Abstract: A multi-compartment storage cabinet (10) is disclosed, comprising a housing (12), a cover member (52), and a plurality of bins (62). The housing (12) is configured to provide tandem vertical pivot rods (48) extending down the middle of the housing, and a column of storage compartments (26) on each side. Each bin (62) and compartment (26) are of triangular configuration, and the bins (62) are pivotally coupled at an inward corner to the pivot rods (48), whereby enabling the bins to individually pivot between a storage position within the compartments and an open position outside of the compartments. Leaf spring members (30) are formed in the housing to engage shoulders (76) of the bins (62) as the bins reach the storage configuration and lock the bins within the housing. The spring members (30) further apply a directional ejection force on the bins as the bins are rotated out of the storage position, to assist in pivoting the bins out of their respective compartments.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
August 12, 1994
Date of Patent:
May 14, 1996
Assignee:
Rubbermaid Incorporated
Inventors:
Rick Branham, Randall W. Calmeise, John A. Vura
Abstract: A container lid (10) is disclosed for enclosing a container (12). The lid has a top wall (14), and a peripheral rim flange (18) dimensioned to flex outward and receive the upper rim of the container therebetween. The rim flange (18) terminates at a downturned skirt (20). A lever arm skirt portion (32) is provided to extend vertically downward from the lid rim flange, and tapers inward from a top end (38) to a bottom end (40). The lever arm (32) is pivotal outward, whereby applying a force moment to the rim flange (18) which serves to break the seal between the rim flange and the outside rim surface (34) of the container (12), and allow the lid to be easily removed therefrom.
Abstract: A multipurpose storage container is disclosed comprising a lid (14), base (12), and latch handles (16). The lid (14) is configured for positionment upon the base (12) in alternative upright and inverted positions. In the inverted configuration, the lid (14) creates a work surface (46) having integral support grooves (60, 62) for securing a tubular work piece. In the upright configuration, the lid (14) presents domed upper surface (36) that can serve as a seat. The latch handles (16) are pivotally attached to ends of the base (12) and pivot upward to secure the lid to the base in either of the two alternate lid configuration.