Supporting Separate Axially Aligned Shaft Patents (Class 52/165)
  • Patent number: 12104394
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a post repair kit comprising a stake defined by a body, proximal end, and a tapered anchor end. The post repair kit comprises a hammer mechanism comprising a power portion and a reciprocating ram structure, the power portion forcibly driving the reciprocating ram structure in a reciprocating motion. The reciprocating ram structure comprises a rod structure having a proximal end coupled with the power portion. The reciprocating ram structure further comprises an offset member connected to a distal end of the rod structure. The offset member has a first hole and a second hole. The distal end of the rod structure is connected to the first hole, wherein the offset member and the rod structure are connected perpendicular to each other. The reciprocating ram structure further comprises an interchangeable adaptor end tool detachably connected to the offset member using a fastening mechanism at the second hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2024
    Inventors: Charles F. Solazzo, Jr., David Carson
  • Patent number: 12060968
    Abstract: The present technology generally relates to a solar radiation mitigation system mountable to a furniture element. The solar radiation mitigation system has a panel assembly. The panel assembly has a first panel capable of blocking a first radiation amount, and a second panel in operational relation with the first panel. The second panel blocks a second radiation amount. The panel assembly blocks a combined radiation amount greater than the first and second radiation amounts when the first and second panels are in operational relation. The solar radiation mitigation system comprises at least one adjustable arm comprising a distal arm connector connected to the first panel, a proximal arm connector being detachably attachable to the furniture element for mounting the system to the furniture element, and an elongated member extending from the proximal arm connector to the distal arm connector. The elongated member is adjustable to position and orient the first panel with respect to the furniture element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2024
    Inventor: Nancy Belanger
  • Patent number: 11846115
    Abstract: A modular, removable, and tool-free, user-installable fencing system includes modular, stand-alone bases that avoid the need to drill into or permanently modify expensive pool decks to secure the fence in place. The system includes fencing modules which include fence panels and a secure-access gate module that can be positioned and repositioned anywhere along the fence. The fence modules and gate modules are connected via hinge clips assembled onto the fence panels and poles inserted through the hinge clips and into the modular bases. The hinge clips allow rotation of the fence panels around the poles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2023
    Inventor: Frank Vingerhoets
  • Patent number: 11834806
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing foundations for uprights (1) by using metal sheets (2) embedded by vibration or by percussion comprising the steps of: a. arranging at least two sheets (2), each sheet (2) being provided with position adjustment means with respect to a connection element (5) between the sheet (2) itself and a connector (3) between the sheet (2) and upright (1); b. arranging a connector (3) between the sheet (2) and upright (1), adapted to be integrally connected to said upright (1) and provided with position adjustment means with respect to a connection element (5) between the sheet (2) and the connector (3) itself; c.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2023
    Assignee: FONSIDER S.R.L.
    Inventor: Giampaolo Tizzoni
  • Patent number: 11795726
    Abstract: A fence post sleeve assembly for facilitating a fence post to easily be removed or replaced includes a post guide which includes a first half that is coupled to a second half. The post guide defines a sleeve to insertably receive a fence post. Furthermore, the post guide is comprised of a rigid material thereby facilitating the post guide to be buried in a post hole without collapsing. In this way the fence post can be inserted or removed from the post hole. A base is attached to the post guide to inhibit the fence post from passing through the sleeve defined by the first half and the second half.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Inventor: David B. Stinson, Sr.
  • Patent number: 11793128
    Abstract: An irrigation apparatus to water, contain and support plants. The irrigation apparatus comprising a body portion comprised of a top portion and a bottom portion that join to form a liquid containment vessel that disperses liquid in a defined dispersal pattern through angled openings to at least one plant embedded in growth medium at grade or at elevation in a plant growth container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Inventor: John William Kendall
  • Patent number: 11744336
    Abstract: A walking cane may be transformed into an assistive device for sit-to-stand transfers. The device has two sets of opposing handles, which are to be grasped by the user and an assister during sit-to-stand transfers. The transformation is accomplished by deploying a second set of handles by pivoting or rotating from a stored to a utility position. The assistive device form can then be reversed by the user once standing by reversing the deployment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Inventors: Nicholas Craig Kinback, Ryan Thomas Kinback, Cody James Kinback
  • Patent number: 11746551
    Abstract: Disclosed is a pylon anchoring system in the form of an extruded strip that may be wrapped around, and affixed to, a pylon or post such that the pylon anchoring system is positioned beneath a sand line when the pylon or post is installed and set. Advantageously, when the post or pylon is installed such that the pylon anchoring strip is positioned beneath sand (or some other ground surface), a plurality of anchor elements on the system generate a counteracting force to any external force that might cause the pylon to shift from a set position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Inventor: Robert T. Ellingson
  • Patent number: 11680678
    Abstract: A non-invasive roof mounting adapter plate and method for installing same. In one embodiment, a mounting adapter for attaching an object to a generally flat surface includes an anchor plate having an upper surface and a lower surface, and one or more first apertures extending through the upper and lower surfaces, each first aperture including a counter-bore configured to receive a corresponding first elongated fasteners, each elongated fastener having a length sufficient to extend through and securely fasten the anchor plate to a support structure below the generally flat surface; and a second fastener extending normal from the upper surface of the anchor plate and configured to secure the object to the mounting adapter, wherein load forces from the object are directly transferred from the anchor plate to a support structure below the generally flat surface via the first elongated fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2023
    Inventor: Peter A. Corsi
  • Patent number: 11611309
    Abstract: Fixed-tilt solar arrays constructed from screw anchors. In some cases, purlins are attached directly to truss legs. In others, they are attached to truss caps joining the free end of each truss leg. In still further ones, screw anchors are driven in rows and interconnected by a pair of hinged members, one of which provides a mounting plane for solar panels. Each screw anchor may serve as a connection point for the trailing hinged member of the first foundation and the leading hinged member of the next foundation. In still further cases, a hinged truss cap may be used to accommodate different tilt angles with the same foundation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2023
    Assignee: Ojjo, Inc.
    Inventors: Greg McPheeters, Tyrus Hudson, Charles Almy, Jack West
  • Patent number: 11454044
    Abstract: A system for positioning post sleeves is provided including a plurality of post sleeve positioning devices and a spacing mechanism. Each post sleeve positioning device is configured to receive a respective post sleeve and to enable selective adjustment of a position and orientation of the respective post sleeve. The spacing mechanism is coupleable between the pair of post sleeve positioning devices to determine or control the position and orientation of the post sleeve received by one of the pair of post sleeves positioning devices relative to the post sleeve received by the other one of the pair of post sleeve positioning devices. Related systems and methods are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2022
    Inventor: N. Eric Knudsen
  • Patent number: 11299909
    Abstract: A post repair kit and method of reparation juxtaposition a lateral brace to a broken section and a new section of a fence post. The kit provides a stake with a proximal end that couples to a hammer mechanism having a reciprocating ram, and a tapered anchor end that drives into the ground. Interchangeable end adapter tools detachably attach to distal end of reciprocating ram. The end adapter tools may include a slotted bit that fits onto a flat stake, where the slot is open sided to allow the tool to fit over stakes that are bent at an edge. Other adapters may engage the stake at alternative points. The hammer mechanism drives the stake into the ground parallel to the post. Fasteners are driven into the stake to secure the stake against the post sections to provide lateral support to the mended junction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2022
    Inventor: Charles F. Solazzo, Jr.
  • Patent number: 11047409
    Abstract: A device for securing threaded rod relative to concrete and metal decking is provided. The device can include a housing with a securement portion and a flange, at least two plunger pieces that can be disposed within the securement portion, a first biasing member that can be arranged within the securement portion to urge the plunger pieces into engagement with the threaded rod, a bracket that can be disposed around a portion of the housing to provide rigid positioning of the housing to secure the housing perpendicular to the metal decking when concrete is poured over the metal decking, and a second biasing member that can be disposed around a portion of the housing to bias the flange away from the metal decking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2021
    Assignee: ERICO International Corporation
    Inventor: Michael H.-S. Oh
  • Patent number: 10951158
    Abstract: An adjustment mechanism for adjusting height of a support including a through hole and configured to mount a solar panel thereon is provided with a base including an upward extending side plate on a top, a vertical, elongated slot through the side plate, and holes upward oriented, equally spaced apart from the slot in which a lower portion of the support is engaged with each side plate; an adjustment plate including at least one peg on an inner surface and a central opening in which each peg is configured to fit into one hole; and a threaded fastener driven through the central opening, the slot and the through hole to adjustably fasten the adjustment plate, the side plate and the support together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: STRONGEN CO., LTD.
    Inventor: San-He Chang
  • Patent number: 10947783
    Abstract: A ladder stabilization system for holding a ladder in place on a support surface that can include a pair of opposed ladder stabilizer devices that are configured to be operatively placed in opposition to receive a bottom portion of the pair of spaced legs of the ladder to positionally fix the ladder relative to the vertical structure. The ladder stabilization system acts to secure and stabilize the bottom portion of the ladder to prevent the base of the ladder from sliding, skidding, or otherwise moving while a user is on the ladder. The present invention improves user safety and reduces the need for having a second individual support the base of the ladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: Olive Tree Inspirations, LLC
    Inventor: Paul H. Stevens, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10851561
    Abstract: A post assembly includes an elongate first portion having a upper first end and an opposing lower second end. The first portion configured for supporting a structure. The post assembly also includes a second portion formed from a non-deteriorating material coupled to the second end of the first portion. A coupling device couples the first portion to the second portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2020
    Assignee: ARV VENTURES, LLC
    Inventor: Aaron Valentine
  • Patent number: 10814756
    Abstract: A vehicle seat including: a frame member whose sectional shape includes a pair of facing portions extending in a specific direction; and a cap attached to terminals, in the specific direction, of the pair of facing portions and extending between the terminals of the pair of facing portions, wherein the cap includes a pair of pressing portions abutting on the terminals of the pair of facing portions from at least one of an inner peripheral side or an outer peripheral side and configured to suppress deformation of each of the terminals toward a side facing another of the terminals or a side opposite thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: TOYOTA BOSHOKU KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Yasuhiro Kato
  • Patent number: 10676887
    Abstract: A one-piece, Z shaped steel plate foundation comprising a main plate body extending the longitudinal length of the foundation from a top to a bottom of the foundation, a single rear flange extending perpendicular to the main plate body in a first direction at a rear edge of the main plate body, wherein the single rear flange does not extend past the main plate body in the direction opposite the first direction, a single front flange extending perpendicular to the main plate body in the direction opposite the first direction at a front edge of the main plate body, wherein the single front flange does not extend past the main plate body in the first direction; and a plurality of mounting holes at the top of the one-piece metal plate foundation configured for attachment to the structure to be supported.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2020
    Inventor: Gary L Reinert
  • Patent number: 10669993
    Abstract: A reinforcement assembly for a tower of a wind turbine is disclosed as having at least one generally cylindrical tower section with an exterior wall and an interior wall defining a height and a thickness therebetween. At least one generally cylindrical tower flange is coupled to the tower section, the tower flange having at least one vertical flange portion and at least one horizontal flange portion. At least one adjustable generally cylindrical reinforcing member has, at least one vertical member portion with at least one flexible portion coupled to the exterior wall of the tower section, and at least one horizontal member portion adjustably engaged with at least one adjusting spacer. Adjustment of the adjusting spacer aligns the reinforcing member with an adjacent tower flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2020
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Gregory Edward Cooper
  • Patent number: 10590619
    Abstract: A helical pier and extension shaft, one end of which is formed with a thickened hexagonally shaped female end coupler using a hot forging process that swedges and compresses the walls of the female coupler into a thickened hexagonal configuration, with subsequent heat treatment to recover and enhance yield and tensile strength to the entire main body section and female end coupler of the helical pier and extension shafts. A corresponding hexagonally shaped male coupler may be milled and inertia friction welded to the opposite end of each extension shaft, or alternatively hot forged and internally upset as an integral homogeneous part of each extension shaft, thereby completing construction of the extension shaft with opposing corresponding male and female hexagonal couplers. The forgoing helical pier has particular benefits in applications requiring deep soil penetration and/or when using a grouted helical pier system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2020
    Inventor: Thomas M. Ronnkvist
  • Patent number: 10398093
    Abstract: A stake consists of two planar panels joined on a longitudinal axis and angularly disposed with respect to one another. Lower portions of the panels converge to a tip on the axis, and an axial tang is formed at the top of the stake. An inwardly directed flange is formed near the top of each panel, the flanges being disposed substantially in a common plane, generally perpendicular to the panels. The flanges and the tang facilitate driving of the stake into a substrate by use of a power hammer, and the driven stake resists both upward and lateral displacement. It is especially adapted for the securement of edging for restraining paving and landscaping materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2019
    Assignee: TOOLBRO INNOVATORS, LLC
    Inventors: Philip J. Bahler, Kent R. Bahler
  • Patent number: 9574312
    Abstract: A sleeve for a post that is generally rectangular in horizontal cross-section, may have two or three panels, may have perforation which allow portions of one or more panels to be removed, may incorporate retroreflective materials, may have holes, bushings, and/or adhesive layers to facilitate attaching the sleeve to a post, may have top-bottom and side-to-side connectors to facilitate connecting the top of one sleeve to the bottom of another or the edge of one sleeve to an edge of another, may be accompanied by spacers to allow the sleeve to be connected to posts of different size and geometry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: EML PRODUCTS INC.
    Inventors: Christopher Scott Eaves, Willis Michael Morris-Lent
  • Patent number: 9394717
    Abstract: During ramming of a metal ground anchor for a fence post by applying force on its top plate, the anchor is often tilted, subsequently resulting in the tilted fence post. The tilt is compensated by utilizing a compensation plate (13), the dimensions and form of which correspond to the dimensions and form of the top plate (11) welded onto the ground anchor (10). The compensation plate is located above the top plate (11) and a post holder (2) is attached thereto. Downwards-protruding mounting flanges (131, 137) are located on two opposite edges of the compensation plate, aligning with downwards-protruding fixing flanges of the top plate. Elongated adjustment slots (132, 133) in the mounting flanges are aligned with holes in the fixing flanges of the top plate, enabling the flanges to be attached with bolts. The adjustment slots allow adjusting the compensation plate before the bolts are tightened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Inventor: Tuomo Paananen
  • Patent number: 9357829
    Abstract: A ground insertable holder has a first compartment that has a cylindrical inner space that holds a typical beverage container and a second compartment that holds various accessories, such as cell phones, snacks, etc. The device is ground secured by screwing the device into the ground via a screw that extends downwardly from the bottom of the device. An optional second beverage container holder can be removably attached to a mount located on the bottom of the device. The second compartment may be unitary and possibly monolithic with the first compartment or may be removably attached thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Inventors: Deanna Lynn Ikier, Tracey Perry Chastain
  • Patent number: 9151070
    Abstract: Provided herein are methods, devices and systems comprising an anchor post that has a shaft, at least one stabilizing element attached to the anchor post configured to resist movement of the anchor post, and at least one alignment element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Assignee: ANCHOR SYSTEMS (EUROPE) LTD
    Inventor: Ewan R. Smith
  • Patent number: 9038327
    Abstract: A seamless sheet installation system preferably includes a seamless sheet and a plurality of sheet retention devices. The seamless sheet is retained on a tube. A pair of rotating retention devices may be inserted into ends of the roll. Each rolling retention device includes a tube plug and a rotating handle. An end of the seamless sheet is secured to the top eave flange. The seamless sheet is held against a bottom of the eave purlin web with one of the plurality of sheet retention devices. The sheet retention device may have any suitable design. The seamless sheet is rolled out to successive purlins, wrapped over the top flange and anchored to a bottom of the vertical web with one of the plurality of sheet retention devices. The seamless sheet wrapping process is terminated at an opposing eave purlin or a ridge purlin. Insulation is then inserted between adjacent purlins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Inventor: Daniel J. Harkins
  • Publication number: 20150114053
    Abstract: A ground anchor having an elongated shaft with upper and lower ends, a grooved locking post on the upper end; an threaded auger fixed to the lower end, an engagement area for engaging an external tool, a sleeve mounted over the main shaft, which spins freely, and an attachment member configured to secure one or more of an external lock, chain, rope or cable attached to an external object to thereby anchor the external object when the main shaft is screwed into the ground, and a lock device configured to cover and lock onto the grooved locking post so the attachment member and sleeve cannot be removed, whereby the sleeve covers the main shaft and obstructs access to the main shaft to prevent unwanted persons from removing it.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2013
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventor: Todd Staller
  • Patent number: 9016656
    Abstract: A stabilizer which has general purpose use but which is particularly well suited for use with temporary real estate signs has an elongated body adapted for pivotal connection with a post for vertical swinging movement. A plurality of flanges or wings are spaced apart longitudinally at an opposite and free end of the body and define flat laterally extending anchoring surfaces. The free end of the stabilizer body is inserted into the soil on forceful downward swinging movement of the body and the lateral anchoring surfaces firmly secure the post against angular movement toward and away from the stabilizer. The stabilizer can be releasably stored in an upright position adjacent the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Inventor: Paul David Basconi
  • Patent number: 8978328
    Abstract: A protective foot is provided for a piece goods item, in particular a pylon section segment or a concrete pylon segment of a wind power installation. The protective foot has a bottom plate for receiving an end of the item and a fixing unit for releasable fixing to the end of the item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Wobben Properties GmbH
    Inventor: Harald Albrechts
  • Patent number: 8966837
    Abstract: A post sleeve provides a substantially permanent base for supporting a post for a fence or sign, and from which one post can be removed and replaced with another post. The sleeve includes a concrete body that is poured on site, using a sleeve core prepositioned in the post hole, and around which wet concrete is poured. After the concrete is cured, the core is removed, leaving a post sleeve cavity configured to receive a post. The core can be rigid, or can include a flexible shell and stiffener. A preformed post sleeve top can be attached to the sleeve core and positioned therewith in the post hole, to become a permanent part of the post sleeve, once the concrete cures. A drain is attached to the core, and remains in the sleeve when the core is removed, and can be a percolation chamber, or passage extending below the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Inventor: N. Eric Knudsen
  • Patent number: 8893444
    Abstract: A post securing system that secures a post in the ground, while allowing for a full range of vertical adjustment via a coupling assembly that includes an articulating ball joint element that is connected to a post support element secured within two clamp assemblies. The clamp assemblies each include an anchor assembly which, when assembled, secures at least three stake elements at a predetermined angle. The post securing kit includes both the coupling assembly and the anchor assembly to allow securing a post into a non-horizontal ground, while maintaining the desired vertical alignment of the post held therewithin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Imagine TF, LLC
    Inventor: Brian Edward Richardson
  • Patent number: 8875469
    Abstract: A sleeve for protecting from deterioration and anchoring an embedded end of a post in the ground. The sleeve, molded from unperforated, resilient material, conforms to the exterior post dimensions and extends for at least the desired embedment distance. One or more inwardly projecting notches are cut into the post. The sleeve includes one or more reversible snap domes molded into the sleeve at locations coinciding with the post notches. The snap domes flex to an outwardly concave position as the post is being inserted into the sleeve and then snap to an inwardly concave position once the post is fully installed and the snap domes align with the notches. The inward concavity of the snap domes extends into and engages the post notches to prevent the sleeve from being removed from the post. When embedded into the ground, backfill material prevents the snap dome from being deflected into the outward concavity position, thus anchoring both post and sleeve in the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventor: William R. Keller, Sr.
  • Patent number: 8875451
    Abstract: A screw-in foundation anchor for traffic, lighting and utility poles and the like. The anchor comprises a shaft with an upper end fixed to a base plate on which the pole base is attachable. A helical blade on the shaft allows the anchor to be driven into the earth by rotation. At least two notches are provided on the edges of the base plate, each notch sized to engage the shaft of an adjacent anchor. Multiple anchors can be strapped together in groups or bundles for storage and shipment, with the notches engaging adjacent anchor. Such an arrangement prevents dislodgement or shifting of the anchors in transit. This reduces the cost of shipping the anchors, decreases the likelihood of damage to the anchors during shipment, and improves the safety of handling the bundles and unloading the individual anchors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Pelco Products, Inc.
    Inventors: A. Philip Parduhn, Kevin S. Shook
  • Patent number: 8863450
    Abstract: A tilt tower and pipe auger anchor assembly comprising a tilt tower having a mast and a swing tube and a coax cable engaging both the mast and the swing tube, the mast has a near end, the near end has a mast flange plate with fastener holes therethrough. A pipe auger anchor has walls defining a generally hollow elongated body having a near end and a removed end, the near end including a pipe auger anchor flange plate mateable with the mast flange plate. The pipe auger anchor flange plate has fastener openings therein and fixedly attached to the near end perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the hollow elongated body and an auger at the removed end. The auger provides a penetration force when the body is rotated and the auger is engaged with the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Inventors: Charles Anderson, Joshua Anderson
  • Patent number: 8839572
    Abstract: Herein described is a post anchor apparatus and methods of use in erecting and anchoring posts in natural terrain. The apparatus of the present invention provides a convenient means of erecting a post in natural terrain while also providing improved strength, stability, and durability to the post. The apparatus comprises at least a housing for receiving the base of a post, a rod, stabilizer element for stabilizing the apparatus within the natural terrain, and an auger blade for driving the rod into the natural terrain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Inventor: Richard Lee
  • Patent number: 8820007
    Abstract: A post sleeve installation assembly includes: an elastomeric sleeve core shaped to form a post sleeve when positioned in uncured concrete, a removable stiffener inside the core, an aperture extending lengthwise in the stiffener, a locking element positioned within the core, and an assembly plate coupled to the stiffener. The assembly plate clamps to a prefabricated sleeve element, with the core and stiffener positioned within a post cavity of the sleeve element. an installation stake is positioned in the aperture and prevented from sliding upwards by the locking element. A release point on the assembly plate permits an operator to release the locking element for removal of the stake. To install a post sleeve, the operator positions the installation assembly, clamped to a prefabricated sleeve element, in a post hole with the stake resting on the bottom, then fills the hole with concrete, manipulating the stake to position the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Inventor: N. Eric Knudsen
  • Publication number: 20140196382
    Abstract: A support post structure includes: a ground plate mounted on a support post anchor driven into the ground or a concrete base; a support post; a universal joint for tiltably supporting a lower end of the post; a lower support plate placed on an upper end of the post; a spring; an upper support plate; a bolt inserted through the lower support plate, the spring, and the upper support plate; a nut threaded into the bolt; and a rope hanging between a mooring part of the bolt and a predetermined position near the lower end of the post. The support post is brought to a standing state when the rope is tightened by the nut and is tiltable in all directions when a guard fence receives a falling rock or the like, autonomously restoring to the initial standing state when the rock is removed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2012
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Applicant: PROTEC ENGINEERING, INC.
    Inventors: Yoichi Nishita, Toshimitsu Nomura, Shoichi Inoue
  • Patent number: 8656652
    Abstract: A safety anchor post system mountable to a pre-set anchor embedded in concrete for protecting a user from falling while working in precarious areas is provided. The system comprises a tubular post having a first end and a second end with a coil rod extending from the tubular post. A first sleeve is mounted at the second end of the post. A second sleeve is mounted between the first sleeve and the first end of the post with at least one rail member receivable within each sleeve. A clamping mechanism tightens against the rail members to releasably maintain the at least one rail member within each sleeve. A tie off device is mounted to the post. Upon releasably securing the at least one rail member within each sleeve and tying off to the tie off device, a worker is inhibited from falling from the support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Inventor: Jose M. Carrillo
  • Patent number: 8631618
    Abstract: The disclosure describes, in part, apparatuses and methods for installing structures (e.g., foundations, footings, anchors, abutments, etc.) at work sites, such as difficult-access work sites. In some instances, a rotating drill assembly is assembled over a target location in order to excavate a radial array of batter-angled shafts associated with the target location in preparation for the installation of a radial array of micropiles. An operator utilizes the rotating drill in combination with a foundation pile schedule/decision matrix to design and install the radial array of batter-angled micropiles. This disclosure also describes techniques for designing, fabricating and installing structural caps to be coupled to the installed radial array batter angled micropiles. These structural caps are lightweight and, thus, more portable to difficult-access sites where they are coupled to the micropiles forming a foundation for structure to be installed at the difficult-access site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Crux Subsurface, Inc.
    Inventors: Nickolas G. Salisbury, Freeman Alan Thompson
  • Patent number: 8627774
    Abstract: A ground lock is formed of a main shaft having a first latching structure near its upper end and a ground fastener at its lower end. A mating member provides a cooperative latching structure and slides on the main shaft between raised and lowered positions. In one of the raised or lowered positions, the two latching structures are latchable, allowing the mating member to drive the main shaft to engage or disengage the ground fastener. In the other of the raised or lowered positions, the second latching structure is non-latchable with the first latching structure such that the main shaft is disabled from driving the ground fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Inventor: Cordell Pearce
  • Patent number: 8590856
    Abstract: A metal post support ground spike is disclosed having a post receiving socket, and a flat plate. The flat plate is welded to four walls of the post receiving socket. The post support may also comprise a blades portion welded to the flat plate. The blades portion, post receiving socket and flat plate may all have reinforcement lines stamped therein and may comprise metals of varying thickness and rigidity. The flat plate may comprise the thickest and most rigid metal, whereas the post receiving socket and/or the blades may be made from a thinner and/or less rigid metal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Peak Innovations Inc.
    Inventors: Jianzhong Zhu, Simon Walker
  • Publication number: 20130263532
    Abstract: A set of two or more wedge-shaped braces are used to straighten and support a leaning pole or post, such as a utility pole that has been impacted by a vehicle or a storm. A first brace is inserted and driven down on the side of the hole toward which the pole is leaning, until the pole is restored to an upright position. A second brace is then inserted and driven down on the opposite side of the hole to support the pole in the upright position. If needed, additional braces are inserted and driven down into the hole around the circumference of the pole. The pole can thereby be supported in the upright position without backfilling the hole with soil or stone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2012
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Inventor: Larry Dabkowski
  • Publication number: 20130192149
    Abstract: A lockable post assembly includes a post member (12) having a vertical axis and an anchor portion (14) at a lower first end thereof. The anchor portion (14) has a head (16) and neck (18), the neck (18) defining a female constriction above the head (16). An anchor socket (22) secured within the ground is adapted to lockably receive the anchor portion (14) so as to hold the post member (12) upright. The anchor socket (22) has a keyed passageway (24) with an inward collar portion (26). The collar portion (26) defines a male constriction above a lower cavity (30). In use, the anchor socket (22) lockably receives the anchor portion (14) by the steps of inserting the anchor portion downwardly in a first orientation about the vertical axis so that the head (16) enters the lower cavity (30), and then rotating the anchor portion (14) to a second orientation about the vertical axis so that the head (16) is underneath or abuts a bottom surface of the collar portion (26).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2011
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: QUEUE SAFE AUSTRALIA PTY LIMITED
    Inventor: John Roach
  • Patent number: 8480043
    Abstract: A ground anchoring system for trash cans designed to secure trash cans from scavenging animals and during windy conditions. The apparatus comprises a steel pole assembly that is anchored in the ground with concrete and extends up from the ground. An upper end of the pole is provided with a decorative cap and at least one (1) hook provided at a position to engage the handles on at least one (1) trash can. The upper end further comprises a spring-loaded mechanism to allow the hooks to ride up and down the pole, thus allowing them to engage trash containers of different sizes, especially those of large wheeled totes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Inventor: Ronald B. Ventura
  • Publication number: 20130160380
    Abstract: A method of installing a support structure is provided for use in soft or unstable soil. The method forms a hole in the earth to a depth sufficient to support the structure, such as a utility pole or post. A pole support is placed in the hole and driven downward into the earth to form a supporting base at the bottom of the hole. The pole support in one embodiment has a helical screw at a bottom end and a flat supporting plate at the top end. The pole support is rotated by a drive member into the earth to position the support plate at the bottom of the hole. The support plate can have a hole in the top face to receive the drive member for rotating the support member to drive the screw into the earth. The drive member is then separated and lifted from the hole. The pole or post is positioned on the support plate and the hole is back-filled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2011
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: HUBBELL INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Jacob C. ATCHLEY
  • Patent number: 8468755
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a solar array support structure that includes a mounting structure extending a length and configured to receive a solar array. The solar array support structure further includes a support column extending from the mounting structure into a ground. Moreover, the solar array support structure includes a lateral force resistance component in communication with the support column in the ground, the lateral force resistance component being dimensioned to reduce pressure on the ground from a force transmitted by the support column in a first direction and a second opposite direction more so than any other two opposite directions located in the same plane as the first and second opposite directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Zuritis
  • Patent number: 8347584
    Abstract: A structural column assembly of the type used for erecting building structures and the like is bedded in a concrete footing formed in situ in an earthen hole. The column assembly includes a post whose bottom end is suspended above a floor of the hole by a stilt. The stilt includes a plurality of legs which extend from the post's bottom end and grip the hole floor through a plurality of cleats. The cleats help stabilize the column assembly during the concrete pour operation so that it does not shift out of position. The stilt legs are provided with a base pad, which is set below the bottom end of the post at a predetermined distance so that the concrete footing can be poured in a single operation immediately after the hole is formed. The stilt can accommodate posts made from wood, pre-cast concrete or any other known construction material. The stilts can be manufactured from formed flat steel or commercially available angle iron and channel stock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Morton Buildings, Inc.
    Inventors: Dave Fehr, Wayne A. Knepp, Paul Remmele
  • Patent number: 8347571
    Abstract: A structural column assembly of the type used for erecting building structures and the like is bedded in a concrete footing formed in situ in an earthen hole. The column assembly includes a post whose bottom end is suspended above a floor of the hole by a stilt. The stilt includes a plurality of legs which extend from the post's bottom end and grip the hole floor through a plurality of cleats. The cleats help stabilize the column assembly during the concrete pour operation so that it does not shift out of position. The stilt legs are provided with a base pad, which is set below the bottom end of the post at a predetermined distance so that the concrete footing can be poured in a single operation immediately after the hole is formed. The stilt can accommodate posts made from wood, pre-cast concrete or any other known construction material. The stilts can be manufactured from formed flat steel or commercially available angle iron and channel stock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Morton Buildings, Inc.
    Inventors: Dave Fehr, Wayne A. Knepp, Paul Remmele
  • Patent number: 8312888
    Abstract: A canopy anchor pad system that has a pad with a metal plate attached thereto and a fastening member that extends through the pad. The anchor pad system is attached to the leg of a canopy assembly and is of size and shape to accommodate a secondary weight such as a cooler that can be placed on the pad in order to anchor the leg of the canopy assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Inventor: Robert Rees, Jr.
  • Patent number: RE49472
    Abstract: A stake consists of two planar panels joined on a longitudinal axis and angularly disposed with respect to one another. Lower portions of the panels converge to a tip on the axis, and an axial tang is formed at the top of the stake. An inwardly directed flange is formed near the top of each panel, the flanges being disposed substantially in a common plane, generally perpendicular to the panels. The flanges and the tang facilitate driving of the stake into a substrate by use of a power hammer, and the driven stake resists both upward and lateral displacement. It is especially adapted for the securement of edging for restraining paving and landscaping materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2023
    Assignee: TOOLBRO INNOVATORS, LLC
    Inventors: Philip J. Bahler, Kent R. Bahler