Chalkboard Or Equivalent Means Having Easily Erasable Surface Patents (Class 434/408)
  • Patent number: 8622750
    Abstract: A whiteboard (10) comprising a transparent panel (12) locatable in front of a surface (18) and a screening means (14). The screening means (14) is changeable between a first state in which the view through the transparent panel (12) is unobstructed and a second state in which the screening means (14) obstructs the view through the transparent panel (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Clearboard Pty Ltd.
    Inventors: David Kali Alexander Balint, Edward Joseph Khoury
  • Publication number: 20140001982
    Abstract: A display ad system for door handles may include electronics that provide multisensory stimuli. In one embodiment, an end cap includes light and sound triggered by a motion detector. In another embodiment, an end cap includes fan-directed aromas triggered by a motion detector. In a third embodiment, a flexible grid of LED lights backlights the display ad in any time sequence desired, and may be motion-triggered as well. A door handle embodiment may also provide a note board surface as an alternative to showing display ads.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2012
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Inventor: Larry English
  • Publication number: 20130344472
    Abstract: A magnetic display unit includes: a display layer; a magnetic layer located behind the display layer; and a quick-release mechanism including an activator, wherein the quick-release mechanism is adapted to increase the distance between the magnetic layer and the display layer such that, when activated by the activator, the quick-release mechanism causes any magnets located along the display layer to be released from the display layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2012
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Inventor: Gary Peterson
  • Patent number: 8608486
    Abstract: A desktop shield system having a panel with a top surface and a bottom surface, the panel is clear or transparent, wherein a user can write on the top surface of the panel with a non-permanent marker, and a plurality of magnets on the bottom surface of the panel, wherein a template can be placed in between the bottom surface of the panel and a desktop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Inventors: Marla Brashear, Paul Lyons
  • Patent number: 8591131
    Abstract: A hand-held dry-erase board system for efficiently storing a writing instrument in the handle of a portable dry-erase board. The hand-held dry-erase board system includes a frame including a writable surface, a handle, wherein the handle includes an upper end and a lower end and wherein the upper end of the handle is attached to the frame and a clip, wherein the clip is attached to the handle and wherein the clip secures a marker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventor: Julia M. Rhodes
  • Publication number: 20130280691
    Abstract: A series of devices that allow for embedding of an image as a background while also affording the user the ability to write and print on the surface, with erasable capabilities, thus providing a multifunctional product for use in numerous industries. The devices are manufactured from predominately corrugated plastic. In one embodiment, a writable board, or peg board comprising a front panel and a rear panel wherein the panels are interconnected by parallel rows, or corrugations, these panels include a writable and erasable surface. The present invention relates to novel assemblies of conventional corrugated plastic sheets to better serve personal, business, and educational needs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventor: Tim O'Connor
  • Publication number: 20130273518
    Abstract: A portable, erasable sign for use in sporting events and public gatherings. The sign is self-supporting, but flexible enough to be carried and stored in a compact manner. The portable, erasable sign may include openings to facilitate holding of the sign. In certain embodiments, the sign may be rolled up when it is not being displayed. A strap, for example a Velcro strap, or an elastic band may be used to secure the sign in the rolled up position. The surface of the sign is such that any message printed thereon can be erased and replaced with a new message. In particular embodiments, the portable, erasable sign may be imprinted with the insignia for an organization, or a professional or university sports franchise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2013
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Inventor: James M. Papke
  • Patent number: 8556637
    Abstract: A method of forming a writable erasable area on an object includes selecting a glass sheet having a front surface and a back surface, where the front surface is opposed to and parallel to the back surface. An area of the object where the writable erasable area is to be located is selected. The selected area has a select non-flat shape. The shape of the glass sheet is conformed to the select non-flat shape. The glass sheet is then mounted on the object such that the glass sheet is located at the selected area of the object and conforms in shape to the selected area of the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Corning Incorporated
    Inventors: Jeffrey J. Domey, Matthew W. Fenton
  • Publication number: 20130224722
    Abstract: A system for attaching at least one writing tablet to a surface configured to receive the writing tablet, including a backing element and a tablet element. The backing element and tablet elements each comprise at least one surface with an array of touch fastening elements allowing the backing element and tablet element to be removably engageable to one another. At least one surface of the tablet element may comprise a surface allowing a user to draw or write on the surface in a dry or wet erase manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: FASTENATION, INC.
    Inventor: FASTENation, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8517329
    Abstract: A display board that may be supported on an easel stand includes a panel having a display surface on a front side thereof. A mounting interface is positioned adjacent a top edge of the panel and is configured for engagement with any one of a plurality of unique easel stand securing means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: James E. Nash, Craig Thompson, Daniel A. Japuntich
  • Publication number: 20130164730
    Abstract: Articles with rewritable writing surfaces thereon comprising a coating of hydrophilic silane or a hydrophilic water soluble polymer with hydroxyl groups which is crosslinked or chemically reacted to the surface. Also, methods for making such articles and methods for using such articles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY
    Inventors: Frederick J. Gustafson, Naiyong Jing, Justin A. Riddle, Willem V. Bastiaens
  • Publication number: 20130157247
    Abstract: An educational tool is provided that allows for multi-sensory utilization to promote learning in a student. The educational tool consists of a learning board having a plurality of sides whereby at least one side comprising a textured characteristic thereon to allow for tactile and kinesthetic manipulation of the board. Additionally, the present invention also utilizes a learning board having at least a second side having a substantially smooth surface whereby the smooth surface would serve to visually stimulate and allow for promotion of responses to the textured side of the board by the student.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2013
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Inventor: Catherine Janelle Savatovich
  • Publication number: 20130157246
    Abstract: A writing board including a flexible board having a front dry-erase surface and a rear surface within an outer boundary, and an adhesive layer having a first side adhered to the rear surface of the flexible board and a second, opposite side having a re-adherable and releasable adhesive. The adhesive layer extends to the outer boundary of the flexible board except in a selected area, and a visible indicator is on the flexible board front surface and overlies the selected area. The adhesive layer has a thickness between the first and second sides whereby the selected area of the flexible board is spaced by substantially that thickness from a surface to which the flexible board is adhered.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Inventor: David V. Shapiro
  • Patent number: 8454370
    Abstract: A tablet that is suitable for use underwater or in any extreme environment is provided. The tablet is designed, through the use of buoyant materials such as polystyrene, to have a slightly negative buoyancy at a depth of about fifty feet so that it can be very easy to manipulate underwater and will not sink or ascend rapidly if let go. A length of waterproof (plastic) vellum is stretched between two rollers to form a drawing or writing surface thereby enabling the user to easily record information on the vellum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Inventor: Mark L. Hagan
  • Patent number: 8454371
    Abstract: An improved chalkboard marking surface comprises a rollable, flexible sheet of polypropylene having two sides that are opposite one another, each having a generally flat surface. On one side, a layer of adhesive is applied to the polypropylene substrate. On the same side of the polypropylene substrate, a selectively removable release sheet is preferably applied to the layer of adhesive for the purpose of keeping foreign materials from attaching to the adhesive when the chalkboard surface is not in use. On the reverse side of the polypropylene substrate, a layer of ink is applied which forms an abrasive surface after it dries, and importantly, results in a chalkboard surface that is lighter in weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: WallCandy LLC
    Inventors: Allison Krongard, John A. Boris
  • Publication number: 20130126598
    Abstract: The reusable greeting card and envelope include a front leaf and rear leaf hinged together. An insert is removably placed within a slot in the front leaf and viewed through a window in the front leaf for viewing both sides of the insert. The rear leaf includes a modifiable message on a customizable greetings space, such as handwriting which can be removably placed. A scannable tag can be scanned by a smartphone to access a data storage location through the internet where customizable video and audio greetings can be provided for viewing by a recipient of the greeting card and re-recording when the greeting card is to be reused. The envelope has spaces thereon where address and return labels and postage can be removably placed. The envelope also includes a resealable closure allowing the interior of the envelope to be closed and reopened multiple times.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Inventors: Nicole Beadles, Robert Beadles, David Sandison
  • Publication number: 20130101979
    Abstract: A new design for a dry-erase board allows for writing on a clear top surface or a second surface under the clear top surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2011
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Inventors: Alfred D. Shanbour, II, Matthew D. Green, Troy M. Birdsong
  • Publication number: 20130101980
    Abstract: A method of forming a writable erasable area on an object includes selecting a glass sheet having a front surface and a back surface, where the front surface is opposed to and parallel to the back surface. An area of the object where the writable erasable area is to be located is selected. The selected area has a select non-flat shape. The shape of the glass sheet is conformed to the select non-flat shape. The glass sheet is then mounted on the object such that the glass sheet is located at the selected area of the object and conforms in shape to the selected area of the object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2011
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Inventors: Jeffrey J. Domey, Matthew W. Fenton
  • Publication number: 20130029311
    Abstract: Siloxane-based coatings for providing writable-erasable surfaces are provided. The coatings have many desirable characteristics and advantages over known coatings for writable-erasable surfaces. For example, the coatings cure rapidly under ambient conditions, have low VOC emissions upon curing, and have reduced tendency to form ghost images, even after prolonged normal use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: IDEAPAINT, INC.
    Inventor: IdeaPaint, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20120282590
    Abstract: A manipulation device, which is configured to be used with an interactive whiteboard, includes an elongated rod and a body portion. The elongated rod is connected to the body portion at one of its ends, and the body portion has an outer surface with a layer of foam disposed thereon. The layer of foam disposed on the body portion is configured to be displaced along an outer display surface of an interactive whiteboard so as to facilitate a manipulation of objects displayed on the interactive whiteboard by a user thereof. According to another aspect of the invention, the manipulation device is provided as part of an interactive teaching system, wherein the manipulation device is used in conjunction with an interactive whiteboard having an outer display surface, the interactive whiteboard being operatively coupled to a data processing device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2012
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventors: Joanne D. Kayati, Melissa Webber
  • Patent number: 8303749
    Abstract: The present invention is related to a method for manufacturing composite film. The method includes the following steps: a substrate is provided; an interface agent is uniformly spread on the substrate; a silicone compound is uniformly spread on the interface agent; a first mold processed with sandblasting is provided; the substrate and the silicone compound are disposed inside the first mold so that the silicone compound is contacted to the inner surface of the first mold; the substrate and the silicone compound are vulcanized by a predetermined time; afterward, a composite film with a writing layer and the substrate is formed. The present invention is characterized in that the silicone compound is uniformly mixed with 37.5% of first silicone, 37.5% of second silicone and 25% of dimethicone; the glass sand is composed of particles with diameter of 75±25 ?m and 125±25 ?m by proportion of 1:9.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Inventor: Chien-Hung Lee
  • Publication number: 20120244513
    Abstract: An improved chalkboard marking surface comprises a rollable, flexible sheet of polypropylene having two sides that are opposite one another, each having a generally flat surface. On one side, a layer of adhesive is applied to the polypropylene substrate. On the same side of the polypropylene substrate, a selectively removable release sheet is preferably applied to the layer of adhesive for the purpose of keeping foreign materials from attaching to the adhesive when the chalkboard surface is not in use. On the reverse side of the polypropylene substrate, a layer of ink is applied which forms an abrasive surface after it dries, and importantly, results in a chalkboard surface that is lighter in weight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2012
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Applicant: WallCandy LLC
    Inventors: Allison T. Krongard, John A. Boris
  • Publication number: 20120244514
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for guiding tool for a user, the apparatus comprising an organiser comprising a number of activity display zones each corresponding to a category of activities; activity tokens representing activities selected in n categories, each activity display zones receiving for display activity tokens representing activities selected in a corresponding category; an a number of score tokens corresponding to a number of points. The user places, on each activity display zone, activity tokens representing activities selected in the corresponding category, the activity display zones displaying their respective activities tokens forming, for the user, a visual representation of target activities and tracking means of activities actually performed, in each category, of points earned and lost by the user, and of benefits to the user, as a result.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2010
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Inventor: Joanne Duquette
  • Patent number: 8245423
    Abstract: A system for alerting medical emergency personnel to a medical history of a patient. The system has a primary identifier suitable for attachment near an entrance to a building. The primary identifier has an indicia noting that a tri-fold portfolio is present. A secondary identifier is provided suitable for placement in the building wherein the secondary identifier has the indicia and a location of the tri-fold portfolio. The tri-fold portfolio has an outer portion with a top front cover and a bottom front cover with a back hingedly attached there between. Cascading file folders are attached to an interior of the back wherein when the top front cover and the bottom front cover are folded the cascading file folders are covered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Inventor: Janet M. Goslee
  • Publication number: 20120196269
    Abstract: Disclosed is a display system that combines the advantages of a dry-erase surface with a customized, interchangeable background so that information and or fields over which dry-erase markings are made are integrated with the background display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2011
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Applicant: ID Signsystems, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeff Ureles, Paul Dudley
  • Patent number: 8230627
    Abstract: Kits for decorating a bicycle frame are provided. In one embodiment, the kits may comprise a decal, a bicycle frame, and an attachment point disposed on the frame wherein the decal is adopted to be removably attached to the bicycle frame at the attachment point. Alternatively, the kits may comprise a bicycle frame, and a decorable surface affixed to the bicycle frame wherein the surface is adopted to receive removable decorations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Inventors: Johnathan Soll, Amanda Soll
  • Patent number: 8221130
    Abstract: An improved chalkboard marking surface comprises a rollable, flexible sheet of polypropylene having two sides that are opposite one another, each having a generally flat surface. On one side, a layer of adhesive is applied to the polypropylene substrate. On the same side of the polypropylene substrate, a selectively removable release sheet is preferably applied to the layer of adhesive for the purpose of keeping foreign materials from attaching to the adhesive when the chalkboard surface is not in use. On the reverse side of the polypropylene substrate, a layer of ink is applied which forms an abrasive surface after it dries, and importantly, results in a chalkboard surface that is lighter in weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: WallCandy LLC
    Inventors: Allison T. Krongard, John A. Boris
  • Publication number: 20120178074
    Abstract: A dry erase whiteboard, or other writing or projection surface assembly, is formed from a backing substrate having a surface, and an inner conductive layer and an outer conductive layer supported by the surface of the substrate. A resistive layer is positioned between the inner conductive layer and the outer conductive layer. The resistive layer has an electrical resistivity that varies in response to mechanical deformation and/or stress to provide a variable effective resistance between the inner and outer conductive layers. The outer conductive layer can be immovably attached to a fixed frame, which is mounted to the substrate, in spaced apart relation to the inner conductive layer to define an air gap therebetween and a tensioning assembly can maintain the outer conductive layer in a tensioned state. Alternatively, the resistive layer is fixed directly to each conductive layer to provide a substantially air free environment therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2012
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Applicant: EGAN TEAMBOARD INC.
    Inventors: Sean Rigby Brown, James G. Long, Jithesh Kumar Patel, John Geoffery Walmsley, James Arthur Egan, Teresa Acs
  • Publication number: 20120164610
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and method of utilizing flashcards-like clipboards, wet erase pen, die cut alphabet letters and numbers, and magnetic receiver plates having female die cut holes for the die cut letters and numbers, etc. for children to learn while playing games. The clipboard of the present invention is generally rectangular with concave sides and rounded corners. It has many unique features including a wet-erase surface for writing and learning, an integral clip for clipping additional notes, an ID holder for holding identification card. It can also be used for tabbing projection above a sheet of paper and as an aid to help electronic book reading for children and adults with reading challenges. The clipboard is also designed to be accompanied by additional clipboards held together by a book ring that can be worn with a lanyard or put in a pocket as flashcards.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2011
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Inventor: Steven Patrick Pascale
  • Publication number: 20120129146
    Abstract: Various articles, such as notebooks, notepads, journals and folders, that include an integrated or integral erasable writing panel. The writing panel may be a cover member of the article, e.g., on a front surface thereof, and includes a substrate and a transparent or translucent sheet superposed relative to the substrate to overlie or be apart from the substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2010
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Applicant: Horizon Group USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Roshan WIJERAMA
  • Patent number: 8136680
    Abstract: The mounting system may be used to support a display on a support surface. The mounting system may include a top rail secured to the support surface. The mounting, system may also include a mounting arm hung from the top rail and a support rail attached to the mounting arm that supports the whiteboard. The mounting system may provide permanent or removable attachment to the support surface that may interchangeably accommodate a variety of displays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Tequipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Rob Sugarman
  • Publication number: 20120064503
    Abstract: Mounting systems can releasably secure display devices to preexisting surfaces for convenient installation and removal without external tools. A mounting system can comprise lower magnetic assemblies, upper magnetic assemblies, and a mounting sheet. The lower magnetic assemblies can be secured to a rear surface of a display device, for releasably attaching the display device to a preexisting surface. A bottom portion of the mounting sheet can be secured to the rear surface of the display device, while a top portion of the mounting sheet can remain loose from the rear surface. The upper magnetic assemblies can be provided along the loose top portion of the mounting sheet, for releasably attaching the display device to the preexisting surface. The upper magnetic assemblies can retain their connection to the preexisting surface as the display device is pulled away from the preexisting surface, until a threshold condition is met.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2010
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Applicant: Polyvision Corporation
    Inventors: John Helton, Peter W. Hildebrant, Michael Boyle, Douglas MacDonald, Paul A. Balogh, Dale Miller, Robert Bergman
  • Publication number: 20110287402
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is put forth in this unique invention that together transform readily available consumer eReaders, such as various models of Amazon Kindles and the Barnes and Nobel Nook, into repurposed digital learning devices which can then also serve as digital writing platforms for children and others to write on digital workbooks and other learning content of the inventor's design, covered in previous patent applications, as appended hereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2011
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Sanford
  • Patent number: 8047851
    Abstract: A wall-mounted storage and organization organizer for notes, memos, calendars, business cards, reminders, keys and the like, comprising a multi-door cabinet is herein disclosed. The organizer has approximate dimensions of twenty-eight (28) inches in height, twenty (20) inches in width, and three (3) inches in depth. The front door is provided with a clear pane under which photographs, calendars and the like can be placed on a second door in a neat manner for all to see without opening the outer door. When additional doors of the organizer are opened, additional organizational spaces are provided. The organizer further provides cork board surfaces and white board surfaces as well as a magnetic tray for holding dry erase markers and an eraser. Such surfaces would allow users to leave themselves or others messages or large notes. The rearmost door provides a mounting means thereto a wall surface and provides a series of varying sized pockets capable of holding small business cards up to a large sheet of paper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Inventor: Tracy Baxter
  • Patent number: 8042308
    Abstract: A system for releasably attaching a panel to a wall. The panel is provided with a front surface intended to be visible to an observer once the panel has been installed upon the wall at a rear surface opposite the front surface supporting a plurality of magnets. A corresponding plurality of brackets are attached to the wall and positioned such that when the panel is properly positioned upon the wall, the panel is releasably secured thereto by causing the plurality of magnets to be secured to the plurality of brackets. The panels can abut one another to create a variety of useful surfaces such as pegboard, corkboard, chalkboard, fabric and magnetic bulletin boards. The brackets can be oriented to obscure them from a viewer and can also be reoriented to provide a releasable attachment means for a frame to surround the panels for a more finished, aesthetic appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Williams-Sonoma, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott L. Sullivan, Hee-seung Chung
  • Publication number: 20110244442
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention include an apparatus and method for capturing marker or pen strokes on a whiteboard, and creating output video signal that shows how the contents of the whiteboard changes over time during a lecture or presentation. A conventional whiteboard surface is used. Conventional whiteboard tools, such markers, are fit with holders or adapters to allow their state (e.g., marker color, marker up, marker down, marker position) to be sensed as human interface device (HID) events. Other parameters affecting how the output video may be entered through a whiteboard user interface. HID events are converted into video output signal by a whiteboard video generator, using the HID events to maintain an up-to-date representation of the cumulative state of the whiteboard surface. This cumulative state is regularly transmitted as digital and/or analog signal to output ports.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2011
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Applicant: VADDIO, LLC
    Inventors: Robin Sheeley, William Graham
  • Publication number: 20110195393
    Abstract: A whiteboard (10) comprising a transparent panel (12) locatable in front of a surface (18) and a screening means (14). The screening means (14) is changeable between a first state in which the view through the transparent panel (12) is unobstructed and a second state in which the screening means (14) obstructs the view through the transparent panel (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2009
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Applicant: Clearboard Pty Ltd
    Inventors: David Kali Alexander Balint, Edward Joseph Khoury
  • Patent number: 7980857
    Abstract: This invention relates generally to writing boards, and more particularly to reusable and foldable boards that permit writing to be easily removed. In one embodiment, a writing board comprises a substrate comprising a front panel, a rear panel opposite the front panel, and a plurality of spaced apart ribs connecting the front panel to the rear panel, wherein the front panel and the rear panel are integrally formed with the plurality of ribs. The writing board of this embodiment further includes at least one backslit formed in the rear panel, at least one living hinge formed in the front panel opposite the at least one backslit to form at least one outer panel, and at least one holding mechanism coupled to the at least one outer panel to maintain the outer panel in one of a substantially open, unfolded position or a substantially closed, folded position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Tenex Corporation
    Inventors: Albert B. Cheris, Paul A. Moniuszko, Morad Ghassemian, Paul C. Bond, Robert J. Glenn, II
  • Patent number: 7963772
    Abstract: The present invention concerns that of a new and improved learning apparatus that includes a base with an appealing shape, a covered amount of writing media for a toddler or child to write on repeatedly, and a storage area on the base for placement of at least one learning book. The base preferably has a shape that is interesting and fun for children, such as an apple. Attached to the base is a frame that encloses a writing medium underneath a transparent, flexible cover. The cover gives toddlers and children the ability to write on the transparent cover, while at the same time, allowing an individual, such as a parent or guardian, to remove the writing placed on the cover by merely wiping it off. The learning apparatus also includes a storage area that could be used to house at least one educational book.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Inventor: Shane F. Blazvick
  • Publication number: 20110143330
    Abstract: A communication article comprising a face layer on the front side of said article, said face layer having structured front surface and a base layer, wherein the face layer has a fluorine content of 0.02 mass % to 0.1 mass % in a solid basis. Preferred embodiments further comprise a buffer layer disposed between the face layer and base layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventors: Keiko Shimada, Masami Miura, Hidetoshi Abe, Mamoru Kanno
  • Publication number: 20110104655
    Abstract: An improved chalkboard marking surface comprises a rollable, flexible sheet of polypropylene having two sides that are opposite one another, each having a generally flat surface. On one side, a layer of adhesive is applied to the polypropylene substrate. On the same side of the polypropylene substrate, a selectively removable release sheet is preferably applied to the layer of adhesive for the purpose of keeping foreign materials from attaching to the adhesive when the chalkboard surface is not in use. On the reverse side of the polypropylene substrate, a layer of ink is applied which forms an abrasive surface after it dries, and importantly, results in a chalkboard surface that is lighter in weight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2011
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventors: Allison T. Krongard, John A. Boris
  • Patent number: 7934288
    Abstract: An eraser for use in erasing markings on boards, such as chalk boards and white boards, is provided. The eraser comprises a form-fitted finger element made from a knitted or felted fabric. The finger element consists of a tubular member that defines a longitudinally extending finger passage. The tubular member has one open end and one closed end. The open end is sized such that the finger of the eraser user is insertable through the open end, so that at least a portion of the finger is received within the finger element passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Inventor: Danielle Waldman
  • Publication number: 20110086335
    Abstract: A portable dry erase notepad for instantly jotting down notes, daily tasks, measurements for engineering and construction, grocery lists, phone numbers, e-mail and home addresses, sketches, etc. while in the car, in the workplace, in class; and at a meeting, party, or any event. The portable dry erase notepad includes a note screen comprises a rectangular panel of dry erase material with rounded edges and or a material being metallic or plastic with a gloss-white dry-erase coating. The note screen is framed in a leather or vinyl faux leather exterior cover that securely seats the note screen leaving the clear or white dry-erase surface exposed. An elastic loop is sewn into the margins of the exterior cover for securing a dry erase marker pen alongside. The dry erase marker pen is equipped with an eraser.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2010
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Inventor: Michael H. Rogers
  • Patent number: 7901213
    Abstract: A marker screen assembly includes a housing, a first screen stored within the housing and movable to an extended position, and a second marker screen stored within the housing and movable to an extended position. The second marker screen has a writing surface designed to be repeatably written upon and erased and is configured to overlay at least a portion of the first screen when both the first and second screens are in the extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: ACCO Brands USA LLC
    Inventor: Steven J. Beno
  • Publication number: 20110045454
    Abstract: A modular, portable writing and projection system having a variable curvature is disclosed. The system uses dry erase boards, chalk or black boards, or other flexible panels having at least one writing surface. The panels have edges for joining to posts. The system combines panels to form a large, modular system for use at meetings, gatherings or other assemblies. The system allows a large number of users to contribute to a presentation, and also allows users to view the presentation. Because the panels are flexible, the system may be curved, allowing more panels to be mounted, used, written on and viewed, within limited space. The panels may be used in either a convex or concave manner, i.e., curved in or curved out, as desired. The resistance of the panels to remaining in a curved state is overcome by feet on the posts and braking or holding devices on the feet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Inventors: Michael McManus, Stephen Spencer, Donald MacDonald, John Crowley, Joseph Ballay
  • Patent number: 7878812
    Abstract: An improved chalkboard marking surface comprises a rollable, flexible sheet of polypropylene having two sides that are opposite one another, each having a generally flat surface. On one side, a layer of adhesive is applied to the polypropylene substrate. On the same side of the polypropylene substrate, a selectively removable release sheet is preferably applied to the layer of adhesive for the purpose of keeping foreign materials from attaching to the adhesive when the chalkboard surface is not in use. On the reverse side of the polypropylene substrate, a layer of ink is applied which forms an abrasive surface after it dries, and importantly, results in a chalkboard surface that is lighter in weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Wallcandy LLC
    Inventors: Allison T. Krongard, John A. Boris
  • Patent number: 7874842
    Abstract: A display board assembly includes a polymeric board having edges, a backing coupled with the polymeric board and configured to engage a mounting surface, and a dry erase surface coupled with the polymeric board. The backing is spaced inwardly from the edges of the polymeric board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: ACCO Brands USA LLC
    Inventor: Steven J. Beno
  • Patent number: 7874843
    Abstract: A writing or drawing tablet that is suitable for use in an underwater or any extreme environment is provided. A length of waterproof (plastic) vellum is stretched between two rollers over a flat surface thereby enabling the user to easily draw or write on the vellum to save the drawing and writing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Inventor: Mark L. Hagan
  • Patent number: 7862341
    Abstract: A mobile furniture and accessory system for an office environment includes storage components, table or desk components, screen or partition components, paper management components, marker board components, computer support furniture and the like, for use in facilitating flexibility in manufacturing such components to user specifications and in arranging such components according to user requirements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Krueger International, Inc.
    Inventors: James M. Durand, Timothy J. Bouche, Lon D. Seidl, June M. Klauck, Steve J. Nemeth, Jr., Timothy G. Hornberger, Greogry R. Wallace, Jason Lind
  • Publication number: 20100319228
    Abstract: A magnetic sign and accompanying method for advertising a property is described. A sign with property information, and/or an owner/seller's contact information is magnetically attached to an automobile, effectively creating a mobile advertisement for a personal property. The inventive method may be utilized by private sellers, selling personal property, or by a larger entity, such as a real estate company.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2009
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Inventor: Tim Yablonowski