Collapsible Patents (Class 40/610)
  • Patent number: 5502910
    Abstract: A temporary sign pole installation is disclosed which includes a hollow passage in a vertical pipe having a pointed bottom end. Vertical slots in the side of the hollow passage permit a handle to pass through the slots and into and/or through a pounder weight which can be moved up and down in the hollow core of the pipe. For the installation the pounder weight is moved by the handle emphatically downwards hitting the end of the vertical slot to pound the pipe into the ground. For removal of the pipe, the pounder handle constrained by the limits of the vertical slot is moved emphatically upward and drives the vertical pipe out of the ground. Various horizontal attachment pieces can be attached to the top of the vertical pipe to support an advertising sign or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1996
    Inventor: Frank Lucchesi
  • Patent number: 5501603
    Abstract: A modularized visual training aid for classroom instruction including a stabilizing base, upright support operably coupled to the base and extending generally vertically upward from the base for storing teaching tools and a display housing pivotably mounted to the upright support. The display housing includes an expandable vertical display surface for exhibition and application of visual materials and teaching tools and is shiftable between an elevated position and a lowered position to accommodate users of different heights. Storage areas for various teaching tools are provided on the base, on the display housing and within the upright support. In operation, the training aid is moved the presentation location and the display housing pivoted into either an elevated or lowered position to present the expandable vertical display surface to the students. During the lesson, students or the teacher can illustrate points by working on the display surface or viewing lesson placards attached to the display surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1996
    Assignee: Wenger Corporation
    Inventors: Eric J. Mueller, Gary M. Benting, Leslie R. Abraham, Phillip C. Dretzka
  • Patent number: 5488792
    Abstract: A mobile traffic warning sign including a heavy flat base, a conical spring fastened to the base at the top by holding-down plates and screws, and a collapsible conical covering with reflectors covered on the conical spring, and a case for receiving the warning traffic warning sign when the conical covering and the conical spring are collapsed and received in a circular recess on the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1996
    Inventor: Wang-On Kwok
  • Patent number: 5489077
    Abstract: A sign support base comprising a staff base to which a plurality of plates are secured, the plates having pivotal legs secured thereto, the pivot means comprising a resilient mechanism for biasing the leg toward the plate and engaging means comprising a moveable pin resiliently biased outwardly from the leg for engaging in apertures in the plate, the legs, plates, pivot means and engaging means being so constructed that movement of the distal end of the leg disengages the resiliently biased pin from the apertures is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1996
    Inventor: Theodore L. Stoudt
  • Patent number: 5489076
    Abstract: A support for an outdoor sign has an upright where an upper and lower extent are swingably connected to move between an erect position for use and a collapsed position for storage. A cross-bar is pivotally connected to the upright for movement between a perpendicular relation to the upright, for use, and a collapsed position for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1996
    Inventor: John E. Thomas
  • Patent number: 5483779
    Abstract: A header frame for a display system which is easily and quickly erected without tools and which is collapsible to a compact shape for packing, storage, and transport. The header frame is disassembled to only four portions for packing, storage, and transport, i.e., two frame portion assemblies and two elongate connector assemblies. Each of the frame portion assemblies comprises a plurality of members joined to be U-shaped when the header frame is erected and hingedly connected to be collapsible compactly so that the members are parallel to and lie alongside each other. Thumbscrews are provided for detachably attaching the connector assemblies to the frame portion assemblies so that tools are not required for erection or disassembly of the header frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 16, 1996
    Assignee: Exposystems, Inc.
    Inventors: John Crawford, Edward Boer
  • Patent number: 5479732
    Abstract: 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 so as to form a card-like construction, and a 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1996
    Assignee: Ronald P. Burtch & Associates Limited
    Inventors: Ronald P. Burtch, Irving M. Koltz
  • Patent number: 5475386
    Abstract: A trailer mounted apparatus for use along roadways and convertible between a folded-transport position and an erected-operational position. When in the operating position, one signal unit is elevated on the side of the roadway, and another signal unit is elevated over a traffic lane at sufficient height so as to not pose a hazard to traffic. The apparatus has a fixed upright mast with a hinged mast extension which angles upwardly and laterally away from the top of the upright mast. A foldable arm with inner and outer arm portions is hinged to the top portion of the mast extension. When in the erected position alongside a roadway, the mast extension elevates the foldable arm which extends from the top portion of the mast extension across the trailer and out and over the traffic lane. One signal unit is attached to the outer end of the foldable arm and the other unit is attached to the mast extension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1995
    Assignee: ADDCO Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Eugene H. Luoma
  • Patent number: 5467547
    Abstract: A collapsible, self-erecting display stand has a back panel, a front display panel, a side support panel, and a biasing member. From its collapsed configuration, the biasing member urges the back panel and side support panel to a position supporting a free-standing display stand and, simultaneously, the front display panel is projected outwardly to achieve a three-dimensional effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1995
    Assignee: Graphic Communications, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry L. Fortner
  • Patent number: 5458434
    Abstract: A plastic barricade is formed from identical panels placed back to back and hinged together. Each panel includes a handle at the top, vertical legs with reinforcing ribs, and horizontal cross-members. The bottom most horizontal cross-member includes a stacking lug that may be inserted into the handle to prevent a stack of barricades from tipping over. The barricade may also be designed to be compatible with existing barricades.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 17, 1995
    Assignee: Bent Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Bruce C. Bent, James A. Bent
  • Patent number: 5454180
    Abstract: A pre-assembled self-erecting display of corrugated paper or the like includes a rear display panel, a front display panel and an easel member which is fastened in part to the back side of the rear display panel. Resilient members such as rubber bands are connected across a vertical fold of the easel member. This causes a wing panel of the easel member to fold rearward for support means and an edge of the rear display panel to fold forward to create a concave configuration. Hinged panels folding out of the easel member urge an inner portion of the rear display panel away from the easel member, thus causing the rear display panel to obtain a convex configuration. The other edge of the rear display panel is attached to a part of a second wing panel of the easel member, inversely causing it to unfold rearward, also for support means. A part of the easel member passes through a slot in the rear display panel and is fastened to the back side of the front display panel, thus causing a multiple level configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 3, 1995
    Inventor: James R. Volpe
  • Patent number: 5446984
    Abstract: A mounting bracket or socket for use with a flexible highway sign capable of being rolled up for storage and portability. The mounting bracket being molded from a non-rigid, elastic material that is reasonably transparent and having a socket for accommodating a frame member for the highway sign in a non-rotatable relationship. The plastic bracket including a securing platform integrally molded therewith for securing the bracket to the highway sign. A reinforcing member of substantially the same length as the mounting bracket for clamping the highway sign between the bracket and the reinforcing member. The sign engaging surfaces of the bracket and the reinforcing member each include tear resistant elements for clamping the sign to thereby transfer the sign tearing load from the fastener securing the bracket and reinforcing member to the highway sign.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 5, 1995
    Assignee: TrafFix Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Jack H. Kulp, John D. McKenney, James P. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 5438782
    Abstract: A stand for mounting a device having a rib member includes a mast, with a pair of spaced mounting clips secured to the mast. The mounting clips are spaced from the outer surface of the mast so as to form pockets therewith for receiving the rib member. Upon insertion between the mounting clips, the rib member is pivoted for entry into the pockets and a locking pin receivable in an aperture in the rib member prevents a dislocating pivoting in an opposite direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1995
    Assignee: The Dicke Tool Company
    Inventors: Tood Belobraydich, Jeffrey A. Williams
  • Patent number: 5438780
    Abstract: A road sign having a message displayed on a soft reflective plastics material which is attached to a net fabric, preferable a PVC plastics. The net material is attached to a frame structure including a first bar connected at one end of the net and a second bar connected at an opposite end of the net. The net is wound around a roller proximate one of the bars. The bars are biased apart by spring biased folding arms. The device thereby can be raised to an open position by the spring force. Further, a hand crank, or a motor, and also a remote control, can be included for manipulation of the sign, such as to a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1995
    Assignee: ATA Bygg-och Markprodukter AB
    Inventor: Bengt Winner
  • Patent number: 5433026
    Abstract: A vehicularly-mountable message board that can be automatically maneuvered between an upright message-displaying position and a retracted position by utilizing a side-mounted actuating motor and side-mounted moment arm. The vehicularly-mountable message board achieves the benefits of high-profile visibility of the message board in the upright position without obstruction by the actuating motor or the moment arm, while at the same time achieving the benefits of the location of the side-mounted actuating motor and side-mounted moment arm to achieve a low profile for the message board in the retracted configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1995
    Inventors: Vernon C. McDermott, Vernon C. McDermott, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5422638
    Abstract: A conventional STOP/SLOW traffic control sign mounted on a pole is supported and remotely operated by a portable stand having a tubular support mounted on a foldable frame which also carries a remotely controlled drive assembly so that the sign can be operated at a safe distance even by a person with disabilities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1995
    Assignee: Quintech, Inc.
    Inventors: Samuel Singer, Harry Krasnikoff, Richard E. Miller, Frank C. Elling
  • Patent number: 5416997
    Abstract: An advertising display is convertible between an expanded display configuration and a collapsed configuration for storage and transportation. The display includes a cylindrical tube with generally circular end walls attached to the inner surface of the tube adjacent the top and bottom edges thereof. A center post is secured at a top end to the center of the top end wall and projects through the tube to extend therefrom through a center hole in the bottom end wall. The expanded display is rotatable about the tube by an electric motor mounted within the tube and coupled to the top end wall. The motor is powered by batteries also positioned within the post. The tube has diametrically opposed longitudinal fold lines extending between the top and bottom edges thereof to permit it to be collapsed to a storage and transportation configuration when not in use. Parallel transverse fold lines on each circular end wall enables them to fold inwardly within the tube when it is collapsed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1995
    Assignee: Dyment Ltd.
    Inventors: James A. Dyment, Phillip M. Batsch, David K. Downey
  • Patent number: 5402591
    Abstract: An inflatable and deflatable support for a sign having advertising indicia thereon including an air inflatable, cylindrical member having an upper, inflatable, cylindrical cross member spanning a pair of upstanding inflatable legs which depend from opposite ends thereof. The legs are each open at the lower end and are sealed to a hollow cylindrical ballast plug. Mechanism is coupled to one of the legs and cylinders for admitting air under pressure to the cylindrical ballast plug to inflate and deflate the cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 4, 1995
    Inventor: Randy L. Lee
  • Patent number: 5402988
    Abstract: The present portable fence is durable, lightweight and easily transported, erected and dismantled. In use, it will collapse upon impact, due to a break away, in the first embodiment, a joint between the fence post and its supporting leg, and in the second embodiment a joint in the supporting leg, yet in both embodiments the fence may be quickly and easily re-erected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 4, 1995
    Assignee: Specialty Recreation Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Stanley R. Eisele
  • Patent number: 5382112
    Abstract: A folding road barrier includes a cross member, two folding stands pivotal connected to two opposite ends of the cross member at the bottom, a shade roller supported on and turned between two supports on the front side of the cross member for showing warning words, a signal lamp assembly mounted on the cross member at the top and controlled to give a flashing signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1995
    Inventor: Hsiang-Wen Fu
  • Patent number: 5371964
    Abstract: A display sign with a collapsible support base. The sign is supported by at least one upwardly extending leaf of a hinge element to which a pair of support legs are attached extending both in front of and behind the sign. When the support legs are extended outwardly and the base is supported on a weight-bearing surface, the legs at each end portion of the sign pivot about the hinge element to exert a pincer-like grip on the bottom portion of the display sign. When the sign is lifted up, the support legs fold down automatically into a compact form suitable for transport or storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1994
    Assignee: K-Display Corp.
    Inventors: Ronald R. Kubacki, Leonard J. Kubacki
  • Patent number: 5365687
    Abstract: A collapsible display frame apparatus for use as a motor vehicle roof-top display, wherein a collapsible frame includes rods forming an underleaf perimeter and an overleaf perimeter, coupling means for connecting the rods to define a corner joint, a flexible display, fasteners for attaching the display to each perimeter, and a swivel-slide joint for slidably interconnecting the frame of the underleaf and overleaf perimeters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1994
    Assignee: United States Tobacco Company
    Inventor: William C. Sclater
  • Patent number: 5358762
    Abstract: A sandwich board is made of sheet plastics material such as polyethylene. The panels are inhibited from warping by inturned flanges along the edges. Along the rising edges the flanges may be permanently inturned by means of a reverse bend. Along the upper edge the flange may be hinged through double coined lines. A lower flange may also be hinged inwardly through double coined lines for rigidity. Braces may be provided on back panel surfaces for rigidity especially on large sandwich boards. The panels may be slightly offset from one another so that the inturned flanges internest. The outer surfaces of the panels are coated over the whole surface with an adherent ink which allows for later printing of information using cheaper conventional inks or paints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 25, 1994
    Inventor: Stephen E. McGrath
  • Patent number: 5351843
    Abstract: A collapsible portable framework is expanded to an open position forming a long, narrow, column-like structure for a folding display frame, in which generally rectangular frame-like cubicles are aligned serially and are pivotally joined at common ends of the cubicles. Each cubicle has hubs at its corners pivotally joined to ends of rigid rods interconnected at pivot points forming a pair of scissor members along opposite sides of each cubicle. End braces releasably interlock as a rigid box frame to support the ends of the scissor members and the hubs at the corners of the cubicles in rigid spaced-apart positions. A diagonal cross-brace extends from a lower front corner to an upper rear corner of each cubicle, and another diagonal cross-brace extends from an upper front corner to a rear lower corner of each cubicle. Disconnection of the end brace members permits the frame to be collapsed by folding the scissor members so the cubicles are collapsed into a compact side-by-side form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1994
    Assignee: William J. Wichman
    Inventors: William J. Wichman, David E. Robertson
  • Patent number: 5347737
    Abstract: A portable sign includes at least three elongated members interconnected by collapsible members and can be collapsed to fit into a shipping tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1994
    Inventor: Clarence J. Theobald, III
  • Patent number: 5340065
    Abstract: A support for an outdoor sign has an upright where an upper and lower extent are swingably connected to move between an erect position for use and a collapsed position for storage. A cross-bar is pivotally connected to the upright for movement between a perpendicular relation to the upright, for use and a collapsed position for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1994
    Inventor: John E. Thomas
  • Patent number: 5329873
    Abstract: An extendable, personal dive flag including a plurality of tubular segments, the tubular segments being adapted to be matingly engaged with one another and being interchangeably positionable between an extended, interlocking position so as to form a substantially elongate, easily carryable shaft, and a collapsed, compact position so as to form a substantially small, lightweight, and easily portable bundle. A distal segment of the flag including a warning flag fixedly secured thereto such that the personal dive flag can be extended through the water's surface to signal a diver is approaching before the diver actually arrives at the surface. The personal dive flag is structured to automatically extend from its collapsed, compact position to its extended, interlocking position without requiring extensive manipulation by the diver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 19, 1994
    Inventor: Nancy Tiballi
  • Patent number: 5319870
    Abstract: An adjustable support for banners comprises at least a pair of stanchions for connection to a banner. The stanchions each define an array of transverse slots distributed along the length of each stanchion. At least a pair of spaced brackets are attached to a support structure, each of the brackets defining a longitudinal aperture slidably receiving one of the stanchions in one of variable longitudinal positions. The brackets each also define transverse slot capable of registry with at least one transverse slot of the stanchion received in the longitudinal aperture. First removable cross bar extend through the transverse slot of each bracket and the transverse slot or slots of the stanchion received in each bracket. Extension spring may be provided to connect a banner to each stanchion to assist in wind resistance of the banner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1994
    Inventor: Harvey I. Weiss
  • Patent number: 5305705
    Abstract: A traffic marker body defined by a conical spiral arm (16) mounted for collapse into a flat core held in matching recess (22) in a base (12) by means of an automatic locking mechanism including a latch member (24) with friction reducing rollers (34, 36) to facilitate lateral travel along cam guide surfaces (38, 40, 48, 50) into alignment with a latch engaging member including a slot (46) to lock the traffic marker body (14) into a collapsed condition (FIG. 1). The adjacent segments of the spiral arms (16) are spaced sufficiently for air passageways passing through the body (14) for improved stability and to enhance visibility of elongate reflector members (54) woven in and out between adjacent segments of a spiral arm (16) with reflective surfaces on both sides for creation of visual depth and a twinkling effect for enhanced visibility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 26, 1994
    Inventor: Greg R. Gagliano
  • Patent number: 5269112
    Abstract: A portable display assembly for use in displaying a variety of articles on a wall structure thereof, being structured for easy assembly and disassembly to facilitate transport between different use locations. The display assembly includes a plurality of vertical frame units which are adapted to be interconnected at spaced intervals by scissor connectors. The scissor connectors each include a pair of elongate, rigid elements pivotally attached at mid-portions thereof forming oppositely disposed scissor arms, wherein each pair of scissor arms is structured for attachment to a respective one of adjacently positioned vertical frame units in such a manner so as to position the adjacent frame units in either a parallel orientation or one of a plurality of angled orientations relative to one another. In this manner, a wall frame structure of virtually any desired size, shape and configuration can be assembled, to which may be attached decorative background panels, shelves, and other display material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1993
    Inventors: Leonard Weinrub, Martin Lederman
  • Patent number: 5231778
    Abstract: A stand for mounting a device having a rib member includes a mast, with a pair of spaced mounting clips secured to the mast. The mounting clips are spaced from the outer surface of the mast so as to form pockets therewith for receiving the rib member. Upon insertion between the mounting clips, the rib member is pivoted for entry into the pockets and a locking pin receivable in an aperture in the rib member prevents a dislocating pivoting in an opposite direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1993
    Assignee: The Dicke Tool Company
    Inventors: Todd Belobraydich, Jeffrey A. Williams
  • Patent number: 5208585
    Abstract: A portable highway barrier constructed of light weight material has an interior cavity which can be filled with a fluid ballast once it has been transported to a utilization site. The barrier has a box-like configuration defined by vertically-oriented side and end walls, the bottom portion of which is constructed to provide vertically-oriented slots each of which may function to support the lower edge of a vertically-oriented highway sign. The upwardly extending walls of a shallow well formed in the top of the barrier have apertures therein for facilitating attachment to the barrier of highway signs and/or other signalling or control devices such as warning lights. The barrier construction provides for attachment of connecting elements to its end walls so as to enable interconstruction of a plurality of barriers in end to end relationship for traffic channelization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1993
    Inventor: R. Paul Sprague
  • Patent number: 5203126
    Abstract: A slidable foot assembly for stabilizing a collapsible display structure. Such structures include a network of support rods which form a skeletal frame for the structure and which are pivotally joined together by hub assemblies. The present foot assembly includes a slide which is elongate to extend to each of the sides of the erected structure to stabilize the structure and further includes feet affixed to a lower hub assembly and slidable in the slide to permit the slide to be disposed parallel to the collapsed form of the structure to maintain the compactness of the collapsed form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1993
    Assignee: Skyline Displays, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary R. Sorenson, Philip C. Berberding
  • Patent number: 5199375
    Abstract: A folding warning marker includes three tubular stays each having first upper ends joined together by torsional coil springs. A flexible, brightly colored and reflective fabric cover is received over the stays. The torsional coil springs bias each adjacent pair of the three stays apart, forming isosceles triangles such that the fabric cover forms a pyramidal configuration. An apex region of the flexible cover is reinforced to withstand the stress induced by the torsional coil springs. Lower ends of each of the tubular stays are received in respective pockets formed on an interior surface adjacent the lower peripheral edge of the fabric cover. The stays may be manually forced into a parallel relation to form a compact closed position of the warning marker for storage and transportation purposes. The warning marker may be retained in the closed position by a securing strap or a storage tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1993
    Inventor: Mike V. Johson
  • Patent number: 5196242
    Abstract: A self-erecting structure consists essentially of a block of open-cell foam material, the outer surface of which has been sculptured into three-dimensional formations completely enveloped by an airtight skin. The structure can be pressed to expel any air or other fluid out of the foam material and any internal void through a bleeding aperture which is then sealed, thus keeping the structure into its collapsed state. Upon opening of the aperture, the foam bounces back to its original state sucking in ambient air and restoring the structure to its full size. Embodiments of the invention include three-dimensional displays, decoys, habitats, toys, and advertising props. The foam structure may be formed by molding, cutting spraying, or compressing. The airtight skin may be applied by molding, bonding, spraying or by singeing the surface of the foam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1993
    Inventor: Robert K. Vicino
  • Patent number: 5175646
    Abstract: Retroreflective sheeting is usually provided as rolls with an adhesive backing for application to rigid road and other signs. Roll-up signs are those small signs having folding frames holding a flexible material placed to caution traffic about temporary workers. On completion of the tasks the frames are folded, and the signs are rolled up for future use. Such signs, contemplated herein, present problems other than flexibility. In addition to weather resistance, durability, and foldability, means for attaching the signs to the stands must be devised. Generally the sign material is provided with pockets. But most plastics cannot be readily sewn. The resulting needle holes weaken the sewn area so that the pocket readily tears out, or at least partially away, from the sign. The usual method for making such signs, then, is to attach the pockets by fusion using heated die elements. The deformation which occurs when the heated die is impressed to bring about the heat fluidization usually weakens the plastic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1992
    Inventor: Elizabeth A. Eden
  • Patent number: 5154392
    Abstract: Promotional card with easel and standard-holder on reverse. The display unit can be used as a header assembly with a standard (or pre-scored piece of corrugated material) or as a counter-card by folding out the easel wings and locking them into place with the included lock, or as a frame-card in a frame-card holder. The pre-scored piece of corrugated material serves as a standard, but can be folded lengthwise to reduce its length for convenient mailing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1992
    Assignee: Ashland Oil, Inc.
    Inventor: John K. Voight
  • Patent number: 5152092
    Abstract: The traffic safety device of the invention incorporates a see-through, vinyl or rubber-type bag, inflatable to a height of some 4-5 feet and to a width to approximate that of a typical lane of traffic. The inside rear surface of the bag is provided with a reflective material to reflect headlight illumination through any one of a number of highway warning signs that may be draped across the outside front surface of the bag. A pair of elastic straps are stretched to encircle the bag as it is inflated, and automatically pull and guide the bag back into a storage box for the device as the bag is deflated and the straps return to their original lengths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1992
    Inventor: James B. O'Brien
  • Patent number: 5152091
    Abstract: A collapsible highway sign assembly includes a cross brace assembly having first and second semi-flexible arms pivoted together for pivoting between storage and display positions. Each arm has first and second ends with four fastener stops, each being adjacent one arm end. A sign sheet of a flexible material with opposing message-bearing and attachment faces has four fasteners secured to the attachment face so each slidably receives an arm end and engages the fastener stop adjacent the arm end when the cross brace assembly is in the display position. A pair of flags are pivoted to a first arm upper end with a friction fit. For storage, a flag storage cavity is pivoted between the first and second arms. An anti-kiting device is secured to the sign sheet attachment face and surrounds an arm to resist kiting and maintain the sign assembly in a safe position visible to oncoming motorists. Methods of deploying and preparing the sign assembly for storage are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1992
    Inventor: Fred D. Leach
  • Patent number: 5125177
    Abstract: A multi-piece inflatable piece is provided. The inflatable has a base portion which contains an inflating blower. A top portion is releasably attached to the base portion permitting a single base portion to be used with variously shaped top portions. In one embodiment the base portion is a pail into which the top portion may be collapsed for storage and shipping purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1992
    Inventor: Hakan Colting
  • Patent number: 5125205
    Abstract: A collapsible framework is constructed of rods pivotally joined at their ends to hubs to form a self-standing unit when expanded and to fold into a small set of nearly parallel rods when folded. In one embodiment in which the expanded frame forms an array of cubicles, the hubs are designed to pivotally join the ends of four rods, with the plane defined by the pivot axes of one pair of opposing rods being offset from the plane defined by the pivot axes of the other pair of opposed rods attached to the same hub. One pair of rods attached to each hub can pivot on one of several pivot points on extended hub flanges to thereby provide expanded frameworks of various arcuate configurations. A stab-connection latch locks two hubs together and secures the framework in the expanded position. Folding channel bars are attached to knobs on vertically aligned hubs by keyslots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1992
    Assignee: William John Wichman
    Inventor: William J. Wichman
  • Patent number: 5115623
    Abstract: A hinged three-dimensional display system primarily intended for advertising and display purposes, is constructed of bars or tubes and connecting pieces, the bars or tubes being pivoted to each other in pairs at their mid-points and forming crossing diagonal struts in the display system, wherein each pair of diagonal bars or tubes is either on a mutually parallel, horizontal plane or on a vertical plane that is at right angles to the former. The system is braced vertically by easily mountable and dismountable struts which are attached on the outside of the display system, on and between adjacent connecting pieces, and on the outward-facing side of which pictures, illustrative material etc. can be attached. Each connecting piece includes a central part having one end provided with four tangentially protruding pivot pins, lying in a single plane and located 90.degree. in relation to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1992
    Assignee: ODC Exhibit Systems Ltd.
    Inventor: Erik Ahlberg
  • Patent number: 5095642
    Abstract: Street signs are signs placed in store fronts or store aisles, at service stations, or the like, to display messages to the public. They generally include a sign panel supported by a base assembly and legs connected to the base assembly which support the sign. The present invention includes such a street sign having legs pivotally attached to the base assembly so that when the sign is to be stored, it may be conveniently folded so as to be made relatively narrow for convenience of carrying and storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1992
    Assignee: Stout Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary P. George, Earl W. Karsten
  • Patent number: 5094023
    Abstract: A portable, temporary roadway sign stand (10) with a single upright support (11), a first stabilizing means (12), and a horizontal stabilizing means (13), all of which are telescopically extensible to allow for a great range of adjustable features. Such features include, but are not limited to, improved stability, quick and easy assembly and disassembly, compaction, and variable sign display height. Other constituents of sign stand (10) provide essential wind rigidity, adjustment for various sign types and sizes, conformity to uneven, irregular and/or sloping terrains, and break-away joints for safety purposes. The present invention is also designed to conform to federal, state, and local regulations, as well as the "standards of operation and use" established by other groups.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1992
    Assignee: Meadowlark Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael T. McVey
  • Patent number: 5083390
    Abstract: A modular sign consists of an H-shaped metal frame. The pointed legs can be driven into the earth by stepping on the cross rail. Plastic side tubes are slid over the upper arms of the H. The tubes have slots cut through the side partway down from the top; the edges of a sign board are inserted into them. The top and bottom edges of the sign board are inserted into slots cut into the sides of a top and bottom tube, respectively. The ends of the top and bottom tubes are inserted into holes bored through the side tubes, which are of larger diameter than the top and bottom tubes. Thus the sign board's edges are completely covered by the tubes. For extra strength the top tube may be fastened to the side tubes at either end. For indoor use, the lower frame legs are slid into feet in the shape of an inverted T for stability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1992
    Inventor: David C. Edman
  • Patent number: 5079861
    Abstract: A sign stand and sign combination supported, when in use, by a pair of pivot leg assemblies secured along the bottom on the respective sides of the sign, each such assembly comprising a generally U-shaped leg having a generally linear center portion having formed therein a support locking aperture and a storage locking aperture, a leg support and a latch for engaging either the support locking aperture or the storage locking aperture for locking the leg either in a support position with the legs extending from the sign in a storage position with the legs substantially parallel to and adjacent the sign, is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1992
    Inventor: Theodore L. Stoudt
  • Patent number: 5078348
    Abstract: The holder comprises a base together with an upright central post. The post carries thereon at least one pair of pivot carriers which are separately movable up and down the central post and clamped thereto at selected positions. Each of the pivot carriers has pivoted thereto a pair of arms. The outer ends of the arms are attached to each other by a pivot-carrying clamp. The pivot axes are all parallel so that two triangles lying in the same plane are formed. Paper holders may be attached to the arms at any selected position to display a flat pattern. When two such sets are used together, the flat pattern can be held in a 3-dimensional display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1992
    Inventor: Rafail N. Babitchenko
  • Patent number: 5046885
    Abstract: A plastic barricade is rigidized with limiting bolt and hinge so that it can be open to a fixed freestanding position of, for example, 40.degree.. Downward or collision forces with the barricade are compensated by providing compression molded end walls in the recesses in which the limiting bolt is placed. In addition, the hinge which includes a cylindrical male boss and a C-shaped female socket accommodates such forces by reason that the C-socket is also compression molded and includes additional strut means connected to its associated leg on the barricade frame unit for distributing any forces on the C-socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1991
    Inventor: Kurt W. Thurston
  • Patent number: 5042419
    Abstract: A portable signalling device is disclosed. The device comprises a housing having a longitudinal opening therein, a signal support slidably engaged in the longitudinal opening between a contracted position and an expanded position, and a clip on the housing. The signal support is capable of displaying a signal when the signal support is in the expanded condition. The clip is adjustable from a closed position, which secures the signal support in the contracted position and provides a slot suitable as a belt loop for securing the device on a belt or strap, to an open position allowing movement of the signal support to its expanded position and removal of the device from a closed belt or strap inserted through the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1991
    Inventor: Joel C. Bianco
  • Patent number: RE33709
    Abstract: A self-contained inflatable sign for temporary attachment to prominent portions of structures to provide a highly visible message day or night. The sign is an envelope made from translucent flexible panels which is inflated by a blower within the envelope which also contains a series of lights. A message banner is interchangeably held onto the envelope. When inflated the envelope becomes a strong illuminated sign capable of withstanding severe outdoor environments but light enough to be quickly and easily erected on highly visible but otherwise difficult to access portions of buildings or structures. An alternate version is specifically designed for mounting against the front of a commercial building as a marquee-type display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1991
    Inventor: Robert K. Vicino