Convertible Patents (Class 312/240)
  • Patent number: 11234519
    Abstract: In certain embodiments of the present disclosure, a cabinet is provided. The cabinet includes a plurality of drawer slide receiving modules and a plurality of hanging drawer slides, each hanging drawer slide coupled to one of the plurality of drawer slide receiving modules, and each hanging drawer slide includes a plurality of hooks of a first type. At least one of the hanging drawer slides is configured to be withdrawn from the cabinet laterally along a longest axis of the hanging drawer slide. The plurality of drawer slide receiving modules are configured to be removably coupled to the cabinet in a plurality of different configurations. Methods and configuration systems are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2022
    Assignee: CareFusion 303, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Rahilly, Jeff Ly
  • Patent number: 11197544
    Abstract: A universal cabinet accommodating both left and right side drawer mountings allowing the universal cabinet to be installed in a first installation site requiring left side drawer mounting and a second installation site requiring right side drawer mounting. The universal cabinet preferably includes a cabinet housing having an interior space and an upper opening. The upper opening is preferably configured to receive at least one sink. The interior space is sized to receive an interior portion of at least one drawer and plumbing to be connected to the at least one sink. The cabinet housing preferably includes a frame member configured to mount one or more drawers on a left side of the cabinet housing when an installation site requires left side drawer mounting and on a right side of the cabinet housing when an installation site requires right side drawer mounting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2021
    Assignee: Home Plus Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Tin Huu Phan, Tram Hong Nguyen
  • Patent number: 10959518
    Abstract: A furnishing construction and a method accomplish selective conversion of the furnishing between a compact folded structure providing a valet stand, and an expanded unfolded structure providing a luggage rack. The folded structure easily is stored in a minimal space, and readily is moved to a convenient location to serve as a valet stand, or unfolded to serve as a luggage rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Inventor: Eric H. Freedman
  • Patent number: 10561239
    Abstract: According to an aspect, there is provided a frame module for a console. The frame module comprises first and second spaced apart leg frames and respective upper and lower elongated frame sections extending between and interconnecting the first and second leg frames. The frame module may also comprise an intermediate frame section that is horizontally adjustable along the length of the upper and lower frame sections. Two or more frame modules may be connected to form a console frame structure. The console frame structure may comprise at least one pivot connection between the second leg frame of the first frame module and the first leg frame of the second frame module. For each pivot connection, the console frame structure may also include at least one support member pivotably connected to the first and second frame modules by the pivot connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2020
    Assignee: EVANS CONSOLES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Richard Game, Matko Papic, Carlos Renderos, Randy Simington
  • Patent number: 10172250
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure include a device for managing cables within a rack. The device may include a first planar surface and a second planar surface connected by a bend line, wherein the first and second planar surfaces form a cable bracket body. The cable bracket body may include a plurality of cable tie-down points. Further, the cable management device may include an attachment clamp which corresponds to respective mount points located on vertically aligned horizontal rails of a rack. The attachment clamp may be configured to securely attach the cable management bracket onto the mount points of vertically aligned horizontal rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2019
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Raymond F. Babcock, Matthew A. Butterbaugh, Eric A. Eckberg, Paul W. Schaefer
  • Patent number: 10117348
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure include a device for managing cables within a rack. The device may include a first planar surface and a second planar surface connected by a bend line, wherein the first and second planar surfaces form a cable bracket body. The cable bracket body may include a plurality of cable tie-down points. Further, the cable management device may include an attachment clamp which corresponds to respective mount points located on vertically aligned horizontal rails of a rack. The attachment clamp may be configured to securely attach the cable management bracket onto the mount points of vertically aligned horizontal rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2018
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Raymond F. Babcock, Matthew A. Butterbaugh, Eric A. Eckberg, Paul W. Schaefer
  • Patent number: 9894793
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure include a device for managing cables within a rack. The device may include a first planar surface and a second planar surface connected by a bend line, wherein the first and second planar surfaces form a cable bracket body. The cable bracket body may include a plurality of cable tie-down points. Further, the cable management device may include an attachment clamp which corresponds to respective mount points located on vertically aligned horizontal rails of a rack. The attachment clamp may be configured to securely attach the cable management bracket onto the mount points of vertically aligned horizontal rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Raymond F. Babcock, Matthew A. Butterbaugh, Eric A. Eckberg, Paul W. Schaefer
  • Patent number: 9398806
    Abstract: A molded plastic storage cabinet having a plurality; of panels that can be snap-fit together. The cabinet has a door panel serving as a door, the door panel being symmetric about a horizontal centerline; a back panel; a pair of side panels, each side panel being symmetric about a horizontal centerline; and a top panel and a bottom panel, each arranged to connect to the back and side panels, and each having a hinge/latch pin at ends of a front edge. The door panel has a hinge cavity at one end and a door latch at the other end of a top and a bottom edge, to permit latching or hinging of the door panel on the hinge/latch pins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2016
    Assignee: EAGLE MANUFACTURING COMPANY
    Inventor: Donald J. Mitchell
  • Patent number: 8832873
    Abstract: The components of the furniture system, in a vertical orientation, have a cabinet with a central opening in an upper section and a plurality of support panels stacked in a laterally oriented position within the central opening. The cabinet is adapted to be placed against a structure such as a wall. Engaging items include a television. The cabinet further has a horizontal orientation with a top opening and alternate configuration and function such as a bed or sofa. In this configuration the support panels are repositionable to span the entire horizontal top opening of the cabinet. The repositioning of such components is done by mechanisms such as hinges, rails and/or manually repositioning the components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Inventor: Sivathanu B. Kumar
  • Patent number: 8797132
    Abstract: Some embodiments include an accessory for a mobile electronic device. Other embodiments of related accessories and methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Belkin International, Inc.
    Inventors: Jacob Scott Childs, Barry P. Sween, Justin Jakobson
  • Publication number: 20130264921
    Abstract: A central housing in a generally rectilinear configuration. The central housing has a horizontal open top, a horizontal open bottom and side walls. A horizontal lower divider panel is between the top and the bottom. Lateral openings in the housing are located in the lower section of the upstanding side walls adjacent to the bottom extent. A plurality of interchangeable upper components is chosen from the class including a cover having seat and table top on the top and bottom of the planar surfaces, an ice chest a large planter, an upper horizontal divider panel and an ice chest. The upper components are adapted to be selectively positioned on the open top and depend into the upper component. A plurality of lower components is chosen from the class including doors and casters. A lateral opening is formed in the housing adjacent to the bottom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2013
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Inventor: SIVATHANU B. KUMAR
  • Publication number: 20130257234
    Abstract: The components of the furniture system, in a vertical orientation, have a cabinet with a central opening in an upper section and a plurality of support panels stacked in a laterally oriented position within the central opening. The cabinet is adapted to be placed against a structure such as a wall. Engaging items include a television. The cabinet further has a horizontal orientation with a top opening and alternate configuration and function such as a bed or sofa. In this configuration the support panels are repositionable to span the entire horizontal top opening of the cabinet. The repositioning of such components is done by mechanisms such as hinges, rails and/or manually repositioning the components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventor: SIVATHANU B. KUMAR
  • Publication number: 20130241381
    Abstract: A one-piece case for enclosing a computing device such as a tablet computer is molded from a single material into a single piece. The case comprises a base portion to hold the computing device and a cover portion to cover the front or screen of the computing device. By varying the thickness of the material used in different areas of the one-piece case, the two portions of the case may be hinged together. Similarly, because of the areas of differing thicknesses, the cover portion of the one-piece case can be folded into various configurations, thereby creating a stand for the computing device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: SPECULATIVE PRODUCT DESIGN, LLC
    Inventors: Bryan Lee Hynecek, Jarret Weis, Jon Dukerschein
  • Publication number: 20130200765
    Abstract: A storage assembly comprising a slideable upper drawer unit and a lower drawer unit disposed in a housing. The upper drawer unit includes a slideable workstation and one or more primary drawers disposed beneath the workstation. A work panel is hingeably attached to a top surface of the workstation whereby the work panel is operable between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the work panel covers and conceals at least a portion of the top surface of the workstation, and in the open position the work panel is perpendicular to the top surface of the workstation. The work panel is received in a rear slot of the workstation when it is in the open position. The workstation may include features such as a sink and a cook top. The housing may be received in a seat casing, console, or bench on the boat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2012
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: BOSTON WHALER, INC.
    Inventors: Charles Dean Foss, Paul Sherwood-Berndt
  • Publication number: 20130100597
    Abstract: A programmer for an implantable medical device includes an adjustable kickstand. In one example, the kickstand is configured to combine with the base to support the programmer in an upright position when the kickstand is fully-collapsed to support the programmer in a reclined position when the kickstand is fully-extended. Further, the programmer housing may include a fan grate that allows airflow from a cooling fan to pass through the programmer housing. The fan grate is positioned behind the kickstand when the kickstand is in the fully-collapsed position. The kickstand includes an aperture adjacent the fan grate when the kickstand is in the fully-collapsed position, the aperture allowing airflow from the cooling fan to pass through the fan grate when the kickstand is in the fully-collapsed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2012
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Applicant: MEDTRONIC, INC.
    Inventor: MEDTRONIC, INC.
  • Publication number: 20130093304
    Abstract: Some embodiments include an accessory for a mobile electronic device. Other embodiments of related accessories and methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: BELKIN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: Belkin International, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8407830
    Abstract: A back plate has upper, lower and side edges. A central section and two laterally spaced side sections with spaces separating the sections. Shelves are coupled to the back plate in the sections. A cabinet has upper, lower, left side, right side, left, right, left intermediate, and right intermediate plates, a central opening between the left intermediate plate and the right intermediate plate, a left side opening between the left side plate and the left intermediate plate, and a right side opening between the right side plate and the right intermediate plate. A plurality of support panels are coupled to the cabinet and are re-positionable for spanning the openings when the cabinet is in a horizontal orientation whereby the panels will totally cover the openings and provide full support for an inflated mattress.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Inventor: Sivathanu B. Kumar
  • Publication number: 20130032066
    Abstract: A highly re-configurable article of furniture formed of interlocking elements that may be used as a bar, counter, desk, dining, display or coffee table and may be arranged in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and heights through the addition, removal or repositioning of the elements and varying the height of the supports.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2011
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Inventor: Robert Clayton Huskey
  • Publication number: 20120187813
    Abstract: A panel for converting a cabinet (20) into unit specific storage. The cabinet conversion panel comprises a plurality of posts (21), rods (22) and or shelves (23) extending in a vertical, diagonal and or horizontal direction connected and fastened to create interconnected or intersecting lattice, square, rectangular, diamond, circular, herringbone, octagonal, triangular or other geometrical patterns with a frame surrounding and fastened to the operably connected partitions to complete the panel. The cabinet conversion panel also comprises insertable coasters (34-41) and interchangeable inserts (7-9, 14-15, 17, 47-48 and 50-51) to change the function, capacity and design of the panels. The cabinet conversion panel is sized for installation into standard cabinets (20).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Inventor: Anita Brochette Plunkett
  • Publication number: 20120074823
    Abstract: In accordance with an embodiment, a hybrid modular furniture and container unit includes a base shell, a base core layer, and a set of base inner panels. The base shell has a shell bottom, a first shell wall, a second shell wall, a third shell wall, a fourth shell wall, and upper flaps associated with each of the respective walls. The base core layer has a core bottom, a first core wall, a second core wall, a third core wall, and a fourth core wall. The core layer is disposed within the base shell. The base inner panels include a first inner panel wall, a second inner panel wall, a third inner panel wall, and a fourth inner panel wall. The inner panel walls disposed within the shell and each upper flap is folded over a respective core wall and inner panel wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventors: Lara Bezich, Peter Castellucci
  • Patent number: 8111511
    Abstract: A portable electronic device comprises a physical security component configured to be in a retracted position and an extended position relative to a housing of the portable electronic device, the physical security component having at least two differently shaped openings enabling at least two different types of locking devices to be coupled to the at least two differently shaped openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Mark H. Ruch, Paul J. Doczy, Earl W. Moore
  • Patent number: 7901018
    Abstract: A portable workstation, in one embodiment, includes a base unit and a table. The base unit includes one or more vertical support members and a platform extending horizontally from the vertical support member. The platform forms the top of the base unit in an upright position. The table is configured to extend from the top of the base unit and includes a support leg. The table transitions between an extended position and a storage position. When the table is in the extended position, the table provides support to the base unit of the workstation, forming an integrated tripod system. Thus, the base unit may be compact and easily transported in a storage position; however, the platform and the table when extended may provide an ample work surface at a traditional working height. The base unit may include a frame structure and may be transported on wheels or carried like a back pack in certain embodiments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Inventor: Joe D. Baughman
  • Patent number: 7712848
    Abstract: A storage device includes a base bounding a storage space and an opening into the storage space, a first panel pivotally attached to the base and a second panel pivotally attached to the first panel. The first and second panels pivot between a stored position including the first panel positioned against the base and the second panel positioned against the first panel, and a closed position including the first panel first panel positioned against the top of the base and the second panel received against the base overlying the opening into the storage space enclosing the storage space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Inventor: Valerie S. Frost-McKinley
  • Patent number: 7533940
    Abstract: A convertible multiple panel assembly includes a plurality of panels that carry complementary releasable interlocking components. The components are selectively interengagable in a first pattern such that the panels define a box. The components are selectively disengaged from one another and re-interengaged in an alternative, second pattern to define a table and at least one associated bench.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Inventor: Jimmy D. Zook
  • Publication number: 20070210685
    Abstract: A cabinet for supporting items on its top and removably supporting other items underneath the top. The cabinet has an open-front base assembly having two generally vertical side panels and defining an interior volume between the side panels, and a top assembly coupled to and slidable relative to the base assembly. The top assembly has a top shelf member and a top shelf member support structure coupled to the top shelf member to support the top shelf member. The top assembly is adapted to be moved from a stowed position in which the top shelf member is over the two side panels of the base assembly, to an open position in which the top shelf member is at least partially removed from its position over the two side panels of the base assembly, to allow top access into the interior volume of the base assembly. The cabinet also has a drawer assembly slidably received within the base assembly and including a lower shelf.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2007
    Publication date: September 13, 2007
    Inventors: Edmund J. Paquette, Edmund T. Paquette
  • Patent number: 7261384
    Abstract: The armoire includes a concealed, removable bench containing two drawers. In use the bench is removed for seating purposes and the doors of the armoire are opened. A shelf is provided for various tasks such as for use as a make-up counter. A mirror on the inside of the upper section is equipped with lights. Shelves and other accessories contained within the upper section provide convenience for the user. When the armoire is dormant the bench is contained therein with the front of the bench flush with the housing to provide a normal appearance for the armoire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Inventors: Lester R. Craft, Jr., Stacey M. Craft
  • Patent number: 6729371
    Abstract: A household workbench assembly (1) that utilizes dry dimensional lumber, plywood, metal, and plastic to provide a versatile, rugged workbench, requiring minimal assembly time and having a pleasing cosmetic outer appearance. The versatility and simplicity of the workbench design comes from the unique primary metal leg design (2) that allows rapid attachment of all components (3-8). The leg (2) is constructed as a load bearing metal structural frame with a front to back length equal to the product of the average width of a specific type of dry dimensional lumber (7) times an integer number of pieces. Holes (12) located along the top surface of the metal leg and spaced appropriately provide for attachment of dry dimensional lumber and prevent the lumber from warping or splitting. Brace attachment holes (13) pre-drilled symmetrically about the vertical axis of the leg (2) and along the sides of each vertical member provide for attachment of all lateral and drawer support braces (3,4,5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventors: Kevin Sheahan, Thomas Bulk
  • Patent number: 6679571
    Abstract: A furniture kit includes several pieces of furniture which can be combined in one way to produce an infant changing table and in another way to produce a desk. The furniture kit includes a table, a drawer, a chest, and an infant changer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventors: Jack L. Lawson, Nancy J. Rasche, Dennis M. Turner, Edmund M. Apperson, IV
  • Publication number: 20030141789
    Abstract: A modular furniture assembly includes at least one first component and a second component. The second component includes a cavity. The at least one first component and the second component are adaptable to be stowed in a compact stowed position such that the modular furniture assembly forms a geometric shape when in the stowed position. A method for forming a furniture assembly is also disclosed. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72(b).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Inventor: Tracei Gorelick
  • Patent number: 6578937
    Abstract: A toolbox that has an outer housing, an inner housing and a number of storage trays. The outer housing is removable from the inner housing. To use the toolbox, the outer housing is removed and placed on top of the inner housing. Then, alternate drawers are removed from the inner housing and placed in the upper housing. This creates a number of drawers that have spaces between them. The spaces are large enough to see into the drawers and to reach in and obtain tools. Once the tools have been positioned, they are readily accessible for use. When the job is done, the drawers are returned to the inner housing, the outer housing is removed and fitted over the inner housing for storage. Once locked into place, the complete toolbox can then be transported as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Inventor: Fred Thoman
  • Patent number: 6460950
    Abstract: The modular moving carts include removable, attachable shelf storage units which are useful in two, three or four different positions. By changing the relative positions of the units, i.e., standing and facing one direction, they form bookcases/storage areas having a depth to accommodate books, or to form deep shelves to accommodate computers, typewriters, etc., and in a position lying down, to form a container or bin. The cart includes a rectangular base member having four outer edges adapted to support and retain two or more shelf storage units and has a predetermined width, a predetermined length and a predetermined area (based on the width multiplied by the length), with a plurality of wheels attached thereto. There is also at least one first type of shelf storage unit and at least one second type of shelf storage unit included in the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Inventors: Christopher G. Spitzer, Richard F. Spitzer
  • Publication number: 20020125200
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a display assembly for media comprised of first and second oppositely spaced vertical side members having a front and a back. Each of the oppositely spaced vertical side members have corresponding grooves angled in a downward direction toward the front. The display assembly has a plurality of display trays, where each tray has a base, a front wall, a rear wall, and two oppositely spaced apart side walls for supporting the media. Additionally, first and second side rails are mounted on a portion of the two oppositely spaced apart side walls so that when said display tray is inserted into said angled grooves the first and second side rails support the display tray and the media and allow the front wall of the display tray to protrude out from the front of the first and second oppositely spaced vertical side members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2001
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventors: Chris J. Skinner, Robert L. Radcliffe
  • Patent number: 6371495
    Abstract: This invention is a special trolley system that attaches to a case or other object needing mobility. The trolley has the capability of having legs integrated into the mechanism, which, when unfolded, allow the case to function as a table. This functionality is particularly useful for applications where technology is being deployed to areas without existing infrastructure, such as telemedicine, military, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Intellotech N.V.
    Inventor: Eric Thompson
  • Patent number: 5984441
    Abstract: A module is provided with a plane, tools can be fixed on both sides of the plane. The module can be positioned in either a coupled position in which the module is coupled to an adjacent module, or a hanging position in which the module is secured to a wall, the module includes a coupling device. The coupling device permits, when in the coupled position, multiple modules to be ordered in any sequence such that each of the multiple modules can pivot with respect to an adjacent module. The coupling device supports the separate module when the module is in the hanging position, the module is pivotable about an axis defined by a wall mounted holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Michiel Frederik Stokhuijzen
  • Patent number: 5754995
    Abstract: A system of modular transformable furniture that utilizes a combination of basic structural assemblies that easily transform into over one hundred different items of furniture is provided. The combination of structural assemblies used in the construction of any individual furniture item includes at least two frame assemblies, one or more connecting assemblies, various optional accessory assemblies and a mechanism for interconnecting the frame assemblies, connecting assemblies, and accessory assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Inventor: Roger Behrendt
  • Patent number: 5727857
    Abstract: A portable knockdown display apparatus for displaying food and keeping the food fresh on ice during use of the apparatus. The apparatus includes a rack for holding food receptacles, a cover removably seated on the rack for protecting the food receptacles, a plurality of individual legs, and a container having a bottom and a plurality of sidewalls that define a cavity for retaining ice during use of the apparatus. The container has a plurality of attachment wells for releasably attaching the legs to the container so that the container is elevated to table height. During use of the apparatus, the container is capable of receiving the rack in its cavity to maintain the food receptacles in physical proximity to the ice. When knocked down into a portable formation, the container is capable of receiving the rack, the cover, and the legs in its cavity to facilitate ease of transportation and storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1998
    Inventor: Lorena D. Smith
  • Patent number: 5660296
    Abstract: A mobile cooler includes a container that is partitioned to form a cold compartment and a non-cooled compartment. A cover is removably mounted on the container to overlie both compartments. In one position, the cover can function as a small chair. In an alternate position the cover is held close against the container to facilitate compact storage of the cooler in a minimum space, and easy towing of the cooler from one place to another place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 26, 1997
    Inventor: Ryan E. Greenwich
  • Patent number: 5409307
    Abstract: A desk (10) is easily converted into a vehicle simulator cockpit. The desk (10) has a fixed desktop portion (12) configured to support a computer display screen (16). A removable desktop portion (11) is hingedly and slidably engaged with a back panel (24) of the desk (10) so that the removable desktop portion (11) is movable from a first position alongside the fixed desktop portion (12) to a second position substantially parallel to the back panel (24). A simulator seat (33) which faces the fixed desktop portion (12) and the computer display screen (16), is disposed below the removable desktop portion (11) while in the first position and is exposed while the removable desktop portion (11) resides in the second position. A joystick, keyboard, and throttle platform supports are situated below the removable desktop portion (11) and are movable to positions for supporting a joystick, keyboard, and throttle, respectively, in front of the simulator seat (33).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 25, 1995
    Inventor: Lester W. Forsythe
  • Patent number: 5117223
    Abstract: A portable alarm system for a construction site or the like is provided with and consists of a cabinet, a stanchion supported on the cabinet, an alarm unit supported on the stanchion, and a key pad to program the alarm unit. When not in use the stanchion and alarm unit are stored within the cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1992
    Inventor: Harry Tanner
  • Patent number: 4966258
    Abstract: To permit combination luggage, table and vanity to have a luggage position, a table position and a vanity position, the combination includes a handle mounted to one of a back side, right side and left side for carrying said combination luggage, table and vanity when in the luggage position. A hinge pivotally connects a rear edge of a top wall to a top edge of the back wall wherein the top wall may lie horizontal when said combination is in the table position and extends vertically when in the vanity position. A hinge pivotally connects a bottom edge of said back wall to a rear edge of said bottom wall and a hinge pivotally connects a front edge of the bottom wall to a bottom edge of said front wall wherein said bottom wall and said front wall are closable in the luggage position but openable to expose a compartment under said bottom wall, whereby a stand and stand legs may be stored in the compartment and to expose drawers in the front which may be used in the vanity position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 30, 1990
    Inventor: Marilyn J. Hawley
  • Patent number: 4779940
    Abstract: An improved compact portable storage unit. The unit includes an articulated work stand which can be disassembled and stored in the doors of the unit. The doors of the unit are slidably removable and are used to form work stations and shelving on the articulated support stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 25, 1988
    Inventor: Kenneth D. Ralston
  • Patent number: 4709971
    Abstract: A computer work station for use with a computer system includes two sections, a front section and a rear section, pivotably connected about an exterior pivot axis. The rear section includes shelves for supporting some components of the computer system, such as the CPU, display monitor, keyboard and modem. A keyboard shelf is slidably disposed within the rear section, while other shelves are fixedly mounted therewithin. A common power strip is disposed between two of the shelves of the rear section for providing a single connection of at least some of the components of the computer system to an exterior power source. The front section includes a front panel which extends substantially the entire height of the computer work station, and includes a cork strip for posting memoranda and the like thereon. The front section further includes shelves for supporting other components of the computer system, such as a printer and its associated box of paper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1985
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1987
    Assignee: Global Equipment Company
    Inventors: Richard Leeds, Arthur Roberts
  • Patent number: 4550946
    Abstract: The single room interior space of a compact motorvan for most daytime living converts quickly into three private compartments by simply opening a set of dual function folding doors (movable partitions) exposing a toilet and bigger than average shower stall area (latter doubling as coat closet) and at the same time forming a central compartment, thereby automatically creating two more private compartments in front and rear. The kitchen facilities located in the central compartment, opposite from the toilet and shower/coat closet area, are used when the doors cover that area from view. This central utility compartment is always available for active use and never occupied by seats, table or beds. The four seats in the instantly creatable front compartment rapidly convert to two, wide single beds, with ample space between them for quick exit or access to the central privacy compartment. There is also an easily and quickly stowable overhead double adult size bed in this front compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1982
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1985
    Inventor: Jacobus N. Hanemaayer
  • Patent number: 4318195
    Abstract: A convertible furniture unit having upper and lower platforms which are mounted for conjoint movement. In different embodiments the upper platform comprises a bed or table and the lower platform can be structures such as a desk, a credenza and desk, and the like. Releasable locks are provided for holding the upper platform in a prone position while the lower platform is lowered. When the locks are released a torsion bar arrangement automatically applies a yieldable force urging the upper platform toward the upright position as the lower platform is raised while maintaining a horizontal attitude. Terminal movement of the upper platform is cushioned by an air pocket created in the recess of an upright housing. The upper and lower platforms are held in a upright mode by over center positioning of the pivot points which permits the upper platform to be manually pulled downwardly to convert the unit to another mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1980
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1982
    Inventor: George S. Reppas
  • Patent number: 4280744
    Abstract: Disclosed is a foldable desk or table comprising a support frame having pivotal support portions in the upper portions of the riser portion thereof, a single rectangular top plate of a length greater than the height of the pivotal support portions from a floor surface and swingably supported on the pivotal support portions to have a pivotal line across the width and at a position closer to the base end thereof, the pivotal line defining a swinging length of the top plate slightly shorter than the height of the pivotal support portions, and a leg swingably connected to the underside of the top plate at the outer free end thereof, the leg member being folded onto the underside of said top plate when the outer free end of the top plate is rotated about the pivotal line into a vertical folded position. Also disclosed is a foldable desk usable as a bed desk by providing an auxiliary leg in addition to the main leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1979
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1981
    Inventor: Yutaka Nakano
  • Patent number: 4195889
    Abstract: This invention relates to a compact, portable camping box designed to hold the necessary equipment for the preparation and serving of meals and which is readily convertible at the site of use to provide a table or work surface. It consists basically of an open-sided box having top, bottom, and end members and includes interhinged leaves attached to the sides of the box so that when folded upwardly the leaves serve as side members for the box in addition to providing an enclosed storage space for the component parts of a three-legged tubular support frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1978
    Date of Patent: April 1, 1980
    Inventor: Robert P. Coyne
  • Patent number: 4182538
    Abstract: A storage module for receiving recording tape containers includes a bottom wall having a plurality of elongated, parallel, channel-like trays slidably engaged therein. A plurality of partition-forming insert members are snugly engaged within the trays and divide the same longitudinally into separate compartments having internal dimensions commensurate with the external dimensions of selected containers for snugly receiving the containers therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1978
    Date of Patent: January 8, 1980
    Inventor: Hubert P. Armistead
  • Patent number: 4102555
    Abstract: A work table has first and second spaced leg assemblies with a table pivotally secured to the first leg assembly for vertical storage positioning against the first leg assembly and a horizontal work position with a free outer end resting on the leg assembly. A two-piece flat shelf has a first member hinged to the first leg assembly, a second member hinged to the second leg assembly. The shelf members having abutting inner edges with a releasable clamp unit connecting the inner edges. A V-shaped stabilizer unit includes a first and second brace member with a top end secured to the tops of the leg assemblies and a bottom end secured to the shelf members. The brace members may be connected to the shelf members and collapsible, or may be pivotally connected to each other and releasably connected to the shelf members for folding to a storage position, with the table abutting the first leg assembly and the shelf members abutting the leg assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1977
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1978
    Inventor: Thaddeus Tobolski
  • Patent number: 3938871
    Abstract: A cassette or similar article storage cabinet including an open frame enclosure means including opposed sides having vertically spaced horizontally positioned support flanges. One or more flexible partition members having support flanges on opposite sidewalls thereof are removably engagable with the frame to provide support action. Different sized articles can be accepted by providing one or two parallel vertically extending partition members in the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1974
    Date of Patent: February 17, 1976
    Assignee: Myers Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Allan E. Bartholomew