In Ground, Nontank Container (e.g., Meter Box, Garbage Can, Etc.) Patents (Class 220/484)
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Patent number: 7401621Abstract: A sump for a dispensing unit is disposed beneath the footprint of the dispensing unit and includes an auxiliary communication line receiving structure proximal to a drip area of the dispensing unit. The auxiliary communication line receiving structure delivers electrical and/or other communication line(s) to the dispensing unit from beneath the dispensing unit footprint without creating a potential leak path into or out of the sump.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2005Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Pisces By OPW, Inc.Inventor: Michael T. McCann
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Publication number: 20080087671Abstract: A containment device for a liquid handling system is presented. The devise has a vault having a cavity, a closed bottom and an open top. A supporting device having a first half of a quick connect system connected to external plumbing is positioned in a lower portion of the cavity and secured to the vault to provide support for a weight of the liquid handling system. A bracket having a second half of a quick connect system connected to internal plumbing for the liquid handling system is configured to retain the liquid handling system, contact the supporting device when the bracket and liquid handling system is lowered into the cavity and mate the first second halves of the quick connect system allowing liquid to flow from the external plumbing to the internal plumbing. A lid is secured to the top for minimizing the intrusion of environmental elements into the vault.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 6, 2007Publication date: April 17, 2008Inventor: Stephen Lynn Kreider
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Patent number: 7357009Abstract: A quarter turn slide lock assembly having a base, a cover, a slider, a rotator, springs and washers. The base includes a channel for the slider to move between extended and retracted positions. The slider includes internal and exterior cam follower surfaces. The rotator has a hex head for 90° rotation by a special tool and a cam arm for engaging the internal cam follower surface of the slider. The external cam follower surface is biased by an abutting surface on an object to be locked and the springs bias the slider in an opposite direction to an interference fit with the object. The base includes a smooth, slanted outer surface to avoid snags and the washers reinforce the slide lock so that rivets used to attach the slide lock to an object to be locked are strongly secured. The cover snap fits to the base for a simple and reliable slide lock assembly.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2003Date of Patent: April 15, 2008Assignee: Emerson Network Power, Energy Systems, North America, Inc.Inventors: Jerome A. Maloney, Albert McGovern
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Patent number: 7353966Abstract: The lid is used to cover a utility box which houses a meter such as a water meter. The lid is compression molded from a plastic material such as medium density polyethylene, and has a planar upper surface and a planar lower surface. In one embodiment, a plurality of generally parallel spaced apart recesses are formed in the lower surface. The recesses are spaced inward of the outer edges of the lid. The area of the lower surface of the lid is greater than the total area of the recesses in the plane of the lower surface. In another embodiment, an opening leading to a cavity is formed in the edge of the lid with a press fit passage for receiving a transponder device.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2005Date of Patent: April 8, 2008Inventor: Robert McKinnon, Jr.
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Publication number: 20070295728Abstract: A cabinet for gas utility meter comprises a cover and a backing. The backing positioned behind a meter and the backing being fixedly attached to a wall. The backing has a bar bracket, a support bracket, and a meter riser bracket. A latching means to secure the cover over the backing. The backing and the cover have reinforced moulded ribs. A shut-off gas valve opening allows for access to a gas valve. There are also gas vent openings such as a bottom vent opening.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 24, 2007Publication date: December 27, 2007Inventor: Michel Desmeules
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Publication number: 20070199938Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to apparatus and methods for protecting valuables during a storm or other natural disaster such as a hurricane or tornado by securing such valuables in a containment unit that an owner leaves behind in the wake of the oncoming storm. In one aspect of the present invention, the containment unit is designed to withstand the impact of the storm via a heavily constructed containment unit that includes multiple layers of waterproofing. In another aspect of the present invention, the containment unit is designed to be bolted deeply into the floor or foundation of a home or business for the purpose of keeping the containment unit in place during the ravages of the storm.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 2007Publication date: August 30, 2007Inventor: Kenneth Hoffman
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Patent number: 7243810Abstract: An improved underground box and lid for use in irrigation systems and other underground systems is provided. A single box can be inverted, combined and interlocked with a second box to form a single enclosed structure that is twice as high. This can be used for those installations where underground system components are buried in the ground at a greater depth than can be accommodated by a single box.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2003Date of Patent: July 17, 2007Assignee: Rain Bird CorporationInventors: Kevin G. O'Brien, Gerald E. Peterson, James G. Coates, Beatrice John, Barbara E. Booth, Mark M. Ensworth
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Patent number: 6968969Abstract: The lid is used to cover a utility box which houses a meter such as a water meter. The lid is compression molded from a plastic material such as medium density polyethylene, and has a planar upper surface and a planar lower surface. In one embodiment, a plurality of generally parallel spaced apart recesses are formed in the lower surface. The recesses are spaced inward of the outer edges of the lid. The area of the lower surface of the lid is greater than the total area of the recesses in the plane of the lower surface. In another embodiment, an opening leading to a cavity is formed in the edge of the lid with a press fit passage for receiving a transponder device.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2003Date of Patent: November 29, 2005Assignee: DFW Plastics, Inc.Inventor: Robert McKinnon, Jr.
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Patent number: 6848226Abstract: An access panel for providing access to cables, services or the like through an opening in a floor having a floor covering, is disclosed. The access panel includes a floor frame (10) located in the opening and a lid (100) supported on the frame (10). The frame (10) has a support flange (26) extending around its periphery which extends between the floor covering and the floor deck. The flange (26) provides a ramped edge tapered substantially uniformly over a distance of between 10 and 20 times the maximum thickness of the flange (26). The outermost part of the flange (26) is typically formed from a flexible polymeric material. A rib (20) extends around an aperture in the frame (10) and the height of the rib (20) is lower than the load bearing surface of the floor. The hinge (24, 120) is generally square and defines a pivot surface which extends parallel to and is spaced inwardly from an inner edge of the frame (10).Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2000Date of Patent: February 1, 2005Assignee: Cabspace Holdings Pty LtdInventors: Michael David Boyd, Iain Kilburn White
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Patent number: 6786349Abstract: A refuse container system that resists tipping due to wind or animal activity is disclosed. The system includes a support plate adapted to be anchored to the ground and a refuse container having a magnet supported by the container's bottom. The plate should be made of a material that is attracted by a magnet. The magnetic attraction between the support plate and the magnet attached to the bottom of the refuse container gives the refuse container added resistance to tipping.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2002Date of Patent: September 7, 2004Inventor: Fadi Najd
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Patent number: 6772566Abstract: A below grade utilities connections vault is disclosed. The vault of the present invention comprises a concrete box with lockable, hinged lid. A floor platform lies at a distance above the bottom of the box such that utilities cables enter the box below the level of the floor. A hinged utilities wiring frame is mounted to the wall opposite the lid hinge such that the frame hinges down into the box when the vault is closed and into a vertical position for making connections. A safety barrier is formed by the lid, the wiring frame, and barrier arms which hinge between them surrounds the vault, when open. A venting system provides egress for gasses and equalization of pressure between the interior and exterior of the vault.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2003Date of Patent: August 10, 2004Inventors: Charles G. Machledt, Fredric P. Machledt
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Patent number: 6749080Abstract: An adjustable underground utility housing with a lid for access from above ground is disclosed and comprises a housing formed with upstanding wall portions defining a cavity having an upper opening to support a lid and a bottom opening. The housing has utility piping inlet and outlet openings through which the piping enters and exits the housing for servicing a facility. The openings each have flexible closures for preventing dirt from entering the openings into the cavity of the housing. The closures are sufficiently flexible for sliding down over the utility piping yet sufficiently resilient to prevent the dirt from entering the housing cavity. The closures can be formed with overlapping horizontally oriented bristles, with a sheet of rubberized material having a centrally located vertical slit, or with this same sheet of rubberized material with the addition of horizontal slits to form reinforced stiffened fingers.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2003Date of Patent: June 15, 2004Inventor: Kennith R. White
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Patent number: 6691887Abstract: A rake storage system to store a rake adjacent a sand trap of a golf course, and to selectively elevate the rake for use, includes an elongated container to be disposed underground adjacent the sand trap in a substantially vertical orientation. A rake is removably disposed within the elongated container. A mechanical lifting mechanism is disposed in the elongated container to elevate the rake. A releasable retaining mechanism is disposed in the container to retain the rake in the container, and includes a lip formed in the container, and a protrusion disposed on the rake near the distal end adjacent the rake head. The protrusion is engagable with the lip to retain the rake in the container when the rake is disposed in the container. A flange can be formed about the inside of the container. A collar can be disposed around the rake near a distal end adjacent a rake head to engage the flange when the rake is received within the container to substantially close the container below the flange and the collar.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventors: Warren J. Christensen, Dave Meyers
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Patent number: 6666349Abstract: A septic system tank vertical wall has vertically overlapping grooved rings having specific diameters for receiving existing sealing couplers for septic system pipe. One wall of the groove has portions at different angles from the wall. The grooves are at the same depth and discontinuous at their intersections.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2001Date of Patent: December 23, 2003Inventor: Norman W. Gavin
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Publication number: 20030141303Abstract: A complete cleaning of a container is achieved by the use of a removable polyethylene liner which removes all debris and avoids contact of the debris with the container at all times. Therefore cleanup of the container is quick, easy and simple. The liner is preformed to allow for a perfect lining of the entire container. The removable liner has the possibility of accommodating multiple openings for connection with one or more inlet pipes and one or more outlet pipes. The liner includes a series of prefabricated portions which may be weakened and removable to selectively accommodate multiple inlets and/or outlets. Only the desired position of a desired inlet or outlet is removed from the liner to accommodate a friction fit with an exterior surface of the inlet or outlet pipe to the container. Alternatively, a compressive force is exerted on the liner between a pipe and a coupling portion to hold the liner in place.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2003Publication date: July 31, 2003Inventor: Fernando Alberto Grazziotin
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Patent number: 6405891Abstract: A rake storage device for storing a rake adjacent a sand trap of a golf course, and for selectively elevating the rake for use, includes an elongated container disposed underground in a substantially vertical orientation. The rake is removably received within the container. The device includes lifting means for elevating the rake out of the container and above the surface. The lifting means can include a rake receiver and a counter-weight operatively coupled together and movably disposed in the elongated container.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2001Date of Patent: June 18, 2002Inventors: Warren J. Christensen, Jeffrey Christensen, Kip M. Colton, Stephen Matthew Haws, Michelle Elaine Lau, Janet Heidemarie Lehnardt, Kevin David Staples, Alaa Abu-Obeid, Len Pugh
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Patent number: 6401409Abstract: An underground storm shelter comprising a bottom section, expander section and a top section bolted together to form the shelter. The base section has a closed bottom while the top section has an access hatch formed in the upper end thereof. The base section, expander section and top section are bolted together at the installation site. The walls of the base section and the top section are tapered to enable the base section and the top section to be nested during shipment. The expander section may be slipped over the top section.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 1998Date of Patent: June 11, 2002Inventor: Michael C. Martin
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Patent number: 6379630Abstract: A salt grid for supporting salt above a portion of a concentrated brine solution in a brine tank for use in a water softening system. The grid comprises first and second platforms disposed at first and second elevational levels with respect to the vertical wall of the brine tank. The fluid level in the brine tank can be adjusted to be higher than the lower platform of the salt grid but lower than the upper platform of the salt grid. In this manner, salt dissolves only above the lower platform part of the grid and consequently, the dirt included in the salt only passes through the lower platform of the grid. The brine well which transports brine solution from the brine tank to the resin tank is located away from the localized area in which the dirt collects at the bottom of the brine tank.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 1999Date of Patent: April 30, 2002Assignee: Chemical Engineering CorporationInventors: Rudy B. Wilfong, Alan B. Channell
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Patent number: 6362419Abstract: A pedestal structure includes a base and a cover; a tongue on one side of one of the base and cover and a groove in the corresponding side of the other for receiving the tongue when the base and cover are engaged; and a security mechanism having a first portion on an opposing side of one of the base and cover and a second portion on a corresponding opposing side of the other for securing together the base and cover and tightly engaging the tongue and groove.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 1999Date of Patent: March 26, 2002Assignee: Utility Marketing CorporationInventors: Bonnie C. Gallagher, Steven G. Cherry, Charles Edward McMurray
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Patent number: 6338596Abstract: A waste collection device which comprises, inside a pit, a plate for supporting at least one container; the plate is provided with supports adapted to limit its downward motion to a minimum elevation which allows the container to lie fully within the pit; a monolithic structure, with a base and a lid provided with waste insertion pillars, the base and the lid being spaced so that when the lid is at the level of the paving that surrounds the pit the base lies at a lower level than the supporting plate; the structure is provided with movement device.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2000Date of Patent: January 15, 2002Inventors: Carlo Galeazzi, Gianpietro Galeazzi
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Patent number: 6321928Abstract: An enclosure installation assembly comprises a support base and a mounting pad adapted to be secured to the support base. The support base, having a lower portion slightly larger than its upper portion, is placed in a hole in the ground. Dirt is compacted around the support base to secure the support base in place. The mounting pad is then secured to the support base using support braces that internally engage the support base and fasteners that engage the mounting pad. Finally, an enclosure is installed on the mounting pad, with fasteners located inside the enclosure. The resulting enclosure is securely and easily installed, and is tamper resistant.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2000Date of Patent: November 27, 2001Assignee: V.I.T. Products, Inc.Inventors: Kim M. Goldenstein, George T. Lowe, Douglas R. Moore, Donald J. Pagano
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Patent number: 6308854Abstract: A storage device (10) includes an underground chamber (12) and a lid (31) hinged to the chamber (12). The lid (31) has a tab (36) and can be easily opened by a user. Flanges (23, 25, 27, 29) near the top of the chamber (12) prevent the storage device (10) from setting too deep in the ground (60) and prevent water from flowing into the chamber (12). A pipe (14) attached to the base (15) of the chamber (12) surrounding an opening (16) therein receives the handle (54) of an implement (50) when the head (52) of the implement (50) is stored in the chamber (12) and provides drainage to the chamber (12). A block (18) on the base (15) of the chamber (12) lifts the head (52) of the implement (50) off the base (15), thereby protecting the implement (50) from possible water and litter in the chamber (12).Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2001Date of Patent: October 30, 2001Inventors: Carl Craven, Judy A. Craven
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Publication number: 20010019059Abstract: A toby box for use in housing a toby (a stopcock), other type of valve, a meter or other object in the ground has an annular housing having an opening defined by a peripheral rim at its upper end. A hinge pivotally connects a lid to an inside part of the rim so that the lid can be opened and closed. A drainage passage is provided below the hinge whereby liquid and detritis entering about the hinge can drain or be washed away from the hinge to the interior of the housing. This helps prevent a build up of detritis about the hinge interfering with its operation.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 16, 2001Publication date: September 6, 2001Inventor: Claudio Petronelli
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Publication number: 20010011656Abstract: A storage device (10) includes an underground chamber (12) and a lid (31) hinged to the chamber (12). The lid (31) has a tab (36) and can be easily opened by a user. Flanges (23, 25, 27, 29) near the top of the chamber (12) prevent the storage device (10) from setting too deep in the ground (60) and prevent water from flowing into the chamber (12). A pipe (14) attached to the base (15) of the chamber (12) surrounding an opening (16) therein receives the handle (54) of an implement (50) when the head (52) of the implement (50) is stored in the chamber (12) and provides drainage to the chamber (12). A block (18) on the base (15) of the chamber (12) lifts the head (52) of the implement (50) off the base (15), thereby protecting the implement (50) from possible water and litter in the chamber (12).Type: ApplicationFiled: April 10, 2001Publication date: August 9, 2001Inventors: Carl Craven, Judy A. Craven
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Patent number: 6264056Abstract: A tub box for receiving a drain trap is formed from two substantially identical plastic housing portions each including one or more round knockouts in one or more side walls of the housing portions and one or more edge flange knockouts in an edge flange of each housing portion and side walls in line with and terminating in close proximity to the respective round knockouts. Pull tabs on the round knockouts facilitate removal of the round knockouts from the housing portions and limit the amount of nesting of the housing portions inside one another when stacked for storage and shipment so the housing portions can easily be pulled apart when desired. A lip protrudes axially outwardly from the radial outer edge of the edge flange of each housing portion around one half only of the periphery of each edge flange for overlapping engagement with the outer edge of the edge flange of an other housing portion when the edge flanges of two housing portions are placed in engagement with one another.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 1999Date of Patent: July 24, 2001Assignee: Oatey Co.Inventor: Daniel F. King
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Patent number: 6223926Abstract: A storage device (10) includes an underground chamber (12) and a lid (31) hinged to the chamber (12). The lid (31) has a tab (36) and can be easily opened by a user. Flanges (23, 25, 27, 29) near the top of the chamber (12) prevent the storage device (10) from setting too deep in the ground (60) and prevent water from flowing into the chamber (12). A pipe (14) attached to the base (15) of the chamber (12) surrounding an opening (16) therein receives the handle (54) of an implement (50) when the head (52) of the implement (50) is stored in the chamber (12) and provides drainage to the chamber (12). A block (18) on the base (15) of the chamber (12) lifts the head (52) of the implement (50) off the base (15), thereby protecting the implement (50) from possible water and litter in the chamber (12).Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 1999Date of Patent: May 1, 2001Inventors: Carl Craven, Judy A. Craven
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Patent number: 6164131Abstract: An in-ground receptacle for a fluid meter and/or a valve, comprising a continuous wall defining a chamber for the meter and/or valve. The wall is co-molded in three layers comprising inner and outer layers of plastic with an intermediate plastic layer having high insulative characteristics. The receptacle is provided at its upper end with an appropriate openable closure, substantially at ground level, and permitting inspection of and access to the meter and/or valve. The receptacle may have an annular interior rim near its upper end. The rim supports an insulative pad at the top of the receptacle beneath the openable closure therefor. The pad has a removable center portion enabling inspection and access to the fluid meter and/or valve. The construction of the receptacle is such as to prevent freezing of the fluid meter and/or valve.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 1998Date of Patent: December 26, 2000Assignee: Mid-States Plastics, Inc.Inventors: Daniel J. Edwards, Mark J. Edwards
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Patent number: 6126030Abstract: A flexible manhole liner bag soaked with a curable liquid resin is inserted into a manhole; this liner bag is equipped with step connectors having female screws, which are disposed to penetrate and be supported by a fabric layer of the liner bag; the open ends of the female screws are substantially flush with the inner face of the fabric layer, and male screws are screwed into these female screws and a sealing material is applied between the internal thread of the female screws and the external thread of the male screws.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 1998Date of Patent: October 3, 2000Assignees: Shonan Gosei-jushi Seisakusho K.K., Yokoshima & CompanyInventors: Takao Kamiyama, Yasuhiro Yokoshima
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Patent number: 6112935Abstract: A catch basin for below-grade installations to receive water through a grate, and which can be adapted to receive and discharge water through a plurality of inlet ports, and be able to withstand heavy bearing loads without collapse of the basin or of its grate, especially one manufacturable by rotational molding.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 1999Date of Patent: September 5, 2000Assignee: Normandy Products CompanyInventor: George Shackelford
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Patent number: 6061975Abstract: A subterranean outside plant telecommunications equipment enclosure system including a substantially water-tight containing capsule slidably and rotatably received within a vertical underground sleeve. The capsule is selectively positionable into a first upwardly projecting position with respect to the sleeve and a second storage position within the sleeve. The system provides easy access for servicing and prevents binding of telecommunications cables connected to the capsule.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 1998Date of Patent: May 16, 2000Assignee: Lucent Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Thomas Francis Craft, Jr.
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Patent number: 6039201Abstract: A container such as a sump having a bottom, at least one wall extending upwardly from the bottom, and a flange connected to the at least one wall and projecting therefrom. The flange preferably has apertures extending partially into the interior portion of the flange from its exterior surface. The flange provides structural rigidity to the container and prevents irregularities from being formed in the walls during manufacture. Preferably, the container is a sump having four lower walls, four upper walls integrally connected to the lower walls by the flange, and four entrance walls integrally connected to the upper walls and defining a mouth for receiving fluids. The flange preferably has an upper surface having upper apertures and a lower surface having lower apertures that are axially aligned with the upper apertures. Pins may utilized during manufacture of the sump by rotational molding to form apertures within the flange and aid in preventing irregularities from being formed.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 1997Date of Patent: March 21, 2000Assignee: Delaware Capital Formations, Inc.Inventors: James Kesterman, David Pendleton
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Patent number: 6006944Abstract: A vault for storing batteries underground, having glass fiber reinforced concrete body including a floor and vertical walls, and an insulated fiberglass top closure, and a method of storing batteries. Two conduits disposed in generally concentric fashion communicate between the interior of the vault and the external atmosphere. One conduit has a connector for connecting to a supply of pressurized nitrogen gas. The other conduit branches into two secondary conduits, each having a unidirectional check valve opening when a pressure differential between the interior of the vault is established relative to the external atmosphere. One check valve admits air to the vault and the other check valve allows air to escape to the external atmosphere. The vault includes an external support structure for supporting a davit in an operable position for lifting batteries from the vault.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 1997Date of Patent: December 28, 1999Inventor: Charles G. Machledt
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Patent number: 5908132Abstract: A trash receptacle assembly for installation on a support surface includes an outer housing formed and configured in the shape of a golf bag and including a base mounted to the support surface, a main body and an open top. A container includes a bottom wall, a top rim surrounding an open mouth, and a side wall structure extending between the bottom wall and the open mouth in surrounding relation to a trash chamber, the container being structured and disposed for removable receipt through the open top of the housing so that the top rim engages an upper end of the housing body to support the container within an interior of the housing. Drainage openings in the container and housing facilitate draining of liquid therefrom. The main body of the housing includes at least one area on an exterior surface for displaying an advertisement or message.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 1997Date of Patent: June 1, 1999Inventor: Franck Pigeon
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Patent number: 5862932Abstract: A portable collapsible garbage can has a central vertical axis and inner and outer sides and concentrically adjacently spaced substantially vertically oriented annular flat wall panels. Each wall panel has upper and lower distal ends and there is an innermost and outermost wall panel. The wall panels are concentrically oriented about the vertical axis and can be vertically telescopically raised and lowered between an extended and a retracted position. In the extended position the panels partially overlap along the vertical axis and define a garbage compartment having an open top and bottom. In the retracted position the panels are concentrically nested adjacent each other and overlapped along the vertical axis.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 1997Date of Patent: January 26, 1999Inventors: Carolyn Walsh, Gary Wright
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Patent number: 5819975Abstract: A dispenser sump which includes a deflection surface and a distribution channel for distributing liquids about the interior periphery of the sump to allow insertion of fluid removal apparatus along any wall of the sump. The sump also provides increased structural rigidity to support backfill surrounding the sump and to maintain shape integrity.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 1996Date of Patent: October 13, 1998Assignee: Dover Corp.Inventors: David Pendleton, James Kesterman
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Patent number: 5800648Abstract: A method and article for sealing a manhole riser, a catch basin, and a pipe juncture. The method is an economical process whereby elastomeric bands are placed around and inside a manhole riser, a catch basin, or a pipe juncture and effectively seals the manhole riser, catch basin, or pipe juncture from loss of water or infiltration of water and other contaminants such as gases and salt.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 1997Date of Patent: September 1, 1998Assignee: Infi-Shield, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey W. House, William K. House
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Patent number: 5791098Abstract: An enclosure for buried placement near grade capable of supporting vehicle loading having a reinforced cover, walls and base, the walls including internal struts and stabilizers, the cover and walls including notches for transferring load and grooves for limiting translation and rotation of the cover under transverse load. The base and the walls having portions of divided pathways forming conduit openings when the base is connected to the walls.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 1996Date of Patent: August 11, 1998Assignee: Cott Manufacturing Co.Inventor: Jeffrey G. Thomas
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Patent number: 5749675Abstract: Underground storage tank consisting of an internal metal structure (1), a static external facing (2) in contact with the surrounding soil (3) and a filler (5) located between the metal structure (1) and the static facing (2), the filler (5) being stabilized by a netting (6) secured onto the metal structure (1) by joint plates (7), while the netting is embedded in the filler (5) which is thickened by charging vessels (18) combined with feed bushes (15) through which the filler (5) is poured into the cavity wall. For Liquid Gas Low Temperature Storage Tanks, the transverse channels (4) for detection and drainage of any leaks are consisting of two omega shaped sections (21, 22) whereas blown or non-blown bitumen to which polymers are added is used as a filler (5).Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 1995Date of Patent: May 12, 1998Assignee: Ing Nino Ferrari-Impresa Construzioni Generale SRLInventor: Franco Ferrari
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Patent number: 5747687Abstract: An in-ground receptacle for a fluid meter and/or a valve, comprising a continuous wall defining a chamber for the meter and/or valve. The wall is molded in three layers comprising smooth inner and outer layers of plastic with an intermediate plastic layer having high insulative characteristics. The receptacle is provided at its upper end with an appropriate openable closure, substantially at ground level, and permitting inspection of and access to the meter and/or valve. The receptacle has an annular interior rim near its upper end. The rim supports an insulative pad at the top of the receptacle beneath the openable closure therefor. The pad has a removable center portion enabling inspection and access to the fluid meter and/or valve. The construction of the receptacle is such as to prevent freezing of the fluid meter and/or valve.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 1996Date of Patent: May 5, 1998Assignee: Mid-States Plastics, Inc.Inventors: Daniel J. Edwards, Mark J. Edwards
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Patent number: 5735430Abstract: An underground storage container for the storage of personal valuables and possessions to protect such items from theft, fire, riots and natural disasters. A generally cylindrical tapered container, made preferably of fiberglass, is hermetically sealed through the employment of seals and a cover designed to mate with corresponding flanges on the upper portion of the container's body. The underground storage container has a vacuum release mechanism to facilitate opening and closing the container and a raised spiral auger around the base of the container to assist in anchoring the underground storage container and facilitating its extraction upon removal.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 1995Date of Patent: April 7, 1998Inventor: Dewitt Y. Gorman
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Patent number: 5722204Abstract: A device for housing the active and passive junction assemblies of underground-located telecommunications installations, with a removable holding fixture for the assemblies placed inside the container, has the following characteristics:a) the container (6) has a hollow main body portion (6a) and a shoulder portion (6b) which extends conically towards one end,b) a hollow neck portion (6c) is adjacent to the conical portion (6b),c) the container (6) is closed by a cover (7), which simultaneously serves as a sidewalk cover,d) the container (6) rests on a pipe (2) cast into a foundation (1), which protrudes from the foundation (1), while the hollow neck portion (6c) extends into the pipe (2).Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 1996Date of Patent: March 3, 1998Assignee: Alcatel Kabel AG & Co.Inventors: Werner Stieb, Franz Grajewski
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Patent number: 5711449Abstract: A closure assembly for attachment to a vessel having an opening ring of a vessel and a closing cover cooperating with the ring and including a large diameter base end attached to the vessel and a small diameter ring end to receive a removable cover thereover. The cover end includes a plurality of spaced inwardly protruding locking lugs having a lower surface slightly inclined and the cover includes a perimeter ring flange, having a first downwardly depending skirt spaced closely adjacent and inwardly from the ring locking lugs and a second downwardly depending skirt spaced outwardly therefrom. The first skirt has outwardly protruding locking lugs spaced downwardly from the ring flange and having a slightly inclined upper surface to wedgingly mate with respective lower surfaces of the ring locking lugs. The cover has an interior surface between the first and second skirts and a D-ring seal located between the flanges on the interior surface for contacting and being compressed by the small diameter ring end.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 1995Date of Patent: January 27, 1998Assignee: Petroleum Containment, Inc.Inventor: Robert W. Arn
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Patent number: 5695986Abstract: A low-cost compost bin with air tubes or air panels which is easy to assemble and use. The bin is comprised of two flexible sheets which form a cylinder. Two openings are located on opposing sides of the cylinder. As material to be composted is piled in the bin, perforated air tubes are positioned at vertically spaced intervals in the composting matter. The air tubes are placed in the composting matter so that each end of the tube faces one of the openings. The air tubes provide sufficient oxygen to the composting mass and therefore, no manual turning, stirring or tumbling is required.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 1994Date of Patent: December 9, 1997Assignee: Russell L. WoldInventors: Russell L. Wold, Kenneth R. Hepp
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Patent number: 5673810Abstract: A counterweight assembly for a container lid that allows for control over the operating characteristics of the lid during opening and closing. The counterweight assembly is preferably used with a container having one or more walls, a floor, and a lid positioned on top of the walls, the lid being rotatable about a horizontal hinge axis. The counterweight assembly includes a counterweight, and a coupling arm rotatable about a counterweight axis that is located within the container. The counterweight is connected to one end of the coupling arm. The other end of the coupling arm exerts a force against the downward facing surface of the lid.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 1994Date of Patent: October 7, 1997Assignee: Nova Group, Inc.Inventor: Guy R. Rothrock
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Patent number: 5653559Abstract: In an underground configuration housing for telecommunication devices, a mechanically stable housing, which is closed by a removable cover, has an installation located inside which supports at least one telecommunication device. The installation supporting the telecommunication devices is a pot-shaped container with a cylindrical insert positioned therein so as to form a gap therebetween. The container is sealed in water-proof fashion by a removable cover and the telecommunication devices are located inside of the cylindrical insert.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 1995Date of Patent: August 5, 1997Assignees: kabelmetal electro GmbH, KE Kommunikations-Electronik GmbH & Co.Inventors: Werner Stieb, Wolfgang Wenski, Hans-Holger Freckmann, Zbigniew Wielgolaski, Gunter Kochsmeier, Eberhard Gerwald, Heinz Wangerin, Franz Grajewski
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Patent number: 5603401Abstract: A storage apparatus includes a container having an interior region for storing items, a first closed end, and a second open end. The apparatus also includes a slide liner located within the interior region of the container, and a shield having a lower closed end and an upper open end. The shield is positioned inside the slide liner to permit withdrawal of the shield once items are loaded into the shield. The apparatus further includes a desiccant material configured to be positioned inside the shield surrounding the items, and a removable end cap for closing the second open end of the container.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 1995Date of Patent: February 18, 1997Inventor: Martin C. Brunner
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Patent number: 5573085Abstract: Waste collection device that includes a pit provided with a lid that has waste insertion pillars and with a lifting unit that is suitable to move at least one waste container; the device is characterized in that the monolithic lid is pivoted to the edge of the pit and is kinematically connected to the lifting unit so as to perform the opening and closing motions respectively during the ascending and descending movements of the lifting unit.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 1994Date of Patent: November 12, 1996Inventors: Giancarlo Galeazzi, Angelo Fusaro
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Patent number: 5555998Abstract: An improved gate valve lid for covering an access tube of a service box assembly leading to a gate valve below street level. The lid has a vertical height which is greater than its diameter so that the lid may not be flipped out of the service box assembly. In one embodiment, the lid includes a two-part assembly having an upper portion which is sized to rest in a tapered upper section of the service box located near street level, and a lower portion which may be displaced laterally with respect to the upper portion to allow the lower portion to be centered within a lower section of the service box, which may be out of alignment with the upper section. In this embodiment, the lower adjustable portion of the gate valve lid is preferably a tubular element slidably located on a cross pin passing through holes located at the upper end of the element across a downwardly opening recess in the upper portion. In one embodiment, the lower portion of the lid is defined by a plurality of downwardly depending fingers.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 1994Date of Patent: September 17, 1996Inventor: Daniel D. Coppola
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Patent number: 5545559Abstract: A compost maker comprising an upright container having on its top end a cover for introducing material to be composted in the container, having in its lower part a hatch for removing composted material from the container, and containing an air tube system for guiding air in among the material to be composted. The air tube system comprises at least two tubes on different heights, the lower tube being connected through the wall of the container with an air intake aperture, and which are interconnected with a connecting tube and their lower parts provided with holes. The cover is fitted with an exit duct, the air flowing through the holes in the tubes and upward through the material to be composted and through the exit duct out from the container. The material to be composted, supported by the transverse tubes, moves in controlled manner downwardly as the composting of the material progresses.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 1994Date of Patent: August 13, 1996Assignee: Favorit OyInventor: Pekka Kariniemi
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Patent number: 5535915Abstract: The meter pit is formed by a hollow cylindrical wall having a top end and a bottom end with top and bottom openings leading to the interior thereof. The top end has structure forming upper spaced apart slots extending outward from the upper opening with the slots having a radial dimension capable of receiving the bottom lugs of annular lid covers which are located at different radial positions.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 1995Date of Patent: July 16, 1996Inventor: Robert M. McKinnon