Seating Arrangement Patents (Class 52/8)
  • Publication number: 20100205867
    Abstract: A theater seat providing a multi-dimensional sense is provided which allows the audience to directly or indirectly sense various special effects to be absorbed in a movie by stimulating the audience's five senses and presenting environmental conditions substantially similar to the movie. The theater seat providing a multi-dimensional sense includes: a seat having a seat section, a backrest, and a headrest; a motion unit allowing the seat to move vertically, horizontally, and anteroposteriorly; a vibration unit applying local vibrations to a user's hips, femoral region, and back and waist; a speaker transmitting sounds to the user; an actuator stimulating the user's back and waist; an ejection device ejecting a predetermined special effect material to the user; and a controller controlling operations of the motion unit, the vibration unit, the speaker, the actuator, and the ejection device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Applicant: Sigongmedia Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ki Seok Park
  • Patent number: 7739838
    Abstract: An easily and quickly assembleable bleacher includes basic light-weight component which can be assembled by one person, if necessary, and without the use of tools. The assembly includes a latching and locking mechanism for attaching the seat boards, foot boards and riser boards without the use of fasteners, and most of the other connections are made with pinned connections that save time and assembly. The upper guard rails are attached to lie in a slight rearwardly angled plane that provides comfort for the spectators and also facilitates assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Inventors: Keith B. Borglum, Carl H. Arns
  • Patent number: 7690493
    Abstract: Systems and methods to facilitate the cleaning of arenas, such as stadiums having different seating levels. Pivotable bins can collect and funnel trash from different levels such as the concourse level. A series of tubes or chutes can be fixed to the arena structural undercarriage. Approximately 24? diameter tubes can be used to funnel trash from the bins located on perimeter arena walkways to receptacle containers, recycling containers at ground levels, and even refuse removal trucks. The chutes and tubes can be located adjacent to walkway aisles on different levels of the arena. The chutes/tubes can be vertically oriented and/or be inclined as long as refuse can move down the chutes by gravity. Grates can be also used beneath the bins. And locks can further provide safety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: University of Central Florida Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard A. Nunis
  • Patent number: 7624543
    Abstract: A portable decontamination system includes a preassembled shelter, convertible between a stowed configuration and a deployed configuration, and a fluid delivery system integral with the shelter. In the stowed configuration the shelter encloses a negligible volume. In the deployed configuration the shelter comprises a plurality of side walls, a plurality of end walls, and a roof. The walls and the roof define a central space. The fluid delivery system is configured to convey decontamination fluid into the shelter and to distribute decontamination fluid throughout at least a portion of the central space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Branch Banking and Trust Company
    Inventors: Chad Sample, Richard A. Esser
  • Patent number: 7617635
    Abstract: A multi-configurable platform seating system with chairs mounted to the nose of each deck where seating is desired. The system includes a structural member disposed at the front of each deck, and each chair is removably secured to the deck by a pair of standards that are removably secured to the structural member. The system may include program supports that mount to the standards to support the forward end of a deck without removing any chairs. The program supports are removably mountable so that they can be installed to support decks at different heights when the system is in different configurations. The system may also include a handrail system that is mounted to the standards. The handrail system is removably mountable so that it can be installed in essentially any desired location as the system is placed in different configurations. The system may also be reconfigurable to convert a section of seating into a team box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Track Corp.
    Inventors: Frederick D. Jacobs, Dennis V. Rupar, Joshua A. Bordewyk
  • Publication number: 20090272042
    Abstract: A tiered seating system includes a series of tiers each including a block pair, a riser, brackets securing the riser to the block pair, and concrete. The block pair includes a lower block and an upper block. The riser is spaced from the front surface of the block pair. The system includes two rows of brackets. The first row is secured between the upper block and the lower block, and is secured to the riser between the bottom and the top of the riser. The second row is secured only to the upper block, and is secured to the top of the riser. The concrete fills the gap between the riser and the blocks and form a layer over the upper block.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Applicant: Stadium Savers, Ltd.
    Inventor: William H. Brunner
  • Publication number: 20080127574
    Abstract: A shopping mall combined with an entertainment facility includes a drive-in area with a large video display screen adapted to provide visibility of images displayed thereon during daylight hours. A centralized parking lot has a multiplicity of parking spaces oriented towards the screen, and retail stores are situated adjacent edge portions of the centralized parking lot. When entertainment is projected on the screen, a transmitter sends corresponding audio signals to audio receivers in cars parked in the lot. The retail stores are in a number of interconnected buildings, arranged substantially in a U-shape, which may also include offices, residential suites, hotels, or other functional uses. The large screen is situated inside a central portion of the profile. Optionally, a cruising track may surround the centralized parking lot. The mall may also include a restaurant, fueling station and/or a decorative arrangement aligned with the large screen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2007
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Inventor: Chol H. Yi
  • Patent number: 7303235
    Abstract: A chair that can be mounted to a bleacher comprises a dual-pivot structure to enable movement of a seat between an up position, wherein the seat compactly fits within the bleacher envelope, and a down position, wherein the seat is substantially aligned with the bleacher and located at a suitable seating height. The chair includes single-piece, injection molded bleacher bases, which are composed of a “no-break”, fade-resistant plastic and include strategically positioned strengthening ribs. Additional embodiments of the chair comprise a clip-on bleacher base for removably mounting the chair to the bleacher and riser bases and floor bases that can be affixed to a riser portion and a floor portion, respectively, of a step structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Preferred Engineering
    Inventor: Kenneth L. Fongers
  • Patent number: 7267403
    Abstract: A foldable seat for a bleacher seating arrangement includes a mounting frame fixedly attached to or secured to a deck or platform of the bleacher seating arrangement, a seat portion attached to the mounting frame, and a back portion or backrest pivotally attached to the mounting frame and/or seat portion. The backrest is pivotable between an upright position, where a person may sit at the seat portion and may lean back against the back portion, and a folded down position, where the backrest may lay generally on top of or at least partially over the seat portion. The back portion or backrest may be substantially freely pivotable between the upright and folded down positions. The bleachers may be retracted to a nested position when the backrests or back portions are in their folded down position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Irwin Seating Company
    Inventor: Larry R Conner
  • Patent number: 7266927
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a drive-in movie theater and/or events center preferably located on top of one or more parking garages located at a shopping mall or other similar complex. The drive-in theater preferably has a short range radio broadcast system that can send radio signals to cars on the parking garage, wherein movie-goers can listen to the movie sound tracks on their own car stereos/radios. When needed, the present system contemplates having more than one transmitter, each operating at the same or different frequency, so that the effective service range of each transmitter can be made within limited guidelines set by the FCC. The drive-in theater can be combined with an events center and connected to a shopping mall where access to restaurants and retail establishments can be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Inventor: Roy Higgs
  • Publication number: 20070193123
    Abstract: An entertainment structure and apparatus principally comprising a 360-degree 2D and/or 3D cinematic theater. Seating for audience members is arrangeable on a circular motion base platform. A compound curved screen may lower from above to surround the theater upon a circular motion base platform, providing seamless media. A 2D/3D projection system is oriented within the structure to provide 2D/3D images on the screen through projection overlap for edge blending. A control system is used to rotate, pitch and roll the motion base platform. The control system can be synchronized with the media presentation. The structure includes a number of variations such as a variety of seating orientations, a stationary screen, a variety of screen configurations, and modular tracking seating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Publication date: August 23, 2007
    Inventor: Cecil D. Magpuri
  • Patent number: 7150129
    Abstract: A modular step system for in-ground swimming comprising a bottom central hub, a brace assembly, a top central hub, a tread support assembly, a step form and a liner. The components of the modular step system interlock and snap together without fasteners. Also, the components of the modular step system are obtained by molding plastic material or curing of a curable material. The modular step system is installed on a level concrete floor of a swimming pool and designed to be rigidly fixed from behind to adjacent pool walls. The modular step system is adaptable to a pool having a vinyl liner, structurally sound regardless of size, easy to assemble, consistent in size, and cost-effective.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Assignee: Latham Plastics, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles R. Elder, Thomas E. Lucas, Peter G. Moran, Sr., Donald Nicoll
  • Patent number: 7131236
    Abstract: A portable decontamination system includes a preassembled shelter, convertible between a stowed configuration and a deployed configuration, and a fluid delivery system integral with the shelter. In the stowed configuration the shelter encloses a negligible volume. In the deployed configuration the shelter comprises a plurality of side walls, a plurality of end walls, and a roof. The walls and the roof define a central space. The fluid delivery system is configured to convey decontamination fluid into the shelter and to distribute decontamination fluid throughout at least a portion of the central space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: TVI Corporation
    Inventors: Chad Sample, Richard A. Esser
  • Patent number: 7047699
    Abstract: A two-tired seating riser for a sports stadium comprises upper and lower metal plates bonded together by a solid elastomer core. The elastomer core has different thicknesses in the treads and rises. The lower tread has a lip portion in which the metal plates are flared to facilitate alignment with the riser below.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Intelligent Engineering (Bahamas) Limited
    Inventor: Stephen J Kennedy
  • Patent number: 7007428
    Abstract: A device having multiple support members telescopically contained therein, with each member having a set of lights, a set of curtains and various compartments for numerous stage accessories and allows for quick change of the lights and curtains that are used for different sized stage settings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Inventors: Cathy D. Santa Cruz, Gordon E. Churchward
  • Patent number: 6994398
    Abstract: A seating bracket for connection to a base having a top surface and a vertical side surface to support a seat and a back joist adjacent to the seat. The bracket may include a generally horizontal top portion for supporting the seat and a generally horizontal bottom portion for connection to the top surface of the base. First and second generally vertical side portions may extend between and be connected to the top and bottom portions and may support the top portion above the bottom portion. First and second intersecting cross members may extend between and be connected to the top portion and to the first and second generally vertical side portions. Upper and lower back joist support portions may be connected to the first generally vertical side portion adjacent for receiving the back joist and holding the back joist in a generally upstanding position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignee: Peak Innovations Inc.
    Inventor: John Gross
  • Patent number: 6922947
    Abstract: An audience seating system including at least two platforms having a leg receiver at their rear margin and a leg supporting a protrusion engageable into a recess in the leg receiver and lockable by moving the leg from a non vertical orientation to a generally vertical orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Assignee: Wenger Corporation
    Inventors: Michael D. Jines, Steven E. Wiese
  • Patent number: 6920658
    Abstract: A bridge for use over a racetrack surface is provided. The racetrack surface has a cross-track width. The bridge includes a bridge structure supported over the cross-track width of the racetrack at a height sufficient to provide clearance for use of the racetrack. The bridge structure has a first end and a second end and a bridge length to span at least a portion of the cross-track width of the racetrack. The bridge structure has at least one walkway to provide access to at least one seating area. Viewing seats are located in the seating area, positioned on the bridge structure to provide for viewing of at least a portion of the racetrack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: Dover Motorsports, Inc.
    Inventor: Jerome T. Miraglia
  • Patent number: 6915610
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a multi-purpose arena that can be used for sport and non-sport type of events. The size of the arena can be varied to suit the particular type of entertainment present in the arena. The acoustics can also be varied or tuned to maximize the performance in the arena. The seating in the arena is disposed to provide excellent viewing of the entertainment being performed in the arena. And, the arena can accommodate the staging requirements for almost any use that is developed for the arena.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Assignee: SSOE, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles H. Stark, III, Keith E. Riley
  • Patent number: 6854216
    Abstract: A self-storing telescoping seat assembly is disclosed which comprises rows of seating movable between a retracted position where the rows of seating are generally stacked on top of one another, to an extended position and a handrail assembly affixed to a corresponding row of seating in a single assembled position with respect to that row. The handrail assembly stays in the single assembled position as the rows move between the extended position and the retracted position. The handrail assembly can have a top handrail and a lower handrail which cooperate to form an opening, and the opening is preferably adapted to receive the front face of a deck of a row of seating when the rows of seating are in the retracted position. A front face can be formed by the rows of seating in the retracted position, and the handrail assembly has a post which preferably extends in front of the front face when the rows of seating are in the retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Interkal, LLC
    Inventors: Kenneth A. Ahrens, Richard A. Vance, David McCoy, Daniel R. Victor
  • Patent number: 6820374
    Abstract: The invention relates to a stage, comprising elements, which may be assembled and disassembled from individual pieces, as part of a sub-structure with telescopic pieces (14, 15) and bars (11, 12, 13) fixed thereto, at various angles to the horizontal, to which may be fixed stepped elements for the attachment of superstructure pieces such a seats and railings. Said bars (11, 12, 13), may be pivoted about a pivot point (23, 24, 25), in the region of a first end (16, 17, 18) of a bar (11, 12, 13), in a manner independent of the angle to the horizontal. Each individual bar (11, 12, 13) comprises a first attachment point for stepped elements and the pivot point (23, 24, 25) of a bar (11, 12, 13) is either congruent with the first attachment point (26) or it is immediately adjacent to the pivot point (23, 24, 25).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: Peri GmbH
    Inventor: Arthur Schwörer
  • Patent number: 6754994
    Abstract: A system for operating a retractable roof having at least two moveable roof sections, the system comprising: a first support having a first pulley; a second support positioned opposite to and across from the first support means and having a second pulley; a tie member which passes around the first and second pulleys to form an elongate loop having a crossover point between the supports; wherein the first roof section is supported, in use, by the tie member between the first support and the crossover point and the second roof section is supported, in use, by the tie member between the crossover point and the second support such that, in use, the roof sections move in opposite directions when the tie member is moved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Inventor: Farahmand Jahanpour
  • Patent number: 6729075
    Abstract: An audience seating system of the present invention takes a modular approach to creating a wide variety of seating options. The system utilizes a variety of standardized parts that can be assembled in a flexible variety of configurations. The system generally utilizes a plurality of columns, trusses, end frames, and platforms. The major parts of the system are assembled and secured together by readily removable pins to create a flexible and secure seating system. A large part of the system is held together by gravity further simplifying installation and disassembly. By varying the size of the components, the rise and run of the system may be adjusted as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Wenger Corporation
    Inventors: Michael D. Jines, Steven E. Wiese
  • Patent number: 6698142
    Abstract: The present invention is a netting system (10) for use with bleachers and grandstands (11) to prevent children, persons, and debris from falling to the ground. A first end (12a) of a net (12) is operatively connected to a cable (18) proximate an attachment point (11a) proximate the top of the bleachers (11). Then, a second end (12b) of the net (12) is passed over the understructure (11c) of the bleachers (11) and then operatively connected to a cable (25) proximate an attachment point (11b) proximate the bottom of the bleachers (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: SINCO, Inc.
    Inventor: David S. Denny
  • Publication number: 20030200703
    Abstract: Stackable modular arena seating risers include permanently attached high quality fold down seats that are the equal of normal arena seats. Stacking of the riser modules is facilitated by the use of quick lock stacking tubes fit into locator cups permanently attached into each corner of the deck of each module. Fork lifting channels of the proper size and spacing are provided on three sides of each module to facilitate movement of the entire stack and the stacking, unstacking, and movement of individual modules.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: Scott Suprina
  • Patent number: 6615548
    Abstract: A grandstand seating arrangement having seating level members arranged in sequentially elevated relation to one another. A rigid frame that couples and surrounds the seating members has a lower frame coupled to the lifting arrangements and an upper frame coupled rigidly to the lower frame. A lower stop is disposed on each stanchion support and arranged at a height corresponding to the height of the associated seating level member. Seating level member supports support the seating level members, each of which is coupled to, and displaceable along, a respective stanchion support. The seating level member supports are supported by lower stops when the lifting arrangements are in the lower most position. When the lifting arrangements raise the rigid frame, the seating level member supports and the seating levels thereon are sequentially raised from the respective lower stops.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Interkel, LLC
    Inventors: Hiro Nakamura, Hideaki Satake
  • Publication number: 20030154660
    Abstract: A wedge-shaped connector for arranging and connecting seat modules in a predetermined spaced and angled relationship to form a non-linear modular seating array. The connector includes substantially planar sidewalls configured for supporting seat modules and a substantially planar rear panel positioned between the sidewalls adjacent backs of the sidewalls. A back side of the connector has a width greater than a width of its front side so as to define an acute angle between the sidewalls. In this manner, first and second modular seats may be arranged in a predetermined spaced and angled relationship by abutting first and second seat modules against first and second sidewalls, respectively, of a connector. The shape of the non-linear array can be varied by varying the degree of angle formed by the sidewalls by varying widths of front and/or rear panels, and/or installing the connector in various orientations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2002
    Publication date: August 21, 2003
    Inventor: Michael Berkowicz
  • Publication number: 20030131537
    Abstract: A building structure that consists of several individual theaters each of which has three distinct levels. There is a balcony level for first class patrons with separate entrance and exit areas. There is a lower viewing level for regular class patrons. The projection level is for motion picture projection equipment and is located between the upper and the lower viewing levels. This gives all patrons of the theater an optimal look and feel for the reality of the motion picture shown on the projection screen. Additionally multiple audio speakers are located throughout the theater empirically so as to eliminate sound dead spots.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventors: George Krikorian, Hraztan S. Zeitlian
  • Patent number: 6574923
    Abstract: An arrangement for a grandstand having a series of sections, each section having a pair of sloping joists each provided with a number of vertical seating beam pillars and a number of walkways between the joists. Fastening and securing devices are provided at an upper part of each seating beam pillar. The fastening devices are provided with first locking devices capable of receiving second locking devices provided at the ends of seating beams intended to be mounted between two opposite seating beam pillars on the joists. One of the locking means has a resilient element. The first locking device is provided with a female member and the second locking device is provided with a male member. The resilient element allows connection of the male and female members with one another to lock the members in their connected positions. The resilient element has at least one tongue provided in connection with one of the members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: Sit Down Aktiebolag
    Inventors: Pär J Johnsson, Lars I Johnsson, Bo Johnsson
  • Patent number: 6564904
    Abstract: In order to provide a walk-on platform arrangement, comprising at least one first sub-platform, which is movable from a rest position in a direction of extension into a working position, and a second sub-platform, which in the working position is disposed behind the first sub-platform, wherein a rear boundary edge of the first sub-platform and a front boundary edge of the second sub-platform in the rest position are spaced vertically apart from one another, with which platform arrangement the risk of accident for an operative walking on the platform arrangement in the working position is reduced, it is proposed that the platform arrangement comprises a guide system, by means of which the relative motion between the first sub-platform and the second sub-platform as the first sub-platform moves into the working position is guided in such a way that the vertical distance between the rear boundary edge of the first sub-platform and the front boundary edge of the second sub-platform in the working position is smal
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignee: Duerr Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Guenther Mueller, Guenter Walter
  • Patent number: 6539672
    Abstract: A locking system for a telescopic seating system is disclosed. The system provides a means to releasably lock adjacent telescopic seating platforms together and a means to release the locking mechanism without the need for a trip bar or other like device. The locking system employs a low profile tier catch and tier catch ramp that promotes ease of use and a reduction in the possibility of damage due to individuals walking over the locking device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Inventor: Colin C. Frost
  • Publication number: 20030009950
    Abstract: A telescopic seating riser assembly capable of being configured into a variety of seating riser systems. The assembly has a plurality risers having vertically spaced substantially horizontal portions with the risers being movable between an extended position for use and a retracted position for storage. The assembly is further constructed to support deck bridging panels between spaced apart pairs of assemblies, and to utilize a method of supporting at least one deck bridging panel on a pair of spaced apart telescopic seating riser assemblies in an extended position for use and in a retracted position for storage of the assemblies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2001
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventor: Edwin A. Hallberg
  • Patent number: 6484450
    Abstract: A demountable indoor/outdoor arena seating system includes a plurality of seat groups in seating modules. The seat group modules are supported by a plurality of floor board deck members of joined planks, wherein the deck members have attachment extensions attachable to the seat group modules. The deck members are supported by inner struts insertable in outer hollow struts. The inner struts are grooved to accommodate the heads of shortened locking bolts having spring loaded cam rings to lock the bolts in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Inventors: Scott Suprina, Tony English, John Moreby
  • Patent number: 6474023
    Abstract: Seating tiers are used in a stadium to position rows of spectators at progressively higher levels, the tiers having a reverse slope such that each row is closer to a playing field than the next lower row, thereby providing spectators with an excellent view of action on the field. Walkways extend along the fronts of the seats and windows are adjacent the walkways to allow viewing of the field while protecting spectators. Cross-beams support the rows of seats and provide the walkways and are supported between stairway units that are part of a supporting frame structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Inventor: Arthur S. Takeuchi
  • Patent number: 6474024
    Abstract: The seating section of a seating system is variable in slope between high riser and low riser positions forward ends of the pivotable treads forming a deck surface overlap confronting ends of adjacent treads, and lever arms maintain the treads substantially level irrespective of inclination of the underlying support beams. The arms are pivotable between angular and upright positions and extend between each of the treads and the beams. The forward ends of the treads are supported on support plates mounted on the support beams in a low riser height position of the seating section, and the lever arms support the forward ends of the treads on the support plates in a high riser position of the seating section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Inventor: James R. Macintyre
  • Patent number: 6427395
    Abstract: An elongated member suitable for flooring, decking, or seating, having a top plate formed as an extrusion of plastic material, wherein the top plate includes ribs constituted by protruding parts of parallel, spaced, elongated friction elements co-extruded therewith, the friction elements being formed of plastic having distinctly greater softness or flexibility than the main parts of the top plate and suitable for providing a non-slip surface. The member may include an elongated support formed as a relatively rigid extrusion of plastic material having a base plate with upstanding side walls and a central support portion, the top plate overlying the support and having edge formations engaging the side walls. Alternatively, the top plate and support may be formed integrally by extrusion, or the top plate may be part of a plank cover having integrally formed ribs for spacing the top plate above a plank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: Western Profiles Limited
    Inventors: Glenn R. Elsasser, Frederic E. C. Wall
  • Patent number: 6428097
    Abstract: A deployable bleacher arrangement has deployed and un-deployed states and is provided with a plurality of seating level members, each arranged in sequentially elevated relation to one another. Each seating level member is disposed beneath an immediately superior seating level member in stacked relation when in the un-deployed state. In the deployed state, each seating level member is disposed beneath and forward of an immediately superior seating level member. A plurality of seats are disposed in side-by-side relation on a seating level member. Each of the seats has a bottom portion coupled to the associated seating level member for accommodating a user. The seat bottom has forward and rear portions and is arranged parallel to the associated seating level member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: Interkal, Inc.
    Inventors: Minoru Amemiya, Richard L. Patterson, Melvin J. Guiles
  • Publication number: 20020078633
    Abstract: An audience system of the present invention takes a modular approach to creating a wide variety of seating options. The system utilizes a variety of standardized parts that can be assembled in a flexible variety of configurations. The system generally utilizes a plurality of columns, trusses, end frames, and platforms. The major parts of the system are assembled and secured together by readily removable pins to create a flexible and secure seating system. A large part of the system is held together by gravity further simplifying installation and disassembly. By varying the size of the components, the rise and run of the system may be adjusted as desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2001
    Publication date: June 27, 2002
    Inventors: Michael D. Jines, Steven E. Wiese
  • Publication number: 20020053171
    Abstract: The present invention is a netting system (10) for use with bleachers and grandstands (11) to prevent children, persons, and debris from falling to the ground. A first end (12a) of a net (12) is operatively connected to a cable (18) proximate an attachment point (11a) proximate the top of the bleachers (11). Then, a second end (12b) of the net (12) is passed over the understructure (11c) of the bleachers (11) and then operatively connected to a cable (25) proximate an attachment point (11b) proximate the bottom of the bleachers (11).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2001
    Publication date: May 9, 2002
    Inventor: David S. Denny
  • Patent number: 6296315
    Abstract: Seating furniture can be configured for mounting on a carrier element. The carrier element may be part of a stand in a stadium, a frame for a park bench or a carrier element mounted on other established foundations or on other natural foundations. The chair distinguishes itself in that the chair can be mounted on or demounted from the carrier element without difficulty. The chair includes a profile provided with jaws extending around the carrier element and which is fastened to the carrier element. As a result, it is much faster to provide new seats, for example in a stadium, and it is easier to replace individual chairs which may have been damaged. In a preferred embodiment the chair is provided with a pivotable seat. In alternative embodiments, a back of the chair is also pivotable, just as the seat and the back may extend over more seats and thus constitute a bench.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Inventor: Uffe Jensen
  • Patent number: 6293052
    Abstract: A multifunctional complex incorporates multiple uses and comprises a series of upright wall members including a first interior wall dividing the complex into at least a concert hall. The concert hall includes a stage structure excavated below ground level, a truncated annular dance floor surrounding the stage structure also excavated below ground level and a series of truncated pie-shaped audience seating sections radiating upwardly from the dance floor in which the lowest tier of open seating is above the dance floor by a height (H) where (H) is between 4 to 10 feet. The stage structure includes a rotatable central stage defining an axis of rotation and a plurality of pie shaped stationary platforms radially about the rotatable central stage. In one aspect, the central stage has a top surface a distance (H) above the dance floor where (H) is as defined, a circumferentially extending side face and an axis of rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Inventor: Bailey Varnado, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6243991
    Abstract: Variable floor height tiered stands installed in a gymnasium, auditorium, indoor or outdoor athletic field or the like, including tiered floor members of which displacement in the fore-and-after direction and variation in depth are minimized when their inclination is changed, thereby to maintain constant the planar projected space of the stands in the architectural plan and to eliminate the risk of interference between the stands and any stationary structure in changing the inclination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Assignee: Kabushikikaisya Kotobuki
    Inventor: Yoshiaki Iritani
  • Patent number: 6212828
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for covering at least a portion of a foot-level aisle of a telescoping seating system. The telescoping seating system includes a plurality of seating levels, each seating level above a lowest seating level including a foot member, the foot-level aisle including an intermediate stair member vertically adjacent an upper surface of the foot member of a seating level below a highest seating level. A closure panel is included for covering the at least a portion of the foot-level aisle including the intermediate stair member when the telescoping seating system is in a closed position. In one embodiment, the closure panel is removably coupled to an outer surface of the telescoping seating system. In another embodiment, the closure panel is coupled to an underside of each foot member through a guide mechanism, the closure panels covering the foot-level aisle at the seating level immediately below.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Inventor: Louis Robert McArthur, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6199324
    Abstract: A deployable telescopic seating structure employs a backstop arrangement to prevent users and operators from coming into contact with structures that may cause injury, such as interengaging metal elements that limit the extent of deployment. The backstop portions are arranged in the aisle region of the telescopic seating structure and have an overall height that is responsive to the height of one seating level above another, or in another embodiment, to the difference between such height an an intermediate step. The backstop arrangement has an engagement portion with a flange element that extends transversely therefrom and which engages with a top surface of the seating level. Preferably, the engagement portion forms a forwardmost edge termination. A fastening portion is arranged intermediate of the engagement portion and the riser portion of the backstop member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Assignee: Interkal, Inc.
    Inventors: Melvin J. Guiles, Kenneth A. Ahrens
  • Patent number: 6179381
    Abstract: A seating structure including a series of seat assemblies each consisting of a pair of spaced side supports, a seat pivotably mounted between the side supports, a back fixed to the side supports, an electrical outlet positioned on one of the side supports, and at least one data outlet positioned on one of the side supports. Each of the side supports includes an outlet housing affixed to the lower surface of an arm rest contained on the side support. The outlet housing extends inwardly toward the seat surface and provides the seat occupant with an electrical outlet and at least one data outlet. The electrical wiring and data line for each seat assembly pass through a wireway contained in the seat back. A branch electrical power conduit passes through the side support and into the seat back where is it connected to the supply of electrical power. Likewise, a data line extends from the wireway contained in the seat back into the side support where it is connected to the data outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Krueger International, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven C. Gevaert
  • Patent number: 6164018
    Abstract: A theater has a pair of perpendicular front walls and a pair of perpendicular rear walls, with each of the front walls parallel to one of the rear walls. A screen wall tuncates the corner between the front walls and is bisected at its center by a diagonal which bisects the space delimited by the front walls and rear walls. A pod of four theaters is arranged so that their truncated rear comers converge in a common area, and a projection booth is built above the common area to house the projectors for all four theaters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: Shopro, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary E. Runge, Albert R. Kolkmeyer
  • Patent number: 6055780
    Abstract: A retractable stairs-like stand has rows of seats on moveable floor-bases arranged in a stair-like manner for use in an auditorium or stadium-like application. A variety of seating styles can be accommodated due to the retracted storage position used wherein the steps are shifted to all be in vertical alignment, and the seats are stored in a nested configuration with corresponding seats in vertical alignment to provide a more compact arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: Kotobuki Corporation
    Inventor: Ryokichi Yamazaki
  • Patent number: 6044598
    Abstract: An elongated member suitable for flooring, decking, or seating, having a top plate formed as an extrusion of plastic material suitable for overlying a support, wherein the top plate includes ribs constituted by protruding parts of parallel, spaced apart, elongated friction elements co-extruded therewith, the friction elements being formed of plastic having distinctly greater softness or flexibility than the main parts of the top plate and suitable for providing a non-slip surface. The member may include an elongated support formed as a relatively rigid extrusion of plastic material having a base plate with upstanding side walls and a longitudinally extending upstanding support portion positioned between the walls, the top plate overlying the support and having edge formations engaging the side walls. The top plate and support may be formed integrally by extrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: Western Profiles Limited
    Inventors: Glenn R. Elsasser, Frederic E. C. Wall
  • Patent number: 6029406
    Abstract: The seating arrangement of the present invention comprises a series of hingedly connected rigid platforms with a series of folding seats affixed to selected platforms. Beneath each series of folding seats are a series of hingedly connected folding panels connected to front and rear support frames. When collapsing the seating arrangement for storage, the seats are folded to their closed position and the folding panels fold inwardly, pulling the front and rear frames towards each other. The folding panels may be simultaneously folded by utilizing a member connecting one or more of these folding panels. Additionally, means may be provided for facilitating the collapsing of the seating arrangement from its use position to its compact, folded configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Volunteers for Medical Engineering
    Inventor: John H. Staehlin
  • Patent number: 6003270
    Abstract: A seating system having a plurality of seating sections in which the slope of the understructure thereof can be varied, the treads of the seating sections being pivotable to permit the riser height to vary so as to enable a single seating system to provide varying slopes and sight lines depending on the stadium/arena configuration. The treads are pivotable between low riser and high riser positions by the provision of lever arms movable between angular and upright positions and extending between the treads and the beams for supporting the treads in the high riser position on the upper surface of understructure beams. In the low riser position ends of the treads opposite their pivotal ends are supported on an adjacent tread.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Inventor: James R. MacIntyre