Household Or Office Equipment (e.g., Mixer-grinder, Recording Kit) Patents (Class 206/576)
  • Patent number: 11693453
    Abstract: Embodiments of an apparatus and system are described for a hybrid computing device. Some embodiments may comprise a computing device having an enclosure arranged to support a display on a front of the enclosure and a cover mechanically coupled to a side of the enclosure, the cover comprising a first portion having at least one integrated input device and a second portion having at least one flexible seam arranged to allow the second portion to adjustably pivot around the seam. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2023
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Sameer Sharma, Gadi Amit, Yoshikuzu Hoshino, Chadwick Harber, Daniel Clifton, Kenneth Jasinski
  • Patent number: 11530084
    Abstract: An article can include a panel member folded to form a collapsible sleeve comprising a first panel layer and a second panel layer, the panel member movable between a first configuration and a second configuration, the first and second panel layers defining a product-receiving portion. Each of the first panel layer and the second panel layer can comprise a pivotable edge portion and an extension portion coupled to the pivotable edge portion and received in an opening defined in a respective first and second panel layer. The edge portions of the first panel layer and the second panel layer are pivotable together to form a double-layered support member extending at an angle to the product-receiving portion on a first side of the product-receiving portion and the extension portions are pivotable out of their respective openings on an opposite, second side of the product-receiving portion by motion of the pivotable edge portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2022
    Assignee: Packaging Corporation of America
    Inventor: Rebecca A. Brand
  • Patent number: 10625034
    Abstract: A blister packaging for a pharmaceutical cartridge or capsule and methods of forming same are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2020
    Assignee: MannKind Corporation
    Inventor: Michael S. Bergey
  • Patent number: 9733669
    Abstract: A case for a portable electronic device, the portable electronic device having a housing that carries a first magnetic element capable of forming a first magnetic circuit through the housing with a magnetic element external to the portable electronic device capable of securing together the housing and the external magnetic element. The case can include a body having a bottom wall and side walls that combine to define a recessed region suitable for retaining the portable electronic device and a second magnetic element located at a position corresponding to the external magnetic element such that when the portable electronic device is carried in the recessed region, the second magnetic element forms a second magnetic circuit through the body with the external magnetic element that is capable of securing together the case and the external magnetic element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy W. Scales, William M. Peters, Edward W. Wong, Zhiqiang Jin, James A. Stryker, Yoonhoo Jo, David F. Mallard, Colin M. Wang
  • Patent number: 9489020
    Abstract: The present invention relates to improved protective cases for hand-held electronic devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to cases that protect and modify the functionality of an electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2016
    Assignee: INCIPIO, LLC
    Inventors: Anthony Ahee, John M. Schoenith
  • Patent number: 9389495
    Abstract: An elevating mechanism of a projection apparatus includes a housing, a guide slot, an adjustable foot mount, at least one resilient member, and a sliding arm. The guide slot is formed on a surface of the housing and having multiple sections to form a sliding path. At least one section has multiple teeth, and a recess is formed between each two adjacent teeth. The sliding arm has a fixed end and a free end, the fixed end is fixed on the adjustable foot mount, and the free end is slidably coupled to the guide slot. When the sliding arm slides on the section having the teeth, the free end of the sliding arm engages with any of the recesses to hold the adjustable foot mount at a selected position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: CORETRONIC CORPORATION
    Inventor: Yen-Wei Chen
  • Patent number: 9047061
    Abstract: The present invention relates to improved protective cases for hand-held electronic devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to cases that protect and modify the functionality of an electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2015
    Assignee: CLAMCASE, LLC
    Inventors: Anthony Ahee, John M. Schoenith
  • Patent number: 8978886
    Abstract: A compartmentalized protective case houses a portable electronic, device and personal care items that are organized and held securely therewithin. The compartmentalized protective case has a major compartment for receiving and housing an electronic device such as a smart phone, cellular phone, music player, or other digital media device. At least one cell compartment constructed within the case receives and houses personal care items removably integrated therein. Personal care items can include at least one interchangeable replacement cell containing beauty items, cosmetics, hygienic items, oral care products such as floss or breath strips, medications, vitamins, breathe fresheners and/or health care products. A second cell compartment is preferably provided as a removable pouch or may contain a restraining system for holding identification cards, currency, visa or bank cards, and/or keys.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Inventor: John T Ziemba
  • Patent number: 8967376
    Abstract: Described herein is an accessory assembly that includes a deployable arm that is configured to host multiple different removable accessory devices, each of which may include accessory functionality to facilitate or enhance user operation of an electronic device. The accessory functionality of the accessory devices may be far-ranging and may include reading lights, covers, projectors, universal serial bus (USB) drives, cameras, page-turn buttons, audio jacks, expansion headers, Bluetooth devices, biometric sensors, ambient light sensors, speakers, microphones, styli, and more, as discussed in detail below. These accessory devices may complement the operation of any number of electronic devices, including electronic book (eBook) reader devices, tablet computers, laptop computers, or any other mobile or stationary electronic devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Hannah Rebecca Lewbel
  • Patent number: 8967377
    Abstract: A protective case for a portable electronic device. The protective case including a plurality of storage compartments for retaining a series of items. The protective case includes a removable upper portion allowing unobstructed access to the portable electronic device camera and includes a plurality of corner accessories disposed within and forming the corners of the protective case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Inventor: Ian F Lebauer
  • Publication number: 20140375186
    Abstract: Cases for portable electronic devices are described including multiple alignment elements (e.g. slugs, magnets or physical securing means) embedded in a panel, such as the back panel of the case. Various accessories, such as stands, cord spools, mounts, communication devices, speakers, displays, etc., may also have multiple corresponding alignment elements (e.g. magnets, slugs or cooperative physical securing means) in them that allow the accessories to be semi-securely attached to the case in a plurality of specific positions and/or orientations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2014
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Inventors: Derek Tarnow, Ariel Fischer, Vivekanand Jayaraman, Scot Herbst
  • Patent number: 8881902
    Abstract: A packaging assembly includes a base and a divider. The base includes a bottom piece and first, second, third, and fourth walls extending from the bottom piece. The bottom piece of the base and the first, second, third, and fourth walls of the base define a product receptacle. The divider is connected to the bottom piece of the base and extends through the product receptacle. The base and the divider are jointly formed from an integral planar member having a plurality of folds therein. Other products, assemblies, and associated methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: Target Brands, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl A. Bulls, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8646610
    Abstract: Kits, components, and methods for personalizing covers for electronic devices are provided. Device-specific cases are dimensioned and configured to releasably affix to specific devices and to define substrate spaces when affixed to the devices. Device-specific templates are provided with the cases. The templates aid in appropriately shaping user-desired image substrates to fit between the cases and the devices when the devices are affixed to the cases. The templates include specifically placed apertures so that any substrates generated therewith do not occlude or disrupt the functionality of any functional component on the devices when the substrates are interposed between the cases and devices. Instructions for using the templates to generate appropriately configured substrates for use with the cases and devices are included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Inventor: Jamieson Foght
  • Patent number: 8567596
    Abstract: A kit holding a film sheet and a miniature squeegee may also include a bottle of an activation solution for an adhesive on the film sheet. The film sheet corresponds in size and shape to a display of an electronic device. Excess solution is removed from the display while evenly distributing the adhesive using wiping motions with the squeegee. In a dry adhesive application, a cover sheet over the adhesive is perforated so that one portion of the cover sheet may be removed for adhering one part of the film sheet to the display, and after securing the one part, the remainder of the cover sheet is removed to adhere the remainder of the film sheet to the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Zagg Intellectual Property Holding Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew C. Mason, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8474625
    Abstract: A blister packaging (3) for sanitary insert parts or accessory parts (4, 5, 6). The sanitary insert or accessory parts (4, 5, 6) can be interchanged with each other or combined with each other. Each of the sanitary insert parts or accessory parts (4, 5, 6) is arranged in a mold cavity (8) of a molded plastic-film part (7) made from transparent plastic. Because the insert parts or accessory parts (4, 5, 6) that can be interchanged with each other or combined with each other are accommodated in a single blister packaging (3), the correct association of these parts (4, 5, 6) is ensured and the handling of these parts (4, 5, 6) is made easier even for the uninformed user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Neoperl GmbH
    Inventor: Oliver Denzler
  • Patent number: 8418852
    Abstract: A compartmentalized protective case houses a portable electronic device and personal care items that are organized and held securely therewithin. The compartmentalized protective case has a major compartment for receiving and housing an electronic device such as a smart phone, cellular phone, music player, or other digital media device. At least one cell compartment constructed within the case receives and houses personal care items removably integrated therein. Personal care items can include at least one interchangeable replacement cell containing beauty items, cosmetics, hygienic items, oral care products such as floss or breath strips, medications, vitamins, breathe fresheners and/or health care products. A second cell compartment is preferably provided as a removable pouch or may contain a restraining system for holding identification cards, currency, visa or bank cards, and/or keys.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Inventor: John T. Ziemba
  • Publication number: 20130036559
    Abstract: The present invention relates to packaged products comprising fabric care compositions, wherein the packaging is in the form of a water-insoluble plastic container, and also methods of use of the packaged products.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2012
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Inventors: Pieter Jan Maria Saveyn, Hugo Jean Marie Demeyere
  • Patent number: 8312697
    Abstract: A shipping system comprises an article of furniture and a packaging assembly. The packaging assembly includes a container and a protective insert. The container houses the article of furniture. The protective insert is disposed within the container and is positioned to help protect the article of furniture from damage. The protective insert has at least one convertible portion that is adapted to be removed from a surrounding portion of the protective insert, transition between a first configuration and a second configuration, and form at least a portion of an accessory product for the article of furniture when the convertible portion is in the second configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: Target Brands, Inc.
    Inventor: Neal Anderson
  • Patent number: 8286796
    Abstract: A satellite antenna package is provided. The satellite antenna package includes a receiving structure, an antenna device and a cable. A recess and a groove are formed on the receiving structure, and the recess communicates with the groove. The antenna device is disposed in the recess. The cable connects to the antenna device, wherein the cable is connected with the antenna device and partially disposed in the groove, travels along an edge of the receiving structure, and surrounds the antenna device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Wistron NeWeb Corp.
    Inventor: Pei-Shan Yu
  • Publication number: 20120248836
    Abstract: A seat stretcher that can be positioned in the seat box of a sofa to maintain the structural integrity of the seat box against the compressive force of the seat springs. The seat stretcher mounts without fasteners and without additional hardward. In embodiments, the seat stretcher has an offset portion that can be rotated to create space within the seat box for storing cushions or legs within the cavity defined by the seat box.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2011
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Applicant: ASHLEY FURNITURE INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Christopher Jon Lejcher, Timothy A. Brandtner
  • Patent number: 8267251
    Abstract: Cases for enclosing a personal electronic device may also enclose one or more cards, such as credit cards, payment cards, coupons, receipts, identification cards, merchandise credit cards, gift cards, or business cards through the use of a retaining system. Exemplary cases may include a flexible inner layer and an exterior hard layer that may be permanently affixed to one another to form two fitted cavities, one for holding the personal electronic device and one for holding inserted cards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Speculative Product Design, LLC
    Inventors: Ryan Hill Mongan, Bryan Lee Hynecek, David Chiawen Lean, Jarret Weis, Jon Dukerschein
  • Publication number: 20120224318
    Abstract: A holder for a tablet computer attaches to the computer and may be grasped and held by one or two human users operating the computer or looking at its display screen. The holder is a substantially flat, rigid, frame-like, rectangular panel having two opposite generally concave short sides, two opposite generally concave long sides, and four convex lobes at the “corners”. Elongated slots near the short sides serve as finger- and thumb-holes and define flat handles. The computer screen is viewed through a large rectangular central opening in the panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2012
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Inventor: Raymond Blake Carleton
  • Patent number: 8256618
    Abstract: A magnetic storage device is disclosed which is capable of retaining a plurality of articles, each having a thickness and a magnetic affinity. The storage device includes a base having a cavity which houses a magnetic member and a tray which mates with the base to enclose the magnetic member. The tray has a plurality of cavities formed in an upper surface and each of the cavities is designed to retain one of the articles. Each of the cavities has an elongated, semi-circular configuration with opposite ends located adjacent to a pair of raised abutments. The pair of raised abutments extends to a height less than the thickness of each article. The storage device also includes a cover which can be secured to the tray to enclose the plurality of articles therein. A method of assembling the magnetic storage device is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: All About Packaging, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas P. Schein, Brent J. Grinwald
  • Patent number: 8220637
    Abstract: The present invention is a memories box that includes a rectangular box with a lid, an open side, with a pair of inner edges and a front with a plurality of grooves disposed on the pair of inner edges, a slidable planar side with a front facing that horizontally slides into the grooves and a supplemental rectangular box that includes a front side with a centered aperture, an interior portion with an interior storage compartment with a top with a pair of apertures and a removable top with a centered aperture that is removably slid inside the rectangular box to perform a presentation. The invention also includes a method for using a memories box to perform a presentation such as presenting a gift or present during a gift-giving occasion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Inventor: Richard William Mannillo
  • Patent number: 8210356
    Abstract: A storage device includes a box having a bottom wall, a top wall, a left sidewall, a right sidewall, and an internal wall that divides the box into a first compartment and a relatively larger, second compartment. A roll of tape is rotatably mounted inside the first compartment. First and second bottom drawers occupy a lower portion of the second compartment in side-by-side relationship to one another, and a top drawer rests on top of the bottom drawers. A display panel is rotatably mounted on the box for rotation between a first orientation, blocking access to the second compartment, and a second orientation, allowing access to the second compartment. At least one of a photograph and an erasable writing surface are disposed on the display panel and face forward when the display panel occupies the first orientation. Key-ring hooks are secured to a front edge of the bottom wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Inventors: Mark A. Krull, Darrin M. Swagel
  • Patent number: 8172077
    Abstract: A portable container includes a first half-shell pivotally connected to a second half-shell to form at least one releasably sealed compartment, wherein each half-shell includes a substantially flat, rectangular portion having walls extending from each edge of the rectangular portion; an opening substantially centered in the first half-shell sized for a cylindrical rod attached to a tripod, the rod having a base portion larger than its extension portion; and a support assembly within the first half-shell having a substantially flat base portion sized to increase strength and rigidity and including a receptacle to the extension portion of the cylindrical rod, the receptacle and extension including corresponding fastener openings so that a fastener device secures the portable container to the cylindrical rod, whereby the portable container is supported by the base portion, the support assembly provides stability to the portable container, and the portable container is rotatable upon the rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Inventor: Jack D. Gray
  • Publication number: 20120097575
    Abstract: A corn holder storage unit for retaining one or more corn holders in a safe, sanitary, and convenient manner is disclosed. One or more members defining a cavity and having at least one opening is adapted to accept and retain one or more corn holders, and preferably each member is adapted to retain a pair of corn holders along the member axis. Where the corn holder storage unit is configured to retain a pair of corn holders, the distance between opposing ends of the member should be at least two times the length of the corn holder operative end. Preferably a peripheral structure encloses the one or more members, and cooperation between the member and the peripheral structure prevents the holder from passing through the cavity and from being dislodged from the corn holder storage unit by providing an abutment rim and a variety of retaining fits.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2010
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Inventors: Evan Abel, Anthony Di Bitonto, Hideaki Matsui, Nicholas Oxley
  • Patent number: 8151982
    Abstract: Protective coverings suitable for protecting and housing electronic devices such as a KINDLE™ ebook reader or an APPLE™ iPAD™ tablet are disclosed. Methods of making and using protective coverings are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Inventor: Russell F. Still
  • Patent number: 8146722
    Abstract: Disclosed is a travel assisting luggage system to carry articles and otherwise assist a person while traveling with the luggage system. The luggage system may include a frame, a container connected around the frame, an axle connected to the frame and to wheels, an entertainment center attached to a container side, a seat system connected to the frame, where the seat system may include a seat extension, a backrest, a support feet, a support feet housing, and a support plate. The luggage system additionally may include an organization system positioned within the container interior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Inventors: Jesse Moreno, Manuel Amaya
  • Patent number: 8120896
    Abstract: The present invention provides a strap device capable of, when used in a state of being attached to an electronic apparatus body including a display portion and a key input portion as an object, improving the visibility of the display portion and the operability of the key input portion and the touch panel without tilting the electronic apparatus body with the wrist. A strap device includes a substantially plate-shaped belt base to be attached to the object; and a strap belt formed in an annular shape and supported by a substantially center portion of the belt base rotatably within a plane substantially parallel to the belt base. The belt base includes a back part provided with a pivot fitting as a bearing member for supporting the strap belt rotatably and a front part facing the back part. The strap belt extends across the belt base from the front part to the back part of the belt base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Takeshi Mori, Hirofumi Takemasa
  • Publication number: 20120000814
    Abstract: A container having a layer having an interior surface and an exterior surface opposing the interior surface; and a window in the layer, the window revealing at least a portion of a fabric stain treatment device operatively related with the container, the fabric stain treatment device having a fluid pervious contact substrate, wherein at least a portion of the contact substrate is visible through the window; wherein the fabric stain treatment device comprises a backing layer having a first side opposing a second side and a pouch layer joined with the second side of the backing layer thereby forming a pouch containing a stain treatment fluid having a surfactant; wherein the fluid pervious contact substrate is joined to the first side of the backing layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2011
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Inventors: Christopher Lawrence Smith, Corey Michael Bischoff
  • Patent number: 8087514
    Abstract: A cleaning system stored within its own storage case having an integrated and collapsible handle, a dustpan, and a broom head specifically designed to sweep under furniture and other obstacles is herein disclosed. When in a broom configuration, a curved handle portion and the bristled broom head allows cleaning beneath objects. The handle can be removed from the broom portion and attached to the dustpan to remove dirt and debris. The broom head, with its own separate angled handle, may also be utilized as a whisk broom to collect the dirt and refuse into the dustpan. All components are stored in a self-contained carrying case. The storage case also has internal fasteners to secure the components of the apparatus securely therewithin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Inventor: Kenneth W. Fulford
  • Publication number: 20110284420
    Abstract: A combination protective case and stand for a tablet device and keyboard. The case includes a first panel configured to receive a tablet device on a first face of the first panel, a second panel pivotably coupled to the first panel and configured to receive a keyboard on a first face of the second panel, and a cover portion pivotably coupled to the first panel and configured to enclose the first panel and the second panel such that a first face of the cover portion is disposed in facing relation to the first panel and in facing relation to the second panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2011
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Inventor: SALMAN SAJID
  • Patent number: 8061521
    Abstract: A packaging system for a printer/copier or other large article that uses less material than conventional packaging systems. In one embodiment the system comprises a pair of elongated foam braces that slide over pairs of vertically oriented corner posts for holding and cushioning the packaged article. In another embodiment the system comprises four foam braces wedged between the four vertical edges of the article and vertical corner posts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Sonoco Development Inc.
    Inventors: James Lowry, Ronald Kroeckel
  • Patent number: 8025150
    Abstract: When a cushioning member is fitted to a tubular part in a first facing direction, an inner circumferential surface of the tubular part contacts a part of a second protruding portion, a first portion of a first protruding portion contacts a first contact region, a second portion of a third protruding portion contacts a second contact region, a third portion of the third protruding portion contacts a third contact region, and a distance between the first contact region and the second contact region is smaller than a distance between the first contact region and the third contact region, and a length of the second contact region from a base portion in a direction of protrusion is greater than a length of the third contact region from the base portion in a direction of protrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroaki Okuma, Toshikazu Tsumita
  • Patent number: 7992715
    Abstract: A developing agent container package unit includes a packing case, a developing agent container received inside the packing case and storing developing agent, and a supporting member to support the developing agent container so that the developing agent container is inclined with respect to one side surface of the packing case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: SAMSUNG Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Se-il Kwon
  • Patent number: 7933121
    Abstract: A portable video system comprises a video unit for facilitating play of a video medium, the player having a hinge, a display pivotally attached to the video player on the hinge, and a base unit secured to a substrate for selectively coupling a control panel of the video unit to the substrate, wherein the control panel can be selectively un-coupled from the base unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Audiovox Corporation
    Inventor: George C. Schedivy
  • Patent number: 7921997
    Abstract: A case apparatus attachable to a portable device enabling the storage and transport of a variety of articles. The apparatus is optimally configured with releasable components enabling interchange of various features including those which facilitate attachment to the device allowing a single case implementation to securely fit various device implementations. The apparatus includes a large utility panel which receives attachment of all other case components, smaller utility panels which receive attachment of various articles, compartment enclosures which cover the smaller utility panels while allowing easy access to their contents, a large presentation panel to cover and conceal the entire case assembly and contained contents but having openings to allow access to the compartment enclosures and either a strap and clasp retention assembly to bind the case around the device or a clip fastening assembly which attaches to corresponding fittings on an adapted device to fasten the case to the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Inventor: James A. Burns
  • Patent number: 7909161
    Abstract: A case (100) can be configured to hold a portable computer (350) with a keyboard (351). In one embodiment, the case can include: (a) a base shell (120) having: (1) a base panel (121) with a first side (144); and (2) one or more pads (231) extending from the first side and positioned such that a bottom of the portable computer is capable of resting on the one or more pads; and (b) a cover shell (110) coupled to the base shell and configured to move between a first position relative to the base shell, in which a user cannot type on the keyboard of the portable computer while the portable computer is inside of the case, and a second position relative to the base shell, in which the user can type on the keyboard of the portable computer while the portable computer is inside of the case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: Belkin International, Inc.
    Inventors: Barry Sween, Kenneth Mori, Mike Simonian, Maaike Evers, Sarahut Sirichai
  • Patent number: 7886903
    Abstract: A protective shell for a portable computer includes an upper shell and a lower shell connected via hinges. The computer can be placed into the shell by slipping a first hinged section of the computer underneath a first clip of the upper shell and then bending back a second clip, made of a resilient material, of the lower shell to allow a second hinged section of the computer to slip into the lower shell. The hinges are positioned on the protective shell so that they will be concentric or approximately concentric with a hinge of the portable computer when the protective shell encases the portable computer. A mounting plate may be removably attached to the shell to allow the shell to be connected to various mounting arm assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Aileron Designs, LLC
    Inventors: Richard T. Wurzelbacher, Jr., Richard A. Kuhn
  • Patent number: 7872860
    Abstract: A portable apparatus includes an electronic device; and a fastening device detachably attached to the electronic device. The fastening device includes a cover comprising a hook for inserting in the electronic device; a pressing member capable of being movable locked and unlocked from the cover; a locking member fastened on the cover and engaged with the pressing member, and an activating member disposed on the cover for activating the pressing portion to unlock from the cover. The locking member includes an inserting portion for inserting into the locking slot to lock the hook in the electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Xue-Dong Tang
  • Publication number: 20100310997
    Abstract: A domestic gas appliance is disclosed. In one implementation the appliance includes a burner and a gas control valve situated to deliver and vary a flow of a gas to the burner. The gas control valve has an actuator that induces an opening and/or closing of the flow control valve dependent on a control signal delivered to the actuator. A control device is electrically coupled to the actuator and is used to control the opening and closing of the gas control valve. The control device is coupled to an audio input and is configured to receive an analog sound signal and to generate the control signal based on the analog sound signal. A method of modulating a flame in a burner of a domestic gas appliance is also disclosed. In one implementation the method includes producing an analog sound signal and subsequently creating a reference signal based on the analog sound signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Applicant: COPRECITEC, S.L.
    Inventors: José Ignacio Múgica Odriozola, Iñigo Albizuri Landa, José Joaquín Antxia Uribetxebarria, Aitor Zabalo Bayón, Antonio José Barbero Merino
  • Patent number: 7845497
    Abstract: A shower box for accommodating a shower handle with a shower head and also a hose connectable therewith, the shower box comprising three trays each in an unfolded condition follow one another in a longitudinal direction of one piece with one another and include a central tray having a substantially uninterrupted bottom and side walls extending in a longitudinal direction, a first end tray having a bottom provided with a longitudinal slot for at least partially centering the shower handle and a shower head and having side walls and means for fixing said hose provided with a viewing window, and a second end tray having a cutout for exposing said shower handle with said shower head and also a part of said hose, said trays being foldable over one another so that said central tray forms a bottom tray, said first end tray forms an intermediate tray, and said second end tray forms a top tray in a folded condition, in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction; and a transparent cover located between sai
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Inventors: Sam Zhadanov, Eli Zhadanov
  • Patent number: 7841473
    Abstract: An electronic device storage/carrying case is adapted for storing and supporting an electronic device, and includes a case body, a first supporting component, and a second supporting component. The case body defines a storage space for storing the electronic device, and includes a front wall formed with an opening. The first supporting component is pivoted to the case body and is pivotable upwardly relative to the case body to a propping position for supporting the electronic device, and downwardly relative to the case body to a storing position, where the first supporting component is stored in the case body. The second supporting component is connected movably to the case body and is movable between a carrying position, where the second supporting component extends outwardly of the case body via the opening in the front wall, and a supporting position, where the second supporting component is disposed in the storage space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Inventors: Wen-Hung Huang, Guan-De Liou, Stephen Tsai
  • Publication number: 20100269814
    Abstract: The present invention is embodied in a grill configured for quick assembly, a method of partially pre-assembling the grill for shipping from the factory in a container, and a method of assembling the grill when removed from the shipping container. The grill comprises a firebox assembly for mounting on a cart assembly, the cart assembly having first and second support assemblies and at least one linking member interconnecting them. A hinge or pivot in the mid-portion of the linking member divides it into first and second linking member portions, and the opposite ends of the linking member portions are pivotally connected by hinges or the like to the first and second support assemblies. The linking member holds the first and second support assemblies together in a partially pre-assembled state, and the pivotal connections of the linking member portions allow the two assemblies to be folded for packaging in a shipping container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Applicant: The Brinkmann Corporation
    Inventors: Randall L. May, Chen Guolong, Liang Lu, Su Wenguan, Gu Zhi Bin, Lin Bin
  • Patent number: 7806271
    Abstract: A container for recreational or food items comprises a housing with a handle and a lid made of durable plastic and a compartment inside the housing. A portable CD player/radio and a battery compartment for rechargeable batteries are built in the housing under the compartment. The face of the CD player/radio with controls, display, and the front of a CD drawer being built onto the bottom of a front face of the housing, an AC adaptor jack and a first speaker for the CD player/radio are built into one side of the housing, a headset jack and a second speaker for the CD player/radio are built into another side of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Inventor: Leona M. Kraska
  • Publication number: 20100224532
    Abstract: The present invention is a multifunction carrying case that is capable of carrying a laptop computer and converting into a laptop stand. The height of the laptop stand is telescoping, allowing for use in different situations. The case-stand combination comprises a housing similar to a hard-sided briefcase. The bottom compartment of the housing comprises a platform with a stand assembly beneath it. The stand assembly comprises a top base, telescoping risers and a bottom base. Until deployed, the bottom base is contiguous with the exterior surface of the bottom compartment. When deployed, the stand assembly is a “Z”-type shape to counterbalance the weight of the housing and a laptop computer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2009
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Inventor: Pedro Felipe Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 7784610
    Abstract: A kit apparatus has a package holding at least one film sheet having an adhesive layer on one side, a bottle containing a solution for activating the adhesive layer of the film sheet, and a miniature squeegee. The film sheet, bottle of solution and squeegee are secured within the package. The sheet corresponds in extent to a surface of an electronic device, preferably a surface of a display device of the electronic device. The solution is used for initially cleaning the surface that is to receive the sheet and finally to wet the adhesive layer in order to secure the sheet in place. Excess solution is removed from the surface while evenly distributing the adhesive using wiping motions with the squeegee.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Inventor: Andrew Mason
  • Patent number: 7750237
    Abstract: An electronic device enclosure having a protective layer includes a shell, a first protective piece, a second protective piece and a connecting piece. The shell includes an outer surface and an inner surface, the first protective piece covers the outer surface of the shell, and the second protective piece covers the inner surface of the shell. The connecting piece connects the first protective piece to the second protective piece so that they cooperatively enclose the shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Xiao-Gang Jiang, Hung-Chun Lu, Chien-Li Tsai
  • Patent number: 7748528
    Abstract: A shipping system comprises an article of furniture and a packaging assembly. The packaging assembly includes a container and a protective insert. The container houses the article of furniture. The protective insert is disposed within the container and is positioned to help protect the article of furniture from damage. The protective insert has at least one convertible portion that is adapted to be removed from a surrounding portion of the protective insert, transition between a first configuration and a second configuration, and form at least a portion of an accessory product for the article of furniture when the convertible portion is in the second configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Target Brands, Inc.
    Inventor: Neal Anderson