Abstract: Solar-powered lighting devices are described, the solar-powered lighting devices including a housing and an electronic cord coupled to the housing. The housing may include a first section coupled to a second section, the first section including a solar panel coupled to an outer surface. The lighting devices may also include a rechargeable battery, a microprocessor, and a user interface to receive user input and transmit the user input to the microprocessor. The electronic cord may be flexible and includes at least one light-emitting diode, wherein the microprocessor is configured to control at least one operating mode of the LED of the electronic cord based on the user input.

Abstract: Provided herein is a recyclable and biodegradable packaging insert for holding consumer goods in place within the packaging. In an embodiment, the recyclable packaging insert holds consumer goods which are cosmetics. A GFP Envirotray is designed to protect objects within an outer container (box) from impact or abrasion. Packaging is made from paper or fiber board, corrugated or solid paper board.

Abstract: At least one light socket is electrically connected to a power cord and at least one heated repellant dispersal unit is electrically connected to the power cord and increases an evaporation rate of a repellant drawn by a wick from a fluid pod affixed to the heated repellant dispersal unit.

Abstract: A device for securely transporting multiple potted plants or other objects having a base, wherein the device comprises at least one piece that has at least one adjustable opening that allows the base of a plant holder or other object to sit securely within the device.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method designs and manufactures a supporting structure for the packaging of a solid object. The supporting structure comprises a plurality of linear support elements that sustain the solid object inside a packaging container. The method includes: a) providing, as an input, a three-dimensional model of the solid object; b) computing a first cumulative linear mass density distribution of the solid object according to a first axis (x); and c) using said first cumulative linear mass density distribution to determine the positions, along said first axis, of linear support elements oriented transversally to said first axis. The resultant positions enable even distribution of the weight of the solid object among the linear support elements. A computer program product, computer-readable data-storage medium, and CAD system carry out such a method.

Abstract: A packaging system protects and retains all the components of a lighting unit with a resilient binding unit. The packaging system is used for a lighting unit with a first component having a first elongate member and a second component having a second elongate member. It also includes a carrier base with a first and second aperture used to receive and hold the first and second elongate member at a first longitudinal location. The second aperture is located proximate to the first aperture. The packaging also includes a resilient binding element for holding the first and second components with a first and second ring to receive and hold the first and second elongate member at a second longitudinal location, where the second longitudinal location being spaced a distance from the first longitudinal location. The binding element is used to inhibit the first and second components from being longitudinally moved relative to each other.

Abstract: A thin-walled polypropylene product display tube. The thin-walled polypropylene product display tube includes a tubular member having a closed end, an open end, an inner diameter and, between the closed end and the open end, a first outer diameter, the open end terminating in a flared portion having a second outer diameter, the tubular member having a wall thickness sufficient to yield a level of haze equal to or less than 8%. A process for forming a thin-walled polypropylene product display tube is also provided.

Abstract: A package for an item is disclosed. The package includes an outer box and a first insert panel. The outer box includes a base panel and a first flap extending from the base panel. The first flap is configured to open and close the package. The first insert panel is disposed within the outer box. The first insert panel has a first end attached to the first flap and a second end disposed over the base panel. The first insert panel is configured to support an item within the package. The first insert panel is configured to move relative to the base panel when the first flap is opened. The first insert panel is configured to keep the first flap in an open position by friction between the first insert panel and the base panel.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a system and/or method may include a food tray kit. In some embodiments, the food tray kit may include a platform, a plurality of first foldable containers, a plurality of second foldable containers, and a third container. The plurality of first foldable containers may be couplable to the platform. At least some of the plurality of first foldable containers may contain, during use, food. At least some of the plurality of first foldable containers may include an opening cut at an angle to resemble a portion of a sports entertainment stadium. The plurality of second foldable containers may be couplable to the platform. At least some of the plurality of second foldable containers may contain, during use, at least one food container. The third container may be formed by the platform and at least some of the plurality of first foldable containers when coupled to the platform.

Abstract: A tube lamp packaging assembly designed for holding tube lamps, having end packing trays, middle packing trays and a carton box is disclosed. End packing trays and the middle packing trays have two recesses formed on upper and lower portions thereof, respectively, which are shaped in trough, matchingly aligned, and staggeredly disposed along parallel direction to axial direction of tube lamp. End packing trays and middle packing trays are stackingly arranged, with two recesses thereof being substantially symmetrical and forming a cavity therebetween for fittingly accommodating tube lamp residing therebetween. The end packing tray has metal pin slots and a limiting protruding portion disposed at one end of a first recess for fittingly carry the lamp tube, in which the metal pin slots are formed between the limiting protruding portion, and are sized so that metal pins of lamp tubes do not directly contact thereof.

Abstract: A corrugated sleeve comprising an upper panel forming the top of the sleeve, a lower panel forming the bottom of the sleeve, at least two height panels forming the front and back of the sleeve, respectively, and at least two side panels forming the left and right of the sleeve, respectively. The upper, lower, height, and side panels thereby form the external structure of the sleeve. The sleeve may also include at least one pack assembly which extends from one of the panels, and for example from the end height panel. Each pack assembly may include at least one pack divider, which can be positioned between adjacent thermal packs when such thermal packs are contained within the sleeve.

Abstract: The present invention is related to a Christmas light string storage stand including two substrates, each of which is provided with a slot at centerline with an outlet at one end and a recess at both upper and bottom sides, and four corresponding racks in pair arrangement to assemble two substrates together for orderly placing each light bulb of the Christmas light string onto the racks at both upper and bottom sides of the substrates. When the Christmas light string is to be placed for storage after the first time use, the substrates can be assembled through the outlets of the slots toward each other for constituting a three-dimensional stand with a traverse-section of a cross in order to orderly wind the Christmas light string for storage with adequate ventilation to prevent the Christmas light string from damage due to humidity.

Abstract: The invention discloses a pin protector for protecting pins of light bulbs from damage during transportation. The protector is made of plastic and includes a top having at least one recessed hole for inserting pins of light bulbs into, a bottom and a surrounding side structure. This particular feature mechanically protects the pins when there is an external force.

Abstract: Embodiments include a lamp and collapsing lampshade packaging, shipping and display device. The device includes a shell, with a hood, central trunk and bottom receptacle, and which further includes a graphic depiction of the collapsible lampshade on a display panel which may be deployed when the device is used for display purposes, thus making it appear that the collapsible lampshade is assembled and mounted on the displayed lamp. The panel may be permanently affixed in a fold-out manner to the top of the device or alternatively it may be separable from it. In the case of a permanent panel, a releasable holding secures the panel close to the shell during storage or transit. For a separable panel, releasable fixing allows panel deployment on the face of the hood for viewing. The device may store more than one lamp and the panel may include renderings of more than one lampshade.

Abstract: A packaging assembly for packaging a light bulb device. The packaging assembly includes a package and a flexible ribbon. The package is sized and shape in accordance with a size and shape of at least one light bulb device. The flexible ribbon extends from the package and displays product information. In some embodiments, the package has a clamshell-like design, including first and second packaging sections connected at a hinge. In other embodiments, the package forms a first hanger hole and the ribbon forms a second hanger hole.

Abstract: A mounting pad and method for mounting a plurality of light bulbs in a compact and shock resistant arrangement for storage in a box and for transport, the plurality of light bulbs being arranged in rows generally parallel to each other by mounting the terminal ends of a row of light bulbs in a mounting pad disposed at each terminal end of the bulbs and stacking successive rows of mounted bulbs one on top of each other.

Abstract: A light bulb carrying device is provided for transporting light bulbs to a fixture for installation. Locations for attachment of light bulbs allow the bulbs to be worn on the user's body for access to a light fixture without the need for occupying the user's hands in carrying the light bulbs during transportation.

Abstract: A mounting pad and method for mounting a plurality of light bulbs in a compact and shock resistant arrangement for storage in a box and for transport, the plurality of light bulbs being arranged in rows generally parallel to each other by mounting the terminal ends of a row of light bulbs in a mounting pad disposed at each terminal end of the bulbs and stacking successive rows of mounted bulbs one on top of each other.

Abstract: A tray system is described herein comprising a plurality of trays. Each of the trays comprise generally increasing widths and lengths, and may be alternatively arranged in a stacked configuration, in which a tray with a larger width and length is stacked on a tray with a smaller width and length, or in a nested configuration, in which a tray with a smaller width and length is nested within a tray with a larger width and length. The trays further comprise latches that selectively lock the trays in the stacked configuration and prevent the accidental unlocking thereof when the stacked trays are being lifted or otherwise moved.

Abstract: An article holder for holding a cylindrical article in a packaging container includes an upper face, a lower face, an inner face on a center side in a longitudinal direction of the cylindrical article, and an outer face on an outer side in the longitudinal direction, and at least one first article receiver formed in the upper face of the article holder to support a lower side of the end portion of the cylindrical article. The first article receiver includes a first recess semilunar in vertical cross section, forming, a semilunar opening in the inner face of the article holder as well as a rectangular opening continuous with the semilunar opening in the upper face of the article holder, and a first arc-shaped projection projecting from an inner circumferential surface of the first recess, having a radius smaller than a radius of the first recess.

Abstract: There is a reusable and recyclable storage and shipping container for fluorescent lamp tubes, particularly linear fluorescent lamps commonly used in commercial and industrial fixtures.

Abstract: An article holder for holding a cylindrical article in a packaging container includes an upper face, a lower face, an inner face on a center side in a longitudinal direction of the cylindrical article, and an outer face on an outer side in the longitudinal direction, and at least one first article receiver formed in the upper face of the article holder to support a lower side of the end portion of the cylindrical article. The first article receiver includes a first recess semilunar in vertical cross section, forming, a semilunar opening in the inner face of the article holder as well as a rectangular opening continuous with the semilunar opening in the upper face of the article holder, and a first arc-shaped projection projecting from an inner circumferential surface of the first recess, having a radius smaller than a radius of the first recess.

Abstract: A combination rolling cabinet and storage assembly for storing and transporting collectibles therein, having: a top and bottom compartment; top and bottom walls joined by opposed side walls all joined to an upright rear wall, the cabinet defining an interior compartment accessible through an open upright front side of the door between open and closed positions; a base cabinet including wheels and a retractable/extendible pulling handle for locomoting; at least one additional cabinet connectable on top of the base cabinet; upper storage apparatus connectable on top of the base cabinet; a plurality of removable tote tray drawers or containers, and light holder carried in trunklike housing between top compartment and bottom compartment; can be loaded or unloaded upright or laying on floor or flat surface; and components are made of any suitable materials, preferably plastic.

Abstract: A tray for supporting linear lamps in large cartons may be made to nest in one orientation and on rotation by 180 degrees may stack to form a latched array of lamp cradles. The cradle walls are formed along their lengths with alternating lengths and gaps. The alternating wall sections of the cradle walls are asymmetric right to left along the cradle axis. The walls forming the rows of cradles are arranged to be paired with a non-nesting wall on rotation by 180 degrees. In this way, at least one point along the length of each wall is supported in the non-nesting orientation. By forming latching features at the support points, the trays can be locked together as a rigid array of lamp cradles.

Abstract: A containment system includes a vapor resistant container for a material, and a seal for the vapor resistant container.

Abstract: A string of holiday lights and storage device and method that includes a spool made of two coaxially aligned, circular plates spaced apart by at least a transversely aligned first axle. The axle is attached to a handle located outside the circular plate which allows the axle to be manually rotated. Located parallel to the first axle is a second axle located between the circular plates or two lateral extending arms. Disposed between the two axles is a wide, flexible support strap designed to be wound in opposite directions onto each axle. During use, the end of a string of holiday lights is inserted against the inside surface of the support strap. As the strap is wound onto the first axle, the string of lights is also automatically wound into the first axle so that it is held in position against the outer surface of the axle.

Abstract: A locking system for two linear fluorescent lamps comprises an endcap (10) formed to receive two linear fluorescent lamps (12, 14) (FIG. 3). The endcap (10) has two chambers (16, 18) formed by the outside surfaces of endcap (10) and a central partition (19). Each of the chambers has a forward portion (20) and a rearward portion (22). The endcap (10) has a width W equal to the diameter of the fluorescent lamps, a length L equal to twice the diameter of the fluorescent lamps and a depth, for example, 4 to 6 inches, that is substantially less than the length of the lamps, which can be one to eight feet long. A stop (24) is formed in each of the chambers at the forward portion (20) to retain the lamps within the endcap. Each of the stops (24), in the form of a reverse corner, extends inwardly toward the center of the endcap and has a first leg (26) with a first dimension equal to the width W and a second leg (28) with a second dimension that is greater than one half of said width W but less than the width W.

Abstract: Described is a caddy that allows an individual to access equipment, tools and supplies. The caddy includes a front panel portion having a series of elongated slots adapted in one version to receive and maintain elongate fluorescent lights. The caddy is attachable to a ladder so that users do not have to continuously climb up and down the ladder.

Abstract: A containment system includes a vapor resistant container for a material, and a seal for the vapor resistant container.

Abstract: A molded-plastic rectangular storage container that holds light bulbs of various wattage and styles including energy-saving fluorescent bulbs. The light bulb holding apparatus consist of a pull out drawer with attached tray. The tray has openings spaced apart in a matrix grid to receive and support bulbs by the globes thereof, housed in a full cover shell that is stackable with other containers.

Abstract: An ornament storage system and device is described that provides for secure, compartmentalized, and compact storage of ornaments and other similar objects (“ornaments”). The ornament storage system and device provides easy access to the ornaments through removal of the top and one or more sides of the system and device. Access is further improved by separating the stored ornaments onto individual storage trays or shelves. The individual storage trays or shelves are easily accessible by substantially vertically telescoping the storage trays or shelves in such a way as to provide increased vertical separation between each successive shelf. Additionally, each individual storage tray or shelf may be removable from the ornament storage system and device. In such a way, each ornament in the ornament storage system and device may be simultaneously viewed while in storage and may be easily stored in or accessed from the ornament storage system.

Abstract: A package includes four outer walls and an internal wall running between two of the outer walls. The four outer walls and the internal wall define first and second cells. First and second pivot members are disposed in the first and second cells. A first pair of hinge members connects the first pivot member to two of the walls defining the first cell and a second pair of hinge members connects the second pivot member to two of the walls defining the second cell.

Abstract: A locking system for two linear fluorescent lamps comprises an endcap (10) formed to receive two linear fluorescent lamps (12, 14) (FIG. 3). The endcap (10) has two chambers (16, 18) formed by the outside surfaces of endcap (10) and a central partition (19). Each of the chambers has a forward portion (20) and a rearward portion (22). The endcap (10) has a width W equal to the diameter of the fluorescent lamps, a length L equal to twice the diameter of the fluorescent lamps and a depth, for example, 4 to 6 inches, that is substantially less than the length of the lamps, which can be one to eight feet long. A stop (24) is formed in each of the chambers at the forward portion (20) to retain the lamps within the endcap. Each of the stops (24), in the form of a reverse corner, extends inwardly toward the center of the endcap and has a first leg (26) with a first dimension equal to the width W and a second leg (28) with a second dimension that is greater than one half of said width W but less than the width W.

Abstract: A package includes four outer walls and an internal wall running between two of the outer walls. The four outer walls and the internal wall define first and second cells. First and second pivot members are disposed in the first and second cells. A first pair of hinge members connects the first pivot member to two of the walls defining the first cell and a second pair of hinge members connects the second pivot member to two of the walls defining the second cell.

Abstract: A device for holding a string-like member, such as a holiday decorative string light, includes a housing with an inside member for winding the string-like member thereabout, and multiple hangers extending outwardly from the housing. A string light, such as a rope light may be wound about the inside member of the housing, and an icicle light string or a net light can be supported from the hangers by winding externally about the housing.

Abstract: A light string storage and hanging system includes a support frame, having an upper end a lower end and a suspension hook attached to the upper end of the support frame. A light string spool is rotatably attached to the frame. The support frame may be a vertical support shaft and retainer to be used with an icicle light string spool, or a rectangular support frame for use with a standard light string spool. The light string spools include at least one notch or keeper to secure a light string to the spool. All of the aforementioned components can be stored is a lidded storage box capable of holding a plurality of spools of different types and a spool guard to prevent icicles light strings from tangling.

Abstract: A packaging system for packing and transporting CRT components, having a base portion, a top portion, and a center portion arranged between the base portion and the top portion. A first layer of CRT components can be arranged in retaining cells of the base and a second layer of CRT components can be arranged between the center portion and the top portion. A method for packaging CRT funnels or CRT face panels in a packaging system. The components can be formed from expandable foam material.

Abstract: A light strand storage device includes a panel having a first side, a second side and a peripheral edge. The peripheral edge includes a first edge, a second edge, a third edge and a fourth edge wherein the first and second edges are positioned opposite of each other. Each of the third and fourth edges has an indentation therein. The indentations are positioned nearer the first edge than the second edge and are positioned generally opposite of each other. Each of a plurality of securing members is attached to and extends outwardly away from the first and second sides. A light string may be extended around the panel and secured to the panel by the securing members.

Abstract: A cylindrical devise for storage and carrying of cords, electrical cords, and decorative lights. The device has a round base and a cylindrical snap lock cover with handle. Within are stackable tiers, stackable upon each other and upon the base without regard to a numerical order. Each tier has a shelf and a plug storage socket. The invention enables multiple uses, such as Christmas light storage or item display, and may be simultaneously utilized for dual functions.

Abstract: The present invention is a light string storage device that is used to easily wind and un-wind light strings, such as Christmas lights, and is used for storage of the strands. The device protects the light bulbs and sockets against damage; the electric cord, plug and connector and light bulbs stay in place and untangled; it keeps the cord and bulbs from twisting as they are placed on the device; and the plug and connectors are easily attainable for testing the lights prior to strand placement. The invention also includes a turntable with retaining means to easily attach and remove the storage device to the turntable. The lightweight turntable can either sit on the ground or table during use and allows the person to turn the storage device easily during installing or removing of the light strands.

Abstract: A device for retaining a string of Christmas lights is made from a planar panel of a suitable material such as wood, plastic, or metal. The panel has a central body with parallel opposing sides around which the wire of a stringer of lights is wrapped. Extensions at the ends of the parallel sides retain the wire from falling off the central body during storage. The device includes a handle and a recess in the handle large enough to receive a portion of an electrical connector and openings at the bottom of the recess to permit the prongs of a male electrical connector to extend therethrough and engage the slots of a female connector to thereby retain the connectors at the end of a stringer of lights to each other.

Abstract: A locking system for two linear fluorescent lamps comprises an endcap (10) formed to receive two linear fluorescent lamps (12, 14) (FIG. 3). The endcap (10) has two chambers (16, 18) formed by the outside surfaces of endcap (10) and a central partition (19). Each of the chambers has a forward portion (20) and a rearward portion (22). The endcap (10) has a height H equal to the diameter of the fluorescent lamps, a width W equal to twice the diameter of the fluorescent lamps and a length, for example, 4 to 6 inches, that is substantially less than the length of the lamps, which can be one to eight feet long. A stop (24) is formed in each of the chambers at the forward portion (20) to retain the lamps within the endcap. Each of the stops (24), in the form of a reverse corner, extends inwardly toward the center of the endcap and has a first leg (26) with a first dimension equal to the height H and a second leg (28) with a second dimension that is greater than one half of said height H but less than the height H.

Abstract: The storage device for decorative light strands is a storage unit designed to house strands of decorative lights such as those used for Christmas and other holidays. This unit provides a convenient means through which the lights can be safely stored without the strands breaking or becoming entangled. The storage device consists of a cylindrical receptacle with a locking lid featuring a handle and from which extrudes a cylindrical core. The strands of lights would be wound on to the core, which can be rotated when the handle on the lid is pushed downward and turned. A trio of hooks attached to the bottom of the core would ensure that the lights remained securely in place. Three elastic bands attached to the underside of the lid would be stretched across the lights and attached to the hooks to securely hold the lights. The lid would then be locked in place on the storage receptacle using incorporated locking clips.

Abstract: The present invention is a light string storage device that is used to easily wind and un-wind light strings, such as Christmas lights, and is used for storage of the strands. The device protects the light bulbs and sockets against damage; the electric cord, plug and connector and light bulbs stay in place and untangled; it keeps the cord and bulbs from twisting as they are placed on the device; and the plug and connectors are easily attainable for testing the lights prior to strand placement. The invention also includes a turntable with retaining means to easily attach and remove the storage device to the turntable. The lightweight turntable can either sit on the ground or table during use and allows the person to turn the storage device easily during installing or removing of the light strands.

Abstract: A Christmas light storage bag includes a center panel, a right bank of leaves, a left bank of leaves, and a plurality of straps. The lights are placed within the bag, and the bag is rolled and the straps secured to encase the lights.

Abstract: A packaging system for packing and transporting CRT components, having a base portion, a top portion, and a center portion arranged between the base portion and the top portion. A first layer of CRT components can be arranged in retaining cells of the base and a second layer of CRT components can be arranged between the center portion and the top portion. A method for packaging CRT funnels or CRT face panels in a packaging system. The components can be formed from expandable foam material.

Abstract: This disclosure describes an electric light strand mounting device for simplifying the installation and removal of light strands from, for example, a holiday tree. The device consists of a light strand receiver and an associated base that rests on a floor or horizontal surface. Indents are provided on the receiver for preventing downward slippage of mounted strands. The receiver is rotatable around a vertical axis; and simultaneously, the base is moveable in any horizontal direction. Both movements are provided in one version, by a unitary base-receiver structure resting on base castors. In another version the receiver is rotatable with respect to a slidable base; but receiver and base are permanently attached to one another. In a third, version, a slidable base and its receiver are mutually rotatable, but are readily detachable from each other by a simple lifting motion. In all versions light strands are installed by feeding one strand at a time onto the receiver as it is rotated.

Abstract: A carton for holding one or more articles, for example light bulbs, includes an article engaging panel having at least one retaining aperture provided in the engaging panel for receiving and retaining at least one article such that one portion of the at least one article protrudes therethrough, a pair of opposed side walls extending upwardly from the engaging panel to shield the one portion and terminating at the respective free upper edges of the side walls to allow access to the one portion, and a cover arrangement for containing the other portion of the at least one article. The side walls extends away from the cover arrangement. The cover arrangement includes a series of hingedly interconnected panels including a pair of opposed terminal panels. The terminal panels of the cover arrangement are connected to the side walls respectively to form a tubular structure for enveloping the other portion of the at least one article.

Abstract: A carousel suitable for storing dolls having a plurality of compartments with doors opening into each compartment and a top storage above the compartments with doors that cover the storage space and for the top of the carousel.

Abstract: A holder for storing Christmas ornaments which has a container with at least one removable side to access the inside of the container and hooks to hold a hanger on which the Christmas ornaments can be placed.