Rigid Solid Form Media Patents (Class 239/54)
  • Patent number: 11747145
    Abstract: A system, program product, and method are provided for leveraging cognitive systems and a digital twin computing system for facility evacuation, and, more specifically, to leveraging a trained cognitive system to automatically facilitate executing an effective evacuation during an emergency through a digital twin of the affected facility structure and digital twins of the evacuees. Digital twins for a structure and each occupant thereof are created through machine learning techniques. Environmental measurements representative of environmental conditions within a structure are collected. The structural digital twin predicts potential environmental conditions adverse to occupants within the structure. Evacuation routes for the occupants are determined and atmosphere pressures within the evacuation routes are modulated, thereby reducing the severity of the adverse environmental conditions within the evacuation routes to facilitate the evacuation of the occupants from the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Subha Kiran Patnaikuni, Sarbajit K. Rakshit
  • Patent number: 11179489
    Abstract: The invention relates to a scent diffuser (1) comprising a housing (2) having openwork parts (5), a substrate (6) housed inside the housing (2) and in which a fragrant substance or composition is adsorbed or absorbed, and means (7) for keeping the substrate (6) inside the housing (2). The housing (2) comprises a bottom (3) and a cover (4), one of the openwork parts (5) of the housing (2) is formed in the bottom (3) and the other is formed in the cover (4) of the housing (2), the substrate (6) is a block (61) provided with through-openings (62) through which an air flow that passes through the housing (2) is able to pass, and the means (7) for keeping the substrate (6) inside the housing (2) comprise first holding means (711, 712) made in one piece with the housing (2) and second holding means (721, 722) made in one piece with the substrate (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2021
    Assignee: MAISON BERGER INNOVATION
    Inventor: Guillaume Rolland
  • Patent number: 11097601
    Abstract: An improved portable scent warmer having a modular or compartmentalized housing holding a scented member, a heating element imparting heat to the scented member to release its fragrance, a fan element for direct the dispersion of the fragrance, a input device for selectively controlling and actuating the heating element; a rotatable cover adjoined to the housing; and at least one power supply means for powering the heating element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2021
    Inventors: Merrium Patterson, Anthony Patterson
  • Patent number: 10391193
    Abstract: Automated air freshener dispensers and cartridges therefor are provided herein. Air freshener dispensers include a housing having a cavity for receiving a cartridge containing an air freshening substance for release, a fan that induces an airflow through the housing and directs the airflow to an area outside of the air freshener dispenser, such that released air freshening substance is entrained in the airflow, a motor for driving the fan, at least one sensor, and a controller that receives a signal from the at least one sensor and directs operation of the fan in response thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: GPCP IP Holdings LLC
    Inventors: Eric Paul Peterson, Todd Richard Lappi, Daniel M. D'Amico, John Patrick Laitala, Ryan David Carignan
  • Patent number: 9867896
    Abstract: This application generally relates to systems, devices, and methods for delivering a fragrance. In some embodiments, portable fragrance delivery systems are provided. In further embodiments, improved fragrance delivery systems are provided that provide increased dispersion of scented agents. In some embodiments, a fragrance delivery system does not include a light source. Optionally, the fragrance delivery system does not include a heater. A portable power source (e.g., disposable or rechargeable batteries) may be provided to power a fan. The fan may blow air through channels of a fragrance carrier to disperse the vaporizing agent and/or scent released by the fragrance carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2018
    Assignee: Caffco International Ltd.
    Inventors: James Lamar Thompson, Jr., Wu Jingqing
  • Patent number: 9717815
    Abstract: Automated air freshener dispensers and cartridges therefor are provided herein. Air freshener dispensers include a housing having a cavity for receiving a cartridge containing an air freshening substance for release, a fan that induces an airflow through the housing and directs the airflow to an area outside of the air freshener dispenser, such that released air freshening substance is entrained in the airflow, a motor for driving the fan, at least one sensor, and a controller that receives a signal from the at least one sensor and directs operation of the fan in response thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Assignee: Georgia-Pacific Consumer Products LP
    Inventors: Eric Paul Peterson, Todd Richard Lappi, Daniel M. D'Amico, John Patrick Laitala, Ryan David Carignan
  • Publication number: 20150136872
    Abstract: Scent devices and methods are provided. In one embodiment, the present invention can be a device to scent an environment comprising a scent and a structural component. The scent stick can have a length to average cross-sectional diameter ratio of at least about 4:1 according to some embodiments. The scent stick can be colored to blend into an environmental setting to make the presence of the scent stick unobtrusive. The scent stick may also be attached or hung by the addition of a hanger or hoop. The scent stick may be hung from a tree, automobile mirror or a person as an adornment. Other embodiments are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2014
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Applicant: EnviroScent, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey S. Sherwood
  • Publication number: 20150108242
    Abstract: Scent devices and methods are provided. In one embodiment, the present invention can be a device to scent an environment comprising a scent and a structural component. The scent stick can have a length to average cross-sectional diameter ratio of at least about 4:1 according to some embodiments. The scent stick can be colored to blend into an environmental setting to make the presence of the scent stick unobtrusive. The scent stick may also be attached or hung by the addition of a hanger or hoop. The scent stick may be hung from a tree, automobile mirror or a person as an adornment. Other embodiments are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Applicant: ENVIROSCENT, INC.
    Inventor: Jeffrey S. Sherwood
  • Patent number: 8985479
    Abstract: A framed freshener provides a thermal formed cavity, or thermoplastic shell, carrying scented gel that fits into a picture frame. The present invention locates a fragrant gel in a thermal formed cavity or thermoplastic shell or container which is then placed within a suitably designed picture frame. Coupling a fragrance with a photo in a frame, the present invention seeks to foster memories in those who view the frame. Additionally, the shell carrying gel makes the frame a decorative air freshening device. The picture frame and the opening for the fragrance container can be die cut to any shape. An alternate embodiment has the shell supported in a wire frame upon a base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Oplandi, Inc.
    Inventors: Sven Dobler, Aaron R. Bauhs, Ahmed R. Alai-Tafti, Jonathan Millen
  • Patent number: 8919662
    Abstract: Scent devices and methods are provided. In one embodiment, the present invention can be a device to scent an environment comprising a scent and a structural component. The scent stick can have a length to average cross-sectional diameter ratio of at least about 4:1 according to some embodiments. The scent stick can be colored to blend into an environmental setting to make the presence of the scent stick unobtrusive. The scent stick may also be attached or hung by the addition of a hanger or hoop. The scent stick may be hung from a tree, automobile mirror or a person as an adornment. Other embodiments are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: EnviroScent, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey Sherwood
  • Patent number: 8695891
    Abstract: A fragrance delivery device that includes a hollow vessel containing a first fragrance medium and further comprising a porous exterior surface with a porous wicking extension extending therefrom; and a reservoir containing a second fragrance medium, the second fragrance medium in fluid communication with the wicking extension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Takasago International Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas Santini, Anthony Budraitis, Charles Steward, John Gick
  • Publication number: 20140001281
    Abstract: A dispensing screen for dispensing, by evaporation, volatile materials applied thereto, is provided. The screen comprises a sheet of material and diverting means formed in the plane of the sheet. The diverting means form a minimum path length along the length of the sheet between at least a portion of a first edge and an opposing second edge of the sheet, which minimum path length is longer than the distance between the first and second edges along the surface of the sheet. A dispensing apparatus is also provided, which in embodiments includes the dispensing screen of the invention, and in embodiments includes a sink for capturing un-evaporated volatile material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2011
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Applicant: I&I DEVELOPMENTS LTD.
    Inventor: Brian Parry Slade
  • Patent number: 8474732
    Abstract: The present invention relates to air freshener devices that have water-based liquid compositions, preferably clear liquids, for providing an improved rate of emanation of perfume ingredients from the air freshener emanating surface and allowing the use of fragrance materials with a wide range of characteristics, namely a wide range of clogP values. The air fresheners contain liquid perfume compositions which include: i) 0.5 to 40% w/w of a perfume; ii) an oil-solubilizing system containing one or more surfactants of the non-ionic, anionic, cationic, amphoteric type, or a mixture thereof; iii) a solubilizing-aid; and iv) at least 40% weight of water; with the weight percentages being relative to the total weight of liquid composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Firmenich SA
    Inventors: Nicholas O'Leary, Florin Joseph Vlad
  • Patent number: 8424778
    Abstract: A slow release deer and rodent outdoor deterrent device includes: a) a waterproof hollow housing having a top and a bottom, a top wick orifice and a bottom wick; b) a wick externally extending from outside the hollow housing top, through the top wick orifice and into the hollow housing, through the bottom wick orifice and externally below the hollow housing bottom; c) a teabag containing dried repellant that is activated by water contact. The teabag acts as a two way filter to permit water to enter the teabag and permit a water-dissolved repellant brew to exit the teabag, the teabag being inside the housing in contact with the wick. The device is placed outdoors proximate vegetation to be protected and releases repellent when wetted by rain or watering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Inventor: Bradley G. Mount
  • Patent number: 8191796
    Abstract: The invention proposes a fragrance dispenser, comprising a first and a second carrier, each carrier comprising one or more fragrance substances, wherein the fragrance substances comprise one or more fragrance substances a) with a vapor pressure of at least 0.1 mmHg at 25° C. (“HVA”) and one or more fragrance substances b) with a vapor pressure of less than 0.1 mmHg at 25° C. (“LVA”), and wherein the fragrance substances are distributed to the first and second carrier such that at least 80 wt.-% of all HVA fragrance substances are carried by the first carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Symrise AG
    Inventors: Matthias Lammert, Alma Ortiz Vela, Angelica Leal Mendieta, Maria De la Luz Hernandez Sanchez, Ruben Israel Chavez Rico, Carlos Eloy Embarcadero Dominguez
  • Patent number: 8109409
    Abstract: The present application is directed to a deodorizer that comprises a package comprised of a porous compostable material and a crushable compostable material within the package that releases a deodorant when crushed. The application further describes a deodorizer assembly comprising an attachment assembly for removably attaching a deodorizer to the interior of a garbage container. The application also discloses a deodorizer assembly comprising a garbage can liner and a crushable compostable material that releases a deodorant when crushed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Inventor: Carolyn MacMurray
  • Patent number: 8048379
    Abstract: An air freshener includes a housing having at least a first compartment and a second compartment, each of the first and second compartments having vents. The air freshener includes a first fan unit disposed within the first compartment and a second fan unit disposed within the second compartment. The air freshener also includes a first fragrance emitting substance disposed within the first compartment proximate the first fan unit and a second fragrance emitting substance disposed within the second compartment proximate the second fan unit. A programmable processor is operatively connected to a power source and the first and second fan units and configured to drive at least one of the first and second fan units so as to promote discharge of one of the first and second fragrance emitting substances from the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Hyso Technology LLC
    Inventor: Simon Sassoon
  • Patent number: 8005350
    Abstract: An aromatic odor neutralizer includes a vaporization chamber containing a wick with an end part immersed in fluid in a storage cup that is gravity fed from an airtight vessel by the use of air pathways exposed when the liquid level in the cup is reduced. The vaporization chamber is located in a dispenser housing with an internal passage between end walls and communicating with vents in the sides for aerodynamic airflow to efficiently absorb vapors from a vaporizer chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Pestco, Inc.
    Inventors: Arnold H. Zlotnik, Raymond Czapko, Eric R. Colburn, Anthony D. Shoemaker
  • Patent number: 7922104
    Abstract: An aromatic odor neutralizer includes a vaporization chamber containing a wick with an end part immersed in fluid in a storage cup that is gravity fed from an airtight vessel by the use of air pathways exposed when the liquid level in the cup is reduced. The vaporization chamber is located in a dispenser housing with an internal passage between end walls and communicating with vents in the sides for aerodynamic airflow to efficiently absorb vapors from a vaporizer chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: PESTCO, Inc.
    Inventors: Arnold H. Zlotnik, Raymond Czapko, Eric R. Colburn, Anthony D. Shoemaker
  • Patent number: 7857236
    Abstract: An aromatic odor neutralizer includes a dispenser housing with an internal passage between end walls and communicating with vents in the sides for aerodynamic airflow to efficiently absorb vapors from a vaporizer chamber within the dispenser housing. The vaporization chamber contains a wick with an end part immersed in fluid in a storage cup that is gravity fed from an air tight vessel by the use of air pathways exposed when the liquid level in the cup is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Pestco
    Inventors: Arnold H. Zlotnik, Raymond Czapko, Eric R. Colburn, Anthony D. Shoemaker
  • Patent number: 7774953
    Abstract: Disclosed is a system to dry the hands of individuals. The system may include a pedestal, an air pedal and powder pedal hinged to the pedestal, a chamber having a dome connected to a shroud to define a chamber interior. The chamber interior may be divided into a first divided area, a second divided, and an overhead area that connects the first divided area to the second divided area. Each dived area may include a perforated tube to deliver pressurized air and powder into the chamber interior. An air compressor may be connected directly to the perforated tubes and connected to a powder chamber. In addition to pressurized air being delivered to the chamber interior, powder optionally may be delivered to the chamber interior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Inventor: Napoli I. Duran
  • Patent number: 7736443
    Abstract: In an endoscope washer disinfector, a bath comprises a mounting plane on which an endoscope with a duct is mounted and a wall member. A connector has two ends consisting of one end located to penetrate through the wall member and to be secured watertightly to the wall member. The one end faces an opening of the duct of the endoscope mounted in the bath. The other end is connected to a fluid source storing fluid for washing and disinfecting the endoscope. A nozzle is movable in the connector along an inner passage thereof and moved toward the one end of the connector to protrude from the one end to realize a watertight and detachable connection with the opening of the duct. The fluid is supplied to the duct when the fluid is supplied from the fluid source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Olympus Medical Systems Corp.
    Inventor: Hideto Onishi
  • Patent number: 7621462
    Abstract: An air freshener with a device configured to maintain an air freshener's ability to disseminate a constant odor to an environment. The device incrementally advances the position of an air freshening composition such that an effective amount to maintain the air freshening odor is consistently exposed to the surrounding environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: The Dial Corporation
    Inventor: Geoffrey Faires
  • Patent number: 7510022
    Abstract: A fire-suppression system for use in an aircraft having at least one cargo compartment is disclosed. Methods of suppressing a fire in the cargo compartment are also disclosed. The fire-suppression system, under one aspect of the present invention, can include at least one fire-suppressant vessel, at least one discharge conduit coupled to the at least one fire-suppressant vessel, and a valve arrangement coupled to the fire-suppressant vessel and the discharge conduit. The valve arrangement can have a first setting to discharge a fire suppressant at a first discharge rate after activation of the fire-suppression system, a second setting to discharge the fire-suppressant at a second discharge rate less than the first discharge rate, and a third setting to discharge the fire-suppressant at a third discharge rate greater than the second discharge rate during descent of the aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Anthony K. Lazzarini
  • Patent number: 7434629
    Abstract: A vehicle having a tire fire suppression system includes a vehicle body for transportation of occupants or cargo. A plurality of combustible tires is connected to the body. The tires are susceptible to auto-ignition in response to exposure to an elevated temperature condition. The fire suppression system is connected to the body and includes a container of a fire suppressant. At least one temperature sensor is positioned in close proximity to at least one of the tires. The temperature sensor is adapted to be activated in response to the elevated temperature condition and before the auto-ignition. At least one nozzle is positioned to direct the suppressant toward the tire. An actuator connects the container to the nozzle for the suppressant to be dispersed from the nozzle in response to activation of the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: Kidde Technologies Incorporated
    Inventors: Steven Edward Hodges, Gregory Deane Simpson
  • Publication number: 20080105760
    Abstract: A deformable aromatic device mountable by suction on a mounting surface including a body including a flexible base formed from a first material. The flexible base has an outer surface, an inner surface including a concave portion, and a periphery around the body. The body further includes a message formed on the body. The device further includes a second material selected to emit a desired aroma. The body is deformable from an undeformed shape to an actuated shape to mount the body on the mounting surface by positioning the inner surface adjacent the mounting surface when the body is undeformed thereby forming a cavity between the concave portion and the mounting surface and deforming the body to its actuated shape thereby sealing the body against the mounting surface and forcing fluid out of the cavity to create suction between the body and the mounting surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2006
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Inventors: Douglas M. Sheffield, Tamara K. Sheffield
  • Publication number: 20080099576
    Abstract: A novel car air freshener that simulates a CD-like product, comprises a disc body, a fragrance impregnated disc and a micro perforated disc, all of which are sandwiched to integrally form a car air freshener that emits a scented fragrance. The side of the micro perforated disc that is exposed to the exterior is covered with a plastic film during shipment and storage in order to promote the shelf life of the product. An attached elastic strap is installed on the product to allow the car air freshener to be suspended from a fixture within a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2006
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Inventor: Lance G. Hart
  • Patent number: 7293719
    Abstract: An air freshener device includes a scent material interspersed within a polymer body or a polymer gel, and capable of dispersing out of the polymer gel. The polymer body and a polymer gel can be flexible and compressible, and also resilient and returnable to its original configuration. In addition, the polymer body and the polymer gel can have a freestanding, self-supported, three-dimensional shape. The air freshener can be light transmissive in at least a translucent manner, and can have indicia visible therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Assignee: American Covers, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan J. Wheatley, Christopher D. Anderson
  • Patent number: 7255288
    Abstract: An aroma therapy for fountain comprises a fountain assembly, which comprises a water container having a bottom, a top opening and an interior, a aroma supporting member for support an aroma therapy dispensing unit, comprising a heating source adapted to generate a heat, a bowl adapted for reserving an aromatic substance therein, a base stand detachably and securely mounted on the aroma supporting member for holding the heat source, and a plurality of supporting frame extended upwardly from the base to securely sustain the bowl, such that the heat generated from the heating source disposed beneath the bowl could heat the bowl thereby diffusing the aromatic substance reserved in the bowl volatized into surrounding air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Inventor: Wan Shan Chan
  • Patent number: 7169318
    Abstract: Solid composition has an organic spill absorbing material in which is absorbed certain of a liquid organic compound or composition. The organic spill absorbing material can be water insoluble, particulate polymer particles that imbibe liquid organic materials. A halogenated organic can provide the liquid organic compound or composition. The halogenated organic can be a halogenated hydrocarbon. A fire can be fought by transmitting the solid composition containing a suitable flame retardant to the base of the fire under conditions such that the absorbed liquid in liquid or vapor form is released; and a living target can be stupefied by transmitting the solid composition containing a suitable stupefying agent under conditions such that vapors of the stupefying agent are released and stupefy the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Inventor: Richard H. Hall
  • Patent number: 7159792
    Abstract: A method for providing a desired fragrance includes securing a tacky attachment surface of a pad of an air freshener to a surface by mechanical or specific adhesion. The air freshener includes a scent material carried by and dispersable through a coherent, flexible and resilient polymer carrier material. The pad is selectively removed from the surface. The pad can be selectively re-secured at a different position on the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: American Covers, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan J. Wheatley, Christopher D. Anderson
  • Patent number: 7141215
    Abstract: The present invention is an aromatic evaporator consisting of a base, a heater, a heat conduction aluminum plate, a constant temperature controller, a plug, a ceramic carriers and a cover. The plug sets inside the base to deliver D.C. power; the heater converts the electricity from the plug into heat; the heat conduction aluminum plate adhered to the heater directly evens the heat; the constant temperature controller contains the electric conduction switch and the memory alloy plate connected with the heat conduction aluminum. When the memory alloy plate is straight, the electric conduction switch is switched off and stops the heater from heating. When the temperature reduces, the memory alloy plate is curved by external force and switches on the electric conduction switch, making the heater reheat. The memory alloy plate of the constant temperature controller controls the heater to heat intermittently, making the heater heat at constant temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: Hsu-Yang Technologies Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jin-Chin Guan, Ming-Tarng Yeh
  • Patent number: 7137570
    Abstract: An air freshener device includes a scent material interspersed within a polymer body or a polymer gel, and capable of dispersing out of the polymer gel. The polymer body and a polymer gel can be flexible and compressible, and also resilient and returnable to its original configuration. In addition, the polymer body and the polymer gel can have a freestanding, self-supported, three-dimensional shape. The air freshener can include a tacky or clingy attachment surface to contact and cling to a support surface by mechanical or specific adhesion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Assignee: American Covers, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan J. Wheatley, Christopher D. Anderson
  • Patent number: 7066274
    Abstract: A fire-suppression system for use in an aircraft having at least one cargo compartment is disclosed. Methods of suppressing a fire in the cargo compartment are also disclosed. The fire-suppression system, under one aspect of the present invention, can include at least one fire-suppressant vessel, at least one discharge conduit coupled to the at least one fire-suppressant vessel, and a valve arrangement coupled to the fire-suppressant vessel and the discharge conduit. The valve arrangement can have a first setting to discharge a fire suppressant at a first discharge rate after activation of the fire-suppression system, a second setting to discharge the fire-suppressant at a second discharge rate less than the first discharge rate, and a third setting to discharge the fire-suppressant at a third discharge rate greater than the second discharge rate during descent of the aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Anthony K. Lazzarini
  • Patent number: 6755350
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sensual pressure sensitive adhesive label comprising an image having at least one overcoat layer over said image wherein said overcoat layer comprises comprising at least one tactile or olfactory feature
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: William T. Rochford, Robert P. Bourdelais, Mridula Nair
  • Patent number: 6722578
    Abstract: A dispenser with a lid laminate providing controlled release of a volatile material contained in a tray is disclosed. The lid includes a vapor impermeable, removable outer laminate and a vapor permeable inner layer covering an open side of the tray. The outer laminate includes layers of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and aluminum foil removably adhered to the inner layer of biaxially-oriented polypropylene (OPP) by an ethylene acrylic acid copolymer. Bottom and side walls of the tray are constructed of a metal/polymer pressure-formed colored tray laminate impermeable to the vapors and volatile material. The tray has a peripheral lip with an outer surface of cast polypropylene to which the vapor permeable inner layer of the lid is heat sealed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Skalitzky, Chad D. Holland
  • Patent number: 6631852
    Abstract: A device for diffusion of an active volatile substance into ambient air or closed spaces comprising a solid casing or housing and a solid carrier containing said volatile substance. The solid carrier is arranged in at least one recess formed in the housing, said recess having a depth and a width which are chosen in relation to the composition of the solid carrier so that the ratio of the evaporation surface of the solid carrier to the mass of the solid carrier is such that a substantially constant vapor release rate and total evaporation of said active volatile substance during the active lifetime of the device is obtained. The recesses can be of various geometrical shapes in order to give a pleasant appearance. The active volatile substance can be a perfuming, deodorizing, sanitizing composition or an insect repellent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Assignee: Reckitt Benckiser (UK) Limited
    Inventor: Nicholas O'Leary
  • Patent number: 6557778
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are strips for dispensing insecticidal actives and fragrances. The strips are stored in vapor impermeable pouches where a part of the pouch is pre-interlocked with the strip. A strip can be torn away from most of the pouch using another part of the pouch as a handling portion. Also disclosed are methods of making such assemblies, strips obtained from such assemblies, and methods of using such strips to control flying insects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin N. Shiffler
  • Patent number: 6514467
    Abstract: An air-freshener for a vehicle, in particular a motorcar, provided with a housing into which a container for a volatile liquid or a liquid containing one or more volatile components can be inserted, in the opening of which container a wick extending into the housing is fitted. There are further present a covering cap which, when the container with wick has been inserted into the housing, is movable up and down over the wick, and control means for setting the position of the covering cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Sara Lee/DE N.V.
    Inventors: Dirk Jan Bulsink, Johannes Arnoldus van Voorden, Johannes Antonius Gerardus Wilhelmus Zigmans
  • Patent number: 6447813
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the in situ manufacture of plant extracts from living plants. Since the plant remains intact, a flower or other component of the plant can be extracted one or more times. Following the extraction process, the plant is typically able to continue with its lifecycle. Such extracts have a variety of uses including use for, but not limited to: herbal and homeopathic medicines, hair and skin treatments, and cosmetics. The present invention also relates to apparatus useful for manufacturing plant extracts from living plants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Inventor: Brent W. Davis
  • Patent number: 6403186
    Abstract: A product sampler including a substrate layer, a barrier layer covering the substrate layer, a gelatinoid product layer covering and in contact with the barrier layer, and a barrier layer covering and in contact with the product layer is provided. The gelatinoid product layer may include a microencapsulated product, such as a fragrance. In preferred embodiments of the invention, the gelatinoid product layer includes a microencapsulated fragrance carried in a gelatinoid liquid vehicle, which vehicle may comprise, for example, propylene glycol, polyethylene glycols, glycerin, or mixtures thereof. In a highly preferred embodiment of the invention, the product sampler is in the form of a magazine insert having a protruding trimmable non-barrier substrate tab portion, whereby a user may remove a trim portion from the trimmable edge portion after binding the insert into a magazine without removing barrier material with the removed trim portion. Also disclosed is a product sampler in the form of a label.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: AKI, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Tararuj, Patrick Donahue, Robert E. Katz, David DeSchryver, Robert Weiser
  • Patent number: 6398126
    Abstract: An auxiliary sole includes a ball portion, a heel portion, scent dispensing means, and attachment means for releasably attaching the heel portion to the ball portion. The ball portion and the heel portion include a base having a plurality of projections depending from the base. The scent dispenser may be made of an absorbent material impregnated with the scent of an animal that is positioned within a recess formed in one of the projections of the ball portion or the heel portion. The base of the ball portion has an elongate opening and the base of the heel portion has a pair of opposed end tabs that are received within the opening of the base of the ball portion. The base of the ball portion and the base of the heel portion may be provided with hook and loop fasteners to releasably attach the heel portion to the base portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Inventor: Steven L. Pitchford
  • Publication number: 20020017572
    Abstract: A pre-scented or custom scented card insert designed to fit into any existing toilet paper or paper towel holder. The insert allows consumers to choose a scent additive to freshen their bathroom, kitchens or any other place where these products are used, as well as to scent the toilet paper or paper towel rolls. The insert can be replaced easily to refresh the roll, or additional inserts can be added to create a stronger fragrance impact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventors: Sven Dobler, Jonathan Millen, Neal Harris
  • Patent number: 6336594
    Abstract: Disclosed is a large scale mobile positive pressure blower designed to provide positive pressure ventilation for fighting fires in large spaces such as tunnels, mines, halls, warehouses large Box stores, high-rise buildings, shopping malls and the like. In accordance with the invention, a hydraulically or electrically operated ventilation blower is provided on an adjustable elevation device that may be mounted either on a movable vehicle or trailer, or in stationary locations in the vicinity of a structure opening or portal. The blower delivers a large volume of air having a conical shape into an opening at one end of the structure (e.g. a transportation tunnel) to force the smoke and hazardous gasses out through a different opening. One or more blowers may be used, depending upon the size of the entrance and the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2002
    Inventors: Jurgen Bader, Leroy B. Coffman, II
  • Patent number: 6244518
    Abstract: A snake repellent system for use in repelling snakes so as to prevent the human user from being bitten. The snake repellent system consists of a receptacle into which is placed a quantity of garlic or onion, the aroma of which is believed to be effective in repelling snakes. The receptacle is provided with a lid having a plurality of openings for facilitating the dispersal of the garlic or onion aroma. The receptacle may be provided with a mincing rack used to mince a clove of garlic, thereby more fully releasing its aroma. The receptacle may also be provided with a means to both limit child access to the repellent substance within the receptacle and prevent removal of the repellent substance from the lid openings. An adjustable band is provided for attaching the receptacle to the arm or leg of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Inventor: Thelma F. Pogue
  • Patent number: 6213409
    Abstract: Described is a time release fragrance sachet for air freshening, particularly for use in clothing storage cabinets. The sachets comprise a container fabricated from a substance either sufficiently porous for perfumes to pass therethrough or having openings capable of permitting fragrances to pass through the walls thereof. The sachets each contain thermoplastic particles which have contained in the interstices thereof fragrance materials. The polymer particles can be foamed particles produced using chemical blowing agents or direct gas extrusion processes. Also described are methods for fabricating such sachets and methods of using same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignees: International Flavors & Fragances Inc., Unilever Patent Holdings B.V.
    Inventors: Craig B. Warren, John Ramsbotham, Marcel Belt
  • Patent number: 6168088
    Abstract: A method for applying air freshener within an automobile is disclosed. The method includes the steps of retrieving an air freshener card, locating a substantially hidden position within the automobile, and placing the air freshener card at the substantially hidden position. An air freshener card and method for making the same is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Inventor: David Mobley
  • Patent number: 6112823
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a waste fire suppression control device which is attached to the base of a conventional garbage chute system. The device comprises and incorporates a sequence of two control doors. One door is a main control door which is pivotally mounted at the base of the device and which is biased towards a closed position. The main control door opens only when the weight or force of garbage on the top surface of the door is greater than a pre-determined release force. The other door is a closing plate which is held open during normal operation of the device and closes either automatically in response to elevated temperature or manually. The two control doors together and separately form a barrier to prevent smoke and fire from entering the chute system and to contain smoke and fire within the dumpster area. As well, an integrated conventional sprinkler system floods the device and dumpster below with water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: James O'Leary
  • Patent number: 5961043
    Abstract: A device supports and dispenses volatile materials. The device is self-supporting and has a tent-like configuration. It can be hung from a bar. One of its side panels is connected to another by a tab and slot, or tab and pocket, arrangement above a base. The base connects the side panels. There is a reservoir for dispensing the volatile material which is mounted on one of the side panels, with a rear of the reservoir being positioned between two of the panels above the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Leon C. Samuelson, James F. Kimball, Cristopher M. Shiffler, David J. Houser
  • Patent number: RE39905
    Abstract: A method for applying air freshener within an automobile is disclosed. The method includes the steps of retrieving an air freshener card, locating a substantially hidden position within the automobile, and placing the air freshener card at the substantially hidden position. An air freshener card and method for making the same is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Inventor: David Mobley