Twisters Patents (Class 53/370)
  • Patent number: 11952157
    Abstract: Packaging machine for packaging paper rolls, including an operating group forming packages, with an entrance station for the rolls and the packaging sheets, and an output station for the packaged rolls; an elevator; a structure on which the operating group is mounted; a plane on which a folder and a counter-folder are formed for folding the packaging sheets under the rolls; a conveyor for moving the packages being formed above said plane; means for welding the packaging sheets; a welding bar for welding the packaging sheets under the rolls. The welding bar is configured to come out through an opening made on the counter-folder and reposition itself below the latter. The carriages are controlled independently of each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2024
    Assignee: PLUSLINE S.R.L.
    Inventor: Vittorio Gerri
  • Patent number: 10669095
    Abstract: A waste storage device includes a container in which a cassette is mounted. Tubing is pulled through the centre of the cassette to store packages separated by twists. The cassette is rotated relative to the container to provide the twists between packages by virtue of a rotatable disk and user grip portion. The package is gripped against rotation by a gripper diaphragm and is guided towards a wall of the container by a guide diaphragm to prevent untwisting between packages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2020
    Assignee: SANGENIC INTERNATIONAL LTD.
    Inventors: Ian Alexander Webb, Mark Armstrong
  • Patent number: 10435235
    Abstract: A cassette for use in dispensing a pleated tubing. The cassette includes an annular body having a generally U shaped housing with a central cylindrical core. At least one wall has an upper end with a downturn lip disposed thereon. An annular cover extends radially outward from the central cylindrical core over the annular body defining a gap. The cover has a socket into which the upper end with the downturn lip is secured. A tubing is disposed within the u-shaped housing and withdrawn from the gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Assignee: Munchkin, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven Bryan Dunn, Kevin Douglas Johnson
  • Patent number: 9221601
    Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of the present invention discloses a waste receptacle including a base having an opening, a lid detachably coupled to the base, the lid being disposed over the opening, a sensor disposed in the base, and a motor electrically connected to the sensor, wherein the motor is configured to receive a signal from the sensor and raise the lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2015
    Inventors: Brenda Lee Crawford, Brian Patric Crawford, Kyle Jordan Crawford, Stephen Tyrel Crawford
  • Publication number: 20150068155
    Abstract: A sealing mechanism for a waste storage container includes a waste storage container that has a body, a lid and a cartridge adapted to be positioned in the body. The cartridge has a continuous length of storage film therein. The storage film emanates through a gap between a rim and a core tube of the cartridge and is folded down through a core opening in the core tube into an interior space of the body of the waste storage container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2014
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventors: Richard S. Chomik, Mark Yoho, Stuart Leslie, Taek Kim, Aidan Petrie, Joe Sejnowski
  • Patent number: 8973774
    Abstract: Waste container including a base defining a waste-receiving compartment, a lid movably attached to the base and movable between a first position covering a waste insertion opening and a second position in which it does not obstruct the waste insertion opening and a support portion including an aperture through which a bag is placed into the compartment. An obstruction mechanism includes an actuator and an obstruction member having at least one part that selectively engages with the bag at a location below the support portion. The actuator is manually and/or automatically rotatable to cause rotation of the obstruction member between a first position in which the obstruction member is in a first plane not obstructing insertion of waste into the bag and a second position in which the obstruction member is in a second plane obstructing insertion of waste into the bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Inventor: David M. Stravitz
  • Patent number: 8833592
    Abstract: Systems and methods for facilitating hygienic storage and disposal of waste packages such as used disposable diapers include a housing, a lid, and a bag unit having a bag frame and an attached single use flexible bag. The flexible bag is pleated and larger in cross-section at a lower portion than it is at the connection to the bag frame. The bag frame is releasably mounted to the housing so that it will not rotate. The lower portion of the flexible bag is positioned in a storage chamber of the housing that is shaped so as to align and center the bag. A rotatable member having radially extending flexible fingers is engaged with an intermediate portion of the bag. When the lid is closed, the rotatable member will twist the intermediate portion of the bag, sealing odors in the lower portion of the bag. A parent or caregiver will push the waste package through the resistance of the twisted intermediate portion into the lower portion of the bag, and close the lid to re-seal the twisted portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Munchkin, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven B. Dunn, Mark A. Hatherill, Kevin D. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8783499
    Abstract: A waste storage device is provided including a waste storage cassette receiving chamber (132) for receiving a cassette (172) rotatable within the chamber and containing tubing for enveloping waste. The device further includes a waste inlet and a throat area therebetween, wherein a releasable gripping assembly (155, 158, 159, 168) is provided in the throat area and arranged for actuation between a released configuration defining an aperture for passage of waste therethrough and a gripping configuration defining a restriction in the throat area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Sangenic International Limited
    Inventors: Graham Keith Lacy, Nicholas Gerald Fitton, Benjamin Douglas Vinal Cramp, Julian Swan, Nishpank Kankiwala, Geoff Lomax, Scott Rontree
  • Patent number: 8752723
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device (1) for storing waste, which device (1) is adapted to receive a supply of tubular film (21) and comprises a chamber (15) for receiving waste deposited in the tubular film (21). The present invention also relates to a method for packaging waste in a tubular film (21) and storing the packaged waste in a chamber (15) of a device (1) provided with a cover (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Lencon Products B.V.
    Inventors: Jan Willem Lucas, Steven Joost Nijenhuis, Robertus Dennis Nieuwveen
  • Patent number: 8739501
    Abstract: Systems and methods for facilitating hygienic storage and disposal of waste packages such as used disposable diapers include a housing, a lid, and a bag unit having a bag frame and an attached single use flexible bag. The flexible bag is pleated and larger in cross-section at a lower portion than it is at the connection to the bag frame. The bag frame is releasably mounted to the housing so that it will not rotate. The lower portion of the flexible bag is positioned in a storage chamber of the housing that is shaped so as to align and center the bag. A rotatable member having radially extending flexible fingers is engaged with an intermediate portion of the bag. When the lid is closed, the rotatable member will twist the intermediate portion of the bag, sealing odors in the lower portion of the bag. A parent or caregiver will push the waste package through the resistance of the twisted intermediate portion into the lower portion of the bag, and close the lid to re-seal the twisted portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Munchkin, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven B. Dunn, Mark A. Hatherill, Kevin D. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8635838
    Abstract: Systems and methods for facilitating hygienic storage and disposal of waste packages such as used disposable diapers include a housing, a lid, and a bag unit having a bag frame and an attached single use flexible bag. The flexible bag is pleated and larger in cross-section at a lower portion than it is at the connection to the bag frame. The bag frame is releasably mounted to the housing so that it will not rotate. The lower portion of the flexible bag is positioned in a storage chamber of the housing that is shaped so as to align and center the bag. A rotatable member having radially extending flexible fingers is engaged with an intermediate portion of the bag. When the lid is closed, the rotatable member will twist the intermediate portion of the bag, sealing odors in the lower portion of the bag. A parent or caregiver will push the waste package through the resistance of the twisted intermediate portion into the lower portion of the bag, and close the lid to re-seal the twisted portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Munchkin, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven B. Dunn, Mark A. Hatherill, Kevin D. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8567157
    Abstract: Systems and methods for facilitating hygienic storage and disposal of waste packages such as used disposable diapers include a housing, a lid, and a bag unit having a bag frame and an attached single use flexible bag. The flexible bag is pleated and larger in cross-section at a lower portion than it is at the connection to the bag frame. The bag frame is releasably mounted to the housing so that it will not rotate. The lower portion of the flexible bag is positioned in a storage chamber of the housing that is shaped so as to align and center the bag. A rotatable member having radially extending flexible fingers is engaged with an intermediate portion of the bag. When the lid is closed, the rotatable member will twist the intermediate portion of the bag, sealing odors in the lower portion of the bag. A parent or caregiver will push the waste package through the resistance of the twisted intermediate portion into the lower portion of the bag, and close the lid to re-seal the twisted portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Munchkin, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven B. Dunn, Mark A. Hatherill, Kevin D. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8393489
    Abstract: Waste disposal device includes a container, a lid, and a rotation mechanism that rotates a waste-containing member when present in the container. A slide mechanism enables opening movement of the lid to cause the rotation mechanism to rotate the waste-containing member or prevent the rotation mechanism from rotating the waste-containing member depending on its setting. A foot pedal assembly includes a foot pedal and a spring, and causes both opening of the lid when the foot pedal is depressed and closure of the lid when the pressing force is removed. The spring is moved against its bias upon depression of the foot pedal and returns to its original state when the pressing force is removed to cause closure of the lid and rotation of the waste-containing member. The device may be used for medical waste from hospitals, doctors' offices, home health care personnel and facilities, nursing homes, and biohazard laboratories.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Inventor: David M Stravitz
  • Publication number: 20120240519
    Abstract: The present invention refers to a sampling control station for a containers or bottles filling plant and to a containers or bottles filling plant comprising the same. The sampling control station according to the present invention comprises at least one grasping and transporting group (22) for picking up containers or bottles (16) from conveying means (18) and transporting them to a measuring zone, and at least one module (40) for measuring the removal torque and/or the reclosing angle of a cap (28) of the container (16) acting upon a container or bottle (16) transported to the measuring zone, and it is characterised in that the module (40) for measuring the removal torque and the reclosing angle is such as to take up a first configuration engaged with the cap (28), wherein the cap (28) can be set in rotation by the module (40) for measuring the removal torque and the reclosing angle, and a second configuration disengaged from the cap (28).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2010
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Applicants: AROL S.P.A., FT SYSTEM S.R.L.
    Inventors: Fabio Forestelli, Alberto Cirio
  • Patent number: 8266871
    Abstract: Waste disposal device adapted to receive a waste-containing member includes a container defining a waste-receiving compartment having an opening, a lid connected to the container and having a first, closed position covering the opening of the container and a second, open position in which the opening is exposed, and a rotation mechanism arranged in the container to rotate the waste-containing member when present in the container. The rotation mechanism is arranged to rotate the waste-containing member upon closure of the lid. A switch mechanism enables opening movement of the lid to cause the rotation mechanism to rotate the waste-containing member or prevent the rotation mechanism from rotating the waste-containing member depending on a setting of the switch mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Inventor: David M Stravitz
  • Patent number: 8266870
    Abstract: Waste disposal device includes a container defining a waste-receiving compartment having an opening, a lid connected to the container and having a closed position covering the opening of the container and an open position in which the opening is exposed, and a twisting assembly that engages with and twists or untwists a bag or tubing that extends through the twisting assembly and into which waste is inserted. A manual actuator or controller has a first position in engagement with the twisting assembly to enable manual rotation of the twisting assembly and a second position out of engagement with the twisting assembly. When the manual actuator is in the first position, the twisting assembly is manually rotatable in at least one direction, and possibly both, and in the second position, the manual actuator is freely movable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Inventor: David M Stravitz
  • Publication number: 20120227356
    Abstract: A tightening device is described. The tightening device can be utilized for facilitating the operation of rotation of items mutually coupled by means of closing and locking systems of rotating, screw, bayonet type, or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2010
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Inventor: Pier Giorgio Laportella
  • Patent number: 8215089
    Abstract: Waste disposal device including a container defining a waste chamber for receiving waste, a support member arranged in the container for supporting tubing having a closed or closable front end to thereby enable formation of a bag in the container and a twisting assembly arranged in the container and defining an aperture through which the tubing passes while the twisting assembly engages with the tubing. A rotation mechanism is arranged in the container and when actuated, rotates the twisting assembly relative to the stationary support member while the twisting assembly engages with the tubing to thereby form a twist in the tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: David Stravitz
  • Patent number: 8091325
    Abstract: A diaphragm positioned in a waste disposal device for holding and twisting flexible tubing dispensed form a cartridge housed in the waste disposal device. The twisting of the tubing is accomplished either by rotating the diaphragm and holding the cartridge stationary, or rotating the cartridge and holding the diaphragm. A rotation mechanism is operatively configured to the waste disposal device for rotating either the cartridge or the diaphragm while impeding the rotation of the other. The twisting of the flexible sealably encapsulates a waste package inserted into the flexible tubing through an opening in the cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Playtex Products, Inc.
    Inventors: David M. Stravitz, Richard S. Chomik, Mark Yoho, Stuart Leslie, Taek Kim, Aidan Petrie, Joe Sejnowski
  • Patent number: 7730699
    Abstract: Packaging machine for packaging lollipops provided with a stick and a head in a film/foil sheet, comprising a rotatably driven drum having a series of lollipop holders thereon, the drum furthermore being provided with a series of film/foil folding means for folding a respective film/foil sheet around the head around a longitudinal center axis substantially parallel to the stick, the device furthermore comprising a series of twisters for twisting a film/foil tube section protruding in the longitudinal direction of the lollipop head while continuing to clamp the lollipop head and while the drum continues to rotate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: CFS Weert B.V.
    Inventor: Seferinus Jelle Asma
  • Patent number: 7712285
    Abstract: A waste disposal device including a sensing mechanism for delaying the rotation of a cartridge. The waste disposal device comprises a container defining a waste chamber for receiving encapsulated waste in a flexible tubing. The rotatable cartridge contains the flexible tubing. A lid is coupled to the device and is capable of moving between an open and closed position on the container. A rotation mechanism is operatively configured to engage the rotatable cartridge. A sensing mechanism is arranged to allow for delay in rotation of the cartridge until the lid assumes the closed position so that the waste is encapsulated in the flexible tubing after the closing of the lid, and after the subsequent twisting of the flexible tubing about the waste material caused by the rotation of the cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Playtex Products, Inc.
    Inventors: David M. Stravitz, Richard S. Chomik, Mark Yoho, Stuart Leslie, Taek Kim, Aidan Petrie, Joe Sejnowski
  • Patent number: 7707808
    Abstract: A cassette for a waste disposal device, the cassette including an outer wall, an inner wall, a flexible tubing positioned between the outer wall and the inner wall, and a rim having a top surface and a bottom surface. The rim is positioned between the outer wall and the inner wall and extends from a top surface of the outer wall toward the inner wall. The bottom surface of the rim faces the flexible tubing, and the rim includes a plurality of protrusions on the top surface of the rim to engage with a rotation mechanism of a waste disposal device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Playtex Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard S. Chomik
  • Patent number: 7708188
    Abstract: A waste disposal device comprises a container having hamper. The hamper is insertable and removable through a movable door of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Playtex Products, Inc.
    Inventors: David M. Stravitz, Richard S. Chomik, Mark Yoho, Stuart Leslie, Taek Kim, Aidan Petrie, Joe Sejnowski
  • Patent number: 7694493
    Abstract: A geared rotating cartridge for a waste disposal device having a geared rotation mechanism comprising an assembly of gears mounted on the device. The outside wall of the cartridge comprises a plurality of projections forming the teeth of a circumferential gear. The circumferential gear is operatively positioned thereon to interact with the assembly of gears of the geared rotation mechanism to allow for rotation of the cartridge directly by the geared rotation mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Playtex Products, Inc.
    Inventors: David M. Stravitz, Richard S. Chomik, Mark Yoho
  • Patent number: 7617659
    Abstract: A waste disposal device including a cartridge movable by rollers. The waste disposal device comprises a rotation mechanism for rotating the rotatable cartridge. The cylindrically shaped waste disposal device has an inner wall. The rotatable cartridge comprises a cylindrical shape having an outside wall. The rotation mechanism comprising at least two opposingly aligned movable rollers extends between said inner wall of said waste disposal device and said outer wall of said rotatable cartridge. The rollers are engagingly configured to cause the cartridge to rotate upon activation of the rotation mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Playtex Products, Inc.
    Inventors: David M. Stravitz, Richard S. Chomik, Mark Yoho
  • Publication number: 20090249753
    Abstract: The invention provides a method of sealing a bag (8) comprising (a) gripping the neck (10) of the bag (8) (b) passing the gripped portion of the bag neck (10) around a rod (6) approximately a complete revolution (c) continuing to revolve the gripped portion of the bag and moving the gripped portion axially away from the distal end of the rod (6) until generally a further 2-300 degree revolution has been completed so that the neck (10) of the bag (8) is wrapped around the rod (6) (d) opening a recess (14) in the rod and placing the free end of the neck (10) into the recess, and (e) holding the free end in the recess (14) whilst withdrawing the rod (6) through the wrapped portion of the neck. The invention also provides apparatus for carrying out the method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2007
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventor: William John Bailey
  • Patent number: 7594376
    Abstract: A waste disposal receptacle is provided with an apparatus for sanitarily disposing of solid waste material such as diapers, hospital and nursing home waste products, and biologically hazardous wastes. The receptacle houses an automated mechanism for sealing and packaging the waste material and includes a container, a motorized turning device and a cassette containing a storage of flexible tubing for packaging the waste material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Assignee: Playtex Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard S. Chomik
  • Patent number: 7500339
    Abstract: The invention discloses a waste disposal apparatus including a waste packet forming device integrated with a tool for cutting the packet, and a method for using the apparatus. The disclosed integrated twist-and-cut system provides an improvement over existing waste disposal systems by reducing steps in the disposal of waste material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Assignee: Playtex Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Rosemary Knuth, John Rousso, Richard Chomik, John Cichello, David Hayes, Mark Yoho, Jim Simer
  • Patent number: 7454886
    Abstract: Device for packaging products having a head and a stick, such as lollipops (P), in wraps, includes a frame having first supply elements (2) for supplying the products, second elements (4) for supplying a web (5) of wrapping material, elements (101) for cutting a wrap from the web, a wrapping station having a driven series of elements for retaining the products and circulating in a first direction about a horizontal shaft, and a drum (50) driven in the same direction having elements for enveloping the product heads with a wrap and elements for securing the wrap on the products, the wrapping station including a supply station and a discharge station, the second supply elements being positioned for supplying the web of wrapping material according to a path that is tangential to the drum, in a direction running along with the drum rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: CFS Weert B.V.
    Inventor: Seferinus Jelle Asma
  • Publication number: 20080134644
    Abstract: The invention discloses a waste disposal apparatus including a waste packet forming device integrated with a tool for cutting the packet, and a method for using the apparatus. The disclosed integrated twist-and-cut system provides an improvement over existing waste disposal systems by reducing steps in the disposal of waste material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventors: Rosemary Knuth, John Rousso, Richard Chomik, John Cichello, David Hayes, Mark Yoho, Jim Simer
  • Patent number: 7287361
    Abstract: Device for packaging products having a head and a stick, such as lollipops (P), in wraps, includes a frame having first supply elements (2) for supplying the products, second elements (4) for supplying a web (5) of wrapping material, elements (101) for cutting a wrap from the web, a wrapping station having a driven series of elements for retaining the products and circulating in a first direction about a horizontal shaft, and a drum (50) driven in the same direction having elements for enveloping the product heads with a wrap and elements for securing the wrap on the products, the wrapping station including a supply station and a discharge station, the second supply elements being positioned for supplying the web of wrapping material according to a path that is tangential to the drum, in a direction running along with the drum rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: CFS Weert B.V.
    Inventor: Seferinus Jelle Asma
  • Patent number: 7178314
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a waste disposal apparatus including a container having a first end and a second end. A tubing cassette for supplying tubing is mounted proximate the first end of the container. A first sealing member and a second sealing member are moveable between an open position, wherein tubing from the tubing cassette can pass between the first and second sealing members, and a closed position, wherein the first and second sealing members can be activated to create a seal in the tubing. The first and second sealing members are guided by guide pins that travel along stepped channels for moving the first and second sealing members between the open and closed positions, and for pulling the tubing and waste packages through the waste disposal apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Assignee: Playtex Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard S. Chomik, Stewart Schmehl
  • Patent number: 7114314
    Abstract: Waste disposal device including a housing defining a waste compartment for receiving enclosed waste, flexible tubing received in the housing and which operatively receives waste therein, a retention mechanism for holding a quantity of waste received in a length of the tubing and a rotation mechanism for rotating the retention mechanism when the quantity of waste is held thereby and while a remaining length of the tubing is rotationally held stationary in order to twist the length of tubing receiving the waste and enclose the held quantity of waste. The compartment in the housing receives the enclosed waste. The waste is thus rotated while the cartridge is held against rotation thereby enabling the formation of the twist above the waste to enclose or encapsulate the waste. A pushing mechanism may be provided on a cover of the device to push the waste into engagement with the retention mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Saniquest Industries Corp.
    Inventor: David M. Stravitz
  • Patent number: 7032358
    Abstract: In a device for closing side ends of packages enclosing only one roll or one row of rolls in an automatic packaging machine, operating apparatus are connected to the machine packaging line. A package, partially wrapped by a sheet, is fed to the packaging line in a forward direction, so that only the outer cylindrical surface of the package is touched by the operating apparatus. The operating apparatus translate and rotate the package about an axis, in the forward direction, so that edges of the sheet wrapping the package, during transferring along said packaging line, hit edges of stationary folding apparatus situated beside the packaging line, and become twisted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Tissue Machinery Company S.p.A.
    Inventor: Davide Dall'omo
  • Patent number: 7013614
    Abstract: A binding machine is provided having a base member with a bifurcated shape in the front side thereof, into which an item can be inserted; a tie feed mechanism that feeds out a tie-like member of a predetermined length in the width direction of the base member so as to transverse an opening formed between the bifurcations of the base member; a tie guide mechanism having a pair of tie guide members capable of moving respectively in the substantially front/rear direction of the base member at the side areas of the opening thereby to press the front end side and the fed-out end side of the tie-like member toward the rear side by the respective front end portions, and a guide mechanism that guides each tie guide member toward the rear side substantially parallel to the opening, and turns the respective front end portions around toward the rear side of the opening thereby to make the respective front end portions closer to each other at the rear side of the opening; and a tying mechanism, provided at the rear side
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignees: Kyowa Limited
    Inventors: Shino Tange, Soichi Tange, Yayoi Tange
  • Patent number: 6993891
    Abstract: A waste disposal system with flexible tubing comprising a container defining a waste chamber; a lid connected to the container and movable between an open condition and a closed condition; an iris with a first disk, a second disk and a web connecting the disks; a cartridge of flexible tubing removably situated in the container, extending from the cartridge through the iris into the waste chamber and positioned to receive waste therein; and a guide system, causing the iris to close by rotating one disk in relation to the other, thereby twisting and cinching the flexible tubing and enclosing the held waste, the guide system further causing the iris to displace in a direction opposite to the lid and to carry the held waste into the waste chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Inventors: Bobbi Sue Richardson, Kim Marie Lindner
  • Patent number: 6925781
    Abstract: The invention discloses a waste disposal apparatus including a waste packet forming device integrated with a tool for cutting the packet, and a method for using the apparatus. The disclosed integrated twist-and-cut system provides an improvement over existing waste disposal systems by reducing steps in the disposal of waste material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Playtex Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Rosemary Knuth, John Rousso, Richard Chomik, John Cichello, David Hayes, Mark Yoho, Jim Simer
  • Patent number: 6892510
    Abstract: A bag closing apparatus including a frame structure, a cinching assembly and an actuator assembly. The cinching assembly includes at least three pivot arms, each pivot arm including an arcuate portion and pivotably connected to the frame structure. The pivot arms are located relative to each to define a confined closure area. The actuator assembly includes a plurality of actuators for moving the pivot arms between spread positions and closed positions wherein the closure area has a smaller area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: Flexicon Corporation
    Inventors: Keith W. Sterner, Dennis E. Graham, John F. Simonof, Jr., David R. Gill
  • Patent number: 6851251
    Abstract: Waste disposal device including a housing defining a waste compartment for receiving enclosed waste and arranged to removably receive a cartridge containing a length of flexible tubing which operatively receives waste therein, a retention mechanism for holding a quantity of waste received in the tubing and a rotation mechanism for rotating the retention mechanism when the quantity of waste is held thereby and while the cartridge is stationary in order to twist the tubing and enclose the held quantity of waste. The compartment in the housing receives the enclosed waste. The waste is thus rotated while the cartridge is held against rotation thereby enabling the formation of the twist above the waste to enclose or encapsulate the waste. A pushing mechanism may be provided on a cover of the device to push the waste into engagement with the retention mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: Saniquest Industries Corp.
    Inventor: David M. Stravitz
  • Publication number: 20040144068
    Abstract: Conventionally, there resides such problem that when an operator carries out tying operation by inserting an item into an opening, since a bifurcated arm moves traversing the opening, the operator is given with sensation of fear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2004
    Publication date: July 29, 2004
    Inventors: Shino Tange, Soichi Tange, Yayoi Tange
  • Publication number: 20040020175
    Abstract: Waste disposal device including a housing defining a waste compartment for receiving enclosed waste and arranged to removably receive a cartridge containing a length of flexible tubing which operatively receives waste therein, a retention mechanism for holding a quantity of waste received in the tubing and a rotation mechanism for rotating the retention mechanism when the quantity of waste is held thereby and while the cartridge is stationary in order to twist the tubing and enclose the held quantity of waste. The compartment in the housing receives the enclosed waste. The waste is thus rotated while the cartridge is held against rotation thereby enabling the formation of the twist above the waste to enclose or encapsulate the waste. A pushing mechanism may be provided on a cover of the device to push the waste into engagement with the retention mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2003
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Applicant: SANIQUEST INDUSTRIES CORP.
    Inventor: David M. Stravitz
  • Publication number: 20030217528
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for filling a flexible intermediate bulk container bag is disclosed wherein the bag is suspended clear of an underlying platform by a lift (9) urged upwards by a counterweight (11) so that during filling the bag “B” the bag falls to the underlying platform to prepare a stable base. There is also disclosed a telescopic spout (8) for delivering fill to the bag (B) and a spout closure (24) for preventing spillage of fill from the spout after filling. Hooks (10) for suspending the bag from the lift may be articulated and overlooking to allow for automation of the bag release after filling. A base (1) and tower frame (2) of the apparatus can be pivotally connected to enable the apparatus height to be reduced for transport.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2003
    Publication date: November 27, 2003
    Inventor: Mathew J. Wilson
  • Publication number: 20030208995
    Abstract: Waste disposal device including a container defining a waste storage chamber and a cartridge arranged in the container and containing a length of flexible tubing for encapsulating waste packages. A retention mechanism is arranged in the container to hold the waste package. A rotation mechanism is provided to cause relative rotation between the cartridge and the retention mechanism in order to form a twist above a waste package when the waste package is being held by the retention mechanism and thereby encapsulate the waste package in the tubing. Encapsulation of the waste package prevents the release of odors from the waste package and thus, the invention provides a convenient and sanitary disposal of the waste packages. A series of encapsulated waste packages is thus created in the container, each package contained within a portion of the tubing and sealed at each end by the twisting process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2003
    Publication date: November 13, 2003
    Applicant: SANIQUEST INDUSTRIES CORP.
    Inventor: David M. Stravitz
  • Patent number: 6539687
    Abstract: A modular apparatus is provided for the purpose of packaging an article in a special wrap (such as a single or double twist wrap, an envelope wrap, a bunch wrap, or other special wrap). The modular apparatus has a receiving portion, arranged to receive a partially-wrapped article (such as a tube-wrapped article) into a predetermined location, from another machine, and a special-wrap assembly that forms the desired special wrap. For a double twist-wrap, the special-wrap assembly has rotatable twist grippers that grip the ends of the tube-wrapped article, and twist the ends to form a twist-wrapped article, and includes a twist-wrap drum and Geneva wheels that drive the twist grippers. The modular apparatus is used with a flow-wrap packaging line for wrapping a series of individual articles, which has a first section, in which a film is formed into a tubular wrap about the articles, and a cut-and-seal section, in which the tubular wrap is cut between each two successive articles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Assignee: Mars, Incorporated
    Inventors: Bruce W. Keen, Ira Greene
  • Patent number: 6526730
    Abstract: A sack made of thermoplastic plastic that has been provided with gussets is closed after being filled in that the open side of the sack is pulled tight and provided with a crosswise seal. In order to be able to produce the crosswise seal even when the region to be sealed is contaminated, the lateral regions of the crosswise seal are formed on the region of the sack, which is still lying flat, including the gussets and extending to the transitional region by a first sealing sequence, preferably by a thermal sealing process. After the sack has been filled, the middle region of the crosswise seal is produced by a second sealing sequence, preferably an ultrasound sealing process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Windmoeller & Hoelscher
    Inventor: Uwe Koehn
  • Patent number: 6516588
    Abstract: A diaper disposal system for packaging odorous waste objects in individual sealed (substantially air-tight) packages includes a body, base, hinged lid, flexible material, and a first sealing member and second sealing member. The sealing members are operable to seal or form a substantially air-tight seal in the flexible material to prevent the odor from escaping. The sealing members move between an open position and closed/sealing position by twisting an inner lid, closing the lid, or moving an activation arm. The sealing members preferably seal the tubing by thermally fusing the tubing. A method is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Inventors: Tim Allan Nygaard Jensen, Victoria Marie Worden Jensen
  • Patent number: 6502367
    Abstract: A bag closing apparatus including a frame structure, a cinching assembly and an actuator assembly. The cinching assembly includes at least three pivot arms, each pivot arm including an arcuate portion and pivotably connected to the frame structure. The pivot arms are located relative to each to define a confined closure area. The actuator assembly includes a plurality of actuators for moving the pivot arms between spread positions and closed positions wherein the closure area has a smaller area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Flexicon Corporation
    Inventors: Keith W. Sterner, Dennis E. Graham, John F. Simonof, Jr., David R. Gill
  • Publication number: 20020162304
    Abstract: Waste disposal device including a container defining a waste storage chamber and a cartridge arranged in the container and containing a length of flexible tubing for encapsulating waste packages. A retention mechanism is arranged in the container to hold the waste package. A rotation mechanism is provided to cause relative rotation between the cartridge and the retention mechanism in order to form a twist above a waste package when the waste package is being held by the retention mechanism and thereby encapsulate the waste package in the tubing. Encapsulation of the waste package prevents the release of odors from the waste package and thus, the invention provides a convenient and sanitary disposal of the waste packages. A series of encapsulated waste packages is thus created in the container, each package contained within a portion of the tubing and sealed at each end by the twisting process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Publication date: November 7, 2002
    Applicant: SANIQUEST INDUSTRIES CORP.
    Inventor: David M. Stravitz
  • Patent number: 6374583
    Abstract: A packaging wrapper consisting of a film intended to be closed by two twists on either side of an article to be packaged, characterized in that the film comprises, on the internal side in relation to the article to be packaged, a sealing coating placed along two transverse strips on either side of the article to be packaged and extending parallel to an axis passing through the two twists. The film may additionally comprise two lengthwise strips of sealing coating extending on either side of the strips of sealing coating extending on either side of the article to be packaged, perpendicularly to the said transverse strips in the regions of formation of the twists. These sealing coatings may be either cold-sealing coatings or heat-sealing coatings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: Transpac, N.V.
    Inventors: Eddy Daelmans, Raymond Vanoppre
  • Patent number: 6370847
    Abstract: A diaper disposal system for packaging odorous waste objects in individual sealed (substantially air-tight) packages includes a body, base, hinged lid, flexible material, and a first sealing member and second sealing member. The sealing members are operable to seal or form a substantially air-tight seal in the flexible material to prevent the odor from escaping. The sealing members move between an open position and closed/sealing position by twisting an inner lid, closing the lid, or moving an activation arm. The sealing members preferably seal the tubing by thermally fusing the tubing. A method is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Inventors: Tim Allan Nygaard Jensen, Victoria Marie Worden Jensen