Patents by Inventor Chris A. McCollum

Chris A. McCollum has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Gravity locking mechanism employing first and second pendulums for securing the lid of a refuse container
    Patent number: 5415314
    Abstract: A locking mechanism for a refuse container that includes a pivotally mounted bracket system that constitutes a first pendulum, for securing the lid of the refuse container and a catch which can be moved from a potentially engageable position to an unengageable position to control movement of the bracket system. The catch constitutes a second pendulum. During an automated emptying of the refuse container, the pendulums are timed so that the catch opens first, thereby allowing the bracket system to pivot and the lid to open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1995
    Inventor: Chris A. McCollum