Collapsible Patents (Class 40/610)
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Patent number: 5979847Abstract: A mounting receptacle is provided for securement to a flexible message panel. The mounting receptacle defines a housing for receiving a support rib. A threshold portion is hingedly coupled to the housing portion allowing a rib to contact the threshold portion while the housing portion is bent out of the way of the rib. The rib is telescopically received in the housing portion and, when released, tensions the message panel in a planar message-displaying condition.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 1997Date of Patent: November 9, 1999Assignee: Dicke Tool CompanyInventors: Jeffrey A. Williams, Grant D. Dicke
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Patent number: 5970639Abstract: A hazard alarm sign is provided that includes a storage box and an alarm unit that is hinged to an interior portion of the storing box. A battery is located on one side of the bottom interior portion of the storage box. On the other side, there is fitted a powerful magnet and a screwdriver. An alarm rack is provided that is formed by three racks, each rack being made of a transparent material. Inside each rack is a lamp holding plate carrying a number of LED lamps. One of the racks is hinged to a fixing unit mounted to the storage box. The ends of the other two racks are hinged to form a structure having one fixed rack and two movable racks. The alarm unit can be collapsed and stored inside the storage box, and the powerful magnet will hold onto the trunk or roof of a car. The two movable alarm racks are erected to form a triangular alarm sign. When the power is turned on, the LED lamps are driven to provide flashing light.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 1998Date of Patent: October 26, 1999Inventor: Liao Chih Hui
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Patent number: 5966857Abstract: An advertising display which is easily erected and may be used as a free-standing display or as a hanging display. The display is comprised of two sub-assemblies which are folded flat for shipment and which may be popped open and slipped together to form a commanding display. Provision is made for allowing the display to be hung from above, or alternatively, a pair of feet assemblies are provided which may be attached adjacent the base of the display to provide a stable free-standing display. The feet, if used, engage the rest of the display in a positive manner so as to remain attached to the display if the display is lifted for movement, etc. Exemplary embodiments are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 1997Date of Patent: October 19, 1999Assignee: ADBOX, Inc.Inventors: Joakim Pettersson, Christer Wernerdal
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Patent number: 5964053Abstract: An improved structure of warning sign comprised of two warning plates, two pivot axles and several light reflexible sheets, wherein, the inner sides of two lateral edges on the top end of each warning plate each has a recess, a bevelled edge is provided above each recess, and two lateral engaging plates are provided under the two recesses of each warning plate, one of the lateral engaging plates of each warning plate has inside thereof a protruding engaging spot, and the other lateral engaging plate of the warning plate has inside thereof several arciform dents, each warning plate has on the inner side thereof two engaging plates with a wider spacing and two engaging plates with a narrower sparing, all the engaging plates each has a pivot hole, a square hole is provided between the engaging plates with wider spacings and the engaging plates with narrower spacings.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 1998Date of Patent: October 12, 1999Inventor: Ching-Rong Liu
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Patent number: 5950969Abstract: A frame for supporting a sign comprises three members which are interconnectable in such a way as to form a three-sided figure with one side forming a base and at least one of the other sides forming a mounting for the sign, each member being in the form of a hoop of tubular section.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 1995Date of Patent: September 14, 1999Assignee: British Gas plcInventors: Robert Neal Bennett, Anthony Dennis Elgar, Brian Thomas Sales
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Patent number: 5937555Abstract: An opaque plastic yard sign is formed from translucent outer layers that carry the indicia of the sign. Between the translucent outer layers is an opaque inner layer which is bonded to the two outer sides by lateral seals, and bonded to one of the outer layers by a horizontal bottom heat seal, leaving an opening for insertion of a wire frame. Preferably the liner includes an upper flap to provide added strength and rigidity to the upper portion of the sign. This reduces the overall cost of the sign while at the same time preventing light transmission from one side through the other without the need of coextruded films.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 1997Date of Patent: August 17, 1999Assignee: Patriot Signage, IncorporatedInventor: Bradley L. Query
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Patent number: 5924228Abstract: A safety sign includes a base, and a sign member supported on the base for allowing the sign member to be supported at a suitable height. The base includes a tube secured on a foot support for securing the sign member. A post has a lower portion slidably engaged in the tube for allowing the sign member to be adjusted relative to the base. A coupler is secured on top of the post and a pair of arms are pivotally coupled to the coupler. A pair of springs may bias the arms to the expand or the working position. A pair of beams may be pivotally coupled between the arms and the post for forming a triangular structure. The coupler and the arms and the beams may include a reflective outer surface and may include one or more lights for generating warning signals.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 1997Date of Patent: July 20, 1999Inventor: Chin-Lai Yang
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Patent number: 5907917Abstract: A display and panels include corrugated or fluted sheet material having display and support surfaces in which a plurality of cut-outs or slits are made in one or both surfaces so as to make the material rollable. The plurality of slits are in the same axis as the corrugations or flutes, and may be formed by means of a cutting tool adapted to slit or cut the corrugated or fluted sheet material. A guide can control the one or more blades of the cutting tool into contact with the one or more respective corrugations or flutes.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 1997Date of Patent: June 1, 1999Inventor: Robert Laurence Bicker
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Patent number: 5900850Abstract: A large scale, portable light emitting diode image display system including one or more display panels comprising a web or netlike structure, preferably formed of interconnected flexible foldable strap members arranged in plural vertical columns and horizontal rows. Light emitting diode light sources are mounted on the column straps at predetermined spaced apart points to form a matrix for projecting multi-color images. Each panel includes fasteners at opposite ends of horizontal straps for connecting the panels to each other and each panel includes connectors at opposite ends of the vertical straps for connecting the panels to each other and to a support structure for erecting the display system as a stage backdrop, billboard or other image display arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 1996Date of Patent: May 4, 1999Inventors: James Tam Bailey, Phillip L. Scheldt
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Patent number: 5895024Abstract: A mounting for warning devices includes a body having one or more outwardly extending finger portions. Mounting staffs aligned with the finger portion are secured thereto with a sliding collar which surrounds both the mounting staff and finger portions. The mounting staffs may be pivotally joined to the body, adjacent each finger portion. The body portion may be mounted from an upright support member, secured to a stationary or mobile support.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 1997Date of Patent: April 20, 1999Assignee: Dicke Tool CompanyInventors: Jeffrey A. Williams, Grant D. Dicke
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Patent number: 5884424Abstract: A portable roll-up sign having a simplified and economical construction. The sign face is a flexible pvc based sheet that can be imaged on both sides with vinyl graphics or silk screen inks. The sign frame comprises two vertical legs and an intermediate header, all field assembled by mutual interlocking without fasteners or tools. Vertical edges of the face sheet are joined to respective legs by the sign manufacturer by wrapping the same through at least a full turn and clamping with specially shaped retaining clips.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 1997Date of Patent: March 23, 1999Inventor: David A. Smith
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Patent number: 5829178Abstract: A collapsible sign member is attached to a collapsible base member and the two members can be disassembled and folded-up into a compact package for storage and transport. Horizontal cross-brace members for the sign member are connected to a central bracket member which is releasably attached to a vertical upright member in the base member. Another cross-brace member is slidably received in the vertical upright member. A sign panel is connected to the ends of horizontal and vertical cross-brace members and the vertical upright member in order to be fully displayed for viewing by passing motorists and pedestrians. A foldable flag mechanism is used to display a set of warning flags. The flag mechanism is pivotally attached to the vertical cross-brace member. The combination sign and sign stand assembly can be quickly and readily assembled to its display condition and, correspondingly, disassembled and folded-up to its storage and transport condition.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 1996Date of Patent: November 3, 1998Assignee: Marketing Displays, Inc.Inventor: David U. Hillstrom
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Patent number: 5822902Abstract: Display apparatus connected to a filler gun of a fuel dispensing station. A carrying body on a prominent part of the filler gun supports a detachable display surface carrier which in turn supports an inflatable balloon shaped element. The balloon shaped element carries an advertising message which is viewable when the balloon shaped element is inflated. A valve on the filler gun is connected to a source of inflation air and to the balloon shaped element. The valve is actuated by the fuel dispensing trigger on the filler gun. During fueling an inflation gas is supplied to the balloon shaped element which in the inflated state prominently displays the advertising message.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 1996Date of Patent: October 20, 1998Assignee: Alvern Norway A/SInventor: Stein Alvern
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Patent number: 5819493Abstract: A new Height Adjustable Rebar Support System for supporting rebar at various elevations during pouring and curing of concrete with a single adjustable support member. The inventive device includes a first panel having a first lower slot, a second panel pivotally attached to the first panel having a second lower slot, an aperture and a notch into the first panel near the first lower slot, and a beaded cord secured to the second panel. The end of the beaded cord opposite of the second panel selectively engages the first panel through the aperture thereby adjusting the separation of the first panel with respect to the second panel opposite of the pivoting point. The beaded cord comprises a plurality of color coded beads for indicating the exact height selected with a selected color of bead juxtaposed to the first panel within the aperture.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 1997Date of Patent: October 13, 1998Inventor: Michael LeMoignan
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Patent number: 5819448Abstract: A card-and-balloon combination is disclosed wherein the inflatable stem portion of a non-latex balloon is pinched between a card half and an attachment band secured thereto, in close proximity to the inflated balloon body, to maintain the balloon body in a substantially upright position, whereby the designs on the card and balloon are readily visible.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 1996Date of Patent: October 13, 1998Assignee: Anagram International, Inc.Inventors: Garry Kieves, John J. Gilbert
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Patent number: 5815966Abstract: A portable rooftop sign includes a large flexible mesh sheet having a plurality of characters or logos disposed on an upper surface. A plurality of sleeves are attached to a lower surface of the sheet. The sign is installed on a generally planar roof of a building near an airport. Elongated weights or rods are slidably inserted into each of the sleeves to secure the flexible sheet to the roof. Each of the elongated weights comprises a plurality of rod sections which are removably connected by threaded ends. Portable light sources on the roof illuminate the sign at night or in low visibility. In colder climates, electric heating elements embedded in the sheet prevent snow and ice accumulation by melting the snow and ice, which then drains through the mesh sheet and is removed by the normal drainage of the roof.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 1997Date of Patent: October 6, 1998Inventor: Jacqueline K. Vestevich
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Patent number: 5791077Abstract: The advertising support consists of a stowage space (3) with an opening top and an inflatable advertising support (11) stowed inside it which, when the top of the stowage space (3) is opened, can be inflated upwards from it. In the stowage space (3) there is a scissors structure (7,17) which can be erected by a motor and forms a stable-sided parallelogram which is free-standing and, in the expanded position, extends along the internal height of the inflated advertising support (11). It ensures that, when the scissors structure (7,17) is retracted and the advertising support (11) is deflated at the same time, said advertising support (11) is substantially folded down onto its original base area and prevented from tipping sideways by the lateral stability of the scissors structure.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 1997Date of Patent: August 11, 1998Assignee: Technikus AGInventor: Josef Felber
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Patent number: 5787621Abstract: A display stand comprises collapsible elements which are quickly and easily assembled into a stable configuration without the use of tools. The elements can be shipped in a substantially flat container to reduce shipping expenses. Vertical supports are mounted to a base to securely hold display units having messages and/or photographs for viewing. The display units have curved outer surfaces to facilitate viewing from other than directly in front or from the rear of the display stand. A header can be attached to the top of the display stand to further draw the attention of individuals.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Inventor: Carl Leksell
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Patent number: 5778581Abstract: The apparatus has an inflatable member attached to top and bottom members. A flexible sleeve shaped display wall is attached to the top and bottom members and surrounds the inflatable member. The display sleeve has hook and loop fasteners on its outside. Flexible strips of material are attached to the top and bottom members to limit stretching of the inflatable member between the top and bottom members when inflated to prevent the display wall from being damaged when the inflatable member is inflated.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 1996Date of Patent: July 14, 1998Inventor: Morris W. Bailey
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Patent number: 5778580Abstract: An image display unit includes a sheet-like image carrier, the carrier having at least one edge, the carrier being bendable. The image display unit also includes a coupling device, the coupling device including at least a first and a second part, the first part of the coupling device being disposed proximate the at least one edge of the carrier and the second part of the coupling device being attached to the carrier at a distance from the at least one edge, the first and second parts of the coupling device defining a first carrier section, the first and second parts of the coupling device each being vertically-oriented strips and having first and second coupling structures, respectively, the first and second coupling structures being engageable with each other. The carrier has a second carrier section.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 1996Date of Patent: July 14, 1998Inventor: Christer Zarelius
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Patent number: 5746406Abstract: A tripod stand for roadway signs includes three legs pivotally connected to a mounting bracket at their upper ends. A plate is attached to the mounting bracket so that trough-shaped recesses are provided for guiding movement of two of the legs, with the bracket being formed to provide a trough-shaped recess regarding movement of a third leg.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 1996Date of Patent: May 5, 1998Assignee: Dicke Tool CompanyInventors: Grant D. Dicke, Jeffrey A. Williams
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Patent number: 5743037Abstract: A display sign which can be folded in to a single compact assembly dimensioned to fit, when folded, can be inserted into a standard shipping carton. The design incorporates hinges which are attached between each foldable section, which hinges can be locked by screws to form a rigid unit. A vertically stabilized unit is provided by securing the vertical portion of the display to a base using removable braces between the base and the display and includes removable attachment structure between the base and the display to rigidly attach the display to the base. The lights are attached permanently by using hinges to join the various portions of the display and by passing the wires over the pivot portion of the hinge so that the wires will not become crimped, broken or detached.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 1996Date of Patent: April 28, 1998Inventor: Neil Ronald Martin
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Patent number: 5738317Abstract: The road sign post assembly comprises a tubular hollow post, having a bottom portion and a top rim circumscribing a mouth; a ground base, engaged by the post bottom portion for supportingly biasing the post in upright position over ground. A closure cap has a tubular section sized to fit into the top mouth of the post in a closed condition thereof. A seat is carried by the post rim for supporting a pair of rigid cross-bars forming an open road sign support frame, radially outwardly from the post. The closure cap is hinged to the post top end, includes an integral outer abutment lip, cooperating with the seat in the cap closed condition, and a locking pin extending through an annular transverse lip of the cap and through the post rim, for preventing accidental release of the road sign support frame from the post.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 1995Date of Patent: April 14, 1998Inventor: Denis Hugron
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Patent number: 5732491Abstract: A display device for planar elements such as diskettes, credit cards and the like comprises a support portion and an integral display portion constructed in such a manner that the portions are relatively movable, through a periscoping action of the display portion, between a planar configuration of the device wherein the display portion and thus the planar element is substantially covered by the support portion, and an erected configuration of the device wherein the display portion extends upwardly from a support formed by the support portion so as to display the planar element. In one embodiment, the element is supported by a retainer band while in another a pocket is formed between a display panel and an end panel of the display portion. In another embodiment, an end panel comprises a pair of folded over panels, one of which includes a notch in an edge adjacent to the fold line so that the end panels form a recessed pocket for, e.g., a credit card.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 1996Date of Patent: March 31, 1998Assignee: Ronald P. Burtch & Associates LimitedInventor: Ronald P. Burtch
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Patent number: 5732911Abstract: A legless sign stand includes a rubber base having an upper planar surface and a lower planar surface. A first rigid planar member contacts the upper planar surface of the rubber base, and a second rigid planar member contacts the lower planar surface of the rubber base. Both of the rigid planar members are secured to the rubber base with bolts. Two support brackets are mounted to the first rigid planar member, and a support mast is connected between the two support brackets. The support mast accommodates a clamping member, which is adapted for clamping onto a portion of the highway traffic sign to thereby support the highway traffic sign above a horizontal support surface.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 1996Date of Patent: March 31, 1998Assignee: Traffix Devices, Inc.Inventors: Jack H. Kulp, Samuel J. Bechtle, Frank G. Cain
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Patent number: 5729926Abstract: A sign includes a frame having plural battens therein. A web is disposed over the frame. The web has opposed, co-extensive sides which form a pocket therebetween. The frame is located inside the pocket of the web. A support for the sign is provided which is attached to at least one of the frame battens and is contiguous therewith. At least one of the frame battens is fixed to the web and at least one of the frame battens is removable from the web.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 1996Date of Patent: March 24, 1998Assignee: Sportniks, Inc.Inventors: John H. Cowgill, Charles W. Elroy, Jr.
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Patent number: 5720464Abstract: A combination presentation easel and carrying case for use in transporting and displaying items related to an audience presentation. The portable presentation easel consists of a two-part cover supported by extendable legs for the display of visual aids at a variety of heights, and for use with a white board or paper flipchart. The easel is equipped with storage compartments and attachments for any items related to the presentation. The easel may be folded in half and its legs retracted for easy transport. A hard outer covering protects the easel's contents. The easel is further equipped with a carrying handle, a display window for identification information, and security locks.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 1996Date of Patent: February 24, 1998Inventors: Charles August Meinscher, June Lorene Parker
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Patent number: 5703577Abstract: A self-erecting control device is provided with a base member and a bracket assembly attached to the base member for receiving a movable sign support member. The movable sign support member is vertically movable and rotatable with the bracket. That is, in one position the sign support member is stationary in an upright position and in a second position, the movable sign support member is rotatable into a storage position. A flexing device, such as a spring, is mounted to the movable sign support member and a sign wherein upon impact the sign device yields in response to the impact and the coil spring returns or self-erects the sign to its original upright position.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 1996Date of Patent: December 30, 1997Inventor: James R. Carter
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Patent number: 5694711Abstract: A collapsible sign (20) includes a frame (26) having a hub (30) and plural arms (42, 44, 46, 48, 50) extending therefrom. A web (28) is disposed over the frame (26) and is secured thereto. A support (52) for the sign is attached to at least one of the arms of the frame. At least some of the arms (42, 44, 46, 50) include a hinge element (42H, 44H, 46H, 50H) which is rotatably mounted about a pivot point (38P, 40P) on the hub. The arms may be divided into web-support arms (46, 48, 50) and sign-support arms (42, 44), wherein the sign-support arms may be fixed to a handle (53) or other standard for support the sign. The sign-support arms may also double as web-support arms in aiding to support the web in an expanded condition. In some instances, one of the arms (48) may be fixed to the hub in a non-rotatable condition. The web may be either fully-attached to the frame, or may be partially attached thereto.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 1996Date of Patent: December 9, 1997Assignee: Sportniks, Inc.Inventors: John H. Cowgill, Charles W. Elroy, Jr.
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Patent number: 5632390Abstract: A display assembly constructed of corrugated paperboard comprising two triangular vertical end columns with a center wall supported therebetween for affixing materials to be displayed and a header member affixed to the top of the two end columns and extending therebetween to provide lateral stability and serve as an additional display area. The display is manufactured to be delivered to the user in a flat knocked-down folded condition. The display is designed to be easily assembled by the user at the point of use without any tools or connectors other than those that are a part of and integral to the corrugated panels which are assembled to form the display.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 1995Date of Patent: May 27, 1997Inventor: Jeffrey A. Podergois
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Patent number: 5621992Abstract: A self standing floor sign (10) comprising two end panels (12 and 14), and two side panels (16), the two side panels (16) pivotably secured between the end panels (12 and 14), and the side panels (16) having a hinge oriented within an approximate center of the side panels (16) to allow the side panels (16) to collapse in a generally inwardly direction.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 1995Date of Patent: April 22, 1997Assignee: Rubbermaid Commercial Products, Inc.Inventors: Jonathan N. Mandell, Glenn E. Tomblin
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Patent number: 5623275Abstract: Articulated display matrix apparatus for providing moving or flashing variable messages is disclosed. The apparatus is highly adaptable and portable. Because the linear arrays of display cells are durably enclosed, as well as articulated, they can shipped and stored compactly. Because of their light weight and their highly-flexible structure they can be mounted in a variety of configurations and on a variety display panel shapes, without tools. The display matrix arrays can provide a continuous combined display matrix that is extensible in two dimensions.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 1994Date of Patent: April 22, 1997Inventor: Paul A. Miller
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Patent number: 5613314Abstract: A collapsible sign, including a fixed frame, a plurality of sections hingedly and movably attached to the frame, the sign being movable the sections between a viewing position and a collapsed position. Adjacent pairs of the plurality of sections are positioned to provide an offset distance between axes of rotation located at each end of each section when the plurality of sections are in the viewing position.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 1995Date of Patent: March 25, 1997Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Clifford W. Leverenz, Jamshed R. Cooper, Stephen P. Sohm, Jehangir E. Rudina, Steven C. Larson
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Patent number: 5613311Abstract: A display device is provided which comprises a support portion and an integral display portion constructed in such a manner that the portions are relatively movable, through a periscoping action of the display portion, between a planar configuration of the device wherein the display portion is substantially covered by the support portion, and an erected configuration of the device wherein the display portion extends upwardly from a support formed by the support portion. The display portion comprises a first end panel including a tongue which, in the erected configuration, extends through a central slot in the display portion and a base including shoulders disposed on opposite sides of the tongue. The support portion includes two pairs of serially arranged panels which, in the planar configuration, lie flat and overlie respective faces of the first end panel and which, in said erected configuration, form the support for the first end panel. An opposite end panel is secured to the first end panel.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 1996Date of Patent: March 25, 1997Inventor: Ronald P. Burtch
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Patent number: 5608977Abstract: A display device is provided which comprises a support portion and an integral display portion constructed in such a manner that the portions are relatively movable, through a periscoping action of the display portion, between a planar configuration of the device wherein the display portion is substantially covered by the support portion, and an erected configuration of the device wherein the display portion extends upwardly from a support formed by the support portion. The display portion comprises a display panel including a tongue which, in the erected configuration, extends through a central slot in the display portion and a base including shoulders disposed on opposite sides of the tongue. The support portion includes two pairs of serially arranged panels which, in the planar configuration, lie flat and overlie respective faces of the display panel and which, in said erected configuration, form the support for the display panel. An end panel is secured to the display panel.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 1995Date of Patent: March 11, 1997Inventors: Ronald P. Burtch, Irving M. Koltz
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Patent number: 5606815Abstract: A sign support comprises a rectangular sheet of a plastic material, which has two fold lines permitting it to be folded to form a closed triangular-section support member. The support member is held closed by the engagement of tongues along one side edge of the sheet engaging in slots in the other side edge, and braced by upper and lower triangular bracing members. The bracing members have tongues along each side, which engage in slots in the upper and lower edges of the folded sheet. The bracing members each have a central aperture and a slot by which they can be mounted on a lamp-post or the like, so that the support member can then be assembled round them. In an alternative construction, the support member comprises three separate sheets which can be connected together by way of tongues and slots in the opposite edges to form the closed triangular section support member.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 1995Date of Patent: March 4, 1997Assignee: Alpha Signs Ltd.Inventor: Barry C. Feldwhere
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Patent number: 5598654Abstract: A collapsible sign (20) includes a frame (26) having a hub (30) and plural arms (42, 44, 46, 48, 50) extending therefrom. A web (28) is disposed over the frame (26) and is secured thereto. A support (52) for the sign is attached to at least one of the arms of the frame. At least some of the arms (42, 44, 46, 50) include a hinge element (42H, 44H, 46H, 50H) which is rotatably mourned about a pivot point (38P, 40P) on the hub. The arms may be divided into web-support arms (46, 48, 50) and sign-support arms (42, 44), wherein the sign-support arms may be fixed to a handle (53) or other standard for support the sign. The sign-support arms may also double as web-support arms in aiding to support the web in an expanded condition. In some instances, one of the arms (48) may be fixed to the hub in a non-rotatable condition. The web may be either fully-attached to the frame, or may be partially attached thereto.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 1994Date of Patent: February 4, 1997Assignee: Sportniks, Inc.Inventors: John H. Cowgill, Charles W. Elroy, Jr.
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Patent number: 5586594Abstract: An inflatable wall generally comprises a wall panel including a pliable skin defining an inflatable enclosure and a hinge. Internal I-beams retain the front and rear of the wall panel as spaced vertical planes. The hinge has a vertical axis and is attached to the wall panel first end for supporting the wall in an upright position by hinged attachment to an adjacent wall. The enclosure includes a window box and a window for holding displays or the like. A raceway within the enclosure allows for passage of electrical wiring to displays within the windows. In an alternate exemplary embodiment, two inflatable walls are permanently joined by a flexible hinge having a supplemental hinge on each side, each for hinged attachment of another wall.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 1995Date of Patent: December 24, 1996Inventor: Stanley N. Shapoff
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Patent number: 5581923Abstract: A point of purchase display that has a horizontal base formed of thermoplastic material and an upright riser can be stored and shipped in a compact state and set up without the use of tools at the location where the display is used. The riser is formed from a flat sheet of cardboard with score lines for folding. The score lines can permit the riser to be attached to the base and folded under the base for storage and shipping and then allow the riser to be pivoted to an upright position where the riser is held in place. Various embodiments of the three-dimensional display are described and illustrated.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 1994Date of Patent: December 10, 1996Inventor: Edward Brandstetter
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Patent number: 5572188Abstract: An erectable and collapsible warning signal reflector assembly includes a pair of crossed arms that are pivotally connected to one another at their crossing point and are further attached to a vertical post stand at the same point. An elongated hollow box is used as a stand. The bottom of the vertical post is positioned into an opening in a top lid cover of the elongated box stand. When the crossed arms and post are rotated along the same plane, the entire assembly can be fit into the elongated box for storage purposes. Electrically powered lights are located on at least one side of each of the arms. The lights can be powered by a battery and switch inside each of the arms. Alternatively, the lights can be powered by an adapter plug that can be inserted into a conventional cigarette lighter. Alternatively, the lights can be reflector covers.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 1995Date of Patent: November 5, 1996Inventor: Robert A. McDowell, II
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Patent number: 5551178Abstract: A collapsible sign includes a flexible banner supported by a collapsible stand. The collapsible stand, of A-frame configuration, includes two pairs of legs at each end of a cross-member, the apex of each leg pair and cross-member end retained in a unique one-piece connector. Each connector has two leg cups and a cross-member cup attached to a base block by a living hinge. A latch and saddle releasably secure the cross-member cup to the base block in the erected position. A cammed key and keyway releasably lock the leg cups to one another in the erected position. There is a slight interference fit between the cups which assists securing them in the erected position. In breaking down the sign, each leg pivots toward its paired partner upon release of the key from the keyway and the cross-member likewise pivots toward the legs upon release of the latch resulting in all legs and the cross-member being generally parallel to one another in the collapsed position.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 1995Date of Patent: September 3, 1996Assignee: Flexsign Inc.Inventors: James P. Foley, Robert J. Nadeau, Jan P. Ostendorf, Lawrence J. Whitehead
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Patent number: 5551177Abstract: The sign includes a frame having a hub and plural arms extending therefrom. A web is disposed over the frame and may be secured thereto. A support for the sign is attached to at least one of the arms of the frame. The web may be either fully-attached to the frame, may be partially attached thereto, or may be removable from the frame. The web may include some type of reflective device or some type of illuminated device for further calling attention to the sign. The sign web is two-sided, and may contain lettering or other indicia on either one or both sides thereof.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 1994Date of Patent: September 3, 1996Assignee: Sportniks, Inc.Inventors: John H. Cowgill, Charles W. Elroy, Jr.
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Patent number: 5544436Abstract: An apparatus for simultaneously displaying a plurality of photographs, pictures, cards and the like is disclosed. The apparatus incorporates a plurality of display panels having multiple compartments for accommodating any of a variety of standard-sized photographs and the like. Access slots enable the photographs and the like to be easily placed within and removed from the compartment. The photographs may be concurrently displayed in the apparatus at both the front and back of the display panels. Also, additional photographs and the like not for display can be stored in the apparatus. The display panels are connected along their vertical axes by hinge-type joints that enable the display panels to rotate relative to one another, be configured in a variety of display positions and collapse upon one another into a stored position.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 1994Date of Patent: August 13, 1996Inventor: Jay Lefkowitz
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Patent number: 5544614Abstract: A barricade assembly is made up from a plurality of panel units which can be secured together to provide a barricade of adjustable height. Each panel unit has spaced parallel side legs and a planar cross member extending transversely between the legs. A hinge mechanism allows two panel units to be releasably hinged together at their upper ends so that they can be angled relative to one another in a free-standing, open position. Two or more panel units can also be releasably secured together in vertical alignment to adjust the height of the assembly.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 1994Date of Patent: August 13, 1996Assignee: VBCOInventor: Veronica B. Cushman
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Patent number: 5542203Abstract: A mobile sign with a solar panel for warning motorists of highway problems. The mobile sign comprises a wheeled vehicle, an electrically powered sign panel mounted on the wheeled vehicle, a chargeable battery for powering the sign panel, and a solar panel for charging the battery. The solar panel is rotatable and tiltable relative to the wheeled vehicle. The sign panel is independently rotatable relative to the wheeled vehicle. The sign panel has a low-glare, high-contrast display that also improves the lifetime of the display's electronic or mechanical components by reducing heating of the display due to the sun.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 1994Date of Patent: August 6, 1996Assignee: ADDCO Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: Eugene H. Luoma, James L. Blesener
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Patent number: 5540007Abstract: A regulatory flexible highway sign of rectangular configuration that may be rolled up for transport and for storage is disclosed. The rolled up "sign" package and a foldable sign stand for securing the sign in a message display position are disclosed. When the flexible highway sign is arranged in a display position, it is vertically supported by means of a pair of angularly oriented, long flexible members by a holding assembly constructed and designed to permit pivotal movement of the two flexible members between an angularly oriented sign displaying position and a side by side disassembled position whereby the pivot for the flexible members does not bear a load. The sign per se is maintained in a display position by frame members secured thereto including a pair of longitudinal members pivotably secured to the sign so that when longitudinally aligned secure the flexible sign in a display position. This is achieved by means of a sliding C-clamp member.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 1993Date of Patent: July 30, 1996Assignee: Traffix Devices, Inc.Inventors: Jack H. Kulp, John D. McKenney
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Patent number: 5537766Abstract: A portable trade show display panel system is provided including a plurality of display panels, the system being readily manually transportable by an end user. The system comprises a plurality of panel members, elongate hinge members attached to the sides of adjacent panel members for rotational movement by at least one adjacent panel member with respect to the other about the longitudinal axis of the elongate hinge members. A protective outer covering surrounds each panel member and elongate hinge member forming display panels. The protective outer covering is connected to the panel members by frictional engagement within the confines of the longitudinally-extending slots. Finally, a device for interconnecting adjacent display panels one to the other is provided.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 1994Date of Patent: July 23, 1996Assignee: Classic Exhibits Inc.Inventors: Lowell W. Nickens, Ronald E. Newton
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Patent number: 5525000Abstract: A releasable coupling assembly is provided for rib members or other members having a flat stock or bar-like configuration. The releasable coupling is provided for members which are at least partially overlapping one another, with the opposing mating surfaces of the members preferably being planar. One member carries a retaining clip defining a pocket for receiving the other rib member. Various embodiments are provided in which moveable or stationary pins extend into the pocket to engage the cooperating rib member to engage the rib member to prevent dislodgement from the overlapping condition.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 1995Date of Patent: June 11, 1996Assignee: Dicke Tool CompanyInventors: Todd Belobraydich, Jeffrey A. Williams
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Patent number: 5502909Abstract: A sign for alerting passing motorists to the operational condition of a vehicle. The inventive device includes a mounting assembly securable to an exterior surface of the vehicle. An adjustable support post is removably coupled to the mounting assembly so as to extend from the vehicle. A sign is removably coupled to the support post and includes distress signals printed thereon for alerting the passing motorists. The sign can be supported by a pair of support assemblies and may be either rectangular or triangular in shape.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 1994Date of Patent: April 2, 1996Inventor: Vladimir G. Rabkin
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Patent number: 5503356Abstract: The stand of the invention includes a vertically disposed elongate column having a leg assembly at one end thereof and, in the preferred embodiment, a target holder at the other, upper end thereof. The leg assembly includes a leg attachment assembly which is located adjacent the lower end of the column and includes multiple leg-receiving pockets therein. The stand includes plural legs, each leg being received in a leg-receiving pocket. The legs are shiftable between a folded position, wherein each leg is aligned substantially parallel to the column, and an extended position, wherein the leg is operable to support the column in an upright position. A spider structure is provided for maintaining the legs in an extended position. The spider structure includes a spider-structure body, which is rotatably received on the column, and spider-structure arms, which are secured to the spider-structure body and which extend outwardly therefrom for contact with the legs when the legs are in their extended position.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 1995Date of Patent: April 2, 1996Inventor: Jeff Shelby