Strainer Or Funnel Type Patents (Class 248/94)
  • Patent number: 11434049
    Abstract: A collapsible container made up of a bottom portion and a side wall that define an interior, wherein the bottom portion and the side wall are made of a foldable material, a top portion with an opening that allows access to the interior, and a rim member connectable to the top portion and sized and shaped to extend around the perimeter of the opening. The collapsible container is positionable in an open configuration where the rim member in connected to the top portion in a manner than maintains the opening in an open position. The collapsible container is also positionable in a collapsed configuration where at least a portion of the rim member is disconnected from the top portion. In one version, when in the collapsed configuration, the collapsible container takes on a substantially flat shape having a longest dimension less than the longest dimension of the opening when the collapsible container is in the open configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2022
    Inventor: Daniel Ager
  • Patent number: 11193626
    Abstract: The invention is an articulated funnel holder and a method, the articulated funnel holder comprising a magnetic tray supporting a J-shaped support arm that attaches at one end to the magnetic tray and at another end to a pivoting device, the pivoting device further connects to one mast end of telescopic mast to move the telescopic mast between raised and lowered positions relative to the magnetic tray, a remaining mast end removably supports a funnel ring that removably receives and supports a funnel, wherein the articulated funnel holder moves between an open operative position and compact storage position; wherein articulated funnel holder in the compact storage position places the telescopic mast and the one or more funnel rings within a storage area as defined by edges of the magnetic tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2021
    Inventor: Brent Lawrence Stafford
  • Patent number: 9440789
    Abstract: The Portotrash garbage disposal unit comprises a hollow ring forming a mouth of the garbage disposal unit. Legs capable of connecting to and supporting the mouth and allowing the unit to stand in an upright standing position are provided. A bag that fits over and is kept in place by the hollow ring is provided and occupies at least some of the space formed in between the legs. Preferably, there are four legs identified as a first leg, a second leg, a third leg, and a fourth leg. The first and the third leg are connected to each other by a first connecting member forming a first leg pair, and the second and fourth legs are connected to each other by a second connecting member, forming a second leg pair. The first leg pair and the second leg pair are pivotally connected to each other through their respective connecting members. Hollow ring comprises a clasp or other fitting mechanism corresponding to each leg to which it connects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Inventor: Elaheh Moayed Sabeti
  • Patent number: 9370617
    Abstract: A carrier for carrying patient fluids comprising a carrying frame, a support base, at least one container holder, attached to the carrying frame distal from the floor, configured to receive a container of medication, the container holder being movable between an upward position and a downward position, a holder activator spaced from the container holder and positioned between the container holder and the floor, coupled to the container holder, and configured such that the container holder moves toward a downward position in response to a first movement of the holder activator, and toward an upward position in response to a second movement of the holder activator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2016
    Assignee: Notion Medical Inc.
    Inventor: Mark P. Chepurny
  • Publication number: 20150144748
    Abstract: The invention relates to an accommodating device for a removable filter in a domestic appliance, having an accommodating opening for accommodating the filter at least in part, and having a seal which, with the filter inserted, seals the accommodating opening in relation to the filter. In order for fluff, hair and other deposits and contaminants both adhering to the filter and deposited in the vicinity of the accommodating opening to be reliably kept away from the accommodating opening when the filter is being removed, the seal is arranged at the accommodating opening and has at least one sealing element which, when the filter is being removed, passes out of a sealing operating position into a screening position, in which it encloses at least part of the accommodating opening with screening action.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Applicant: BSH BOSCH UND SIEMENS HAUSGERATEgMBh
    Inventors: Alexander John, Martin Korte
  • Publication number: 20150129727
    Abstract: An automatic transmission oil filter retainer includes a base portion; a riser portion extending from a side of the base portion; and a retainer portion extending from a side of the riser opposite the base portion and at right angle to the riser portion, the retainer portion extending parallel to and overlaying the base portion. The base portion is dimensioned with a first short side measuring about 0.56 inches, a second short side measuring about 0.5 inches, and a first long side measuring about 1.39 inches. The through-hole has a diameter of about 0.25 inches. The riser portion is inset along a second long side by about 0.06 inches and extends at 90° from the second short side and the second long side by about 0.59 inches. The retainer portion extends at 90° from the riser portion in a direction towards the first long side by about 0.0305 inches.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Applicant: PRECISION INTERNATIONAL
    Inventors: John Marsar, Vincent Soviero
  • Patent number: 8960187
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to concentrating sunlight. In some implementations, a concentrator includes a plurality of reflector support structures and a plurality of reflector segments associated with each reflector support structure. Each reflector support structure formed to include a curved surface that receives an associated reflector segment and a bottom portion that distributes the weight of the reflector segment along a surface area. Each reflector segment includes a reflecting surface adjacent a flexible element such that the reflecting surface reflects incident sunlight light. In some examples, the reflector support structures may comprise a light weight material such as a polyurethane and/or the reflecting surface may be 5 mils or less.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Stellar Generation, LLC
    Inventor: Jerome Lee Elkind
  • Patent number: 8833707
    Abstract: A urology drainage bag system has disposable clamps and/or bands that are disposed of along with the disposable urology drape. The drape, clamps, and band may comprise an integrated system for disposal as a unit. In some embodiments, the drape, clamps, and band are assembled together at the time of manufacture and sold as an integrated unit such that assembly of the drape onto the band by the end users at the point of use is not needed. Several plastic molded clamp embodiments are disclosed. Alternative methods and devices for supporting a flexible band and drainage bag relative to an OR table are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Allen Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Sarah M. Steinberg, Paul J. Skavicus, Jesse S. Drake, Mark A. Sutherland, Thomas K. Skripps
  • Patent number: 8807337
    Abstract: According to the invention, a golf bag is disclosed. The golf bag may include a frame and a removable cover. The frame may include a top member at a top most portion of the frame, and a bottom member at a bottom most portion of the frame. The removable cover may include a central portion, a first coupling member, and a second coupling member. The first coupling member may be coupled with at least a portion of a top of the central portion. The second coupling member may be coupled with at least a portion of a bottom of the central portion. The first coupling member may be reversibly coupled with a top most portion of the top member. The second coupling member may be reversibly coupled with a bottom most portion of the bottom member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: BarSix, LLC
    Inventor: David H. Barcik
  • Patent number: 8296992
    Abstract: A stripping basket for use in fly fishing from surf or a jetty having a smooth interior surface free of protrusions and having a converging lower end and adapted to be mounted to one side of an angler below the waistline slightly tilted forward for facilitating line stripping and casting during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Inventor: Blair H. Caviness
  • Patent number: 8110103
    Abstract: The present invention provides a flow-control support for a distributor plate in a composite pressure vessel. The distributor plate includes a thermoplastic polymeric disk having a top side, a bottom side, a perimeter edge and a central opening and a plurality of fluid flow passages through the disk. The flow-control support is disposed between the bottom side of the disk and an inner side of an end of a thermoplastic liner assembly. The flow-control support includes a spirally fluted upper surface that is adapted to direct fluid flowing from a supply pipe disposed in the central opening of a distributor plate that is supported by the flow control support such that the fluid swirls in a space between the bottom side of the distributor plate and an inner side of an end portion of a water treatment vessel. The swirling water insures that fluid is distributed to substantially all of the fluid flow passages through the disk during backwashing operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Enpress LLC
    Inventors: Michael P. Mormino, Douglas S. Stolarik, Richard A. Mest, Douglas M. Horner
  • Patent number: 8047477
    Abstract: A device to facilitate filling a reusable bag, a conventional trash bag or a receptacle. The device and bag or receptacle are used horizontally. The device comprises a funneled receiver, channel, stakes, and optionally four legs. The receiver is a scoop-like device having semi-frusto-conical cross-sections. The channel is a non-funneled extension of the receiver, having trapezoidal cross-sections. If a bag is used, the device facilitates filling the bag and it also holds open the bag. The optional four legs also hold open the body of the bag and, by contributing to the stability of the device, they allow the device to be smaller and lighter than otherwise. The device is normally placed on the ground, and inserted into either the bag or the receptacle. Leaves, grass clippings and other debris are raked or otherwise projected through the front of the receiver. The front of the receiver has a turned-over lip that facilitates filling the bag and that also acts as a handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Inventor: Thomas F. Wilkinson
  • Patent number: 7798333
    Abstract: A liquid filtering system and methods for filtering are disclosed. One embodiment of the system includes a filtering apparatus having a receiving receptacle coupled with an adapter. The adapter has an adapter port for receiving a vacuum and an interface for coupling with an output receptacle that receives filtered liquid from the filtering apparatus. The adapter is between the receiving receptacle and output receptacle when the output receptacle is coupled with the adapter interface. The system also includes a base having a substantially rigid housing containing an internal vacuum channel terminating at a base vacuum delivery port. The adapter is couplable with the base to connect the adapter port to the base vacuum delivery port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Roush Life Sciences, LLC
    Inventor: Peter Zuk, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7588217
    Abstract: A tool is provided for filling sandbags in an efficient and easy manner, even with a single individual. The tool is in the form of a chute suspended above ground by a plurality of legs. The chute has a mouth at one side and a spout opposite the mouth. The mouth presents a large target into which sand can be placed. This sand then travels through the chute and exits through the spout. A sandbag is placed over the spout so that it captures sand exiting the chute. A fastener is provided, such as in the form of a clip, which removably attaches an opening of the sandbag over the spout. A ballast bag is provided which can be filled with sand and suspended from the chute to enhance the stability of the filler. The legs are removably attachable and the chute is configured to nest with other chutes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Inventor: James M. Rooker
  • Patent number: 7464735
    Abstract: A funnel stand that includes a housing supporting an internal funnel connected to a fuel hose that can be folded or rolled up for storage inside the housing and extended through a hose opening for placement in a fuel tank opening. The funnel stand may also include a ballast to stabilize it as a free-standing device or a base plate configured for permanently or semi-permanently affixing the funnel stand to a loading surface. In addition, the funnel stand may include a lid covering the funnel opening, a door covering the hose opening, and handles to facilitate carrying the device by hand. The funnel stand is designed to be suitable for delivering fuel from a hand-held gas can into the fuel tanks on small watercraft, such as small boats and personal watercraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Assignee: Kelcamax Innovations, LLC
    Inventor: Chad Shultz
  • Patent number: 7431056
    Abstract: The invention as presently conceived discloses a device for an environmentally safe storage and organization of multiple funnels, especially, but not limited to, those funnels conventionally used in servicing motor vehicles. The new and novel device's industrial design resembles an empty five-gallon bucket with a detachable lid having multiple openings cut into the lid to accept the work funnels for environmental safe draining in an upright position, storage and proper organization. Each opening leads to a dedicated fluid collection device. After use, the remaining fluids in the funnels are allowed to collect via gravity within fluid collection device within the sealed bucket-like container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Inventor: Nicholas P. Smith
  • Patent number: 7040584
    Abstract: A stand for supporting a drywall spray gun includes a base having a plurality of arms extending upwardly therefrom. The top ends of the arms abut against and support the hopper of the drywall spray gun, and support the spray gun in a generally vertical orientation. As such, the spray gun hopper is easier to fill and the spray gun can be placed down without spilling drywall compound from the hopper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Inventors: Gayann Welland, Eric J. P. Audet
  • Patent number: 7025880
    Abstract: A system for separating particles from fluid which includes a receptacle for containing the fluid, a lid for covering the receptacle, and a filter assembly which includes a filter component shaped to fit the receptacle, an o-ring encircling the perimeter of the filter component for securing the filter assembly in the receptacle, and at least two baffles attached to the bottom of the filter component for reducing the motion of the fluid around and through the filter assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Inventor: Douglas R. Lamb
  • Patent number: 6676769
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for cleaning a torch for a vertical furnace used in semiconductor processing are disclosed. The apparatus is constructed by two main components of a basket-shaped fixture body and a cleaning bath. The fixture body is formed of cylindrical shape with a top ring, a bottom ring and three support rods connecting the two rings together. The top ring is provided with an outwardly extending flange portion for engaging an opening in a cleaning bath for supporting and suspending the fixture body in the bath. The bottom ring is equipped with a pair of symmetrically positioned, inwardly extending arcuate-shaped flange portions adapted for supporting an edge of a bottom surface of the furnace torch in the cleaning bath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd
    Inventors: June-Yie Kao, Yie-Min Wu, Ming-Hsun Yang, Chii-Shing Yang
  • Patent number: 6358163
    Abstract: A durable batting tee utilizes an adjustable compression nut to provide a range of adjustable heights for extensible vertical pipes, and an inverted flexible cone atop the vertical pipes upon which a baseball is placed for hitting, such that the compression nut will maintain the rubber cone at a predetermined height, and the flexible cone will maintain its integrity throughout a lifetime of repeated strikes with a baseball bat. The baseplate is dimensioned and weighted to hold the tee upright during normal use, and to permit tipping when subjected to errant swings of a bat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Inventor: Joe H. Tanner
  • Patent number: 6202970
    Abstract: A holder for edible and inedible objects, such as pickles, lolly pops, frozen confection bars and objects to be painted, having oppositely disposed cone shaped receptacles joined at the cone shaped receptacle apexes by a hollow stem, a handle affixed to the receptacles and object support structures contained within the cone shaped receptacles. The object support structures have proximal rod shaped members that snap into the hollow stem and distal end means for holding objects including a pointed end portion and a slotted end portion terminating in a circular plate. The circular plate fits snuggly inside the cone shaped receptacle. Accessory support structures that telescopically slip over the pointed distal end portion provide additional means for holding objects including a distal end slot, a distal end clamp and a distal end tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Inventor: Ronald Dunbar
  • Patent number: 6085647
    Abstract: A packer as provided for lawn waste disposal for compacting and channeling it into a throwaway bag. The disposer includes an upper portion with converging walls and a lower portion with parallel walls forming a chute into a bag. The entire structure is made of sheet polyethylene and it is entirely rectangular in outline. The upper portion, the converger, is only one-half the height of the lower portion, the chute, to prevent overbalancing. The chute is polyethylene, of which the disposer is made, is reinforced at discrete locations, the converging edges and the bottom edge, of plastic of the same type from which the disposer is made to keep the disposer light in weight, yet strong. A folding metal frame supports the disposer at bag height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Inventor: Paul D. Burow
  • Patent number: 5823100
    Abstract: A baking and/or cooling rack having at least two shelves formed of wire. The shelves are connected by wire support legs such as at the outside corners of the shelves. The connection between each shelf and its attached support legs is provided by a spring pin. The spring pins form hinges which provide a friction force preventing free movement of the connected support legs with respect to the shelves, but which allows forced movement of the connected support legs with respect to the shelves, thereby allowing the rack to fold between an upright position and a knocked down position. A third shelf may be removably supported by the support legs between the first and second shelves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Assignee: L & L Products
    Inventors: James L. Wienhold, Irene C. Kramer
  • Patent number: 5794904
    Abstract: This invention is a holder for inverted bottles of different sizes and shapes. Two embodiments are provided. One embodiment is intended to support opened bottles for drainage of the contents from the bottle. The other embodiment is intended to support closed or capped bottles that are inverted to collect a portion of the contents in the neck of the bottle for easy access when the bottle is opened by removing the cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Inventor: Carl L. Hackley
  • Patent number: 5720329
    Abstract: An apparatus for vehicle distribution of solid insecticide-carrying pellets or briquets into bodies of water such as catch basins includes a bracket which is formed and adapted to be supported on the door of a vehicle with the window rolled down. Preferably, the bracket is positioned adjacent the vehicle operator's driving position. The bracket extends outside of the vehicle and has an opening therein. A funnel and a tube are positioned at a location to be accessible to the driver with the tube extending through the bracket opening. The relative sizes of the tube and the opening permit movement of the tube therein so that the vehicle operator may direct the tube to a desired location for application of an insecticide-carrying pellet or briquet. The funnel extends upwardly to a height relative to the bracket which permits the vehicle operator to place an insecticide-carrying pellet therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 24, 1998
    Assignee: Clarke Mosquito Control Products, Inc.
    Inventor: John L. Clarke, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5607004
    Abstract: A self-supporting funnel assembly and drip catcher for selective use in applications in which a user desires to free both the user's hands from holding the funnel in position and desires to prevent spillage of the funnelled fluid during and after use. The funnel is made up of a wider conical portion, the mouth of the funnel, and a narrower portion, the spout of the funnel; a base housing defining several openings; generally L-shaped clamping members, each having a vertical component projecting below the base housing and a horizontal component; and a springing mechanism, operably connected to each clamping member and the base housing. The funnel components so that a horizontal component of the clamping members appear through the side of the base housing as push-buttons, which may be simultaneously compressed with the thumb and forefinger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 4, 1997
    Inventor: Eddie W. Cope
  • Patent number: 5569377
    Abstract: Spray paint equipment combining a paint gun and stand. The stand serves to adjustably support a primary paint supply; filters for filtering paint; a gravity feed tank for the spray gun and the spray gun when it is not in use. To this end the stand is formed with a horizontal base dimensioned to support the paint supply. An upstanding vertical post extending from the base has adjustably mounted thereon an initial filter holder supporting a filter to filter paint as it is delivered into the paint supply. Also adjustably arranged on the vertical support post is another filter supporting holder and final filter mounted above an adjustable gravity tank support and gravity feed paint tank for the spray gun permitting selective positioning of the componets necessary to effect spray painting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1996
    Assignees: Milton Hasimoto, Susumu Emoto, Masuichi Matsuura, Michael J. Tamanaha, Christopher P. McKenzie
    Inventor: Milton Hashimoto
  • Patent number: 5532168
    Abstract: An apparatus and method to simplify and accelerate the transfer of tissue biopsy samples from fixative to automatic tissue processing cassettes comprises a strainer device and a preformed filter. The strainer device is constructed from a perforated material such as stainless steel screen and is substantially conical in shape. The device is provided with a support ring attached to an upper edge of the cone; the ring is designed for positioning the device on a fixative collection container and for attaching a convenient handle. The tip of the cone is truncated, providing a planar collection surface. A preformed filter, also of conical shape with a flattened tip matching the collection surface, is inserted into the strainer device. Fixative, containing tissue biopsy samples, is poured into the device, and the samples rest on the flat bottom and sides near the bottom while the fixative flows through into the fixative collection container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1996
    Inventor: Calvin Marantz
  • Patent number: 5291921
    Abstract: A drainage platform supports an expendable container on a receptacle in a stable and appropriate orientation to assist in draining residual contents from the mouth of the container into the receptacle for the separate disposal of the container and the residual contents, the drainage platform including a pan with a downwardly sloping bottom and a sump with a drain, the sump being offset from the center of the drainage platform to register the drain with a corresponding offset opening in the receptacle, and a plurality of ribs establishing an essentially horizontal support for the container above the downwardly sloping bottom such that the residual contents are drained into the sump and then through the drain into the receptacle for collection and disposal of the residual contents separate from the disposal of the expendable container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Assignee: Chem-Tainer Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Devine
  • Patent number: 5059319
    Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a device used to strain paint and other liquid products. The device includes a piece of mesh material fixed at its perimeter in a ring. The material and cross-sectional shape of the ring is designed to permit compression of the shape, allowing the ring to conform to, and bias against, the lid well of a container, such as that of a paint can, by press-fit. Compression of the cross-sectional shape of the ring may be facilitated by the placement of an elastomeric spline in a channel of the ring. Additionally, a tab may be fixed to the ring of the device to provide a means for grasping the device and to disengage the device from the lid well of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1991
    Inventor: Matthew J. Welsh
  • Patent number: 4904235
    Abstract: A device for holding dialysis bags includes a hollow funnel-like member for holding dialysis bags of various sizes. A hanger arrangement extends from the funnel-like member, whereby said member carrying a dialysis bag may be suspended within a vessel or the like without additional support. A cap is secured to the funnel-like member to seal said member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1990
    Assignee: Bel-Art Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Avraham Yaniv, Arnona Gazit
  • Patent number: 4863601
    Abstract: A filter bag is positioned inside and fastened to a holding frame. The holding frame has substantially vertical walls and is adapted to be placed on the edge of a coffee cup or the like. The sides of the holding frame that face the filter bag are made of hydrophobic material. The filter bag is made of nonwoven hydrophilic filter material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1988
    Date of Patent: September 5, 1989
    Assignee: Jacobs Suchard GmbH
    Inventors: Jurgen Wittekind, Hans-Joachim Hampel
  • Patent number: 4832095
    Abstract: A device for collecting viscous fluid from a plurality of vessels includes a funnel member, a plurality of vessel retainer elements disposed in the open top portion of the funnel member for holding the vessels in inverted positions, and an open-mouthed receptacle demountably attached to the bottom of the funnel member for receiving the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1989
    Inventor: Donald G. Bonnell
  • Patent number: 4804468
    Abstract: A self-retaining smooth bore insert employs a helical coil spring for retaining a fluid system component in a smooth bore. The spring comprises two connected helical coils. One coil is coiled around the component. The second coil has an engarged diameter which engages the wall of the smooth bore. An end portion of the second coil is engaged by an installation tool to contact the coil to permit installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1989
    Assignee: The Lee Company
    Inventors: Leighton Lee, II, Robert J. Kolp
  • Patent number: 4804470
    Abstract: An improved paint strainer for use in straining a liquid paint and depositing the same within a reservoir container has an upwardly extending continuous closed wall surface having means for attachment to the paint reservoir on its lower end and a strainer bag comprising a mesh material covering the upper opening of the paint strainer and extending downwardly within the closed wall portion of the paint strainer. In one embodiment, the paint strainer is disposable while in another embodiment, the paint strainer is intended for repeated use and cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1986
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1989
    Inventors: Carlos P. Calvillo, Rick L. Lykins
  • Patent number: 4789017
    Abstract: This invention relates generally to funnels; more specifically it relates to funnels intended for use with fluids used in engine compartments, such as in transportation vehicles. Examples of such fluids are crankcase oil, transmission fluid, anti-freeze or other coolant fluids, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. The invention is a liquid transfer system including a funnel with a dust cover that may be stored on a funnel support while the funnel is in use and that may include a piercing tool on its inner surface capable of puncturing the lids of containers used with the funnel. Also claimed is such a liquid transfer system including a support that holds the funnel in a vertical position during storage, a drip catcher, and an axially extendible and compressible spout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1988
    Inventors: Anton Panasewicz, Dale Panasewicz
  • Patent number: 4774000
    Abstract: A precision filter for accomplishing filtering of precision of submicron order. A filter element of the filter consists of a plurality of superposed disc-shaped annular support members for filter membranes. Each support member has a radially outwardly extending intermediate section located between an annular boss section and an outer frame section. The intermediate section is formed on its upper and lower sides with a plurality of gently winding elongate ridges and largely winding elongate ridges. Each largely winding elongate ridge extends from the boss section to the outer frame section, but each gently winding elongate ridge located between the two largely winding elongate ridges is separate from the boss section thereby to form two elongate winding grooves which are joined and continuous to a central opening of the boss section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1986
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1988
    Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Tsuchiya Seisakusho, Nitto Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takeshi Kawai, Takashi Yamagishi, Mitsuhiro Mega
  • Patent number: 4753727
    Abstract: Three embodiments of a self-retaining fluid system component insert for a smooth bore of predetermined diameter. The insert comprises a helical coil spring with one end thereof connected to the component and having, in its relaxed state an outer diameter slightly greater than the bore diameter to frictionally lock the insert within the bore. The insert has a threaded connector for receiving an elongated tool for mounting the insert by rotating the insert in one angular direction thereof for contracting the coil by its frictional engagement with the smooth wall of the bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1988
    Assignee: The Lee Company
    Inventors: Leighton Lee, II, Robert J. Kolp
  • Patent number: 4571191
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for teaching physical principles of fluid flow and the mathematical principles of integration by concrete, measurable examples comprised the use of a plurality of teaching funnels each capable of being supported by a mounting mechanism in a stable position over a receptacle. Each funnel has perimetric sidewalls with interior surfaces that conform to equations that will provide an integrable function when plugged into the equation for computing the time it takes for the funnel to empty of liquid. The funnels can have a base covering the lower end of the funnel with an outlet orifice formed in the base. The orifice is spaced a predetermined distance away from the sidewalls to achieve a desired outflow rate. The different sidewalls can be formed of different shapes as long as each conforms with a formula that yields an integrable function when plugged into the equation for computing the time it takes for the funnel to empty of liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1984
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1986
    Inventor: Peteris E. Graube
  • Patent number: 4452581
    Abstract: A cooking utensil comprising a pan with a flat bottom and vertical side means formed integrally with said bottom, and an array of evenly spaced substantially uniform holes formed in a portion of said bottom to provide a food extrusion area, the remaining portion of said bottom providing a food holding area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1982
    Date of Patent: June 5, 1984
    Inventor: Mary Panehal
  • Patent number: 4289269
    Abstract: For use with coin operated machines having mounting plates carrying a coin drop opening adapted to pass coins therethrough into a coin receptacle mounted therebelow, in combination; a universal funnel and mounting bracket capable of being secured to any one of different mounting plates independent of the location of the coin drop openings carried thereby, thereby to guide coins to said coin receptacle, said funnel having a frustoconical configuration, open at opposite ends and having a row of spaced holes formed in the funnel walls about the full circumference thereof and at least a pair of angled clip members fastened both to the plate and to the funnel through selected opposite pairs of said holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1979
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1981
    Inventor: August M. Sciortino
  • Patent number: 4245666
    Abstract: A collecting device for receiving and containing leaking water and falling debris of ceiling leaks. The device comprises a large collapsible funnel member, preferably of rectangular cross-section, a collapsible base for resting upon a floor surface beneath the leak, and an extensible post mounting the funnel member on the base. When a ceiling leak develops, the base is set on the floor surface therebelow, and the post is extended to position the funnel member close to the ceiling in the vicinity of the leak. A flexible drainage pipe is connected to the device below the funnel to carry collected water to a remote receptacle, sink on the like. A mesh screen is mounted at the bottom of the funnel member to collect falling debris while permitting the passage of water to the drainage pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1979
    Date of Patent: January 20, 1981
    Inventor: Sarena K. Norris
  • Patent number: 4231876
    Abstract: A coffee filter which may be used repeatedly is described. It comprises a funnel-shaped housing having an outlet port at the lower end. A filter of similar shape is fitted into the housing and is so dimensioned as to provide a clearance of between 0.2 to 1.5 mm. The filtering element is so dimensioned that the upper rim thereof forms a seal with the inner wall of the housing. The outlet port of the housing has a restriction in order to assume a continuous flow of the filtrate between the funnel-shaped housing and the filtering element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 1979
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1980
    Assignee: MAXS Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Anton Zimmermann, Albert Greutert
  • Patent number: 4203172
    Abstract: A support for a cylindrical block of deodorizer product is in the form of a cylindrical cage formed of two identical parts each of which has a cylindrical shape with a closed end and an open end defined by an end collar, the end collars of the two parts being interengageable by means of male and female engagement means carried by both end collars for rendering the two cage parts integral as a single cylindrical cage.The suspension hook is integrally formed with a connection sleeve which has a larger diameter portion capable of engaging on the end collars of the two cage halves and a smaller diameter portion capable of engaging on and sliding along either cage half over a portion other than the said end collar thereof and the narrower diameter portion includes catch engagement means for permitting sliding engagement of the connecting sleeve along the cage in one direction only.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1978
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1980
    Assignee: L'Oreal
    Inventor: Antonin Goncalves
  • Patent number: 4162054
    Abstract: A filter vessel arranged to receive a liquid-permeable filter bag for producing a coffee or tea beverage, the filter vessel having, at its bottom, a filtrate outlet in the form of a siphon which prevents dripping after completion of the filtering process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1978
    Date of Patent: July 24, 1979
    Assignee: Melitta-Werke Bentz & Sohn KG
    Inventor: Reinhard Hauslein
  • Patent number: 4160535
    Abstract: A collapsible holder for a conically shaped food filter element includes an upper large flat annulus formed of plastic and provided with opposite outwardly directed wings provided with inner medial apertures. A lower small flat annulus is provided with opposite elongated side arms delineated therefrom by fold lines, which arms slideably engage respective wing apertures and terminate in enlarged heads wider than the apertures. In the holder operable condition, the smaller annulus is coaxial with and below the larger annulus and suspended therefrom by the extended side arms and in its collapsed condition the annuli are at about the same level with one of the side arms being pulled through the wing aperture and overlying the other flattened side arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1978
    Date of Patent: July 10, 1979
    Assignee: Berkshire Paper Company
    Inventor: Thomas S. Wallsten
  • Patent number: 4138341
    Abstract: A kitchen utensil for attachment to the handle of strainers to enable their partial support by a table surface. The device includes mechanism for attachment by sliding action to the ordinary handle of the strainer and a pivoted support rod, which can be swung down from a position substantially parallel to the strainer handle to one substantially perpendicular to it, or any intermediate angle thereby to enable the utensil to be supported by the table, as well as by the container in which the strainer rests.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1977
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1979
    Inventor: Richard M. Adams
  • Patent number: 4075105
    Abstract: A colander is mounted within a stackable base adapted to rest on a surface and to support the colander above the surface. The base includes a top wall, which receives and retains the colander, and supporting legs with the colander disposed between them. These legs are shaped to permit a paired colander and base to be stacked within other paired colanders and bases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1975
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1978
    Assignee: Bonny Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Fred S. Steiner, Morison S. Cousins
  • Patent number: 4025435
    Abstract: Paint filtering apparatus for supporting a filter medium, such as foraminous cloth or the like, above a paint pail. The apparatus includes an impervious plate larger than the mouth of the paint pail and legs for supporting the plate above a surface on which the paint pail can be rested. The plate defines a circular opening having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the mouth of the paint pail. A cylindric rim that is sized to fit within the hole in the plate and having protrusions fastened thereto for bearing on the plate to retain the rim in place. Above the protrusions the rim defines an annular groove, and there is a strap that can be placed in the groove to retain the filter medium within the groove throughout the extent thereof. The rim is smaller than the diameter of a paint bucket so that a paint bucket can be rested on the rim in an inverted position to afford draining of the same without continuing attention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1975
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1977
    Inventor: Dennis Owen Shea
  • Patent number: RE32950
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for teaching physical principles of fluid flow and .[.the.]. mathematical principles .[.of.]..Iadd., such as .Iaddend.integration.Iadd., .Iaddend.by concrete, measurable examples comprised the use of a plurality of teaching funnels each capable of being supported by a mounting mechanism in a stable position over a receptacle. Each funnel has perimetric sidewalls with interior surfaces that conform to equations that will .Iadd.allow various flow characteristics to be computed, and in preferred embodiments will .Iaddend.provide an integrable function when plugged into the equation for computing the time it takes for the funnel to empty of liquid. The funnels can have a base covering the lower end of the funnel with an outlet orifice formed in the base. The orifice is spaced a predetermined distance away from the sidewalls to achieve a desired outflow rate. The different sidewalls can be formed of different shapes as long as each conforms with a formula that .[.yields an.]. .Iadd.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1989
    Inventor: Peteris E. Graube