second indexing bolts create detent connections when engaged with the indexing apertures. Connection of the first and second indexing bolts to any pair of indexing apertures releasably retains the rafter hook at selectable predefined orientations on the round section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: BLACK & DECKER INC.
    Inventors: Lee M. Brendel, Michael P. Baron, Stuart E. Garber, Larry E. Gregory
  • Patent number: 8678227
    Abstract: A leg assembly for selective attachment to a portable support structure having a base and removable lid. The leg assembly includes a plurality of legs that are selectively attachable to both the base and lid. When attached, the legs extending from the base to the lid thereby supporting the lid. The legs are substantially parallel to one another. The assembly further includes at least one cross member extending between two of the legs to stabilize and prevent lateral movement of the legs. The cross member also abutingly contacts and supports the lid whereby the base and lid function as a support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Hardigg Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher H. Patstone
  • Patent number: 8602365
    Abstract: A hanger is described for hanging an object from a generally vertical support rod. In one embodiment, the hanger comprises a hanger body, at least two hooks on the hanger body for receiving the support rod, and a gap between the at least two hooks for receiving a nut threaded on the support rod when the support rod is received in the at least two hooks. In another embodiment, the hanger comprises a hanger body, a first set of one or more hooks on the hanger body for receiving the support rod, and a second set of one or more hooks on the hanger body for receiving a portion of the object. In another embodiment, the hanger comprises a hanger body, a first set of one or more hooks on the hanger body defining a first hook-defined recess, and a second set of one or more hooks on the hanger body defining a second hook-defined recess. The first and second hook-defined recesses have different transverse dimensions for receiving support rods having respective first and second different diameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventor: Bruce Alan Neace
  • Publication number: 20130026336
    Abstract: In one example, a holder for a frusto-conical beverage cup useable in conjunction with a frusto-conical sleeve, such as a corrugated paper heat sleeve, to hold the cup and enable it to be hung from a suitable hanging feature, such as a car door handle, includes an elongated vertical shank portion having front and rear surfaces and a pair of recurvate hooks respectively disposed at upper and lower ends thereof, an upper one of the hooks defining a downwardly opening channel, and a lower one of the hooks defining an upwardly opening channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Mark Beckey, Garen Garabidian
  • Patent number: 8251342
    Abstract: An aspect of the invention involves a wheeled sports board holder for hanging a wheeled sports board on a vertical surface, the wheeled sports board including a support deck with an upper portion supported by one or more upper wheels, and having an upper edge, and a lower portion supported by one or more lower wheels. The wheeled sports board holder includes a base with a front and a rear, the rear of the base mountable to the vertical surface; a wheel holder projecting forwardly relative to the front of the base, and having a wheel guide; and a clasp projecting forwardly relative to the front of the base, above the wheel holder, the clasp configured to hold the upper edge of the wheeled sports board towards the vertical surface so that the one or more lower wheels do not contact the vertical surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Inventor: David Carl Weiner
  • Patent number: 8213169
    Abstract: A sliding hinge for a portable electronic device has a stationary leaf, a link assembly, a main sliding leaf and a side sliding leaf. The linking assembly is mounted pivotally on the stationary leaf via a pivoting middle. The main and side sliding leaves are connected respectively to two ends of the linking assembly. With the linking assembly, the main and side sliding leaves are moved simultaneously. Therefore, when the portable electronic device is not used, the main and side sliding leaves fully overlap with the stationary leaf to achieve a smallest footprint. When the portable electronic device performs multiple functions, the main and side sliding leaves are slid out to reveal control buttons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Shin Zu Shing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Wei-Chun Chen, Ruei-Lin Jhu, Shiunn-Jyh Chu
  • Patent number: 8191849
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an adjustable hook with a rotating hook secured to a locking plate within a housing. The rotating hook is adapted to move within the housing allowing the orientation of the hook to be modified into a desired position. Once the desired position is achieved, the hook then locks in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Inventor: Nathan Lembke
  • Publication number: 20120085560
    Abstract: A suspending attachment attached to a cylindrical housing of an electric power tool whose output shaft protrudes from a housing distal end includes a ring-shaped distal end portion fitted to the housing distal end, lower retaining portions of which front ends are connected to the distal end portion and extending rearward along a housing lower-half outer surface with a space through which the housing does not radially come off, one upper retaining portion of which a front end is connected to the distal end portion and extending rearward along a housing upper-half outer surface with a space from each lower retaining portion, through which the housing does not come off, a hook portion extending from at least one of rear ends of the lower and upper retaining portions rearward of the housing, and a connecting member coupling the lower and upper retaining portions over a housing rear surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2011
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Applicant: MAKITA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takao KUROYANAGI, Hidenori NAGASAKA, Ryunosuke KUMAGAI
  • Patent number: 8136781
    Abstract: A hanging device is provided to hold a workpiece, where the workpiece has a preformed hole therein. The hanging device has an expandable element, such as a cup, that is adapted to be selectively retained within the hold in the workpiece. A hook is connected to the expandable element for use in supporting the expandable element and workpiece affixed thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Rockler Companies, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven Krohmer
  • Patent number: 8083202
    Abstract: An attachable hanging hook for removably hanging a carrying bag from an upper edge of a vertical support surface or from an edge of a horizontal support surface includes a pair of hooks and a central joint. A first hook is pivotably movable about the joint and a second hook is rotatably movable about the joint. Depending upon the orientation of the hooks relative to one another, the carrying bag can be securely suspended from a horizontal support or a vertical support. The joint also allows the hooks to be collapsibly folded onto one another for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Inventor: Laura L. Hutchison
  • Patent number: 7948111
    Abstract: A vertical axis wind system for use in electrical power generation. The system includes a stationary base including a generator and has an elongate shaft rotatably coupled the base. The elongate shaft extends vertically from a lower end to an upper end along a vertical central axis and engages the generator. At least two arcuate blade assemblies are attached between the lower end and the upper end of the elongate shaft such that aerodynamic forces acting on the at least two arcuate blade assemblies rotate the elongate shaft for the generation of power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Analytical Design Service Corporation
    Inventors: Dilip K. Nigam, Mohamed E. M. El-Sayed
  • Patent number: 7739775
    Abstract: Restraint apparatus and methods for securing items are disclosed. The restraint apparatus include a retention element including an elongated arm secured to a body. The elongated arm defines a spiral to secure a fitting. The spiral of the elongated arm at least in part may define a gap to receive a fitting. A tether may be secured to the body of the retention element to extend across an item to be secured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Inventor: Randall Shimanski
  • Patent number: 7740222
    Abstract: A hanging electronic device, for hanging on a H thickness wall, comprises a main body and an adjustable hanging mechanism. The adjustable hanging mechanism for mounting the main body on the wall comprises: at least one cantilever bar and an elastic member. The cantilever bar has a first rod, a second rod, a third rod and an elastic member. The first rod has a rotation axis for the cantilever bar to rotate on the main body, and the second rod is coupled to the first rod. The third rod coupled to the second rod is substantially parallel to the first rod. The elastic member is coupled to the first rod. When the cantilever bar rotates relatively to the main body with a rotation angle ?, the third rod is firmly against the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Inventor: Xian-Jun Wang
  • Publication number: 20100108857
    Abstract: A spray bottle carrying apparatus comprised of: comprised of: an upper portion having a first end, a second end, a top surface, and a bottom surface; a gripping member positioned on the upper surface and having a plurality of ribs disposed thereon; a first arm and a second arm each having opposed surfaces which face each other to form a recess into which a spray bottle can be temporarily positioned; an aperture which partially exposes the neck of the bottle to facilitate assembly and a lower portion substantially perpendicular to the upper portion and extending downward from the second end of the upper portion to form an integral, one-piece apparatus such that the lower portion can be affixed to an item of clothing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2008
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Inventor: David Andrae
  • Patent number: 7707846
    Abstract: A refrigerator having a refrigeration unit comprising a cabinet and a door. The cabinet contains a plurality of items to be cooled or frozen. The refrigerator also includes an audio playback device having a memory and a speaker. The audio playback device is adapted to store a recorded audio soundtrack on the memory and play the recorded audio soundtrack through an audio speaker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: True Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Steven L. Trulaske, Sr., Steven L. Trulaske, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7540069
    Abstract: A binding band comprises a band part, a pendant hook part provided at one end of the band part, and an enclosed-wall part provided at the other end of the band part and having a passage through which the band part is vertically passed. The enclosed-wall part has a slit through which the band part is inserted into the passage from the side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Assignee: Nichido Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Isao Okamoto
  • Publication number: 20090134306
    Abstract: A supporting hook to be attached to a hearing aid, includes a connection end, an output end and an attachment ring. The connection end has a guide, around which the attachment ring is rotatably mounted. The attachment ring has a protrusion which engages with part of the hearing aid in order to attach the connection end to the hearing aid. A hearing aid is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2008
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Applicant: SIEMENS MEDICAL INSTRUMENTS PTE. LTD.
    Inventor: Wee Haw Koo
  • Publication number: 20090001088
    Abstract: This invention discloses a mountable recycle container having a mounting bracket which allows it to be selectively affixed to a bar of a wheeled toter style refuse container for transporting the refuse to the curbside. This invention also discloses mounting brackets that can be retrofitted to conventional recycle bins and refuse container assemblies of the same nature and design.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Inventors: Gerald Lamendola, Frank David Bonnewell
  • Publication number: 20080272269
    Abstract: An inventive elongated, generally horizontally oriented hook that is used to simultaneously carry a paint can and a paint brush at the waist of a user in order to liberate one or more of the hands, to alleviate fatigue and/or to prevent accidents. In a preferred embodiment, the hook has a clip portion which allows the hook to be removably attached to the belt or directly to the pants of a user. The hook further comprises a proximal bend and a distal bend, the former of which can be removably engaged to the bail of a paint can, while the latter can removably engage a paint brush. In one preferred embodiment, the elongated hook is made with a single piece of cylindrical wire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2007
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Inventors: Stephenson Moravsky, Yuan Fang Cheng
  • Patent number: 7322554
    Abstract: A holder for a clothing article, such as a purse, scarf, or glove, the holder generally including a base and a hanger, wherein the hanger supports the clothing article but does not compress the clothing article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Assignee: C & W Design, LLC
    Inventors: Carol Caroselli, May Wang
  • Patent number: 7234672
    Abstract: A retractable hanger comprising a base member which has recessed mounted therein a hook. The base member is adapted to be securely mounted on the exterior structure with the base member being recessed within the exterior structure. The hook is capable of pivotable movement between a retracted position and an extended position. When in the extended position, the hook is capable of having articles hung thereon. A spring connects to the hook that exerts a bias on the hook to move the hook from the extended position to the retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Inventors: Lana M. Osterholt, Gerald R. Osterholt
  • Patent number: 7232105
    Abstract: An apparatus for hanging a medical device is provided. The apparatus includes a shaft, a mounting portion coupled to an end portion of the shaft and configured for mounting the apparatus for movement with respect to the medical device, and a hook portion positioned at an opposite end portion of the shaft and configured for hanging the apparatus from a support. The shaft is configured to permit rotation of the hook portion with respect to the mounting portion, thereby facilitating orientation of the hook portion with respect to the support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Assignee: Atrium Medical Corporation
    Inventors: Nicholas Want, Scott Edward Corbeil, Marc A. Larochelle
  • Patent number: 7197827
    Abstract: A razor handle supports a razor head, which is attachable to a supporting stem. The handle has an elongated body, which defines a body longitudinal axis, a razor head attachment member for attaching the razor head to said razor handle adjacent a body first end, and a handle-to-stem attachment member for attaching said razor handle adjacent a body second end to the stem. The attachment member has a slot, which defines a retention segment and an insertion segment. The retention segment defines a longitudinal axis, which is parallel to the body axis, and which leads into the retention segment. The insertion segment allows the stem to be inserted into the retention segment so that the razor handle can be suspended from the supporting stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Inventor: FranƧois Paquette
  • Patent number: 6921561
    Abstract: An ornament hanger has a main piece in the form of a star or other decorative shape to which a pair of oppositely directed hooks are rotatably mounted so as to be detachable. An upper hook supports the hanger and a bottom hook supports another ornament. A series of ornament hangers can be used to secure string ornaments on a Christmas tree. The hanger can be used by itself as an ornament by detaching one hook.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Inventor: Jan M. Maier
  • Patent number: 6722549
    Abstract: An arm member is provided for protection of a power source and for facilitating storage of a power tool. In a closed position, the arm member is configured for partially encircling a portion of the power source and re-directing an impact directed towards that portion away from the power source. In an open position, the arm member is configured for engaging a projection or structure to enable hanging and/or other storage of the power tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Inventors: Yury Shkolnikov, Walter J. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20030088933
    Abstract: An improved sanitary toothbrush with a curved proximal end in the general shape of a hook for storing the toothbrush in a suspended, upside down fashion, thereby allowing for air drying of the distal brush portion of the toothbrush and creating a cleaner and more sanitary method of storing the toothbrush after use. In an additional embodiment of the present invention, the elongated intermediate handle portion of the toothbrush is designed in the shape of an animal with the curved distal end of the handle forming the animal's tail, thereby making brushing more aesthetically pleasing and appealing to children suffering from sensory integrative dysfunction and accompanying oral defensive disorder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventors: Deanna Michelle Woods, Daniel Joseph Ferrante
  • Publication number: 20020092958
    Abstract: A novelty hanger for the hanging and display of novelties and articles which are usually hung from the interior rearview mirror or rearview mirror support post of an automobile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2001
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventor: Steven D. Lusk
  • Patent number: 6352235
    Abstract: A combination bottle hook and bottle cap wrench device is provided for suspending a plastic beverage bottle from a nearby structure which is convenient to a person wishing to use the contents of the bottle and for providing a wrench mechanism for aiding the user to loosen the bottle cap of the beverage bottle. The device is comprised of an L-shaped piece of plastic material having first and second legs extending at substantially right angles relative to one another. One leg has an open-ended C-shaped head portion for clamping around the neck of the beverage bottle. The other leg forms a retaining member for placement behind a portion of the structure on which it is desired to hook the beverage bottle. The inner surface of the C-shaped head portion is serrated or notched for purposes of gripping the bottle cap when it is desired to loosen the bottle cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2002
    Inventor: Brian P. Cizek
  • Publication number: 20010035488
    Abstract: A combination bottle hook and bottle cap wrench device is provided for suspending a plastic beverage bottle from a nearby structure which is convenient to a person wishing to use the contents of the bottle and for providing a wrench mechanism for aiding the user to loosen the bottle cap of the beverage bottle. The device is comprised of an L-shaped piece of plastic material having first and second legs extending at substantially right angles relative to one another. One leg has an open-ended C-shaped head portion for clamping around the neck of the beverage bottle. The other leg forms a retaining member for placement behind a portion of the structure on which it is desired to hook the beverage bottle. The inner surface of the C-shaped head portion is serrated or notched for purposes of gripping the bottle cap when it is desired to loosen the bottle cap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2001
    Publication date: November 1, 2001
    Inventor: Brian P. Cizek
  • Patent number: 6244559
    Abstract: A paintbrush hanger is provided that may be fastened to a paintbrush either permanently or temporarily. In one embodiment, the attachment pad of the hanger has an adhesive backing, whereby the user can permanently attach the hanger to the paintbrush. The hook portion of the hanger is hollow, so that the user can temporarily attach the hanger to the paintbrush by inserting a nail or a screw through the hook and the attachment pad and into the handle of the paintbrush. When the paintbrush hanger is fastened to the paintbrush in this manner, the hanger may be subsequently removed simply by pulling the nail or unscrewing the screw out of the paintbrush. The paintbrush hanger may then be reused on a different brush or another tool. Further, when used, the nail or screw fastener provides additional rigidity and strength to the hook portion of the hanger. The hanger may also be fastened to the paintbrush using both the adhesive and the nail or screw, for maximum fastening strength and maximum rigidity of the hook.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Inventor: Robert Stanton
  • Patent number: 6142486
    Abstract: The present invention is a combination of a flexible arm with a collet assembly. The assembly includes an elongated flexible arm or tube with a collet at one end and a releasable mounting assembly integral with the opposed end. The collet is arranged to grippingly receive and retain a tubular work item therein, such as a flashlight, magnifying glass or lense, clamping retainer, or the like, with the work device having a circular cross-section and in the form of a tube, sleeve, cylindrical shaft, or the like. The releasable retaining mechanism includes a prong and socket assembly, with the prong portion being preferably integral with the flexible arm, and with the socket portion being adapted to releasably retain the prong and accordingly the flexible arm and collet assembly. The collet is provided with an outer external ring which slidingly engages with the internal gripping fingers, thereby simplifying the attachment to the working device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: Cedarberg Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: John F. Cedarberg, III
  • Patent number: 5738080
    Abstract: A hanger for supporting an archery bow on a branch or other horizontal structure. The bow hanger includes a hook element and a base structure with a flexible strap. The flexible strap is provided with a series of Velcro fastening strips to be engaged with complementary Velcro fastening strips affixed onto a portion of the bow. The bow hanger can be attached to the bow by wrapping the flexible strap around the complementary Velcro fastening strips of the bow and engaging the Velcro fastening strips of the flexible strap with the Velcro fastening strips of the bow. By looping the hook element of the bow hanger on a tree branch, for example, the bow can thereby be supported without causing damage to the bow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: Philip M. Brocco, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5641007
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device which can support a plurality of paint brushes and/or paint rollers and enable them to drain in an efficient manner. In its broadest context, the present invention includes a housing having rear wall component and a container component. The container includes a bottom surface which is tapered inwardly toward a draining aperture. This draining aperture can be connected to a receptacle by way of a length of tubing. Thus, the user of the device can support it upon a wall or upon the edge of a bath tub. A number of brushes and/or paint rollers can then be supported within the container portion of the device and have any paint dripping therefrom run off into the bottom surface of the container through the tube and into a receptacle for disposal or reuse. The various components of the present invention, and the manner in which they interrelate, will be described in greater detail hereinafter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 24, 1997
    Inventor: Peter M. Falk
  • Patent number: 5619395
    Abstract: A phone/computer combination, in which a portable computer having a generally vertical lid or screen has a wireless phone removably attached thereto such that the phone is maintained in a generally vertical orientation. The wireless phone includes a clip which mates into a clip holder on the portable computer lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 8, 1997
    Inventor: Jon McBride
  • Patent number: 5492297
    Abstract: A tension clamp hanger which acts to suspend flexible articles or objects within a flexible container, from a support. The hanger has a rigid, vertical shank with a hook at the upper end and a generally horizontal lower end which is separated into two opposing halves. In use, the hook portion of the hanger is engaged with the support, such as a rod or tree, to suspend the hanger. A flexible portion of the article or container to be suspended is looped around the rigid, vertical shank of the hanger to completely encircle the shank, and after crossing the flexible portion back over itself, the flexible portion is placed in between the opposing parts of the lower end. The tension clamp hanger then acts to grip the article or container more tightly as the article is pulled in a downward direction. The article is easily released, however, by simply pulling the article up and away from the lower end of the hanger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1996
    Inventor: Thomas F. Underwood
  • Patent number: 5427343
    Abstract: A container hanger for manual attachment to a conventional plastic bottle such as a shampoo bottle at its flat end portion which allows the support device to be fastened by screwing into the base of the container and hung inverted from a towel rack or shower pipe, thereby allowing easy access to the fluid within the container while greatly organizing a bathroom area to keep containers off the counter top surfaces and floors. The support device includes a self-drilling threaded fastener for manual insertion and attachment to the plastic container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1995
    Inventor: Shel Ferris
  • Patent number: 5092066
    Abstract: A sign adapted to be attached to a rope includes a legend receiving body portion, and a rope engaging portion including an opening having a minimum dimension at least equal to the diameter of the rope, the opening communicating with the outside periphery of the rope engaging portion by a slot having a width smaller than the diameter of the rope, the rope engaging portion comprising an ear formed from a resilient material having a fixed end attached to the body portion and a free end bordered by the slot and displacable for enlarging the width of the slot and allowing the rope to be passed through the slot into the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1992
    Inventor: Blair M. Brewster
  • Patent number: 5087014
    Abstract: A clip for holding a tool on a container in two positions is provided and consists of a curved U-shaped bracket transversely mounted to a handle of the tool. A mechanism, on the bracket, is for installing the bracket on the open rim of the container. In the first position the working head of the tool can be cantilevered over the open rim of the container. In the second position the working head of the tool can be depended down into the container. In both positions the handle of the tool is maintained in a convenient position for the user to readily grasp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1992
    Inventor: Warren Desjardin
  • Patent number: 5074516
    Abstract: An apparatus for rotatable securement of an instrument such as a thermometer particularly usable for attachment with respect to a refrigerated environment including a bracket adapted to be fixedly secured with respect to a vertically extending wall within the refrigerated environment or adapted to be positioned suspended from conventional rod-like portions of shelving positioned therein. An instrument housing means particularly adaptable for housing of a thermometer is rotatably mounted with respect to the lower portion of the bracket member in such a manner as to allow complete rotation of the housing with respect to the bracket when the bracket is secured with respect to a vertically extending wall without contact with the environmental structure. This configuration is achieved by sizing of the distance of the bracket between the pivot point and the rear wall attachment area thereof to be greater than the distance between the pivot point and the outermost dimension of the instrument housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1991
    Assignee: Franklin Machine Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Lewis, Joe Grato