Weighted Base Patents (Class 248/910)
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Patent number: 6981680Abstract: Weights are provided for the legs of tents or display stands to stabilize the tents or stands. Each weight comprises one or more plates which may be stacked upon one another and secured by fasteners extending through aligned holes in the plates. Additional holes in the plates are adapted to receive another fastener extending through a foot on the leg to secure the leg to the weight. The weights may include leveling legs on the bottom plate to accommodate uneven or sloped terrain. Carrying handles are attached or formed in the plates. The weights are flat and provide a low profile to prevent accidental tripping over the weights and to minimize storage and transportation space of the weights.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2004Date of Patent: January 3, 2006Inventors: Cindy S. Gordon, Clarence H. Rail, Clyde T. Rail
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Patent number: 6966152Abstract: A protective tarp for covering a mass includes of a flat, flexible sheet material having a top and a bottom and having a peripheral edge, e.g. a plurality of edges. Along the peripheral edge or along each of at least two of the plurality of edges, there is a plurality of unconnected tank compartment anchors, arranged in a predetermined pattern, that have at least one fill orifice and closure means for the fill orifice. The plurality of tank compartment anchors are hollow, flexible tank compartment anchors, and, in preferred embodiments, the tank compartment anchors and sheet material are formed of the same material. In some embodiments, the sheet material is rectangular from a top view and has four edges, the four edges being two sets of two opposite edges. There are at least two edges opposite one another which contain a plurality of tank compartment anchors.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2004Date of Patent: November 22, 2005Inventor: Peter N. Glynos
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Patent number: 6957794Abstract: An improved structure (stand) for providing flexibility for holding and mounting components, such as microscopes and cameras, in order to eliminate disruptions from undesirable vibrations and tilting of the mounted component. The stand uses a vertical stand member, and a horizontal arm member movably positioned in both vertical and horizontal orientations relative to the stand member. Adjustable brackets and associated clamps are utilized.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2002Date of Patent: October 25, 2005Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Jean-Luc Landreville, Roger R. M. Bertrand, Robert Blouin
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Patent number: 6938870Abstract: A book support apparatus includes a base and a post that has a bottom end and a top end. The bottom end is removably coupled to the base. A rod has first end and a second end. The first end is attached to the top end of the post. The rod is adapted for being selectively bendable into a shape such that the rod retains the shape. A panel has a first side edge, a second side edge, a front side and a back side. The second end of the rod is attached to the back side. Slots extend into the first and second side edges. Each of a pair of plates is removably extended into one of the slots. The plates each have an outer edge. Each of a pair of securing members is attached to one of the outer edges for attaching a book to the plates.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2004Date of Patent: September 6, 2005Inventor: Donna San Salvador
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Patent number: 6889953Abstract: An umbrella stand includes means defining a cavity, a mast receiving means operatively associated with the cavity-defining means, a bladder received within the cavity and comprised of a material which will retain ballast, and ballast contained within the bladder. When an umbrella mast is inserted into the mast receiving means and the umbrella is raised, the ballast weighs down the cavity-defining means so as to maintain the umbrella in a generally upright condition.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2002Date of Patent: May 10, 2005Assignee: Southern Sales & Marketing Group, Inc.Inventor: Kenneth A. Harbaugh
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Patent number: 6877704Abstract: A balloon holder simulating a small gift bag comprises a decorative bag, a core held within the decorative bag and having sufficient weight to hold at least one buoyant balloon in place, and decorative material secured to the core in a position to conceal the core from casual view. The decorative material preferably is formed from a length of decorative sheet material having its upper portion cut into a series of strips adapted to extend outwardly from the decorative bag. In one embodiment useful for a larger size decorative gift bag, an inner liner is fitted within the decorative bag with the core being held to the interior of the lower portion of the inner liner and the decorative material being held to the interior of the upper periphery of the inner liner.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2001Date of Patent: April 12, 2005Inventors: Craig Novak, Judith Wexler
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Patent number: 6869058Abstract: A base assembly for a sunshade includes a base having a recessed portion defined in an upper side thereof, allowing additional weight to be removably inserted into the recessed portion. The base further includes a tubular portion for receiving a lower end of a post of a sunshade. A spacer is preferably attached to an underside of the base for keeping the base at a level above ground. The tubular portion of the base may include a threaded section. A sleeve has a threaded section for threadedly engaging the threaded section of the tubular portion of the base, with the lower end of the post being received in the lower end of the sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2003Date of Patent: March 22, 2005Inventor: Benson Tung
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Patent number: 6840487Abstract: A weighted mounting platform for supporting a hand-held device, the weighted mounting platform having a plurality of flexible legs extending radially from a common central portion, the legs and common central portion being integrally formed of a heavy and malleable material; a lump of the heavy material integrally formed with each leg at an end thereof distal from the common central portion; a coating of elastomeric material formed over substantially the entire surface of the flexible legs, the common central portion and the integrally formed lumps; and an attaching means positioned at the common central portion for attaching a mounting device.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2001Date of Patent: January 11, 2005Inventor: Jeffrey D. Carnevali
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Patent number: 6786462Abstract: The RV sewage line stabilizing device is used to secure an elbow fitting, affixed to the end of an RV sewer hose, in place in a sewer receptacle. A bottom plate has a U-shaped collar formed in one end, and an open, three-sided box formed on the other end. The RV sewage line stabilizing device lays generally flat in close proximity to the ground, with the U-shaped collar fitting around the vertically extending portion of the elbow fitting. The U-shaped collar may rest on top of a flange formed around the elbow fitting, or a retaining strap may be secured over the horizontally extending portion of the elbow fitting to hold the elbow fitting down and in place. The open, three-sided box holds a brick, or other weights, in place to provide weight to secure and stabilize the elbow fitting, keeping the sewer hose in place.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2003Date of Patent: September 7, 2004Inventor: Leslie N. Bland
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Publication number: 20040169114Abstract: In an array of cooperating parts useful to form a portable satellite dish antenna mount base an assortment of attachments is provided to secure the base to a marina storage box, structural elements of a stabilized recreational vehicle and also to ground. At the same time the interface between the base and the mount itself may be tapered along interfering tapers to render the assembly and disassembly convenient. Once assembled an end mounting post on the mount is aligned to a vertical alignment with the assistance of a bubble level in the post end to support the dish antenna thereon. The base may further include a magnetic compass to aid in the antenna alignment.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2004Publication date: September 2, 2004Inventor: Barry Dierkes
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Patent number: 6776385Abstract: A book holder includes a bracket rotatably and adjustably secured to a base with one or more fasteners and/or with a serrated surface or a number of teeth. A casing includes a pedestal secured to the bracket, to allow the casing to be adjustably secured to the base at selected angular position by the bracket, and to support documents at the selected angular position relative to the base and to the readers. The base may include one or more weights to increase a stability of the base. The casing includes two end fences each having a number of apertures to rotatably receive pins of plates, and to rotatably secure the plates to the casing.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2003Date of Patent: August 17, 2004Inventor: Chun Yuan Chang
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Patent number: 6755380Abstract: A portable holder for a bottle of nail polish, has an upwardly extending weighted sack around the walls which contains small weighted beads. This is wrapped around a rigid, flat based, preferably cylindrical cup with a resilient piece of foam material inside the cylindrical cup The center of the foam piece is cut in a circle, small enough in size, but can accommodate any nail polish bottle shape (i.e., elongated square, square, round in cross section). The holder is covered with ornamental fabric to attract target audience age groups of 10-50 year old females.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2002Date of Patent: June 29, 2004Inventor: Jasmine Pace
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Publication number: 20040108435Abstract: Waste container stabilizers are disclosed that are designed to stabilize a typical molded waste container against, e.g., high winds, automated unloading equipment, etc. The stabilizers include one or more hollow components designed to be filled with ballast by the end user.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 20, 2003Publication date: June 10, 2004Applicant: New Design Corporation, Inc.Inventor: William P. Reiter
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Patent number: 6739095Abstract: The present invention is directed to an outdoor tent, which includes of a flat, flexible sheet material for its main body. Along the peripheral edge (i.e. near the bottom edge) or along each of at least two of the plurality of edges, there is at least one, and preferably, a plurality of tank compartment anchors, each having at least one fill orifice and closure means for the fill orifice. The plurality of tank compartment anchors are hollow, flexible tank compartment anchors, and, in preferred embodiments, the tank compartment anchors and sheet material are formed of the same material. In some preferred embodiments, the tank compartment anchors also have drain plugs.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2002Date of Patent: May 25, 2004Inventor: Peter N. Glynos
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Patent number: 6734830Abstract: A portable adjustable stand for mounting and supporting a digital satellite dish antenna eliminates the need for drilling holes and physical attachment to the surfaces of a dwelling with screws, bolts, or other fasteners. The stand has a pair of parallel spaced laterally adjustable longitudinal bracket mounting members and a first and second transverse cross member. The longitudinal bracket mounting members are provided with apertures for receiving and securing an existing mounting foot or mounting bracket of a variety of different commercially available satellite dish antennas. When assembled, the bracket at the lower end of the dish mast arm is secured on the longitudinal bracket mounting members inwardly a short distance from one of the transverse cross members and the mast arm extends toward the other transverse cross member.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2002Date of Patent: May 11, 2004Inventor: Comazell Bickham
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Publication number: 20040056169Abstract: An umbrella stand includes means defining a cavity, a mast receiving means operatively associated with the cavity-defining means, a bladder received within the cavity and comprised of a material which will retain ballast, and ballast contained within the bladder. When an umbrella mast is inserted into the mast receiving means and the umbrella is raised, the ballast weighs down the cavity-defining means so as to maintain the umbrella in a generally upright condition.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 19, 2002Publication date: March 25, 2004Inventor: Kenneth A. Harbaugh
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Patent number: 6682029Abstract: An array of cooperating parts useful to form a water ballasted satellite dish antenna mount includes a hollow base container provided with an annulus into which an adjustable mount is keyed and inserted. Once inserted an end mounting post on the mount is aligned to a vertical alignment with the assistance of a bubble level in the post end to support the dish antenna thereon. The base container further includes a magnetic compass on the upper surface thereof with the compass azimuth markings then repeated on the mount. The base container and the mount further include engagement devices for attaching the base and the mount to each other when disassembled.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2002Date of Patent: January 27, 2004Inventor: Barry Dierkes
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Publication number: 20030230692Abstract: A rollable sports ballast base for supporting a sports apparatus support member comprising a base member which has a first edge and a second edge, a top surface and a bottom surface. The bottom surface is adapted to contact a support surface such as a driveway or other playing surface. There is at least one wheel assembly for contacting the support surface. One of the wheel assemblies is retractable from a lowered position to a raised position such that when in the raised position, the bottom surface of the base member substantially contacts the support surface. In the lowered position, both wheel assemblies contact the support surface thereby separating or elevating the base member from the support surface. In another embodiment, the invention consists of a similar rollable sports base for supporting a sports apparatus support member wherein one wheel assembly is retractable and comprises a pivoting connector coupled to the base member and a wheel bracket coupled to the pivoting connector.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 18, 2003Publication date: December 18, 2003Inventors: Mark E. Davis, Ronald A. White, Craig Saunders, Rene Polin, Keith Kristiansen, Michael Ballone, Gary Grossman
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Patent number: 6629388Abstract: The disclosure describes a portable garage with a ballast-containing base. The garage is assembled at a site without physical attachment thereto and disassembled for erection at another site. Each elongated base segment extending along the sidewall of the garage has a cavity therein for receiving ballast which stabilizes the structure. The bases have extensions which interlock and overlie connector portions. Apertures through the connectors have a metal sleeve housing support columns and, upon the sidewall being assembled, these columns are vertically disposed. Between support members a prefabricated roof is attached. The ballast-container is a lightweight, molded plastic construct of high-impact, UV resistant material. The base is equipped with suitable inlet and outlet ports for the addition and removal of ballast.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2002Date of Patent: October 7, 2003Assignee: Handi-Hut Shelters, LLCInventor: Melvin Cohen
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Patent number: 6619610Abstract: A portable anchoring device 10 having a receiving sleeve 24 which is a cylindrical elongated tube having a throughbore 16 therein. The receiving sleeve 24 houses a filling chamber 30, filling cap 20, and the securing ring 28. The filling chamber 30 provides the means by which the portable anchoring device 10 may add more stability to its anchoring function and is equipped with an inlet cap 20 and an outlet cap 36. The retaining ring 28 is located at the base end 22 of the receiving sleeve 24 and provides the portable anchoring device with the means for securing a plurality of portable anchoring devices to each other. The retaining ring 28 also provides the means for securing a tent pole or gazebo leg 14 to the portable anchoring device. The base support element 22 is composed of two, semi-circle shaped units that provide the portable anchoring device with its foundation and anchorage support.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2002Date of Patent: September 16, 2003Inventor: Nicholas Genovese
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Patent number: 6581888Abstract: An apparatus for the stabilization of a drinking vessel such as a glass, coffee mug, or a piece of stemware that is placed on a flat or irregular or sloping surface includes a base portion having a flexible outer covering that surrounds a flexible weighted mass. An elastomeric member that includes an opening is attached to the base portion. The elastomeric member is urged into an open position which requires expanding the opening a sufficient amount to permit the bottom portion of the drinking vessel to pass through the opening and rest on top of the base portion. The elastomeric member is then allowed to retract into a closed position in which elastomeric tension secures the bottom portion of the drinking vessel to the top of the base portion. The apparatus is then placed on the desired surface where the drinking vessel is supported and thereby prevented from tilting or tipping.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2000Date of Patent: June 24, 2003Inventor: Kenneth Antonio Castillo
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Patent number: 6565060Abstract: An attachment stand frame for spa umbrella which includes a shaft supporting an awning thereon, wherein the attachment stand frame includes a stand base including a reinforcing panel extended therefrom adapted for mounting underneath an outdoor spa wherein the spa umbrella is uprightly supported on the stand base, and a supporting frame perpendicularly extended from the stand base for substantially attaching to the outdoor spa so as to securely mount the spa umbrella to the outdoor spa. The attachment stand frame further includes a base body, having a receiving chamber provided thereon, adapted to support the shaft, a rotor, which is rotatably disposed in the receiving chamber, having a rotor axial socket for inserting the shaft thereinto, and a locking arrangement for locking up the rotation movement of the rotor. Therefore, the attachment stand frame is adapted to be rigidly supported by the outdoor spa and rotatably mount the spa umbrella.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2001Date of Patent: May 20, 2003Inventors: Wanda Yiing Li, Raymond J. Carabotta
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Publication number: 20030015640Abstract: A balloon holder simulating a small gift bag comprises a decorative bag, a core held within the decorative bag and having sufficient weight to hold at least one buoyant balloon in place, and decorative material secured to the core in a position to conceal the core from casual view. The decorative material preferably is formed from a length of decorative sheet material having its upper portion cut into a series of strips adapted to extend outwardly from the decorative bag. In one embodiment useful for a larger size decorative gift bag, an inner liner is fitted within the decorative bag with the core being held to the interior of the lower portion of the inner liner and the decorative material being held to the interior of the upper periphery of the inner liner.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 19, 2001Publication date: January 23, 2003Applicant: Unique Industries, Inc.Inventors: Craig Novak, Judith Wexler
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Patent number: 6493997Abstract: The disclosure describes a portable garage with a ballast-containing base. The garage is assembled at a site without physical attachment thereto and disassembled for erection at another site. Each elongated base segment extending along the sidewall of the garage has a cavity therein for receiving ballast, which, after erection of the garage, is filled with water, sand or gravel. The weight thereof stabilizes the structure. The bases have extensions which interlock and overlie connector portions. Apertures through the connectors house support members and, upon the sidewall being assembled, these columns are vertically disposed. Between support members a prefabricated roof is attached. The ballast-container is a lightweight, molded plastic construct of high-impact, UV resistant material. The base is equipped with suitable inlet and outlet ports for the addition and removal of ballast.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2000Date of Patent: December 17, 2002Assignee: Handi-Hut Shelters, L.L.C.Inventor: Melvin Cohen
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Patent number: 6453590Abstract: Lightweight advertising emblems that are readily knocked down into compact packages are mounted upon light standards or upon free-standing masts which use bases that incorporate local ballasting agents such as paving stones, gravel, sand, stones or water. The emblems have a display surface which may be planar, or may be wrapped to form a three-dimensional object, such as a giant sized paper drinking cup, complete with straw, an olympic style torch or other representation. The display surface is preferably of knitted material such as a polyester fabric, that may be printed upon by a silk-screen process, and is highly resistant to creasing. In the case of planar, banner-like displays, the mounting may include a rotary bearing, to permit weathervaning of the banner, for minimum wind resistance and dynamic display.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 1999Date of Patent: September 24, 2002Inventor: Edward Allen Burke
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Patent number: 6446930Abstract: An umbrella stand having an outer decorative surface is provided, for use with a large, outdoor-style umbrella. The outer surface of the stand is formed on an exterior shell that is fabricated out of a corrosion-resistant material, such as Aluminum. A weighted mass is attached to an inner surface of the exterior shell, thereby protecting the less corrosive-resistant material from the elements. Additionally, the weighted mass is attached to the exterior shell piece in a manner that none of the mass rests upon the surface on which the umbrella stand rests. In this manner, only the corrosion-resistant, decorative piece touches the support surface, preventing any discoloration that may occur upon the surface of the weighted mass from staining the area on which the umbrella stand rests—frequently a concrete surface.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 1999Date of Patent: September 10, 2002Assignee: Hanamint Corporation, Inc.Inventor: Jun Li
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Patent number: 6446649Abstract: An apparatus and method for anchoring an umbrella that has a shaft are disclosed. The apparatus includes a plurality of containers that can contain a material or object that provides weight to the containers, preferably equal to the combined weight of the umbrella and the shaft.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2000Date of Patent: September 10, 2002Inventor: Barbara Bigford
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Patent number: 6401381Abstract: A fishing rod holder which positively retains and secures a plurality of poles for storage and cleaning includes a base defining an internal cavity in communication with a fill hole for adding weight to the device. The base also includes apertures which extend through the base and legs for holding the base above a support surface. Opposingly located side panels are connected to the base by hinges and include channels which are positioned to align with the apertures in the base to form rod retention holes.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2000Date of Patent: June 11, 2002Assignee: Du-Bro Products, INCInventor: James E. Broberg
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Patent number: 6367494Abstract: A sunshade base comprises a base adapted to engage with a support tube of a sunshade and two wheel assemblies each having a mounting plate and at least one wheel. The mounting plate is pivotally mounted to the base. The wheel is rotatably mounted to the mounting plate. The mounting plate is pivotable between a storage position in which the wheel does not contact the ground and an operative position in which the wheel is located on the ground and thus raises the base above the ground.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2001Date of Patent: April 9, 2002Inventor: Benson Tung
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Publication number: 20010045498Abstract: A rollable sports ballast base for supporting a sports apparatus support member comprising a base member which has a first edge and a second edge, a top surface and a bottom surface. The bottom surface is adapted to contact a support surface such as a driveway or other playing surface. There is at least one wheel assembly for contacting the support surface. One of the wheel assemblies is retractable from a lowered position to a raised position such that when in the raised position, the bottom surface of the base member substantially contacts the support surface. In the lowered position, both wheel assemblies contact the support surface thereby separating or elevating the base member from the support surface. In another embodiment, the invention consists of a similar rollable sports base for supporting a sports apparatus support member wherein one wheel assembly is retractable and comprises a pivoting connector coupled to the base member and a wheel bracket coupled to the pivoting connector.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2001Publication date: November 29, 2001Inventors: Mark E. Davis, Ronald A. White, Keith Kristiansen, Michael Ballone, Gary Grossman
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Patent number: 6315120Abstract: A portable tray includes a formed plastic receptacle including various compartments with a circumferential retainer ring cooperating with a flexible bag that is filled with bag fill material to provide a tray assembly which can be fitted on an uneven surface.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2000Date of Patent: November 13, 2001Assignee: The Lisle CorporationInventors: Kevin L. Tally, Peter A. Siemen
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Publication number: 20010035479Abstract: The preferred embodiment of the present invention provides a an ergonomic pointing device stand that has the flexibility to provide an ergonomic environment for using pointing devices that can be adapted to a wide variety of users in a wide variety of applications. The pointing device stand of the preferred embodiment includes an upright stand with a weighted base and a telescoping vertical support; the upright stand including an upper pivoting plate for attaching and using a pointing device. In one embodiment, a hook and pile fastener pad is provided at a top end of the vertical support thereon that is securable to the bottom of a trackball using a companionate hook and pile fastener. In another embodiment, a mouse platform having a companionate hook and pile fastener provided thereon.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2001Publication date: November 1, 2001Inventor: James D. Roebuck
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Publication number: 20010035481Abstract: A rollable sports ballast base for supporting a sports apparatus support member comprising a base member which has a first edge and a second edge, a top surface and a bottom surface. The bottom surface is adapted to contact a support surface such as a driveway or other playing surface. There is at least one wheel assembly for contacting the support surface. One of the wheel assemblies is retractable from a lowered position to a raised position such that when in the raised position, the bottom surface of the base member substantially contacts the support surface. In the lowered position, both wheel assemblies contact the support surface thereby separating or elevating the base member from the support surface. In another embodiment, the invention consists of a similar rollable sports base for supporting a sports apparatus support member wherein one wheel assembly is retractable and comprises a pivoting connector coupled to the base member and a wheel bracket coupled to the pivoting connector.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2001Publication date: November 1, 2001Inventors: Mark E. Davis, Ronald A. White, Craig Saunders, Rene Polin, Keith Kristiansen, Michael Ballone, Gary Grossman
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Publication number: 20010035480Abstract: A rollable sports ballast base for supporting a sports apparatus support member comprising a base member which has a first edge and a second edge, a top surface and a bottom surface. The bottom surface is adapted to contact a support surface such as a driveway or other playing surface. There is at least one wheel assembly for contacting the support surface. One of the wheel assemblies is retractable from a lowered position to a raised position such that when in the raised position, the bottom surface of the base member substantially contacts the support surface. In the lowered position, both wheel assemblies contact the support surface thereby separating or elevating the base member from the support surface. In another embodiment, the invention consists of a similar rollable sports base for supporting a sports apparatus support member wherein one wheel assembly is retractable and comprises a pivoting connector coupled to the base member and a wheel bracket coupled to the pivoting connector.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2001Publication date: November 1, 2001Inventors: Mark E. Davis, Ronald A. White, Craig Saunders, Rene Polin, Keith Kristiansen, Michael Ballone, Gary Grossman
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Publication number: 20010035485Abstract: A rollable sports ballast base for supporting a sports apparatus support member comprising a base member which has a first edge and a second edge, a top surface and a bottom surface. The bottom surface is adapted to contact a support surface such as a driveway or other playing surface. There is at least one wheel assembly for contacting the support surface. One of the wheel assemblies is retractable from a lowered position to a raised position such that when in the raised position, the bottom surface of the base member substantially contacts the support surface. In the lowered position, both wheel assemblies contact the support surface thereby separating or elevating the base member from the support surface. In another embodiment, the invention consists of a similar rollable sports base for supporting a sports apparatus support member wherein one wheel assembly is retractable and comprises a pivoting connector coupled to the base member and a wheel bracket coupled to the pivoting connector.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2001Publication date: November 1, 2001Inventors: Mark E. Davis, Ronald A. White, Craig Saunders, Rene Polin, Keith Kristiansen, Michael Ballone, Gary Grossman
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Patent number: 6305659Abstract: The invention concerns a stand, in particular a microscope stand, having a multiple-part stand foot. The stand foot includes a removable stand foot body having cavities configured for enclosing and precisely positioning weights such that the weights can be installed without turning the stand foot over. A method for assembling such a stand is also described.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2000Date of Patent: October 23, 2001Assignee: Leica Microsystems AGInventor: Andreas Metelski
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Patent number: 6299124Abstract: A portable and stackable post support for securely holding post like structures is formed in a hollow pyramidal shape. The post support has a sealable cavity for holding a suitable ballast material such as water or sand. A receptacle opening receives the post like structures and includes thumb screws for manually securing a post like structure in position. When filled with a ballast material, the post support provides a base for anchoring top heavy devices such as Tiki lamps. When the post structure is empty of ballast, it can be easily transported. Additionally, a plurality of post structures is easily stacked and stored even full of a ballast material such as sand.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2000Date of Patent: October 9, 2001Inventors: David G. Reback, Michael Kish
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Patent number: 6290197Abstract: A portable hold down device removably connectable to a portable object, such as a portable folding chair, for maintaining the portable object in a substantially stable condition is provided. The portable hold down device is provided with a portable hold down assembly, a first connector assembly and a second connector assembly. The hold down assembly has a weight sufficient to maintain the object in the substantially stable condition when the hold down assembly is connected to the portable object. The first connector assembly is fastened to the hold down member. The first connector assembly is removably connectable to the portable object whereby when the first connector assembly is connected to the portable object, the portable object is maintained in the substantially stable condition. The second connector assembly is supported by at least one of the hold down assembly and the first connector assembly so as to be extendable outwardly therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 1999Date of Patent: September 18, 2001Inventor: Don R. Newton
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Patent number: 6168034Abstract: A self righting bottle or combination bottle and holder that prevents leakages otherwise resulting in drips, spills, and stains on floors, floor coverings and carpets, particularly permanent stains on various floor coverings. Preferably, it keeps the nipple clean by avoiding such leakages for prolonged periods, thereby preventing nipple contamination by other substances proximate to the nipple end of the bottle. The self righting bottle includes a container with at least one sidewall, a weighted bottom having an outwardly facing convex surface, the bottom having a center of mass situated so that, in cooperation with the convex surface, the bottle self rights itself into an upright position from a prone position after being tipped on a level surface into the prone position. The self righting bottle may be configured or molded as a clown, cartoon or face character.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 1998Date of Patent: January 2, 2001Inventor: Daniel R. Perrone
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Patent number: 6164613Abstract: An approximately circular, flexible apron is secured to a pole passing through its center. Sand, rocks or other ballast material is placed upon the apron, thus allowing it to serve as an anchor. The apron may include battens to maintain the extended surface upon which ballast is placed. The apron may also be attached to a radial array of support members that are connected to a slide collar that can be locked to the pole. Through the adjustment of the slide collar, the apron can be shaped to provide a basket shape to hold ballast, or the apron can be disposed as a flat surface upon the ground allowing the support members to contribute lateral support to the pole.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 1999Date of Patent: December 26, 2000Inventor: Adrian Ashley Williams
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Patent number: 6131872Abstract: A device placable on a surface for positioning an article for viewing utilizing a base member. The base member includes a first portion and an angularly attached second portion. The first portion and second portions are capable of rotating about an axis. The first portion includes a biasing weight which causes projection of the second portion of the base member outwardly. The second portion of the base member includes a protuberance which extends from the surface of the second portion of the base member. A bracket is held by the first portion of the base member and extends to the vicinity of the protuberance. The article engages and disengage by rocking the base member about the axis causing the bracket either to contact the protuberance and or to separate from the protuberance.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 1999Date of Patent: October 17, 2000Inventor: Alan Ford
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Patent number: 6113054Abstract: A patio umbrella base has a base housing that has a central opening, and an interior wall configured to define an interior space, with a shaft extending from the central opening. A first weight is secured to the interior wall of the base housing and retained inside the interior space, and a second weight is removably secured to the base housing and retained inside the interior space.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 1999Date of Patent: September 5, 2000Inventor: Oliver Joen-An Ma
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Patent number: 6095482Abstract: A structure on which various equipment, particularly outdoor electronic cabinets, can be mounted comprises a shallow, box-like frame including rigid sides, bottom plates secured to the sides, and cross braces extending between and secured to opposite sides. For rigidity and strength, the cross braces comprise U-beams having upper and lower laterally extending flanges, the upper flanges serving as horizontal surfaces for the mounting of equipment on the support. In a preferred use, the support structure is placed on the ground at a cleared outdoor site and locally available ballast is loaded into the structure for firmly anchoring it in place.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 1998Date of Patent: August 1, 2000Assignee: Lucent Technologies, Inc.Inventors: James T. LaGrotta, Richard T. LaGrotta
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Patent number: 6029937Abstract: A flower or candle stand is provided with multiple interchangeable components which are threadably coupled together for quick and easy assembly and disassembly. The stand is adapted to hold a single flower bud, a floral arrangement, or one or more candles. The stand generally includes a hollow pedestal which can filled with water or other ballast material. A coupler is threadably mounted on the pedestal, and a holder or container is threadably mounted on top of the coupler. The bottom of the holder is smooth such that the holder can sit upon a table when removed from the coupler. Optional extension stems may be provided to increase the height of the stand. An enlarged base may also be threadably coupled to the bottom of the pedestal to provide additional stability.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Inventor: Kevin J. Funaro
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Patent number: 5979844Abstract: A ballasted support base is disclosed which may be used to support a large variety of structures and objects. In the preferred embodiment, three equal arc-shaped tanks are fastened together to form a disc-shaped base. When empty, the tanks may be easily transported and they may be stacked to occupy minimum space. When the tanks are fastened together, a flange is used to support a center plate which in turn supports a pole. A plurality of diagonal supports are attached to the pole and the periphery of the base. Each tank comprises a cap for preventing liquid from evaporating and a recess is provided on each tank to allow the tanks to be stacked without interference from the cap. Each tank may also comprise stiffeners for withstanding compressive loads and an adjustment plate may be used to adjust the angular position of the pole.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 1997Date of Patent: November 9, 1999Inventor: Steven Hopkins
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Patent number: 5956861Abstract: A wall mounted portable hair dryer holder which takes the form of a wall mounted bracket from which pivotly extends a flexible walled tube with the outer end of the tube being connected to a base ring. The main body section of the hair dryer, which is the fan and heater housing of the hair dryer, is to be fixedly secured to a mounting ring with this mounting ring being then pivotly mounted onto the base ring. The handle of the hair dryer is to be insertable through an enlarged center through hole between the base ring and the mounting ring. The result is the hair dryer can be moved practically to any desired position permitted by the flexible walled tube and then adjusted to any specific position by pivoting of the mounting ring relative to the base ring and also pivoting of the base ring relative to the flexible walled tube.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 1998Date of Patent: September 28, 1999Inventor: Jeffrey R. Barnes
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Patent number: 5956796Abstract: A personal hygiene implement, such as a toothbrush, is constructed to have a self-righting tendency to elevate a portion of the implement to avoid contamination from a support surface upon which it rests. The implement includes a functional head and a handle having a curved outer surface. When placed upon a horizontal surface on the curved outer surface, the implement rolls under gravitational force to a stable position in which the head is not in contact with the horizontal surface. In some cases a ballast material offsets the gravitational center of the implement to increase the self-righting tendency. Barrel-shaped, bulb-shaped and cylindrical handles are disclosed, as is a method of use.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 1997Date of Patent: September 28, 1999Assignee: Gillette Canada Inc.Inventor: Franco Lodato
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Patent number: 5909811Abstract: A holder for a bottle containing a cosmetic, such as nail polish, has a sack-like base portion which contains small particles. An annular container is attached to the mid section of the base portion for removably receiving the bottle. During application of the cosmetic, the ends of the base portion are draped over an arm of leg of the user with the particles providing weight to retain the holder in place. When not being used, the base portion is wrapped around the bottle and the ends of the base portion are fastened together to retain the bottle therein.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 1997Date of Patent: June 8, 1999Inventor: Carlene B. Harris
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Patent number: 5878518Abstract: A portable sign stand with rollers and an adjustable weighted base. The base member has one or more compartments so that liquid or solid ballast can be added to stabilize the sign stand in windy conditions. Wheels are provided on one edge of the base member in order to allow the sign stand to be rolled and easily moved to different positions. The axle member for the wheels is held in place on the base member by a bracket member which also helps secure the sign member to the base member. A pair of springs of the like can be used to connect the sign member to the base in order to provide a better wind-resistant sign stand.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 1996Date of Patent: March 9, 1999Assignee: Marketing Displays, Inc.Inventor: Ronald Grewe
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Patent number: 5855087Abstract: A fishing device includes a rectangular container having an upper surface which is provided with a handle for carrying the container. A fishing rod holder is pivotally mounted on the upper container surface as is an adjusting arm for fixing the holder in different positions. The container is formed with a filler opening which serves for the introduction of a weighting substance into the container so that the container can function as an anchor for a fishing rod in the fishing rod holder. The filler opening can be closed by a cap.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 1996Date of Patent: January 5, 1999Inventor: Kenneth Risinger