Attachments Patents (Class 312/140.4)
  • Patent number: 11304526
    Abstract: A privacy screen attachment apparatus can include a screen body having a plurality of elongated recesses. The recesses can be positioned to define locations at which a connector is positionable to adjustably position the screen body adjacent to a work surface at multiple different locations along the screen body for providing different degrees of privacy and/or modesty. A plurality of connectors can be connected to the screen body via the recesses for connecting the screen body to an article of furniture, such as a counter, a table or a desk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2022
    Assignee: Knoll, Inc.
    Inventors: Masamichi Udagawa, Sigrid Moeslinger, James Harrison McKenzie
  • Patent number: 11160376
    Abstract: A desk or table shield includes a clear face and two wings, is individually assignable, easily attached to a desk or table top, and include elbow openings preventing or reducing interference with arms during use. Clips are permanently attached to the desk or table top, and the shield engages and disengages from the clips to attach and detach from the desk or table. A template facilitates portioning the clips for attachment to the desk or table top. The wings are attached to the face by flexible hinges. Cable cutouts are provided for cabling. Carrying handles are provided by slots in the face and wings which align when the wings are folded against the face for carrying.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2021
    Inventors: Brian Gass, Steve Ehret
  • Patent number: 11140981
    Abstract: A mounting system for securing a sink to a countertop supported by a cabinet is provided. The mounting system includes a receiving structure configured to be supported under a rim of the sink, a bracket having a first portion configured to engage a portion of the cabinet and a second portion configured to engage a bottom of a basin of the sink, a linking member extending between the receiving structure and the bracket, a first connector configured to engage a first end of the linking member and retain the linking member relative to the receiving structure, and a second connector configured to engage a second end of the linking member and secure the bracket against the cabinet and the bottom of the basin of the sink.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2021
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventors: Shawn J. Booth, Jason R. Miller, James S. Giefer
  • Patent number: 11116312
    Abstract: A table assembly comprising a table including a top member and at least a first leg support member, the top member forming a substantially flat top surface and circumscribed by an outer edge, the at least one leg support member supporting the top member in a substantially horizontal position, a table dock secured to the top member and forming an elongated channel having a dock length dimension and at least a first display panel circumscribed by a panel edge and having at least one straight edge having a panel length dimension, the dock length dimension less than panel length dimension, wherein at least a portion of the straight edge of the panel is receivable within the dock channel with the panel extending out the open first and second ends of the channel to support the panel in a substantially upright orientation with at least a portion of the display panel extending to a height above the flat top surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2021
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Battey, Sean M. Corcorran, Timothy Elms, Jeffrey Coffey, Duck Young Kong, Brett Robert Kincaid, Mark William Schoolmeester, Elger Oberwelz, Thomas Overthun, Jake Eisner, Cody Jay Holstege, Michael Skibinski
  • Patent number: 10986943
    Abstract: A food shield pivot connection providing for adjustment of the angular orientation of a support arm, and any attached panel, relative to a food shield stand. A representative pivot connection includes a threaded shaft extending from the stand clamp, an opening extending through the panel support arm defining a pivot axis parallel to the lengthwise axis of the threaded shaft, and a plate positioned to selectively engage and disengage with the panel support arm. In this embodiment, a knob is threaded onto the threaded shaft, such that rotating the knob in a first direction drives the plate into engagement with the support arm, and rotating the pivot knob in the opposite direction allows a spring or similar mechanism positioned around the threaded shaft to bias the plate away from the support arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2021
    Assignee: Brass Smith Innovation, LLC
    Inventor: Geoffrey R. Quinter
  • Patent number: 9814309
    Abstract: A position-adjustable lift table is provided. The lift table comprises an upper plate, a lower plate, a lift assembly provided between the upper plate and the lower plate and including an upper frame hinged to the upper plate, a lower frame hinged to the lower plate, and a driving arm assembly. The driving arm assembly includes two upper arms connected with each other via a first elastic body, two lower arms connected with each other via a second elastic body, the upper arms being hinged to the lower arms. A locking device is provided at an end of the driving arm assembly to secure a folded or unfolded position of the driving arm assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2017
    Inventor: Seung Ho Kim
  • Patent number: 9603445
    Abstract: Provided is a work top with extensible retainer. An extensible retainer may be configured as a U-shaped bracket either introduced laterally into the work top or introduced into a retaining frame, located beneath the work top, or introduced laterally into a drawer, located beneath the work top, or guided through bracket holders fitted beneath the work top. If an extensible retainer is in the extended state, then it is possible to fit waste containers therein. An extensible retainer allow containers to be fitted in a space-saving and straightforward manner. An extensible retainer may be fitted on more than one side of the work top. A plurality of extensible retainers in combination with one another may receive one or more containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Inventor: Johannes Schreiter
  • Patent number: 9326605
    Abstract: A merchandiser including a case that has a base and side walls extending upward from the base to at least partially define a product display area. The merchandiser also includes a bracket that is coupled to the base, and a bumper assembly that is coupled to an exterior surface of the base. The bumper assembly includes a shock absorber that has at least one end removably coupled to the base by a quick release mechanism engaged with the bracket and the shock absorber, and a bumper coupled only to an outermost portion of the shock absorber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Assignee: Hussmann Corporation
    Inventors: Cody J. Schollmeyer, Mel Aumiller, Thomas C. Wind
  • Patent number: 9226578
    Abstract: A table assembly comprising a table including a top member and at least a first leg support member, the top member forming a substantially flat top surface and circumscribed by an outer edge, the at least one leg support member supporting the top member in a substantially horizontal position, a table dock secured to the top member and forming an elongated channel having a dock length dimension and at least a first display panel circumscribed by a panel edge and having at least one straight edge having a panel length dimension, the dock length dimension less than panel length dimension, wherein at least a portion of the straight edge of the panel is receivable within the dock channel with the panel extending out the open first and second ends of the channel to support the panel in a substantially upright orientation with at least a portion of the display panel extending to a height above the flat top surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Assignee: STEELCASE INC.
    Inventor: David J. Battey
  • Publication number: 20150076974
    Abstract: Work top with extensible retaining means. The present invention relates to a work top (1) with extensible retaining means (3, 4). The latter are configured as U-shaped brackets. They are either introduced laterally into the work top or they are introduced into a retaining frame (5), winch is located beneath the work top, or they are introduced laterally into a drawer, which is located beneath the work top, or they are guided through bracket holders, which are fitted beneath the work top. If the retaining means are in the extended state, then it is possible to fit in containers (8) which can serve, for example, for receiving waste. The extensible retaining; means allow the containers to be fitted in a space-saving and straightforward manner. It is also possible for the retaining means to be fitted on more than one side of the work top. Furthermore, it is possible for a plurality of retaining means, in combination with one another to receive one or more containers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2013
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventor: Johannes SCHREITER
  • Patent number: 8939521
    Abstract: Aspects of the disclosure relate to a spacer device for use with a merchandise display. The merchandise display may include a first upright and a second upright opposite the first upright, a pegboard mounted between the two uprights, and at least one shelf mounted to the two uprights, wherein the configuration includes a gap between a back of the shelf and the pegboard. The spacer device may include two opposing ends. Each of the opposing ends may include a support arm that extends downward towards the gap, a mounting arm that extends downward towards the gap, and a tab that projects outward and away from the mounting arm. The spacer device may also include a gap filler portion extending between the two opposing ends wherein when the device is secured in the gap, the gap filler portion fills the gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: RTC Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Joel Barenbrugge
  • Patent number: 8925172
    Abstract: A fixture for mounting on a support structure having an outer surface and an inner surface defining a thickness, with a bore therethrough, comprising: a tubular body, having a top section and a bottom externally threaded section; a retaining collar, having an upper portion, the bottom surface thereof larger than the bore, and a circular internally threaded lower portion smaller than the bore; a keeper body, having an internally threaded circular passageway, including a ring shaped upper part having an outside surface and an outside diameter slightly smaller than the diameter of the bore, and a lower part having a smaller diameter than said upper part, the retaining collar and keeper body sized for threading onto the tubular body; and pivotable, rotatable ears having an upper edge and a lower end providing a stop, mounted to the upper part of the keeper body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Inventor: Douglas A. English
  • Publication number: 20140225486
    Abstract: A fixture for mounting on a support structure having an outer surface and an inner surface defining a thickness, with a bore therethrough, comprising: a tubular body, having a top section and a bottom externally threaded section; a retaining collar, having an upper portion, the bottom surface thereof larger than the bore, and a circular internally threaded lower portion smaller than the bore; a keeper body, having an internally threaded circular passageway, including a ring shaped upper part having an outside surface and an outside diameter slightly smaller than the diameter of the bore, and a lower part having a smaller diameter than said upper part, the retaining collar and keeper body sized for threading onto the tubular body; and pivotable, rotatable ears having an upper edge and a lower end providing a stop, mounted to the upper part of the keeper body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2014
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Inventor: Douglas A. English
  • Publication number: 20140184037
    Abstract: An easy to install countertop edging system comprising a profiled edge strip is described. The rear mating surface of the edge strip includes an adhesion promoting material for attachment to the substrate. An optional channel on the bottom of the edge strip allows for incorporation of lighting elements and decorative materials, mechanical securing of the edge and application of tools and additional features. The countertop edge system may also include a stanchion rail. The profiled edge strip is attached to an edge of a countertop or other substrate by the stanchion rail and/or structural adhesive. Related methods using the edge strip and rail are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2012
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Inventor: Scott J. Sidoti
  • Publication number: 20130154451
    Abstract: The present invention is a technology kitchen surface that includes a kitchen counter surface with an aperture and a plurality of kitchen cabinets where the kitchen counter surface is disposed on top of the kitchen cabinet with an embedded holding system that is set within the aperture and a technology device that is encased within the embedded holding system. The technology kitchen surface also includes a receiving box that is in communication with the technology device and is disposed within the kitchen cabinets and underneath the kitchen counter surface, a plurality of wires that are connected to the technology device and are protected and set within the receiving box and a plurality of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth components that are connected to the wires and are in communication with the technology device with the wires.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Inventor: Ward Aaron Stearns
  • Patent number: 8308249
    Abstract: A convertible food guard system with adjustable side panels, as well as features and aspects thereof, provides for the alignment of the leading edge of a side panel with the leading edge of a main viewing panel regardless of whether the convertible food guard system is in a cafeteria mode or a buffet mode. Exemplary embodiments of a convertible food guard system with adjustable side panels comprise, generally, positionable or translatable side panel components. More particularly, exemplary embodiments employ sliding adjustable side panel systems that may be comprised of a single side panel component or a plurality of side panel components. Advantageously, the use of adjustable side panels with a convertible food guard system enables the side panels to align with the leading edge of the main viewing panel when the system is in a buffet mode and retract out of the consumer's way when the system is in a cafeteria mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Elemental Ideas, LLC
    Inventor: Jose Orlando Matus, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20120200207
    Abstract: An adjustable food shield includes a panel mounting mechanism that enables extensive adjustability of the food shield. The food shield may include a post having a longitudinal axis, and a carrier coupled to the post, the carrier including a carrier clamping mechanism. The carrier clamping mechanism is loosenable to enable the carrier to be moved along at least a portion of the length of the post, and is also tightenable to fix the carrier at a certain location on the post. The mounting mechanism may also include a link having a proximal end pivotally coupled to the carrier. An arm may be pivotally coupled to the distal end of the link and extend from the link. The adjustable food shield may include a clear panel coupled to the arm such that the clear panel is movable to different positions by rotating the link, the arm, or both.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Applicant: Brass Smith, LLC
    Inventor: Scott Atkins
  • Patent number: 8147009
    Abstract: The present invention is a component system for constructing the framework for cabinets of the type that are employed when building an outdoor kitchen. The components system consists of specially designed brackets used in conjunction with lightweight concrete side panels to construct the forms for the cabinets. The brackets have channels that attach to the corner edges of the concrete side panels and hold the side panels in place so that the top edges of the panels are accessible for attachment of back splashes and back bars. Brackets with more than one channel have support rods connecting their channels and holding them in spaced apart arrangement. Once the forms are constructed, their exterior surfaces can be finished in a variety of ways. The counter tops, wiring, plumbing, appliances and doors for the cabinets can then be installed to complete the cabinets and kitchen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Inventor: H. Joe Rider
  • Publication number: 20110193453
    Abstract: A system and method for a frameless food guard are disclosed. Unlike the prior art, embodiments of a frameless food guard do not comprise a support structure for support of the food guard panel components. Advantageously, one or more of the food guard panel components in a frameless food guard not only restrict access to food residing behind the food guard assembly but also operate to carry all or part of the load of the overall system. As a result, a support structure is not required, thereby minimizing the amount of surface that is not easily accessed for cleaning.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2010
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Inventor: Jose Orlando Matus, JR.
  • Publication number: 20110169384
    Abstract: A food shield includes a panel mounting mechanism that enables extensive adjustability of the food shield. When the mounting mechanism is clamped to a post, a panel coupled to the mounting mechanism can be adjusted angularly about an axis transverse to a longitudinal axis of the post, and the panel can also be translated in a direction transverse to the axis of rotation. The mounting mechanism may include a clamp that includes a main portion and a swing portion that can swing away from the main portion to enable the clamp to be coupled to a post from a side of the post. Detent mechanisms may be provided for the angular adjustment and the translational adjustment. The mounting mechanism may also include a locking mechanism that when engaged fixes the panel in a certain angular position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2010
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Applicant: Brass Smith, LLC (Subsidiary of Kevry Corp.)
    Inventors: Andrew Padden, Wayne Sirmons, Dennis Bridges
  • Publication number: 20110080075
    Abstract: A convertible food guard system with adjustable side panels, as well as features and aspects thereof, provides for the alignment of the leading edge of a side panel with the leading edge of a main viewing panel regardless of whether the convertible food guard system is in a cafeteria mode or a buffet mode. Exemplary embodiments of a convertible food guard system with adjustable side panels comprise, generally, positionable or translatable side panel components. More particularly, exemplary embodiments employ sliding adjustable side panel systems that may be comprised of a single side panel component or a plurality of side panel components. Advantageously, the use of adjustable side panels with a convertible food guard system enables the side panels to align with the leading edge of the main viewing panel when the system is in a buffet mode and retract out of the consumer's way when the system is in a cafeteria mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2009
    Publication date: April 7, 2011
    Inventor: Jose Orlando Matus, JR.
  • Publication number: 20110018406
    Abstract: The disclosure provides a food-line serving counter with an adjustable trayslide that readily adjusts to different heights using the frame of the counter's trayslide elevator assemblies. Multiple trayslide elevator assemblies can be coupled together, even around angles, to allow a variety of types of trayslides, including long and curving trayslides, to be elevated to different heights on the counter. With the present invention, a customer can purchase a food-line serving counter, and use it at a variety of heights for different groups of children, disabled persons, and those with special needs from a single facility and satisfy federal and state requirements. A trayslide actuator can be placed at a variety of locations suitable for the installation and raise the entire trayslide from a single position. Further, the trayslide elevator assembly can include a slider and a slider guide to provide stability and rigidity on the trayslide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2010
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Applicant: KITCHEN EQUIPMENT FABRICATING COMPANY
    Inventors: Alvis Lloyd Hartsfield, JR., Charles Horace Camp, JR.
  • Publication number: 20100201231
    Abstract: A fitting for a sales counter includes a counter body which receives the goods and which is delimited at least in part by a pane. The fitting has a pivot bearing with a pivot axis which allows the pivoting of the pane from a basic position according to its use to a special position in which the cleaning of the pane or the counter body and/or the filling or emptying of the counter body are made easier. In addition, two profiles are provided, namely, a basic profile stationarily mounted to the counter body and a pivot profile arranged movably thereto which can be mounted on a pivot arm and which can receive the pane. The pivot bearing can be brought into operative connection with the basic profile and the one end of the pivot arm, so that the movement of these components toward each other is facilitated. The pivot axis of the pivot bearing is arranged vertically. The invention proposes to arrange the pane in such a manner that it does not cross the pivot axis of the pivot bearing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2009
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Inventor: Franz Kallos
  • Patent number: 7670670
    Abstract: A surface-covering system and methods for making and using the same. The system includes a plurality of components each being a substantially planar portion having plurality of edges and an upper surface and an under surface. A second portion is attached to the under surface of the planar portion along a predetermined one of the edges, forming a thickened edge that has a predetermined cross-section. The plurality of components are placed edge-to-edge to cover a surface. If desired, the edges can be straight and/or the upper and lower surfaces of the components can be rectangular. Also, the cross-section of the thickened edge can be an arc of a circle. The second portion can be attached to the under surface of the planar portion by an adhesive such as an epoxy adhesive. The component can be made from a quarry material such as granite.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Inventor: Clifford M. Stupfel
  • Publication number: 20100045149
    Abstract: An adjustment apparatus for a sneeze guard includes a support post having a mounting bar with two parallel ridges along the rear side. First and second support frames are slidably interconnected and secured to the ridges on the mounting bar in parallel relation, the outer side of first support frame facing the outer side of the second support frame. The first support plate is pivotally connected and adjustably secured in a plurality of rotational positions to the inner side of the first support frame. The first support plate includes a holder on the inner side attached to one end of a transparent pane of a sneeze guard. The second support plate is pivotally connected and adjustably secured in a plurality of rotational positions to the inner side of the second support frame. The second support plate includes a holder on the inner side attached to one end of an opposing transparent pane of a sneeze guard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2008
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Inventors: Douglas A. English, Shawn D. Rice
  • Publication number: 20090206712
    Abstract: There are a series of different length sized stone or engineered stone vanity tops that when used in conjunction with a standard sized “divider”, that incorporates a tissue box holder and/or a granite cup holder, longer vanity cabinets can be covered and smaller crates and boxes can be used for shipping. The present invention also provides that the packaging in the boxes is of a unique design in that no matter how the box is placed flat on the floor, the vanity top or divider slab will never be horizontal (which is its weakest position), but always be on an angle or vertical (which is its strongest position). The present invention also provides for integral reinforcement and clip within the vanity top itself that strengthens the area around the sink hole and allows the undermount sink to be fastened to the vanity top easily and in a non-permanent fashion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventor: Morris Bendah
  • Publication number: 20070236112
    Abstract: A sneeze guard including a primary post, a clamp assembly secured to the post in a fixed position, a bracket carried by the clamp assembly, a secondary post held in the bracket in side-by-side relation to the primary post, and a panel mounted on the secondary post. The clamp assembly can be secured to the post in a number of different fixed positions. The secondary post is adjustable axially with respect to the bracket. The panel is carried by an arm pivotally secured to the secondary post, so that the angular position of the panel can be adjusted. A single clamp assembly may carry two brackets, each of which holds a secondary post. Each clamp assembly and bracket may be formed of semi-cylindrical parts adapted to grasp a post between them.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2007
    Publication date: October 11, 2007
    Applicant: LAWRENCE METAL PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: Jeremy Williman
  • Patent number: 7181924
    Abstract: A refrigerated display case for maintaining food product at a desired temperature. The refrigerated display case includes a case, a product display area, and a refrigeration system. The case includes a plurality of interconnected structural components including a first structural component with first and second sides, a second structural component coupled to the first structural component on the first side with a tab and slot connection, and a third structural component coupled to the first structural component on the second side with a tab and slot connection. The product display area is defined at least in part by the plurality of interconnected structural components and is adapted to support and display the food product. The refrigeration system supplies refrigerated air to the product display area and is adapted to maintain the food product at the desired temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: Hussmann Corporation
    Inventors: Martin J. Duffy, Derek R. Lea, Denise Y. Slatton, Marian T. Boultes
  • Patent number: 7040723
    Abstract: A modular food guard apparatus including at least one vertical mounting member, at least one first bracket member, and at least one second bracket member. The first and the second bracket members have different constructions and are arranged and configured to be removably secured to the at least one vertical mounting member interchangeably.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Elemental Ideas, LLC
    Inventor: Jose Orlando Matus, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6883880
    Abstract: A system for creating a floating sub-top into an open space of a counter upon which tiles may be applied. The float characteristic of the sub-top eliminates cracking and breaking of tiled corner pieces and grout due to expansion of the sub-top. Used with the system is a support member attachable to vertical upstanding walls of the counter on the ends of the walls or on the inner surfaces; and attachable to the sub-top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Inventor: Leo Flores
  • Patent number: 6834596
    Abstract: A checkout stand assembly for use with a counter-top or conveyor belt point-of-sale checkout station. The checkout stand assembly includes a podium that can support a cash drawer, printer, keyboard, and other such peripheral equipment. The podium can then be mounted onto a floor, counter, railing, or other object, and is positioned between the cashier and the customer. The podium positions the cash drawer and all point-of-sale equipment in an area close to or above the bar code scanner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Inventor: Philip S. Kerber
  • Publication number: 20040189156
    Abstract: A combination roller grill and sneeze guard assembly includes a roller grill assembly having a top cooking surface, a sneeze guard securable over the top cooking surface of the roller grill assembly, the sneeze guard having an elongated groove formed in a top surface thereof, and a sign having a bottom edge secured in the elongated groove of the sneeze guard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2003
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Inventor: Wade Pearlman
  • Publication number: 20030214203
    Abstract: A computer desk which may be affixed to the armrest of a chair, particularly the armrest of a motor vehicle is secured and placed by adjustable braces to grasp the armrest on either side thereof and is further secured by a strap holding the desk to the armrest to prevent movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2002
    Publication date: November 20, 2003
    Inventor: Richard A. Wentz
  • Patent number: 6647899
    Abstract: A splash guard for use on an embalming table or the like. The splash guard includes a shield member having an upper portion for extending above the upper surface of the tabletop, a table rest for resting on the upper surface of the tabletop, and a mechanism for mounting the shield member to the table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Michael G. Lysien
  • Patent number: 6645591
    Abstract: This invention relates to new and improved components including decorative surfacing materials, high and low pressure laminates, wood materials used in the assembly and fabrication of countertops, cabinet tops, worktops, desktops, and other casework and fixtures, which have been surfaced on one side with double-faced adhesive tape to enable bonding these components together during assembly or fabrication operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Inventor: Theodore H. Liebig, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6588863
    Abstract: A sneeze guard includes at least one post and a bracket assembly that is coupled to the post. The bracket assembly is configured to be moveable relative to the post and includes a locking mechanism that is operable to lock the bracket assembly to the post at a certain location on the post. Further, a panel is coupled to the bracket assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Brass Smith, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven Yatchak, Chuck DeWitt
  • Patent number: 6533372
    Abstract: A beverage cart is described that includes a bottom portion with a substantially rectangular shape, having front, rear, right, and left sides. Upstanding wall portions extend upwardly from the bottom portion at each of the front, rear, right, and left sides, mate with the bottom portion, and rigidly interlock with one another through tongue and groove fasteners provided thereon. A top portion rigidly interlocks with the right and left upstanding wall portions through tongue and groove fasteners provided thereon. At least one intermediate upstanding wall portion is disposed between the right and left upstanding wall portions and rigidly interconnects with the front and rear upstanding wall portions through tongue and groove fasteners provided thereon. At least one horizontal shelf portion is disposed between any two of the upstanding wall portions and rigidly interlocks with the two upstanding wall portions through tongue and groove fasteners provided thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: Nolu Plastics, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas K. McCrossin, Carl D. Hipp
  • Patent number: 6523486
    Abstract: An edge for removable attachment to a work surface includes a frame having a base and a vertical support orthogonally extending from the base. A wrist rest is affixed to the frame and is configured in ergonomic fashion to allow a user to rest his or her wrists and forearms against the edge in a natural position. The removable edge may easily be replaced when damaged or worn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: Bay View Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Eugene T. Plitt, Steve Patrick Kinnard
  • Patent number: 6485118
    Abstract: An apparatus and method of using an adjustable food guard. The method and apparatus include a food serving station that further includes a food serving device and an adjustable food guard apparatus. The food guard apparatus includes at least one adjustable bracket that includes a bracket slot, wherein the bracket slot includes at least one lock slot. In addition, the food guard apparatus includes at least one of vertical-mounting member that includes a plurality of pivot pins, where the pivot pins are capable of engaging the bracket. Also, the bracket is capable of adjustment from a first position into at least one second position using the pivot pins. The pivot pins are capable of engaging the bracket via the bracket slot. Further, the pivot pins are capable of sliding within the bracket slot and the pivot pins are capable of reversibly locking into the second position using the lock slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Inventor: Jose Orlando Matus, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6419099
    Abstract: A lane divider for fitting to a shelf having front and rear rails, including at least one elongated loop having front and rear ends and a member affixed to each of the front and rear ends of the elongated loop, the member including a face for engaging the front and rear rails, respectively, of the shelf, whereby when the elongated loop is dimensioned to be positioned with the faces of the members respectively engaging the rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Assignee: Commercial Refrigerator Door Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald J. Weber
  • Patent number: 6413337
    Abstract: A natural stone edging tile having a top portion and a generally perpendicular facing portion can be mounted on the forward edge of a countertop substrate and has a portion extending rearward of the forward edge that is approximately half as thick as the forward edge and the same thickness as conventional stone tiles that can be mounted rearward of the edging tile. The conventional tiles have a thickness that is approximately half as thick as a typical stone slab countertop, but to a person viewing the countertop, the entire appears to have the substantial thickness of a typical slab countertop because the forward edge of the edging tile has such a thickness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Inventors: Pete A. Sciarrino, Kathleen M. Sciarrino
  • Patent number: 6397542
    Abstract: An adjustable screed with a flexible body (suited for use in cut-out areas) or a rigid body (suited for use adjacent to wall-like structures), a horizontal adjustment mechanism for establishing a horizontal plane for the screed and for securely maintaining the horizontal plane, and a vertical stabilizing mechanism for attaching the screed to an external object whereby when one or more screeds are being attached to the external object, the screed is adjusted and aligned to a single horizontal plane, securely maintained at that horizontal plane, and the vertical stabilizing mechanism maintains the attachment of the screed to the external object and maintains vertical stability of the screed as horizontal adjustments are being made.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Inventor: Leo Flores
  • Patent number: 6393788
    Abstract: An adjustable screed with a body having a top rail and a bottom rail; a horizontal adjustment mechanism for establishing a horizontal plane for the screed and for securely maintaining the horizontal plane; a vertical stabilizing mechanism for attaching the screed to an external object; a securing mechanism for securing the screed to the external object; and a registration mechanism for registering one screed to another screed after initial adjustments have been made to the first screed secured to the external object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventor: Leo Flores
  • Patent number: 6386378
    Abstract: An attachment for a laundry appliance includes a shelf, a first contact surface, and a second contact surface. The first contact surface and the second contact surface are secured to the shelf. The first contact surface engages an appliance front side and a control panel while the second contact surface engages an appliance rear side, below the control panel. Preferably, the attachment includes a third contact surface for engaging an appliance top side and the control panel. The shelf is sized and shaped to substantially fit between the laundry appliance and a wall. The shelf can be used to store laundry supplies and/or wet clothes. Importantly, the shelf inhibits clothes, such as socks from falling between the laundry appliance and the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Inventor: Martin Scharing
  • Patent number: 6343454
    Abstract: A fast, easy method of attaching and properly adjusting furniture edging that facilitates the improved aesthetic quality of the finished product while also providing an attachment that is both strong and watertight. The countertop assembly defines a edge construction having a unique double tongue and groove configuration that wedgably interlocks a decorative side molding against the exposed edge of a furniture panel by means of a specially configured groove on the bottom side of the furniture panel. This method of edge construction instantly locks and tightens the edge molding against the furniture panel edge thus, eliminating the need for temporary clamping while at the same time allowing for critical vertical adjustment of the edge molding to ensure the proper alignment of the top of the edge molding with the furniture panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2002
    Inventor: Frederick D. Fisher
  • Patent number: 6309036
    Abstract: An elongate back splash molding including a horizontal leg, adapted to be received in an upwardly opening notch provided in a counter top, and a vertical leg, integral with the horizontal leg, adapted to be received by a downwardly opening notch provided in a back splash which is mounted on the counter top rearwardly adjacent the slot. The horizontal leg includes a curvilinear top surface and a front surface joined to the curvilinear surface at via an edge which lies flush with the upper surface of the counter top. The vertical leg includes a front curvilinear surface having a lower end which makes a smooth transition with the curvilinear top surface. The vertical leg also includes an elongate top end face which is downwardly forwardly inclined and is joined to the top front surface along an edge which is flush with the front face of the back splash and an upper end disposed flush with the front face of the back splash.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Inventor: Douglas R. Ancel
  • Patent number: 6309035
    Abstract: A cutting board and countertop are correspondingly constructed to enable the cutting board to be supported upon the countertop in multiple, varying height positions. The countertop preferably includes a main, substantially planar work surface provided with a frontal, upstanding lip, as well as at least one ledge provided at a position spaced across the work surface from the lip. The cutting board is generally constituted by substantially planar member having support elements provided on opposing, terminal side portions. In a first height position, the cutting board is arranged against both the lip and the ledge. In the second height position, the cutting board is inverted and positioned against the frontal lip and upon the ledge. In either position, the cutting board can readily slide along the countertop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Maytag Corporation
    Inventors: Michael T. Lye, Jeremy C. Howard, John P. Flannery, Sage N. Baker, Luke N. Michas, Christopher Raia, Gaynor Field, George G. Brin, Jr., Marc S. Harrison, Jane K. Langmuir
  • Patent number: 6258190
    Abstract: A natural stone edging tile having a top portion and a generally perpendicular facing portion can be mounted on the forward edge of a countertop substrate and has a portion extending rearward of the forward edge that is approximately half as thick as the forward edge and the same thickness as conventional stone tiles that can be mounted rearward of the edging tile. The conventional tiles have a thickness that is approximately half as thick as a typical stone slab countertop, but to a person viewing the countertop, the entire appears to have the substantial thickness of a typical slab countertop because the forward edge of the edging tile has such a thickness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Inventors: Pete A. Sciarrino, Kathleen M. Sciarrino
  • Patent number: 6241330
    Abstract: An article support and transfer assembly includes a carrier frame, which is selectively shiftable between raised and lowered positions relative to a countertop work surface, and an article support tray which is mounted for sliding movement in opposing directions between a first extended position, wherein the article support tray projects, at least partially, over the work surface and, a second extended position, wherein the tray projects over a side edge portion of the countertop. The tray can be shifted between the first and second extended positions for loading and unloading thereof and arranged in an intermediate position wherein the tray can be lowered with the carrier frame into a base associated with the countertop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignee: Maytag Corporation
    Inventors: Michael T. Lye, John P. Flannery, Marc S. Harrison, George G. Brin, Jr., Luke N. Michas
  • Patent number: 6231137
    Abstract: A cooling or support rack is embedded into a work surface of a countertop at a position generally, directly in front of one or more doors of an oven arranged above the countertop. Preferably, the oven incorporates a pair of arcuate, sliding doors which are movable from a closed position to an open position wherein the doors do not extend over the cooling rack. The upper surface of the cooling rack is substantially flush with both the countertop and a lowermost cookware support surface within the oven such that cookware can be readily slid into and out of the oven.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Assignee: Maytag Corporation
    Inventors: Michael T. Lye, Luke N. Michas, Jeremy C. Howard, Edgar L. Laguinia, Elizabeth Akers, Seung Park, Marc S. Harrison, Peter Wooding, Jane K. Langmuir