Movably Mounted Housing Or Compartment Patents (Class 312/246)
  • Patent number: 7762636
    Abstract: A container storage assembly including a frame, a first container support coupled to the frame and having a lower container support surface and an upper container support surface, and a second container support coupled to the frame and having a lower container support surface. The assembly further includes a third container support having an upper container support surface. The third container support is coupled to the frame between the first and the second container supports. The lower container support surfaces of the first container support and the second container support define a first plane, and the upper container support surfaces of the first container support and the third container support define a second plane that is above the first plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: Hatco Corporation
    Inventors: Kevin Veeser, Louis S. Anich, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7736711
    Abstract: The device prevents the loss of articles otherwise susceptible to falling behind furniture, appliances, fixtures or equipment or other large objects placed next to a wall which are not easy to move or reach under such as, but not exclusively, couches, wardrobes, desks, washers, dryers, refrigerators, filing cabinets and dressers. The compressible and flexible device is fitted from above into the crevice between the furniture and the wall. It is held in place by friction created by the pressure caused by the deformation of the device between the furniture and wall. The device, when flexed or compressed, creates a u-shaped channel which catches valuables such as jewelry, makeup, currency, papers, office supplies or other items which are left on top of furniture and which without such invention, may otherwise fall behind the furniture where it would be difficult or impossible to retrieve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Inventor: Howard A. Dobelle
  • Patent number: 7624960
    Abstract: According to one aspect of the invention, a cup holder assembly includes a support frame, a cup holder and a dampener. The support frame has spaced apart walls. The cup holder is slidably engaged with the walls of the support frame for movement between a stowed position disposed between the walls of the support frame and a use position extending outwardly from the support frame. The dampener is coupled to the walls of the support frame. The dampener has an arcuate spring member formed integrally therewith to provide an interference fit with the cup holder for dampening the sliding movement of the cup holder relative to the sleeve between the stowed and use positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: N. Antonio Saenz
  • Publication number: 20090251033
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a bracket for mounting housing for accommodating electrical components. The bracket comprises a base member capable of being mounted to a surface. The bracket may also comprise a sidewall extending from the base member and a system for mounting the electrical component housing to the sidewall of the base member, so that when the electrical component housing is connected to the bracket, a space is defined between the base member and the electrical component housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2008
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventors: Brandon Lowry Helms, Robert Brian Groat
  • Patent number: 7568601
    Abstract: A cup holder unit includes a housing case; a rest tray that switches between a pulled out position where it is moved forward from the case and a stored position where it is pushed in the case; and a holder member switchable from a non-usable position where it is superposed above the tray and stored in the case to a usable position where it is raised by a forward movement of the tray. The cup holder unit has shafts projecting from the holder member to be spaced apart from each other; clearance slots disposed in upright walls of the tray; and guide grooves disposed in the case and slanted upwardly toward front to slidably receive the shafts therein via the clearance slots. Each clearance slot includes a vertical slot and an arc-shaped slot turning toward a rear side from an upper section of the vertical slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignees: NIFCO Inc., Honda Motor Co., Ltd., TS Tech Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Mitsuru Kogami, Masakazu Hanano, Eiji Toba
  • Patent number: 7552980
    Abstract: There is provided a furniture construction having a moveable support structured to support at least one electronic component in a first position that is generally horizontal and in a second position that is at a downwardly inclined angle at least partially within the interior of a housing so that the front and rear of the electronic component can be easily accessed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Inventor: Carl H. Schulman
  • Publication number: 20080296457
    Abstract: An office furniture unit has an outer face with slotted hangers, and a removable storage unit assembly including a bottom panel positioned in a generally horizontal orientation along the office furniture unit, and a top panel disposed above and generally parallel with the bottom panel. First and second panels are disposed at opposite ends of the top and bottom panels and are connected therewith to define a rigid, box-shaped case having an open back portion. The first and second end panels have rear portions with multiple vertically spaced slots. First and second hanger brackets have a rear portion with first hooks selectively received in the slotted hangers of the office furniture units, and a forward portion with second hooks selectively received in the slots in the rear portions of the first and second end panels to detachably support the case against the outer face of the office furniture unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Allen C. Hager, Robert E. Jeffers, William K. Hofman, Brian L. Bultsma, Scott Michael Miller, Marvin C. Knauf, Karl Heinz Mueller, John R. Hamilton, Karl J. Mead
  • Patent number: 7445188
    Abstract: A modular system for use in a vehicle comprising a hanger bracket adapted to be secured to the vehicle. A second hanger bracket member is slidably connected with a first hanger bracket. A platform member extends transverse to the second hanger bracket member. An extension is slidably disposed on the platform. The extension defines a first groove thereon. The extension defines a second groove thereon. A top deck panel is disposed adjacent the first platform extension section and is disposed in the first groove. A bottom deck panel is disposed adjacent the second platform extension section and is disposed in the second groove. The modular system can provide many functions in the vehicle such as, luggage racks, HVAC ducting, wiring raceways, lighting, advertising panels, and window blinds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: Specialty Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald C. Lamparter
  • Publication number: 20080036341
    Abstract: A ceiling storage mounting systems allows for unused ceiling space to be accessed and used for removably attaching storage containers. The system provides the storage of containers to be mounted entirely below the bottom surfaces of standard ceiling joists, whether exposed or finished with a hung ceiling. The mounting system includes a two part system of a mount and a storage container. The mount is anchored to the ceiling and the container is then attached to the mount by means of a plurality of gaps and protrusions. The gaps and protrusions are located between the mount and the storage container to mate and interlockingly engage the container to the mount. The storage container is mounted to the ceiling by aligning the gaps and protrusions, and sliding the gaps and protrusions relative to one another, thereby interlocking the gaps and protrusions. The container is then removably attached the ceiling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: John NILSEN, Raymond L. SMITH
  • Publication number: 20070236114
    Abstract: A vertical and articulated system to move furniture particularly adapted to be used in systems created for people that cannot move easily such as people with special needs. The furniture of the present invention moves vertically and articulated assuming a position that allows the user to manipulate desired utensils. This movement of both a lower and upper module is obtained through a motorized track system with brakes, jambs and sensors such that the furniture can be returned to the original height by motion of a manual or remote control. The system is generally constructed from a metallic structure with internal mechanisms to execute the movements of lowering, raising and articulating which are set in motion by a manual or remote control. The parts of this structure are one or more aerial modules adequately fixed to a reference structure through articulated arms and a lower module that also can move vertically upward and downward allowing the accessibility to the disabled person to the furniture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2007
    Publication date: October 11, 2007
    Inventor: Enrique Fuentes
  • Patent number: 7258406
    Abstract: A suspension device for a lowerable luggage stowage compartment has at least one spring element for assisting the movement of the compartment into a closed position against the force of gravity, and at least one damping element for damping the movement of the compartment into an opened position. A weight detector detects the weight of the compartment, and at least one additional spring element can be actuated based on the detected weight of the compartment. A retention device is provided for fixing the additional spring element. The suspension device provides a compartment that is easy to handle and easy to close even when fully loaded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2007
    Assignee: Fischer Advanced Composite Components AG
    Inventors: Walter Alfred Stephan, Hermann Filsegger
  • Patent number: 7258249
    Abstract: The system for controlling and tracking medical items (830) includes a plurality of medical item storage cabinets (878). Each cabinet includes a plurality of doors (888-894). The doors control access to shelves (902, 904) and support modules (1210). Shelves and support modules include user interfaces (938, 1214). Authorized users desiring to take medical items from storage locations in cabinets for use in treating patients are enabled to provide inputs through a display terminal (880) adjacent to cabinets and/or interfaces to indicate the taking of medical items. Storage cabinets include visual indicators so that users may be guided to find a selected medical item for which information is input at an associated display terminal. Alternatively, authorized users gain access to the interior of the cabinet and indicate through appropriate inputs through interfaces the types and quantities of items being taken.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2007
    Assignee: AutoMed Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: David T. Frederick, James A. Michael, R. Michael McGrady
  • Patent number: 7204569
    Abstract: An adjustable rack designed for mounting onto a back surface of a cabinet door includes a pair of spaced-apart, generally upright side members having an inside surface and an outside surface. At least one shelf of fixed length extends between the inside surfaces of the side members. At least one channel member is fixed to each of the side members so that at least one end is exposed to a region outside of the outside surface of a side member. The channel members have a pair of grooves in the back surface. A plurality of brackets are provided, each bracket having a pair of flanges received in the pair of grooves in a channel member back surface so that one end of the bracket is exposed from an end of a channel member. Each bracket is selected to have sufficient length to extend from the exposed end of the channel member to the perimeter frame of the door to which the rack is mounted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: Rev-A-Shelf Company, LLC
    Inventor: William L. Walburn
  • Patent number: 7197988
    Abstract: A table includes a table top that is preferably constructed from blow molded plastic. The table top includes a top surface, a bottom surface and a pair of spaced apart generally L-shaped brackets. The generally L-shaped brackets can be attached to or integrally formed with the bottom surface of the table top, and the generally L-shaped brackets are preferably sized and configured to attach a drawer to the table top. In greater detail, the generally L-shaped brackets may have a vertical portion and a bottom portion that is sized and configured to support the drawer. Additionally, generally L-shaped angle irons may be connected to the brackets to reinforce the brackets or the angle irons may be used to form the bottom portion of the L-shaped bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Jin Degen, Jin Shenghao, Arvin Patel
  • Patent number: 7168773
    Abstract: A drawer expander that includes a plurality of trays that are stacked on top of each other. Spring-biased arms connect the trays together so that the trays will open when the drawer is opened and close when the drawer is closed. One form of the drawer expander can be used in a drawer, and another form can be attached to the bottom surface of a support element so the expanding trays can act like drawers that expand when opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Inventor: Grant S. Emary
  • Patent number: 7090314
    Abstract: A luggage bin assembly (10) adapted to be disposed within a vehicle is provided. The luggage bin assembly includes a bin (14) reciprocally mounted for movement between an opened position and a closed position. The luggage bin assembly also includes a linkage assembly (16) adapted to be hingedly mounted to the bin for swinging movement with the bin as the bin is reciprocated between the open and closed positions. A reciprocating assist mechanism (20) is coupled to the linkage mechanism to selectively apply an assist load to the linkage assembly when the bin is reciprocated between the opened and closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Heath Tecna, Inc.
    Inventors: Ralph Burrows, Joe Frazier
  • Patent number: 7077364
    Abstract: A material-receptacle hanger system includes a base frame and a channeling-panel support structure depending from the base frame and being adapted for reciprocation along a reciprocation axis between a rearwardmost retracted position and a forwardmost extended position with respect to the base frame. Pivotably attached to the channeling-panel support structure are front and rear material-channeling panels. Each channeling panel is pivotable about a panel pivot axis that extends along an axis extending orthogonal to the reciprocation axis. A set of receptacle-supporting linkage members depends from each panel for the selective support of a material receptacle such as a parcel or mail sack below the channeling-panel support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventor: Louis J. Hendzel
  • Patent number: 6991199
    Abstract: A pop-up mechanism working in parallel pairs used for lifting the tabletop part of a piece of furniture has a pair of cantilever arms joined together by an upper oblong member and a lower oblong member, both said upper oblong member and lower oblong member being parallel relative to each other and each being rotationally attached to opposite ends of said pair of cantilever arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Inventor: Guy Carpentier
  • Patent number: 6929305
    Abstract: The structure of an ashtray for automobiles in a slide-type fashion of a main body sliding into and out of a housing, in which there is no clearance between guide rails of the main body and the guide grooves of the housing during slide motion of the guide rails along the guide grooves, thus preventing movements of the main body when the main body is drawn into and out of the housing, and improving stability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: Hyundai Mobis
    Inventor: Seong-ryong Park
  • Patent number: 6874731
    Abstract: A modular overhead stowage bin system has an outboard bin support and a center bin support coupleable to the fuselage. First and second stowage bin modules having different storage capacities are connectable to the outboard and center bin supports in first and second configurations. In a first configuration, the first and second stowage bin modules are coupled to the fuselage and have a first overhead aisle therebetween with first opposing edge portions. The first and second stowage bin modules in the second configuration are coupled to the fuselage and have a second overhead aisle therebetween. The second overhead aisle has second opposing edge portions each shifted laterally relative to the position of the first opposing edge portions of the first overhead aisle when the first and second stowage bin modules are in the first configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: R. Klaus Brauer, Paul J. Wilcynski, Peter Guard, Richard Fraker
  • Publication number: 20040251801
    Abstract: A storage assembly and methods using that storage assembly are disclosed. The storage assembly comprises a first planar member, a plurality of attachment devices fixturing that first planar member to the surface, and a container defining an enclosed space, where that container is attached to the first planar member. The method provides (N) portable containers and a plurality of objects. The method designates (N) operational areas and releaseably attaches each of the (N) portable containers at one of those (N) operational areas. The method forms a distribution center, removes the (N) portable containers from each of the (N) operational areas, and transports each of those (N) portable containers to the distribution center. At the distribution center, the method disposes a plurality of objects into each of the (N) portable containers. Each of those (N) portable containers is then releaseably attached to any one of the (N) operational areas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2004
    Publication date: December 16, 2004
    Inventor: Richard David Van Schoick
  • Publication number: 20040245897
    Abstract: The invention relates to a suspension device for lowerable luggage stowage compartments (21) comprising at least one spring element (1) for assisting the movement of the compartment (21) into its closed position contrary to gravity, and at least one damping element (2) for damping the movement of the compartment (21) into its opened position, and comprising a means for detecting the weight of the compartment (21) and at least one additional spring element (25) capable of being activated or switched over in dependence on the detected weight of the compartment (21), a retention device (13, 36) being provided for fixing the at least one additional spring element (25), as well as to a lowerable luggage stowage compartment (21) comprising such a suspension device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2004
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Inventors: Walter Alfred Stephan, Hermann Filsegger
  • Publication number: 20040207298
    Abstract: A work storage unit having a base and a door pivotally attached to the base. The door may be in a vertical, closed position, with respect to the base providing secure storage of items. When in the closed position, the door of the work storage unit fits within the outer edge of the base. The door may also be moved to a horizontal, open position, with respect to the base. When in the open position, various compartments are revealed which provide access to the items. The work storage unit can be mounted on a wall, the base lying generally parallel to the wall, thereby not taking up valuable floor space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2003
    Publication date: October 21, 2004
    Inventors: Frank C. Rodon, Jerry L. Reinhart
  • Patent number: 6802478
    Abstract: An overhead stowage bin 100 mounted to a ceiling in a cabin of an aircraft comprises a shelf 102 fixed to the ceiling and a door 110 that covers the opening of said shelf. The door 110 is supported by hinges 120, and a knob 130 is equipped thereto. One or more transparent windows 150 are provided to a portion of the door 110, through which users can visually observe the status of use of the interior of the bin. The windows are located so that cabin crews etc. standing in the aisle of the cabin can easily observe the interior of the bin, without negatively affecting the strength of the bin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Inventor: Yoshinobu Katori
  • Patent number: 6752475
    Abstract: A disclosed storage apparatus comprises a cupboard body and a lifting arrangement. The lifting arrangement is mounted on a wall or other fixture and selectively moves the cupboard body between a raised position adjacent the wall or fixture and a lowered position outward from the wall or fixture. Shelves are arranged in the storage cupboard to remain at a constant alignment irrespective of the alignment of the cupboard body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Inventor: William D. Steadman
  • Patent number: 6750429
    Abstract: A drawer or other movable storage compartment disposed inside of a welding-type power supply for storing accessories used in welding, plasma cutting and induction heating applications is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Edwin Bogner, Michael A. Sammons, Ronald W. Colling
  • Publication number: 20040027037
    Abstract: A storage device. The storage device has at least one pivot arm that is pivotally mounted to a support frame. A storage rod is attached to the pivot arm(s). The pivot arm(s) control the movement of the storage rod between a conveniently accessible lower use position and an upper storage position. In a preferred embodiment the storage device is mounted inside a closet and is used in conjunction with storage drawers that rest on the floor. Also, in a preferred embodiment a linear actuator is connected to the pivot arm and controls the pivoting of the pivot arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Joseph Krueger
  • Patent number: 6591555
    Abstract: A storage unit for use in an office environment. The storage unit includes a structural frame having two opposing side panels, at least one laterally extending panel extending between and interconnecting the side panels to define an interior space. The frame includes a perimeter defining an access opening that provides access to the interior space. The storage unit includes a flexible cover having opposing side edges, a front edge, and a rear edge. The flexible cover is attached to the structural frame proximate said rear edge of said flexible cover. The flexible cover extends freely from the attachment to the frame. The flexible cover has an engagement feature which is selectively engageable with the frame at first and second locations on the frame. Engagement of the cover with the frame at the first location places the flexible cover in a closed position with the opposing side edges of the flexible cover extending proximate the perimeter defining the access opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathan J. King, Joel T. Ruiter, David J. Dekkar, James D. Houda, Peter E. Mack
  • Patent number: 6572168
    Abstract: A drawer assembly securable against a ceiling surface to conceal a recessed interior. A drawer is dimensioned to be received within the recessed interior of a cover housing secured to the ceiling. The base and sides of the drawer define a cavity arrayed in opposing fashion to the recessed interior of the cover housing. Cylinders secure the drawer to the housing in combination with a pair of slide mechanisms in pivoting fashion along one end thereof. A counterbalance provides smooth and effortless balancing of the combined weight of the drawer and its interiorly held contents. A release mechanism actuates the cylinders, counterbalance axle and slide mechanisms in successive fashion to actuate the drawer to its fully extended position in which the object supportable and open cavity is fully exposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Inventor: Thomas Radstake
  • Patent number: 6445573
    Abstract: An apparatus is described which includes a frame, a video monitor display mounted to the frame, a torque shaft coupled to the frame such that rotation of the torque shaft causes the frame to pivot along a predetermined arc. The apparatus further involves engaging to the torque shaft to impart rotational motion to the torque shaft, a releasable cam follower slidably disposed on the cam shaft and a spring mounted on the cam shaft exerting a spring bias force directed toward the cam so as to cause rotational motion of the cam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Assignee: Rockwell Collins, Inc.
    Inventors: John Portman, James Schoen
  • Publication number: 20020084732
    Abstract: A disclosed storage apparatus comprises a cupboard body and a lifting arrangement. The lifting arrangement is mounted on a wall or other fixture and selectively moves the cupboard body between a raised position adjacent the wall or fixture and a lowered position outward from the wall or fixture. Shelves are arranged in the storage cupboard to remain at a constant alignment irrespective of the alignment of the cupboard body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2001
    Publication date: July 4, 2002
    Inventor: William D. Steadman
  • Patent number: 6367898
    Abstract: A cabinet assembly moves reversibly along a track on roller guide bearings which are attached to the cabinet housing. The cabinet assembly can be used, for example, in a kitchen setting and in place of an upper kitchen cabinet positioned above a countertop. The cabinet can be moved along the track from a position adjacent a wall, down toward the countertop, and out away from the wall allowing access to the contents of the cabinet to an individual seated in a wheelchair. Preferably, the cabinet is moved by a motorized hoist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Inventor: Kevin Jobe
  • Patent number: 6341754
    Abstract: A system for connecting an appliance to a bottom surface of a kitchen cabinet, the system comprising at least two brackets and at least one mounting section connected to the appliance. The brackets are connectable to the bottom surface of the kitchen cabinet at any one of a number of different suitable spacing distances between the two brackets. The mounting section is connected to the appliance for mounting the appliance to the brackets. The mounting section is adapted to connect to the brackets when the brackets are at any one of the different suitable spacing distances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2002
    Assignee: HP Intellectual Corp.
    Inventors: M. Anthony Melito, Paul F. Garneau
  • Patent number: 6340214
    Abstract: A pull down storage shelf assembly for a standard wall cabinet to access items on the upper storage shelf is described. The shelf assembly has two arms on each side attached to an upper support member on one end and a lower support member on the other end. The position of the two side arms with respect to the upper and lower support member allows the shelf to hold in place when in the up position. A handle is secured to the front and bottom of the pull down shelf. When the handle is pulled forward, the upper shelf rotates to the down position to provide easy access to items on the upper shelf. A stop is placed on the side of the upper support members to stop the downward motion and support the shelf at the optimum working level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2002
    Inventor: H. Lee Adams
  • Patent number: 6309038
    Abstract: A swinging drawer takes the form of an upper open compartment that is fastened to the underside of an upper wall cabinet/furniture such as, for example, an upper kitchen cabinet that is attached or hung on a wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Grass GmbH
    Inventor: Georg Domenig
  • Patent number: 6299267
    Abstract: A cabinet mounted cutting board is disclosed. The device includes a mounting member having a pair of opposing channels for receiving opposite sides of the cutting board. The channels are connected by metal strips having apertures for receiving fasteners. The mounting member is attached to the underside of a cabinet over a countertop for convenient storage and use of the cutting board. The device is easily manufactured and installed without the need for expensive reconstruction of the cabinets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Inventor: Allen J. Butters
  • Patent number: 6270137
    Abstract: A conversion system for a vehicle or trailer especially for vans, having a track system comprising rails secured to the floor and sidewalls of the vehicle for customizing the vehicle with modular components which can be positioned and secured within the vehicle by fasteners that releasably secure the components to a portion of the track system. Each modular component has a corresponding track along at least one of the bottom or side of the modular component for matingly connecting to a portion of one of the rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Assignee: J.T. Custom Works Inc.
    Inventors: Terrance E. Minix, James G. Fisher
  • Patent number: 6113201
    Abstract: A wall rail system includes a cabinet rail having a base portion and a hook portion which projects away and downwardly from the base portion, the front of the cabinet rail being free of sharp edges, and an elongate wall rail including a base portion and a hook portion which projects away and downwardly from the base portion, with the front of the elongate wall rail also being free of sharp edges, whereby the front of the cabinet rail can smoothly slide over the front of the wall rail and guide the hook portion of the cabinet rail into a channel defined by the base portion and hook portion of the elongate wall rail during installation of a cabinet unit. The absence of sharp edges on the fronts of the wall rail and cabinet provide easier installation and reduce the potential for damage to walls and/or cabinet units by inadvertent contact with the rails during installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: Case Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas E. Bauer
  • Patent number: 6076309
    Abstract: A retractable weather shield for protecting an outdoor structure from the elements, comprising a base panel; a first telescoping panel slidably mounted and supported within the base panel, the first telescoping panel being stored substantially within the base panel when in a stored position and extending substantially outside the base panel when in a deployed position; mounting means for mounting the shield above the structure; and wherein the shield extends over the structure in a substantially perpendicular direction when the first telescoping panel is in the deployed position so as to protect the structure from the elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: Lucent Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Bassel Hage Daoud
  • Patent number: 6059388
    Abstract: A concealable jewelry box for attaching to the back surface of furniture such as drawers, a mirror or a similar item. The device includes a substantially rectangular housing having a planar front surface, a planar back surface, a top panel, a lower panel, a side panel and an opening opposite the side panel. A drawer component for holding jewelry items is slidably received within the housing interior and is locked therein with a spring biased catch member. The housing side panel is pivotable and has a spring thereon that releases the catch member and ejects the drawer through the housing opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Inventor: William B. Wheatley, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6056378
    Abstract: An add-on drawer is provided for mounting onto a structure having a horizontal member with a lower surface. The drawer comprises a tray with a storage space, and at least two rails slidably supporting the tray. Each rail has a top surface including an upwardly facing adhesive for mounting the rails onto the lower surface of the horizontal member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: Manco, Inc.
    Inventors: James M. Semon, Annemarie Kahl, Jeffrey S. Plantz
  • Patent number: 6042168
    Abstract: Storage device for the interior passenger compartment of a vehicle, particularly of an automobile, including a container (1) which acts together with a seating area (2) provided in a component (3) of the casing and/or of the interior equipment of the vehicle. The aforementioned seating area (2) has a given orientation (7).The aforementioned container (1) and the aforementioned seating area (2) have, at the level of their lateral sides (4, 5), supplemental guide mechanisms (6) which make possible the movement of the container (1) into the seating area (2) according to the orientation (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: Plastic Omnium Auto Interierur
    Inventor: Frederic Bieri
  • Patent number: 6015053
    Abstract: An all-plastic shelf unit module has a sliding drawer supported below its underside. The module has four pieces: a drawer, a shelf piece, and two slide supports that support the drawer beneath the shelf piece. The slide supports have intromittent plugs that plug into sockets located on the bottom surface of the shelf piece. The plugs have a "lock in place" feature that locks them in place once they have been fully inserted, and such insertion is accomplished by horizontal motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Assignee: Honeyware, Inc.
    Inventor: Tony L. Sheng
  • Patent number: 5957558
    Abstract: A storage unit includes frame pieces that attach to a support structure. A first rail assembly has first rails disposed on the frame pieces so that facing channels define a storage region. A drawer is positioned in the storage region when in a stored state. A second rail assembly includes second rails each having a second channel. The second channels receive first wheels that are on the first rail assembly while the first channels receive second wheels that are disposed on the second rail assembly. The drawer may be advanced out of the stored state to an extended state and then into a pivoted state wherein it is perpendicular to the stored state. The rails may be immovably fixed to the frame pieces and the drawer, respectively. The drawer may be mounted underneath the support structure. Arcuate guide fingers guide the engagement and disengagement of the first wheels from the second channels when the drawer is moved between the extended and pivoted states.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Inventor: Robert C. Quade
  • Patent number: 5857756
    Abstract: In a furniture assembly comprising a furniture element mounted on a base plate on a vertical wall for movement between an upper position close to the wall and a lower position remote from the wall, the furniture element comprises a device for moving the furniture element between the upper and lower positions and a guiding device. The moving device comprises a drive, pivots fixedly connected to the base plate, the drive being connected to the pivots, coupling links and pivoting elements connecting the coupling links to the pivots. The guiding device comprises coupling links and pivots connecting the coupling links of the guiding device to the base plate. The moving device is connected to a pivot fixedly connected to a common fixing device, and pivots connect the coupling links of the guiding device to the common fixing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1999
    Inventor: Jurgen Fehre
  • Patent number: 5848711
    Abstract: A modular storage unit provided in kit form that is readily assembled, is securable to a vertical wall and is arranged to be supported on a floor. Rails are mounted to the wall and the framework of the storage unit is secured to the rails. Outer legs of the framework extend to the floor and adjusters are provided to compensate for slope or other variations in the floor. The components of the storage unit have holes or slots that facilitate assembly by the use of common fasteners. The storage unit is arranged to fit around obstructions such as footings so that the storage unit may be mounted basically flush to the wall. Alternatively the rails mounted to the wall are utilized to support an existing cabinet in conjunction with adjustable legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1998
    Inventor: Joel A. Schmit
  • Patent number: 5845979
    Abstract: A structual support-or joist-suspendable storage case. An open-top box unit is suspended for pivotal motion and fixation between rafters, joists, etc. The suspension and movement mechanism includes hooks and, optionally, detents (or studs). In the preferred embodiment, only identical hooks are used in braces or pair-assemblies, one of each pair mounted to a side of the box unit, and its complement fixed to a structural element in a position best suited to receive the box-mounted device. Two or more of the assemblies are featured per unit. Alternatively, the assemblies may consist of a hook and studded hook combination where either hook or studded hook is placed on the box and its complement is fixed to a structural element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Assignee: Robert E. Longhurst
    Inventors: Robert E. Longhurst, Fredric T. Morelle
  • Patent number: 5842668
    Abstract: A removable stowage bin assembly for quick conversion of an aircraft between a passenger-carrying mode and a cargo-carrying mode includes a stowage bin and a first assembly comprised of a clevis fitting attached to the framework of the aircraft and a hook attached to the stowage bin, the hook being removably and pivotally attachable to the clevis fitting. A second assembly is comprised of a tie rod having a first end pivotally attached to the framework of the aircraft and a bracket attached to the stowage bin. The tie rod has a second end attachable to the framework of the aircraft in a cargo-carrying mode and attachable to the bracket on the stowage bin in a passenger-carrying mode. A third assembly is compromised of a female fitting having an opening and attached to one of the framework of the aircraft and the stowage bin, and a male fitting having a protrusion and attached to the other of the framework of the aircraft and the stowage bin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Assignee: Hexcel Corporation
    Inventor: Martin C. Spencer
  • Patent number: 5820076
    Abstract: A luggage compartment system for a passenger cabin, especially for commercial airliners, is equipped with compartment units each formed by at least two compartments interconnected or coupled through a coupling, guide and drive mechanism (13) for moving the compartments of a unit from a closed upper position to an open lower position and vice versa. Each unit has a large compartment and a small compartment, the latter is intended for smaller luggage items, including fragile items, while the larger compartment is intended for large luggage including suitcases. In the closed position the two compartments of a unit are arranged next to each other in a direction extending crosswise to a longitudinal central vertical plane (10) through the aircraft cabin. The compartments have for their bottom contoured panels that are integrated into the ceiling of the cabin in the closed compartment position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Assignee: Daimler-Benz Aerospace Airbus GmbH
    Inventors: Markus Schumacher, Andrew Muin
  • Patent number: 5785402
    Abstract: A removable drawer cartridge is installed within a cabinet having a front face, a hollow interior, and an opening defined in the front face. The drawer cartridge comprises a mechanism, removably receivable through the cabinet opening and within the hollow interior, for housing at least one drawer. A mechanism is provided for locating the housing mechanism accurately within the hollow interior. The drawer cartridge further comprises a mechanism for quickly and releasably attaching the housing mechanism to the cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: Randell Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Orindo A. DeLorenzo