Sign; E.g., Nameplate Or Ornament Patents (Class 52/38)
  • Patent number: 11543072
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a display stand has a mounting seat connected on a support structure, internally provided with an accommodating cavity and having a slot communicated with the accommodating cavity at the top in an open way, a supporting arm having an insertion end capable of being inserted into the accommodating cavity of the mounting seat from the slot of the mounting seat, and a locking mechanism disposed on the mounting seat or supporting arm, for locking or unlocking the insertion end of the supporting arm in the accommodating cavity. When the insertion end of the supporting arm is locked, the supporting arm is limited within the accommodating cavity of the mounting seat, and when the insertion end of the supporting arm is unlocked, the insertion end of the supporting arm may be taken out from the slot of the mounting seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2023
    Assignee: LOCTEK ERGONOMIC TECHNOLOGY CORP.
    Inventors: Lehong Xiang, Tao Lin, Tongwang Shao
  • Patent number: 11415264
    Abstract: A bracket assembly for mounting a display monitor to a support structure has a back plate configured to mount to the support structure; a back plate extension disposed along one side of the back plate; a front plate configured to mount to the display monitor; a front plate extension disposed along one side of the front plate; a contact surface formed by the front plate extension overlapping the back plate extension, the contact surface transferring a weight of the monitor to the support structure; and a volume at least partially enclosed by the front and back plates and extensions for housing an electronic component between the display monitor and the support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2022
    Assignee: Karl Storz Endoscopy-America, Inc.
    Inventors: Mitchell D. Bullock, Thomas Whitehurst
  • Patent number: 10982827
    Abstract: Disclosed is a modular assembled outdoor lighting device and an installation method thereof, light pole structure. It includes a base, a main pole, a lamp, a function device fixedly connected to the main pole, and an auxiliary pole fixedly connected to the top of the main pole. At least one concave or convex mounting surface is provided on the outer edge of the auxiliary pole, the lamp is fixedly connected to the mounting surface, the base is fixedly connected to the bottom of the main pole, and at least one outer surface of the main pole is provided with a mounting groove, and a fixing member is embedded in the mounting groove. A module board, as a spliced structure, is sleeved on the outer edge of the main pole. The module board includes at least one daughter board and/or at least one mother board fixedly connected to the fixing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2021
    Inventor: Shiyou Cheng
  • Patent number: 10935754
    Abstract: A solar trough frame for holding solar mirrors includes a plurality of chords. The frame includes a plurality of extruded profiles, including chords, chord sleeves, struts, strut end pieces and mirror support pieces, each chord sleeve having at least one chord sleeve fin, each chord sleeve positioned about one of the chords. The frame includes a plurality of struts, at least one of the struts having a strut end piece having at least one strut fin that connects with a chord sleeve fin to connect the plurality of chords. The frame includes a platform supported by the chords and struts on which the solar mirrors are disposed. A chord sleeve for connecting a chord of a solar frame which supports solar mirrors to a strut end piece extending from a strut of the solar frame. A strut end piece for connecting the strut of a solar frame which supports solar mirrors to a chord sleeve of the solar frame. A method for linking a strut of a solar frame which supports solar mirrors to a chord of the solar frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2021
    Assignee: Werner Extrusion Solutions LLC
    Inventors: Craig Roy Werner, Kurt James Werner, John Funai
  • Patent number: 10753116
    Abstract: Pedestals, pedestal systems, and methods of mounting a slab on a pedestal are described herein. The pedestals have a slab placement surface containing a vase assembly receiving area that can safely support and display a slab combined with protruding vase cup. The vase cup protrudes through a mounted slab into the vase assembly receiving area and does not interfere with the slab sitting against the slab placement surface of the pedestal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Inventor: Alexis G. Heath
  • Patent number: 10638720
    Abstract: A plastic litter box has reinforced corners with support holes for posts. Rectangular, square or triangular shapes are included. Each post has a hook. A singular piece curtain is hung on the hooks all around the inner walls of the base of the litter box. The pet entrance is left open without the curtain. The curtain hangs down about half way along the sides of the base. The base walls can extend outward at the middle and be straight sided, or can have inward slanting walls to cause a contact with the curtain and keep waste from getting behind the curtain. The base corners can be contoured to eliminate any waste buildup and facilitate cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2020
    Inventor: Maureen L. Dehne
  • Patent number: 9200620
    Abstract: Jacket structure for offshore constructions, particularly jacket structure for an offshore wind turbine is disclosed. The jacket structure includes a number of profiles in axial or angled alignment and a number of connecting members. A connection of the profiles and/or the connecting members is established by means of a bolted-connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Assignee: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventor: Henrik Stiesdal
  • Patent number: 9080292
    Abstract: A method of forming a base around a mailbox that is mounted upon a support assembly that projects upwardly from a surface on subjacent ground. The method includes the steps of: obtaining a plurality of base components each with an upwardly facing surface; and operatively placing and connecting the plurality of base components so that at least first and second of the base components are connected, each to the other, so that the upwardly facing surfaces on the plurality of base components cooperatively define an upwardly facing surface area over the subjacent ground surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2015
    Inventor: Ronald Martinez
  • Patent number: 8898979
    Abstract: A modular panel unit according to one embodiment includes a major subunit adapted for being secured to a keyed backing panel, and at least one minor subunit. The major subunit includes at least one connector adapted for coupling to a corresponding connection feature of the keyed backing panel in order to secure the major subunit to the keyed backing panel; and one or more coupling features. Each minor subunit includes: one or more couplers adapted for coupling to the one or more coupling features of the major subunit in order to secure the minor subunit to the major subunit. Additional systems and methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Lenovo Enterprise Solutions (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.
    Inventors: Paula Besterman, Aaron R. Cox, Scott R. LaPree, Michael J. MacPherson, Mark D. Pfeifer
  • Patent number: 8610642
    Abstract: A built structure having an upward facing surface having a first image positioned thereon. The first image is visible from craft passing overhead and revenue is derived from the image on the upward facing image. The image is an active image that is controlled by a local controller so that the image can be replaced by a fresh image from a remote computer that communicates with the local controller via the internet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Inventor: Andrew Winton
  • Patent number: 8590184
    Abstract: Disclosed is a displayed device having a top and bottom elongate rail and a display module for displaying alpha numeric information to passengers on a mass transit vehicle. The display modules may be mounted along a top and bottom edge directly to the top and bottom elongate rails. End caps are mounted to the ends of the elongate rail forming a structurally sound frame about the display module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Luminator Holding L.P.
    Inventors: Ramin Safavi, Xiaoping Zhou, Zhicun Gao, Larry Taylor
  • Patent number: 8458942
    Abstract: An alignment guide for maintaining perpendicularity between an elongated anchor rail secured to an overhead support and a sign supporting elongated adjustment rail, comprising: a guide housing having an anchor rail receiving channel arranged across an upper surface thereof; an adjustment rail receiving channel arranged across a lower side of the guide housing, wherein the anchor rail receiving channel and the adjustment rail receiving channel are perpendicular to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Rose Displays, Ltd.
    Inventors: David E. Pitcher, Rebecca C. Suciu, Thomas P. Burrous, Alan L. Stenfors, Sidney Rose
  • Patent number: 8438809
    Abstract: Systems, apparatuses, and methods configured for installing a decorative feature having a wave-like appearance. For example, a system for installing the decorative feature can include one or more mounts configured to attach to a support structure and support one or more decorative panels. The system can also include a plurality of decorative panels configured to be disposed within or supported by the mounts. Each decorative panel can have a concave or convex configuration to produce a wave-like appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: 3form, Inc.
    Inventors: Allan R. Ismay, Richard C. Perrior
  • Patent number: 8341859
    Abstract: A system for installing and maintaining a display on a structure. The system includes at least one guide system having a pair of guide rails that have a first end accessible from the roofing surface of the structure and a second end attached to the side exterior wall of the structure. The guide rails each define a track that is designed for sliding receipt of guide pins disposed on a bottom side of a frame member. The guide pins are engaged within the track of each of the guide rails and remain engaged within the track of the guide rails such that the frame member can be slidingly positioned on the first end of the guide rails or, in a second position where the frame member is positioned on the second end of the guide rails. A selected display or sign is attached to a top side of the frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Inventors: Kelly Culiver, Andrew Rentsch
  • Patent number: 8240071
    Abstract: An advertising device, where one exemplary use is as a “stripper pole” having associated ad material. The ad material can be placed inside a portion of the pole and be visible through a protective cover, and be dynamic. Additionally, the stripper pole may be in a variety of sizes and shapes and may include lighting, rotating mechanisms, engraving and suspended objects. The advertising device includes a connecting element that attaches to at least one end, and optionally between two ends, with a gap between an inner element and an outer element where advertising material can be placed in the gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Pole Positioning LLC
    Inventor: Aaron Montell
  • Patent number: 8220215
    Abstract: Systems, apparatuses, and methods configured for installing a decorative feature having a wave-like appearance. For example, a system for installing the decorative feature can include one or more mounts configured to attach to a support structure and support one or more decorative panels. The system can also include a plurality of decorative panels configured to be disposed within or supported by the mounts. Each decorative panel can have a concave or convex configuration to produce a wave-like appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: 3form, Inc.
    Inventors: Allan R. Ismay, Richard C. Perrior
  • Publication number: 20120047784
    Abstract: A warning sign for attachment to a load bearing wall in a building, the wall having an inner supporting structure covered with an outer layer. The sign is mountable on the supporting structure of the wall before the structure is covered with the outer layer of material so that the sign is not normally visible. The sign becomes visible only on removal of the outer layer such as during renovation. The sign has a message on its side facing outwardly from the structure, when the sign is attached to the structure, to warn a person viewing the sign when the sign is visible. The message warns the viewer that the wall is a load bearing wall and that the removal of the wall could have dangerous consequences. The invention is also directed toward a load bearing wall incorporating the sign and the use of the sign in a load bearing wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: Dennis St. Denis
  • Patent number: 8006417
    Abstract: An advertising device, where one exemplary use is as a “stripper pole” having associated ad material. The ad material can be placed inside a portion of the pole and be visible through a protective cover, and be dynamic. Additionally, the stripper pole may be in a variety of sizes and shapes and may include lighting, rotating mechanisms, engraving and suspended objects. The advertising device includes a connecting element that attaches to at least one end, and optionally between two ends, with a gap between an inner element and an outer element where advertising material can be placed in the gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Pole Postitioning, LLC
    Inventor: Aaron Montell
  • Patent number: 7997033
    Abstract: Pultruded fiberglass sign panels having overall and cross-section designs useful for replacing aluminum alloy highway signs are disclosed. The construction materials of the pultruded fiberglass sign panels consist of a glass roving; glass reinforcement matt; and a resin matrix. The glass content of the sign panels contain recycled or virgin glass, preferably about 16% by weight or 35% by volume of recycled or virgin glass. The resin matrix comprises thermoset isophthalic polyester that is about 42% to about 44% by weight or about 60% to about 62% by volume. The glass reinforcement matt used in the pultruded fiberglass sign panel comprises a hybrid E/A glass reinforcement matt and the pultruded fiberglass sign panel has a panel width of about 6 inches to about 36 inches, and a length of about 1 foot to about 50 feet. Two or more sign panels can be fastened together to produce a multi-panel system for making highway sign blanks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Centerline Supply, Ltd.
    Inventors: Jeff Tumlinson, Foy Barrett
  • Patent number: 7878809
    Abstract: The training headwall is a self-contained unit that delivers air and vacuum to medical gas outlets. Each training headwall contains a minimum of two motors, one a compressor to provide simulated gas flow, and the other a vacuum pump to provide a vacuum run off of electricity supplied from a standard electrical outlet. Because the training headwalls are not used on actual patients there is no need to deliver actual medical gases. Instead, the compressor pumps air to medical gas outlets that are labeled as desired, and may be attached to the appropriate secondary medical equipment, while the vacuum delivers a vacuum to the appropriately labeled gas outlet. Students may use the training headwall to practice patient care procedures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Inventors: Rebecca Shana Miller, John M. Sharer
  • Patent number: 7735792
    Abstract: The mounting bracket has a flange which reaches in between portions of the open office structure and releasably engages in the slots in the post of the open office structure. The releasable engagement comprises tee-shaped hooks, configured so that they engage reversibly in the slots in either of the posts on the left or right side of the office entryway opening. A web on the flange carries an identification plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Inventor: Stuart M. White
  • Publication number: 20090307989
    Abstract: An integrated advertising and building structure includes a housing having a top wall and at least one side wall, a door in the housing for accessing an interior space in the housing and a display device carried on the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2006
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventor: James H. Johnson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7621061
    Abstract: A display apparatus includes a wall portion having an opening defined by an opening edge portion that surrounds the opening. The opening defines an opening width and an opening height and the opening edge portion, at least in part, is generally defined by a first plane. The apparatus also includes a face frame portion having an outer frame edge, an inner frame edge, a first frame surface, a generally opposing second frame surface. The apparatus further includes a recessed portion having a first outer peripheral edge surrounding a central recess. The recessed portion at least partially extends into the opening. The inner frame edge includes a peripheral bead for at least partially guiding a working tool as a compound is applied to at least a portion of the first frame surface. The second frame surface selectively abuts the opening edge portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Inventors: Susan Drescher, Stephan Koerner
  • Publication number: 20090255192
    Abstract: A built structure having an upward facing surface; the built structure supporting a first image and a second image; the upward facing surface overlaid by the first image in the form of first indicia; the first image arranged for visibility from overflying craft; and wherein revenue is derived from the upward facing surface; and wherein the revenue is a function of a cone of legibility; the cone describing an inverted conical section of a sphere whose generator is equal to the distance of resolution of the smallest discrete detail of the image; the second image in the form of a substantially vertically oriented sign having second indicia thereon adapted for viewing from ground level and for which separate signage rights can be negotiated; the upwardly facing surface mechanically associated with both the first image and the second image.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2009
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Inventor: Andrew Walton
  • Patent number: 7549254
    Abstract: A built structure having an upward facing surface; the built structure supporting a first image and a second image; the upward facing surface overlaid by the first image in the form of indicia; the first image arranged for visibility from overflying craft; and wherein revenue is derived from the upward facing surface; and wherein the revenue is a function of a cone of legibility; the cone describing an inverted conical section of a sphere whose generator is equal to the distance of resolution of the smallest discrete detail of the image; the second image in the form of a substantially vertically oriented sign having second indicia thereon adapted for viewing from ground level and for which separate signage rights can be negotiated; the upwardly facing surface mechanically associated with both the first image and the second image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Inventor: Andrew Winton
  • Publication number: 20090107054
    Abstract: A system and method for decorating roll-up garage doors with unique designs is presented. The system permits special messages or seasonal decorations to be easily inserted and removed/replaced as the homeowner wishes. The system provides decorations to fit all roll-up garage door window sizes and shapes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Inventor: Laddie Waller
  • Publication number: 20090019788
    Abstract: A hidden edge connector includes a connector body which includes a base guider for biasing against a rear surface of a frame, an edge guider for biasing against a surrounding surface of a frame opening, and a panel guider which is extended from the base guider and is perpendicular to the edge guider. The connector body is adapted for mounting to the frame at the frame opening thereof to keep a front surface of the frame in a clean and obstructing free manner, such that the connector body is adapted for guiding the panel being mounted within the frame opening in a hidden manner when a rear surface of the panel is biased against the panel guider to align with the rear surface of said frame so as to substantially align the front surface of the panel with a front surface of the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2007
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Inventor: Chin-Hsiung Lien
  • Publication number: 20080120922
    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: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2006
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Applicant: Williams Sonoma, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott L. Sullivan, Hee-seung Chung
  • Patent number: 7318302
    Abstract: A device for supporting equipment on a wall panel having protruding ribs. Channels are mounted perpendicular to the ribs. The channel has a base wall, and a pair of side walls extending outward from the base wall. The channel also has an outward wall portion communicating with the side walls at a distance from the base wall. Several apertures are defined in each channel. The apertures have a pair of side wall portions and a base wall portion. When the channel is positioned on the wall panel, the apertures receive the protruding ribs. A fastening structure is located on the base wall of the channel for mounting the channel to the wall panel. A fastening plate is also located on the outward wall portion of the channel for mounting the equipment to the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Assignee: Opperman Investments, Ltd.
    Inventor: R. Scott Oppermanm
  • Patent number: 7260920
    Abstract: A mounting structure, for attachment to a building, for mounting articles such as satellite dishes, flags and other articles, comprises a unitary rectangular substantially flat panel having top and bottom flanges, side edges and an inner surface. Bosses are formed in each flanged spaced apart and adjacent side edges. A central embossed portion extends up from the flange at top and bottom. A central protrusion, and two side protrusions, extend inwardly from the inner surface of the panel, in lateral alignment. An inclined portion extends inwardly from the inner surface of the panel at each side and bending into the side ends of the upper flange. Flange portions extend between the central embossed portion and the bosses and between the bosses and the side edges at the top and bottom flanges. In position, the flange portions, central protrusions and the side protrusions contact the siding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Inventor: Kenneth C. Weir
  • Patent number: 7082707
    Abstract: A support truss for a messaging sign comprising an elevated box truss which extends over a roadway and which has its opposite ends secured to upstanding supports. The box truss is comprised of a plurality of box truss sections secured to one another in an end-to-end relationship with at least one of the box truss sections adapted to have one or more messaging signs mounted therein. The messaging signs are horizontally slidably adjustably mounted on the box truss section so that the box truss section can accommodate signs having various thicknesses. The box truss in which the messaging sign is mounted is designed so that the face of the sign is unobstructed to permit motorists to readily observe the messages on the sign. A walkway is provided within the truss rearwardly of the messaging sign.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Aaron C. Poot
  • Publication number: 20040006929
    Abstract: A prefixed advertisement structure which is positioned mainly in downtown areas or places of heavy traffic, belonging to the field of advertisement making effective use of the wall surfaces of a building (1) conspicuous to passersby, etc. and which, in particular, is integrated with a glass sash wall (2) of a building (1). A prefixed advertisement structure integrated with a glass sash wall (2) of a building (1), wherein a advertising site is secured in advance on wall surface of the building in consideration of harmony with the external design of the building (1), providing a source of income from advertisement from the time of completion of the building (1) with an advertising medium attached in advance, and the advertisement structure harmonized with the external design of the building prevents the external appearance of the building (1) from being spoiled and attracts people's attention, thus proving increased advertising effects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2003
    Publication date: January 15, 2004
    Inventors: Masahiro Hioki, Shuichi Saito, Mizuhiko Tamura, Kanji Matsuhita
  • Publication number: 20030145528
    Abstract: The present invention provides a plate body fastening structure, mainly, a concave slot with a proper depth is preserved on a plane to be fastened, such as the outer wall of a building, the wall plane of a highrise, the floor plane at a doorway or an indoor wall; the said concave slot can be inserted by a figure plate, such as a labeling plate, a door rug, a writing or painting in smaller volume; a press stick is respectively and forcedly inserted between the peripheral sides of the figure plate and the inner wall plane of the concave slot; through the fastening of the said press stick, the figure plate can be rapidly and specifically positioned on the plane to be fastened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Inventor: Chor-Beng Liew
  • Publication number: 20030136058
    Abstract: A system for the application of an image to an upper surface of a built structure, the image arranged for visibility from over-flying craft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventor: Andrew Winton
  • Patent number: 6349426
    Abstract: A portable outdoor toilet with advertising indicia including a platform having a generally circular configuration. A base is positioned atop the platform. The base has a generally circular configuration. A cylindrical tube is positioned atop the base. The cylindrical tube has an open upper end, an open lower end, and a cylindrical side wall therebetween. The open lower end is positioned on the platform. The cylindrical side wall has an opening therein. The opening has a door hingedly coupled thereto. A roof is positioned atop the open upper end of the cylindrical tube. The roof has a generally circular and arcuate configuration. A flexible sheet is adapted for being wrappedly disposed around the cylindrical side wall of the cylindrical tube. The sheet has an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface has an adhesive disposed thereon. The outer surface has indicia disposed thereon. The sheet has a lateral slit formed therein to accommodate the door of the cylindrical side wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Inventor: Lawrence D. Wieringa
  • Patent number: 6289636
    Abstract: Replacement of a damaged post for a parking meter can be accomplished by cutting the post off near the ground and affixing a replacement post to the stub of the original post with a retaining device which grips the two portions of the post from inside the post. The retaining device is only reachable through the post when the meter head is removed, thus preserving the integrity of the post from vandals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignee: POM Incorporated
    Inventors: Kenneth R. White, Seth Ward, II
  • Patent number: 6134844
    Abstract: A furniture system is particularly adapted to support group activities in open plans, and the like. A plurality of columns support an overhead framework on the floor of a building in a freestanding fashion at a predetermined elevation, generally above average user height. A plurality of individual panels are provided, wherein each panel is constructed to permit easy, manual, bodily translation of the same by an adult user. A hanger arrangement is associated with the overhead framework, and cooperates with connectors on the panels to detachably suspend the panels at various locations along the overhead framework. The panels are manually reconfigurable between many different arrangements to efficiently and effectively support different group activities. Preferably, the panels are capable of providing a partitioning function to visually divide at least a portion of the workspace, and/or a display function to facilitate group communications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: Paul T. Cornell, Gregg R. Draudt, Robert J. Luchetti, Kurt S. Bodden, Linda K. Zimmer
  • Patent number: 5948498
    Abstract: A multi-purpose message board having a mounting panel and a plurality of spaces thereon with a multi-page permanent record unit, and a single sheet temporary record unit mounted in two of said spaces. The message board is formed of a single sheet of material with the spaces in the form of depressions molded in the single sheet, with the permanent record unit being a calendar with the pages wire bound at the top, and with the temporary record unit being a write on/wipe off plate or cork board. The mounting panel of the message board has a perimeter flange with a backboard having one surface mounted on the flange and magnets and eyelets carried on the other surface of the backboard. Containers are attached to the panel at some of the spaces. Containers may have a cup shape for holding articles and may have a frame for holding a note pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: Day Runner, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald M. Bianco, Douglas M. Jack
  • Patent number: 5943828
    Abstract: A food vending area display structure for mounting on a counter top or other support surface comprising a front row of posts mounted on the support surface so as to extend upward therefrom, a plurality of display headers extending between adjacent posts in the row to identify separate dispensing areas, and a plurality of resilient transverse structural members extending between adjacent posts in the row to enable the posts to support one another in reacting to horizontal loads so that the posts need not pass through the support surface. The resilient transverse structural members may comprise curved metal grill bars having fittings at their ends which enable them to be fastened to the vertical posts by conventional hose clamps to facilitate assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Assignee: Kraft Foods, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael R. Samborn, William Randolph Dudley, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5924246
    Abstract: A merchandising display hanger is disclosed which includes a central portion, a portion extending downwardly from the central portion and a portion extending upwardly from the central portion. The said downwardly extending portion has a central aperture for receiving and positioning a hook to suspend a merchandising display and a pair of opposed cut-out regions to enable a cord connected to the assembly to be wrapped laterally around the assembly for purposes of storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Assignee: ES Holdings Company
    Inventors: David C. Jurgens, Charles G. Vaughn
  • Patent number: 5658635
    Abstract: A message board comprising a bulletin board fixedly mounted on a backing of heavy cardboard or other substrate, and an optional dry-erase laminate fixedly mounted onto the bulletin board. A frame is fixedly secured to the edges of the bulletin board and backing. The frame is provided with a front channel and a rear channel, each adapted to receive and firmly retain a portion of a generally "C"-shaped grip. The grip may be integrally formed with various accessories desired to be attached to the frame of the message board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1997
    Assignee: Boone International, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley Craig Davis, Michael Kaylor Boone
  • Patent number: 5448859
    Abstract: A concealed services module comprising a frame, service outlets mounted on the frame and a picture assembly. The frame preferably is installed inside a wall so that only the service outlets are exposed, and the picture assembly is mounted over the outlets to conceal them. The picture assembly also may be mounted over existing service outlets in a wall. The picture assembly is slidably mounted for up and down movement, and includes a device such as a counterbalancing mechanism to retain it in the up position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1995
    Assignee: Gaddis-Walker Electric, Inc.
    Inventors: James A. Walker, Taylor C. Culpepper
  • Patent number: 5396724
    Abstract: A shield device or assembly for a bridge-mounted highway sign has upper and side panels forming a frame surrounding and projecting outwardly from the upper and side edges of the sign, so as to shield the front face of the sign from view from the bridge. The panels are secured to the sign by upper and side mounting devices, which may be arranged so that the panels flare outwardly at angles greater than 90.degree. to the front face of the sign. Corner pieces fill in the corners between the panels at the upper corners of the sign.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 14, 1995
    Assignee: Joyce Gangewer
    Inventor: David W. Dinsmore
  • Patent number: 5265360
    Abstract: A portable window view decoration assembly for the enhanced perspective representation of decorative scene including a window frame having an enclosed housing attached to its backside. The housing has several angled panels on which are decorative scenes. The scenes are enhanced by their being displayed on the angled panels, and because a window sash is arranged in the window frame in front of the scene, adding to the depth , reality and sense of perspective of that scene.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1993
    Inventors: Robert W. Reiss, Christian F. Reiss
  • Patent number: 5191748
    Abstract: An illuminated display for displaying logos, messages, pricing information and the like, utilizes the large glass surfaces of modern office buildings, banks, hotels and shade material adapted to be backlit from the building interior. The shade material may contain translucent and opaque portions configured to provide, when combined with adjacent shade portions, a representation of the information to be conveyed to an observer of the structure. In the most preferred embodiment the shades are coupled to a timer mechanism so they may be operated simultaneously, e.g. to close them at sunset or to open them at sunrise. Various degrees of transparency may be provided, as may color, to give the designer a large selection of options for carrying out the informational and artistic aspects of the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1993
    Inventor: Daniel G. Baughman
  • Patent number: 5182883
    Abstract: A telephone enclosure including curved sidewalls each having an outer panel, an inner panel, an acoustic panel and a body rail assembly. The body rail assembly comprises a plurality of rails, each of which have depending legs to receive the inner panel, outer panel and acoustic insulation panel. The enclosure further includes a back panel having one end mounted to the sidewalls, which together horizontally cover at least 180.degree., leaving an open front access to the enclosure. A support base mounts to another end of the post and a device for receiving a telephone. Further, the enclosure includes a ceiling assembly mounted to the housing assembly. The ceiling assembly includes spaced apart ceiling plates, a ceiling rail arrangement having a plurality of legs defining ceiling panel receiving slots to receive a translucent panel. The ceiling includes a light source to illuminate the translucent panel and the interior of the panel assembly. A shelf mounts to the sidewalls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1993
    Assignee: Armco Inc.
    Inventors: James R. Amberson, William C. Ehlert, George E. Olson
  • Patent number: 5031366
    Abstract: A telephone booth enclosure which has arcuate vertical walls which can contain advertising material. The arcuate vertical walls have an inside sidewall made of perforated stainless sheet, an outside sidewall made of transparent material and an interposed fiberglass material. The vertical walls have front, rear, top and bottom edge walls, the front edge wall being a removable aluminum extrusion. The advertising material is placed in the vertical wall by first removing the front edge wall and then sliding it underneath the transparent material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1991
    Inventor: Robert J. Cameron
  • Patent number: 5029339
    Abstract: A telephone enclosure having an upper housing and two spaced apart side housings, defining a telephone recess, illumination tubes in the upper and side housings, displays attached to the upper and side housings, each display having a transparent front panel, a rear diffuser panel, and a frame to enclose the front and rear panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1991
    Assignee: CDA Industries Inc.
    Inventor: Michael P. Caron
  • Patent number: 5022173
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a sign that can be hung from a suspended ceiling. Specifically, the cantilevered and/or counterbalanced sign rests securely in the inverted "T" rail of a suspended ceiling tile grid, and can easily be inserted or removed without damaging or destroying the ceiling tile. At the same time, the cantilevered and counterbalanced structure of the present sign permits the sign to rest securely on grid rails with varying support ledge designs, shapes and dimensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1991
    Assignee: Pittsburgh Tag Company
    Inventor: Brian E. Pfeiffer
  • Patent number: 4980998
    Abstract: A wall system for partitioning floor space includes a framework comprising top and bottom horizontal rails interconnected by a plurality of vertical struts. The wall system further includes the use of diagonal support bars for open frame structures and the use of side and septum display panels for closed frame structures.Also, structural inserts may be inserted between adjacent struts to reinforce open framed structures. Such inserts are planar members with an irregular perimeter edge which defines an aesthetic design for use in assembling attractive displays. Additionally, such inserts may be used in conjunction with translucent panels and lighting fixtures to create a silhouette affect for the assembled display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 1, 1991
    Assignee: Amstore Corporation
    Inventors: Douglas D. Amstutz, Adrienne Weiss