Capacity Adjustable Patents (Class 73/429)
  • Patent number: 11719682
    Abstract: Capturing data in a drone enabled environmental for testing soil and ecological decision making includes initiating, using a computer, collection of data from multiple sources using a drone. The data includes information about soil at a specified soil location, in response to the drone flying over air space of a physical or geographical location respective to the soil location and/or landing at the soil location. Soil data is received, as part of the data, from the drone in response to testing the soil. The testing of the soil can include conducting a ground soil density test using a frangible probe. The data is analyzed to determine a best location for seeding and growing a plant in the soil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2023
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Hyman David Chantz, Doga Tav
  • Patent number: 11079266
    Abstract: A scoop for the transfer of product from a container includes a head portion including a bowl portion; a handle portion slidably engageable with the head portion, the handle portion having a first position and a second position relative to the head portion; wherein in the first position, the handle portion at least partially overlaps part of the head portion such that at least part of the bowl portion is covered by the handle portion; wherein in the second position, the handle portion extends away from the head portion such that the bowl portion is no longer covered by the handle portion; wherein the length of the scoop being greater in the second position than in the first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2021
    Assignee: TricorBraun Inc.
    Inventor: Jay Lee
  • Patent number: 10908009
    Abstract: An adjustable scoop includes a scoop body and a plunger. The scoop body has a cylindrical interior sidewall, a hollow interior, an open top, and an open bottom. The plunger is arranged in the interior of the scoop body such that a top surface of the plunger faces the open top. A volume of the interior of the scoop body above the plunger defines a volume of the adjustable scoop. The plunger is rotatable in the interior of the scoop body to adjust the volume of the adjustable scoop. The plunger includes a first engagement element, and a surface of the interior sidewall of the scoop body includes a second engagement element extending from the surface. The first and second engagement elements mutually cooperate to translate rotation of the plunger to adjustment of the volume of the adjustable scoop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2021
    Inventor: Adrian Rivera
  • Patent number: 10634539
    Abstract: The measuring cup includes numerous embodiments configured for a user to precisely determine the cup contents without need to lift the cup to one's eye level or to lower the eye level to the level of the cup contents. The various embodiments include folding cups; cups having transparent passages in the wall; cups having adjustably positionable bottoms; cups having level indicator rods in the cup interior extending upward from the cup bottom; cups having one or more filaments extending across the cup interior; cups having rigid level indicators spanning the cup interior; cups having adjustably positionable level indicator tabs therein; cups having buoyant level indicator tabs adjustably positionable in the cup interior; and cups having removable clip-on scales extending down along the interior of the cup wall, the scales having a plurality of attachment points for the removable attachment of a level indicator tab at a desired attachment point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2020
    Assignee: King Saud University
    Inventors: Mohd Aftab Alam, Fahad Ibrahim Al-Jenoobi, Abdullah M. Al-Mohizea
  • Patent number: 10584993
    Abstract: An adjustable scoop includes an indexed plunger rotatable to vary a scoop volume. The plunger includes exterior spiral grooves and the scoop includes angled interior tabs which fit into the the spiral grooves. The grooves include angularly spaced apart teeth which index with the interior tabs to retain the plunger at selected depths in the scoop. Index lines are angularly spaced apart on a base of the scoop and a pointer on the plunger is alignable with each of the index lines to set the plunger depth. The plunger is substantially hollow and includes a top surface providing a floor for the scoop, and an open bottom including a horizontal bar graspable to rotate the plunger. A level is slidably attached to a scoop handle and includes a leveling arc slidable across a scoop mouth to level material contained in the scoop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2020
    Inventor: Adrian Rivera
  • Patent number: 10578425
    Abstract: Embodiments include a system for test fitting fabric, comprising a flat structure comprising a test surface defined by four sidewalls and an interface configured to attach the fabric to the test surface. The four sidewalls include a first sidewall and a second sidewall substantially perpendicular to the first sidewall. The test surface comprises a first adjustable dimension substantially parallel to the second sidewall and a second adjustable dimension substantially parallel to the first sidewall. The system also includes a user interface configured to receive one or more inputs for adjusting the first adjustable dimension and the second adjustable dimension; a first mechanism configured to, in response to the one or more inputs, automatically move the first sidewall to adjust the first adjustable dimension; and a second mechanism configured to, in response to the one or more inputs, automatically move the second sidewall to adjust the second adjustable dimension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2020
    Assignee: Czarnowski Display Service, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry Ezzelle, Jay Pryor, Kirk Charles, Craig Cochran, Adam Ambrecht
  • Patent number: 10533886
    Abstract: The measuring cup includes numerous embodiments configured for a user to precisely determine the cup contents without need to lift the cup to one's eye level or to lower the eye level to the level of the cup contents. The various embodiments include folding cups; cups having transparent passages in the wall; cups having adjustably positionable bottoms; cups having level indicator rods in the cup interior extending upward from the cup bottom; cups having one or more filaments extending across the cup interior; cups having rigid level indicators spanning the cup interior; cups having adjustably positionable level indicator tabs therein; cups having buoyant level indicator tabs adjustably positionable in the cup interior; and cups having removable clip-on scales extending down along the interior of the cup wall, the scales having a plurality of attachment points for the removable attachment of a level indicator tab at a desired attachment point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2020
    Assignee: King Saud University
    Inventors: Mohd Aftab Alam, Fahad Ibrahim Al-Jenoobi, Abdullah M. Al-Mohizea
  • Patent number: 10520347
    Abstract: The measuring cup includes numerous embodiments configured for a user to precisely determine the cup contents without need to lift the cup to one's eye level or to lower the eye level to the level of the cup contents. The various embodiments include folding cups; cups having transparent passages in the wall; cups having adjustably positionable bottoms; cups having level indicator rods in the cup interior extending upward from the cup bottom; cups having one or more filaments extending across the cup interior; cups having rigid level indicators spanning the cup interior; cups having adjustably positionable level indicator tabs therein; cups having buoyant level indicator tabs adjustably positionable in the cup interior; and cups having removable clip-on scales extending down along the interior of the cup wall, the scales having a plurality of attachment points for the removable attachment of a level indicator tab at a desired attachment point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: King Saud University
    Inventors: Mohd Aftab Alam, Fahad Ibrahim Al-Jenoobi, Abdullah M. Al-Mohizea
  • Patent number: 10520346
    Abstract: The measuring cup includes numerous embodiments configured for a user to precisely determine the cup contents without need to lift the cup to one's eye level or to lower the eye level to the level of the cup contents. The various embodiments include folding cups; cups having transparent passages in the wall; cups having adjustably positionable bottoms; cups having level indicator rods in the cup interior extending upward from the cup bottom; cups having one or more filaments extending across the cup interior; cups having rigid level indicators spanning the cup interior; cups having adjustably positionable level indicator tabs therein; cups having buoyant level indicator tabs adjustably positionable in the cup interior; and cups having removable clip-on scales extending down along the interior of the cup wall, the scales having a plurality of attachment points for the removable attachment of a level indicator tab at a desired attachment point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: King Saud University
    Inventors: Mohd Aftab Alam, Fahad Ibrahim Al-Jenoobi, Abdullah M. Al-Mohizea
  • Patent number: 10444053
    Abstract: The measuring cup includes numerous embodiments configured for a user to precisely determine the cup contents without need to lift the cup to one's eye level or to lower the eye level to the level of the cup contents. The various embodiments include folding cups; cups having transparent passages in the wall; cups having adjustably positionable bottoms; cups having level indicator rods in the cup interior extending upward from the cup bottom; cups having one or more filaments extending across the cup interior; cups having rigid level indicators spanning the cup interior; cups having adjustably positionable level indicator tabs therein; cups having buoyant level indicator tabs adjustably positionable in the cup interior; and cups having removable clip-on scales extending down along the interior of the cup wall, the scales having a plurality of attachment points for the removable attachment of a level indicator tab at a desired attachment point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2019
    Assignee: King Saud University
    Inventors: Mohd Aftab Alam, Fahad Ibrahim Al-Jenoobi, Abdullah M. Al-Mohizea
  • Patent number: 10436623
    Abstract: The measuring cup includes numerous embodiments configured for a user to precisely determine the cup contents without need to lift the cup to one's eye level or to lower the eye level to the level of the cup contents. The various embodiments include folding cups; cups having transparent passages in the wall; cups having adjustably positionable bottoms; cups having level indicator rods in the cup interior extending upward from the cup bottom; cups having one or more filaments extending across the cup interior; cups having rigid level indicators spanning the cup interior; cups having adjustably positionable level indicator tabs therein; cups having buoyant level indicator tabs adjustably positionable in the cup interior; and cups having removable clip-on scales extending down along the interior of the cup wall, the scales having a plurality of attachment points for the removable attachment of a level indicator tab at a desired attachment point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Assignee: King Saud University
    Inventors: Mohd Aftab Alam, Fahad Ibrahim Al-Jenoobi, Abdullah M. Al-Mohizea
  • Patent number: 10352749
    Abstract: The present invention is about a volume-measuring device installed inside a box that used to store a liquid. The measuring device is placed at the bottom of the box dispensing the liquid, and displays via a measuring tower a measure of the volume of the liquid still in the box. The device is comprised of a receptacle or sealed pouch connected to a measuring tower. As the pressure from the weight of the liquid changes, the receptacle reacts by moving the measuring marker to reflect such change, thus measuring the current liquid volume in the dispensing box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Inventor: Carlos Manuel Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 10209116
    Abstract: The measuring cup includes numerous embodiments configured for a user to precisely determine the cup contents without need to lift the cup to one's eye level or to lower the eye level to the level of the cup contents. The various embodiments include folding cups; cups having transparent passages in the wall; cups having adjustably positionable bottoms; cups having level indicator rods in the cup interior extending upward from the cup bottom; cups having one or more filaments extending across the cup interior; cups having rigid level indicators spanning the cup interior; cups having adjustably positionable level indicator tabs therein; cups having buoyant level indicator tabs adjustably positionable in the cup interior; and cups having removable clip-on scales extending down along the interior of the cup wall, the scales having a plurality of attachment points for the removable attachment of a level indicator tab at a desired attachment point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: King Saud University
    Inventors: Mohd Aftab Alam, Fahad Ibrahim Al-Jenoobi, Abdullah M. Al-Mohizea
  • Patent number: 9719830
    Abstract: A calibration cup for use in calibrating a quantity of a dessert dispensed from a product dispensing machine includes a body portion having an interior cavity, the interior cavity including a first chamber adjacent to at least a second chamber being disposed along a longitudinal width of the body portion, the first and the at least one second chamber being configured for receiving a quantity of the dessert from the product dispensing machine; and at least one opening on the body portion, the at least one opening being configured for receiving a nozzle coupled to the product dispensing machine; where the body portion is configured for self-aligning the first chamber and the at least a second chamber to the product dispensing machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Assignee: CARRIER COMMERCIAL REFRIGERATION, INC.
    Inventor: James J. Minard
  • Patent number: 9103708
    Abstract: The moveable dam structure of an adjustable measuring device such as a spoon or scoop has a structure molded of a single material with thin flexible curved edges which fit into the internal walls of the housing to provide increased surface contact without co-molding or other assembly of a separate edge seal onto the moveable dam. The moveable dam is molded in a single step of a single thermoplastic material to give the dam a tapered cross-sectional shape with the inner portion thicker than the outer edges, with curved edges forming angles substantially different from 90° when bearing against the internal walls of the measuring container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2015
    Assignee: FOX RUN USA, LLC
    Inventor: Rodney W. Robbins
  • Patent number: 8904861
    Abstract: A method for the manufacture of a measuring device, and a measuring device for registering at least one measured value of at least one process variable, wherein the measuring device includes a measuring tube, which has at least one necked out portion, on which at least one measuring transducer is arranged, wherein the measuring tube together with the necked out portion is monolithic, and wherein the necked out portion is manufacturable from the measuring tube at least partially by a deformation method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Endress + Hauser Flowtec AG
    Inventors: Andreas Berger, Michal Bezdek, Arno Lang
  • Patent number: 8820159
    Abstract: An adjustable measuring device is for use in measuring out various amounts of granular or powdered material such as infant formula powder or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Handy Baby Products Limited
    Inventor: Martina Delaney
  • Patent number: 8806935
    Abstract: One or more measuring cups or spoons include a handle and a measuring container. The measuring container is formed with a volumetric capacity such as a fraction of a cup, a teaspoon, or a tablespoon. The handle of a first measuring container includes a feature that interacts with a complementary feature on the handle of a second measuring cup to secure the first and second cups together. In one version, a downwardly extending rib on the handle of a first measuring container is received within a channel formed on the handle of a second measuring container. A set of containers is formed in which each of the containers has an attachment feature allowing the set to be attached together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Progressive International Corporation
    Inventors: Lance Hood, Jennifer K. Cotter, Justin Bagley
  • Publication number: 20140144228
    Abstract: The moveable dam structure of an adjustable measuring device such as a spoon or scoop has a structure molded of a single material with thin flexible curved edges which fit into the internal walls of the housing to provide increased surface contact without co-molding or other assembly of a separate edge seal onto the moveable dam. The moveable dam is molded in a single step of a single thermoplastic material to give the dam a tapered cross-sectional shape with the inner portion thicker than the outer edges, with curved edges forming angles substantially different from 90° when bearing against the internal walls of the measuring container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Inventor: Rodney W. Robbins
  • Patent number: 8714011
    Abstract: One or more measuring cups or spoons include a handle and a measuring container. The measuring container is formed with a volumetric capacity such as a fraction of a cup, a teaspoon, or a tablespoon. The handle of a first measuring container includes a feature that interacts with a complementary feature on the handle of a second measuring cup to secure the first and second cups together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Progressive International Corporation
    Inventors: Lance L. Hood, Jennifer K. Cotter, Justin Bagley
  • Patent number: 8438921
    Abstract: A measurement container with any number of graduated scales based upon total volume of application or based upon standardized consumer sized product vessels, with the adaptability to measure large or small amounts. The container will have a pour spout to ease introductions into batches. The measurement container will also include a handle and hand grab, to ease lifting and pouring with both hands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Scott Bland
  • Patent number: 8327702
    Abstract: An adjustable measuring device that includes a container with a channel and a mating slider in the container. The slider is magnetically attached. Portion(s) not filled by the slider provide define at least one measuring chamber of variable volume depending on the positioning of the slider in the channel. Also, in an adjustable measuring device using a mating slider, measurement lines can be formed of elastomeric polymer to facilitate sealing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventor: William Steinkraus
  • Publication number: 20120198930
    Abstract: One or more measuring cups or spoons include a handle and a measuring container. The measuring container is formed with a volumetric capacity such as a fraction of a cup, a teaspoon, or a tablespoon. The handle of a first measuring container includes a feature that interacts with a complementary feature on the handle of a second measuring cup to secure the first and second cups together. In one version, a downwardly extending rib on the handle of a first measuring container is received within a channel formed on the handle of a second measuring container. A set of containers is formed in which each of the containers has an attachment feature allowing the set to be attached together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Applicant: PROGRESSIVE INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Lance Hood, Jennifer K. Cotter, Justin Bagley
  • Publication number: 20120167679
    Abstract: An adjustable measuring device is for use in measuring out various amounts of granular or powdered material such as infant formula powder or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2010
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Inventor: Martina Delaney
  • Patent number: 8210380
    Abstract: A dustbin with an adjustable height comprises an outside container body, an inside container body, a compression spring provided between the bottom of outside container body and the bottom of inside container body, a longitudinal row of grooves provided at the side wall of the inside container body and a level regulator provided at the side wall of the outside container body. The level regulator has a left end for embedding in the groove and a right end for coupling with a switch means to control the horizontal motion of the level regulator. The height of inside container body can be adjusted to satisfy the users of different heights by the level regulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Zhejiang Jiaxing Zhongda Group Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jiaming Jin, Xiaofeng Lu, Jinxin Wu
  • Patent number: 7980131
    Abstract: A bottomless measuring cup system having a tubular container with a hollow interior and opposite open ends and a plunger having a base adapted to slidingly fit within the hollow interior of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Inventor: Jody Barton
  • Patent number: 7661310
    Abstract: The present invention provides a portion-taker device for taking a substance, the device including at least one measuring scoop, which scoop comprises: a frame; and a flap mounted to pivot relative to the frame and co-operating with it to define, in a first position, the bottom of a cavity that it used for taking the substance; the frame being arranged in such a manner as to enable a user to exert thrust on the flap on its side opposite from the cavity so as to reduce the volume thereof until the flap reaches a second position in which the volume of the cavity is substantially zero.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: L'Oreal
    Inventor: Vincent De Laforcade
  • Patent number: 7658106
    Abstract: An adjustable measuring device for measuring contents, such as liquids and granulated solids, having a usable volume for measuring. The adjustable measuring device includes a housing, a platform having a lower position and an upper position, and an adjusting system for moving the platform between the lower position and the upper position. When the platform is in the lower position, the usable volume is maximized. When the platform is in the upper position, the usable volume is minimized. The adjusting system comprises a restraint system adapted to maintain the platform between the lower position and the upper position. Also, the adjusting system comprises a discrete locking system adapted to temporarily lock the platform into a plurality of predetermined positions, which represent discrete usable volumes. By applying a first adjusting force, the platform moves toward the upper position. By applying a second adjusting force, the platform moves toward the lower position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: Lifetime Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Price, Jeremy Brotchner
  • Patent number: 7637154
    Abstract: A cutting board is fitted with a removable cup, preferably adjustable, which is positioned so as to receive cut food particles swept off the board into the cup. A barrier is provided on the board surface to prevent spillage of food which misses the cup. The cup is semi-cylindrical and fits into a recess in the board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: FoxRun USA, LLC
    Inventor: Rodney W. Robbins
  • Patent number: 7607348
    Abstract: A measuring device has one or more vessels with an adjustable capacity. The vessel is made of a flexible material with a peripheral hinge. The peripheral hinge enables the vessel to be reconfigured from one configuration having a first holding capacity to a second configuration having a different holding capacity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Assignee: Emmarco Industries Company Limited
    Inventor: Siu-Leung Law
  • Patent number: 7503212
    Abstract: An adjustable measuring scoop including a partition that is movable so as to result in a scoop size that can be selectively determined between a maximum and a minimum by ready manual manipulation of the scoop. Part of the perimeter of the movable partition may include a lip (which may further include a flange and/or a seal) that is preferably configured and formed of suitable materials so as to permit for the containment of fine powders, liquids, etc. The movable partition may also include a depression formed on its upper surface for the convenient temporary holding of materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Assignee: Dalla Piazza & Co.
    Inventors: Enrico Dalla Piazza, Edward H. Kilduff, Chi Ming Tse, Dean B. Chapman, Gareth Brown
  • Publication number: 20090056440
    Abstract: Adjustable measuring cups include a housing having a peripheral wall having an open upper end, an outer surface, an inner surface, and a bottom surface. The adjustable measuring cups also include a platform slidably movable within the housing, and an adjustment wheel rotatably connected to the bottom surface of the housing. The platform has an upper surface and a lower surface. A plurality of connecting rods can be connected to the adjustment wheel, and can also be connected to the lower surface of the platform. The measuring volume of an adjustable measuring cup can be defined by the open upper end, the inner surface of the housing and the upper surface of the platform. The platform slidably moves when the adjustment wheel is rotated, thereby adjusting the measuring volume of the measuring cup.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2008
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventors: LYNN VENDL, Louis Henry, Melanie Conklin, Charles Paradise
  • Patent number: 7469584
    Abstract: The present invention provides an adjustable portable liquid gauge that allows a person to quickly pour a precise amount of liquid directly into a glass and adjust the height of the adjustable liquid gauge to accommodate glasses of varying dimensions and/or varying amounts of liquid. In an embodiment, the adjustable liquid gauge comprises a top member having at least one inward curved edge dimensioned to fit around a portion of a glass, and a bottom member that slidably engages the top member. This sliding engage allows the top member to slide with respect to the bottom member to adjust the height of the liquid gauge. The adjustable liquid gauge further comprises one or more adjustment fasteners for adjustably locking the top member in place with respect to the bottom member when the liquid gauge is adjusted to a height corresponding to a desired glass and amount of liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Inventor: Howard D. Subnick
  • Publication number: 20080282798
    Abstract: A measuring device has one or more vessels with an adjustable capacity. The vessel is made of a flexible material with a peripheral hinge. The peripheral hinge enables the vessel to be reconfigured from one configuration having a first holding capacity to a second configuration having a different holding capacity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventor: Siu-Leung Law
  • Patent number: 7240545
    Abstract: A test apparatus for the measurement of expansion and/or shrinkage of a cement test sample during curing under pressure and temperature conditions that simulate downhole oil well conditions isolates the test sample from a first fixed volume of incompressible pressurized liquid using a flexible barrier that forms a wall of a first chamber in a pressure vessel assembly. The first chamber is sealed by a movable piston. A second pressurizing medium is contained in a second chamber on the opposite side of the piston, and is in fluid communication with a pump, whereby the piston is pressure-balanced between the first and the second medium. The piston moves in a bore of the vessel assembly in response to changes in the volume of the test sample during curing and the amount of linear movement of the piston is detected by a sensor system that measures, correlates and transmits any change in the position of the piston as a change in the sample volume for display and recording.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventor: Scott Steven Jennings
  • Patent number: 7100443
    Abstract: An adjustable measuring scoop including a movable partition that adjustably rotates on a rotating means such as an axle so as to result in a scoop size that can be selectively determined between a maximum and a minimum by ready manual manipulation of the scoop. The movable partition and rotating means are preferably configured so that the movable partition moves toward and away from the scoop's opening, permitting, e.g., a symmetric frontal contour that may be more effective in scooping from a container. Adjustment of the movable partition may also optionally be effected by means including a manual slide that has a linear and/or relatively short range of motion. The movable partition may also optionally be effectively implemented without an accompanying covering portion, permitting a design in which scooping with and/or cleaning of the device may be cleaner and/or easier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Dalla Piazza & Co.
    Inventors: Edward H. Kilduff, William Y. Kang
  • Patent number: 7086282
    Abstract: An adjustable measuring scoop including a movable partition that adjustably rotates on a rotating means such as an axle so as to result in a scoop size that can be selectively determined between a maximum and a minimum by ready manual manipulation of the scoop. The movable partition and rotating means are preferably configured so that the movable partition moves toward and away from the scoop's opening, permitting, e.g., a symmetric frontal contour that may be more effective in scooping from a container. Adjustment of the movable partition may also optionally be effected by means including a manual slide that has a linear and/or relatively short range of motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: Dalla Piazza & Co.
    Inventors: Edward H. Kilduff, William Y. Kang
  • Patent number: 7077005
    Abstract: A measuring device and method for measuring a volume of a gel-like, powder-like or liquid-like material is provided by defining a desired volume of the material, moving a peripheral measuring edge of a longitudinal inner member along an inside wall of a longitudinal outer member to the desired volume corresponding to an indicator indicated at one of a plurality of measurement positioning stops, filling the material in the longitudinal outer member on top of the longitudinal inner member, moving the peripheral measuring edge of the longitudinal inner member to a second measurement positioning stop, and releasing the material out of the longitudinal outer member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Inventor: Judith M. Bang
  • Patent number: 6948366
    Abstract: A measuring device and method for measuring a volume of a gel-like, powder-like or liquid-like material is provided by defining a desired volume of the material, moving a peripheral measuring edge of a longitudinal inner member along an inside wall of a longitudinal outer member to the desired volume corresponding to an indicator indicated at one of a plurality of measurement positioning stops, filling the material in the longitudinal outer member on top of the longitudinal inner member, moving the peripheral measuring edge of the longitudinal inner member to a second measurement positioning stop, and releasing the material out of the longitudinal outer member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Inventor: Judith M. Bang
  • Patent number: 6918292
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring volumetric changes in cement as the cement is exposed to pressures and temperatures to simulate down-hole conditions, in a high-pressure high-temperature chamber is described. The apparatus is described a mold having a first section adjacent a base and a second section movably attached to the first section and adjacent the base in which cement may be placed. The apparatus includes a sensor to measure the movement of the first and second sections relative to one another in response to volumetric changes in the cement. Also described is a method of measuring the volumetric changes in cement as the cement is exposed to simulated down-hole pressures and temperatures in a high-pressure, high-temperature chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Assignee: BJ Services Company
    Inventors: Virgilio C. Go Boncan, W. Scott Bray
  • Patent number: 6817238
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring volumetric changes in cement as the cement is exposed to pressures and temperatures to simulate down-hole conditions, in a high-pressure high-temperature chamber is described. The apparatus is described as a mold having a first section adjacent a base and a second section movably attached to the first section and adjacent the base in which cement may be placed. The apparatus includes a sensor to measure the movement of the first and second sections relative to one another in response to volumetric changes in the cement. Also described is a method of measuring the volumetric changes in cement as the cement is exposed to simulated down-hole pressures and temperatures in a high-pressure, high-temperature chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: BJ Services Company
    Inventors: Virgilio C. Go Boncan, W. Scott Bray
  • Publication number: 20030209082
    Abstract: A liquid measuring device is described for carrying out the assay using a gas or vapor permeable but liquid impermeable membrane barrier to control the volume of liquid to be measured or transferred. The membrane may be used in any instance where a fixed volume of liquid needs to be measured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Publication date: November 13, 2003
    Inventors: Szu-Min Lin, Peter Zhu
  • Patent number: 6470745
    Abstract: A dispensing spoon comprising a handle, a scoop having an open mouth formed at one end of the handle, a powder leveling means in the form of a wiper part which is coupled integrally and flexibly to an opposite end of the handle remote from the scoop and which can be displaced manually in a sweep plane so as to sweep laterally over the mouth of the scoop for powder leveling purposes, and a counter which is automatically advanced by operation of the powder leveling means. The counter includes a counter disc having a plurality of numbers around its surface and is arranged to be indexed by one number when the wiper part is displaced to sweep over the scoop mouth to perform a powder leveling operation. The counter disk is journalled on the wiper part or the handle for rotation in a plane parallel to the sweep plane of the wiper part so that the numbers are displayed upwardly. The counter disc has on its underside a ratchet wheel having a plurality of teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Inventors: Gavin Reay, Simon David Heap
  • Patent number: 6125699
    Abstract: A spoon-shaped measuring device for measuring out different amounts of ingredients has a swinging gate having a divider which extends into the measuring compartment of the measuring device. The gate has a pair of inwardly directed protrusions accommodated by radial spaced grooves in a rib located on the side wall of the handle and measuring compartment to releasably hold the measuring position of the divider and set the volume of the measuring compartment as desired. A pivot releasably connects the gate to the handle of the device to facilitate cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Inventor: Steven L. Molenaar
  • Patent number: 6026685
    Abstract: The adjustable measuring device has a cylindrical base and a slightly larger cylindrical sleeve which slides upwardly and downwardly on the cylindrical base to form a cup of variable volume. Both cylinders are oblate and preferably are elliptical or oval in cross-section. This allows the height of the device to be reduced, without loss of measuring capacity, and without loss of gripability. Also, the oblate shape forms a natural pour spout. A sealing member having a relatively thin, flexible wiper or flange element forms a seal at the junction between the interior surface of the sleeve and the top of the base member and minimizes leakage of liquid from the cup. A lip on each narrow end of the upper edge of the sleeve minimizes dripping and running of excess liquid down the outside of the sleeve after pouring. In one embodiment, detent mechanisms are provided to accurately locate different measurement positions of the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Assignee: Robbins Industries Inc.
    Inventors: Frans M. Weterrings, E. Stanley Robbins, Rodney W. Robbins, Larry J. Sexton
  • Patent number: 5678450
    Abstract: An adjustable spoon or scoop with a measuring container on each end. The spoon has a sliding cover with dams for adjusting the volumes in the measurement containers at both ends. The cover can be easily snapped off of the spoon body to separate the parts for easy washing. The dimensions of the containers at opposite ends of the spoon are set to cover different volume ranges; for example, 1/8 teaspoon to 1 teaspoon at one end, and 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon at the other end. Coordinated indicia are provided to indicate the measurements corresponding to each position of the slider. The dimensions of the measurement containers are determined so that a standard fractional measurement will be provided at both ends of the spoon by each of a plurality of sequential slider locations. The body has a slender central portion extending between the measurement containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1997
    Assignee: Robbins Indusxries, Inc.
    Inventors: E. Stanley Robbins, Frans M. Weterrings, Rodney W. Robbins
  • Patent number: 5460042
    Abstract: Adjustable measuring devices are disclosed. The device comprises an elongate body having first and second ends. Both first and second ends have measuring cavities formed thereon. Preferably the body member further has a central rail member disposed between the measuring cavities formed at each end of the member. Slidably attached to the body member is an elongate central cover member. The central cover member has damming members extending downwardly at each end such that each damming member is snugly received within a measuring cavity. Accordingly, by sliding the central cover member across the body member, the volume in each respective measuring cavity can be increased or decreased to form a desired setting. Preferably, the adjustable measuring device has measuring indicia formed thereon as well as an adjustable interlocking arrangement between the central cover member and the body member such that fixed volumes may be readily and accurately measured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Inventor: Terence Tucker
  • Patent number: 5448913
    Abstract: The measuring device has a bowl. The bowl's capacity is adjusted by a dam structure located within the bowl and attached to a cover structure slidably mounted on the bowl. The slidable cover extends beyond the bowl for use as a handle. The handle has a downwardly-directed extension which is used to support and stabilize the device when the device rests on a flat surface. The handle also has a rounded indentation at the junction between the extension and the handle, so as to reinforce the junction and provide means for easily gripping the device. The sides of the bowl structure are flexible so that they can be squeezed together to release the cover so that the device can easily be disassembled and reassembled for cleaning. A detent structure is provided to locate the sliding dam at pre-marked measurement locations. The detent structure is centrally located to permit strengthening of the sliding attachment means and reduce wear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1995
    Assignee: Robbins Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Rodney W. Robbins, E. Stanley Robbins, Frans M. Wetterings, Charles R. Hebner, John E. Watkins
  • Patent number: 5406995
    Abstract: A container assembly includes an outer container and at least one inner container whose internal volume has the same ratio to the remaining internal volume of the outer container as the desired ratio of liquids to be mixed. An orifice in the inner container establishes communication between the lower end portions of the two containers so that a previously mixed liquid mixture of a predetermined ratio resides at the same level in both containers. The container assembly may be filled with additional mixture of the same ratio by filling the inner container with one liquid and by flushing that liquid from the inner container and into the outer container with a second liquid until the outer container is full.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1995
    Assignee: Viking Industrial Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles J. Gantzer
  • Patent number: 5377879
    Abstract: A measuring spoon for accurately measuring and delivering a dose of medicine to a patient. The measuring spoon includes a hollow substantially circular filler tube which is open on both ends. At one end of the filler tube a spoon is connected so as to leave an opening for pouring medicine into the filler tube. A plunger is inserted in the opposite open end and acts as a base level for medicine poured into the filler tube. The filler tube includes indicator lines each indicating a different dosage amount. In use, the plunger top is aligned with the indicator line indicating the desired dosage. The filler tube is filled with the correct dosage and the plunger is depressed to fill the spoon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1995
    Inventor: Linda R. F. Isaacs