Patents by Inventor John R. Ross

John R. Ross has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Publication number: 20240082085
    Abstract: An overhead arm assembly for a patient support apparatus includes a user interface device. The user interface device has a support structure for supporting a personal digital assistant and a charging port for personal digital assistant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2023
    Publication date: March 14, 2024
    Inventors: Robert M. Zerhusen, Jonathan K. Moenter, Joshua L. Meyer, Robert D. Ross, John G. Byers, Matthew R. Knue
  • Patent number: 11897021
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a container that may be sealed and reclosed with a threaded closure. More specifically, the present invention relates to methods of manufacturing a metallic container having an opening with inwardly facing threads. The threads are formed on the metallic container by pressing a neck portion of the metallic container against closure threads of a threaded closure which is inserted at least partially into the opening. The container threads may optionally be formed while the threaded closure is in tension. In this manner, after the container threads are formed, the closure threads can apply a force to the container threads such that the threaded closure is in tension. The container opening may be selectively sealed and reclosed with the threaded closure which releasably engages the container threads. Novel apparatus and methods of sealing metallic containers and forming threads on the metallic containers are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Assignee: BALL CORPORATION
    Inventors: John R. Ross, Anthony J. Scott, Howard C. Chasteen, Linda A. Hines
  • Patent number: 11891208
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a container that may be sealed and reclosed with a threaded closure. More specifically, the present invention relates to methods of manufacturing a metallic container having an opening with inwardly facing threads that are formed after a threaded closure is inserted at least partially into the opening. The container opening may be selectively sealed and reclosed with the threaded closure which releasably engages the container threads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2024
    Assignee: BALL CORPORATION
    Inventors: John R. Ross, Anthony J. Scott, Howard C. Chasteen, Linda A. Hines
  • Patent number: 11813657
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a tool operable to releasably join a metallic end closure to a metallic container. In one embodiment, the tool is configured to form a thread in the closure and the container. The tool may optionally crimp the closure to the container. Once sealed, the container can be opened by rotating the closure in an opening direction. The closure can subsequently re-close the container by rotating the closure in a closing direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2022
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2023
    Assignee: BALL CORPORATION
    Inventor: John R. Ross
  • Publication number: 20220347736
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a tool operable to releasably join a metallic end closure to a metallic container. In one embodiment, the tool is configured to form a thread in the closure and the container. The tool may optionally crimp the closure to the container. Once sealed, the container can be opened by rotating the closure in an opening direction. The closure can subsequently re-close the container by rotating the closure in a closing direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2022
    Publication date: November 3, 2022
    Applicant: BALL CORPORATION
    Inventor: John R. Ross
  • Publication number: 20220324689
    Abstract: Methods of sealing a metallic container are provided. More specifically, the present invention relates to methods that reduce the amount of force applied to a metallic bottle to seal the metallic bottle with a ROPP closure. The methods include use of a capping apparatus that may include more thread rollers than known capping apparatus. Optionally, the thread rollers may use more forming passes to form threads on the ROPP closure. The capping apparatus may also rotate one or more of the ROPP closure and the metallic container in a closing direction before the metallic container is discharged. In one embodiment, the thread rollers form the closure threads before or after a pilfer roller applies a sideload to the ROPP closure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2022
    Publication date: October 13, 2022
    Applicant: BALL CORPORATION
    Inventors: John R. Ross, David J. Bonfoey
  • Patent number: 11459223
    Abstract: Methods of sealing a metallic container are provided. More specifically, the present invention relates to methods that reduce the amount of force applied to a metallic bottle to seal the metallic bottle with a ROPP closure. The methods include use of a capping apparatus that may include more thread rollers than known capping apparatus. Optionally, the thread rollers may use more forming passes to form threads on the ROPP closure. The capping apparatus may also rotate one or more of the ROPP closure and the metallic container in a closing direction before the metallic container is discharged. In one embodiment, the thread rollers form the closure threads before or after a pilfer roller applies a sideload to the ROPP closure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2022
    Assignee: BALL CORPORATION
    Inventors: John R. Ross, David J. Bonfoey
  • Patent number: 11446730
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a tool operable to releasably join a metallic end closure to a metallic container. In one embodiment, the tool is configured to form a thread in the closure and the container. The tool may optionally crimp the closure to the container. Once sealed, the container can be opened by rotating the closure in an opening direction. The closure can subsequently re-close the container by rotating the closure in a closing direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2022
    Assignee: BALL CORPORATION
    Inventor: John R. Ross
  • Publication number: 20220119164
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatuses for sealing bottles with a Roll-on Pilfer Proof (ROPP) closure and a childproof overcap are provided. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an overcap that can be placed onto or formed onto the ROPP closure. The overcap has a retainer that secures the overcap to the ROPP closure and allows the overcap to move relative to the ROPP closure in a longitudinal axis. The overcap moves between a first position or mode of operation where the overcap can rotate about the ROPP closure and a second position or mode of operation where the overcap engages the ROPP closure to transmit a twisting or torque force to the ROPP closure and open the bottle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2022
    Publication date: April 21, 2022
    Inventor: John R. Ross
  • Publication number: 20220080490
    Abstract: An apparatus and methods of forming a metallic closure for a metallic bottle are provided. The present disclosure provides a pre-formed metallic closure and apparatus and methods of forming the metallic closure. The metallic closure can be reformed with a peripheral channel before the metallic closure is positioned on a metallic bottle. An inner tool and an outer tool can form the channel in one operation. Optionally, a thread can be formed on a metallic closure prior to use of the metallic closure to seal a metallic bottle. A capping apparatus of the present disclosure uses less force to seal a metallic bottle with a metallic closure of the present disclosure compared to the force required with a prior art ROPP closure. Accordingly, a metallic closure of the present disclosure can seal a metallic bottle formed of less material (such as by being thinner) than prior art metallic bottles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2021
    Publication date: March 17, 2022
    Applicant: BALL CORPORATION
    Inventors: John R. Ross, David J. Bonfoey
  • Publication number: 20220009668
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a container that may be sealed and reclosed with a threaded closure. More specifically, the present invention relates to methods of manufacturing a metallic container having an opening with inwardly facing threads that are formed after a threaded closure is inserted at least partially into the opening. The container opening may be selectively sealed and reclosed with the threaded closure which releasably engages the container threads.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2021
    Publication date: January 13, 2022
    Applicant: BALL CORPORATION
    Inventors: John R. Ross, Anthony J. Scott, Howard C. Chasteen, Linda A. Hines
  • Patent number: 11214411
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatuses for sealing bottles with a Roll-on Pilfer Proof (ROPP) closure and a childproof overcap are provided. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an overcap that can be placed onto or formed onto the ROPP closure. The overcap has a retainer that secures the overcap to the ROPP closure and allows the overcap to move relative to the ROPP closure in a longitudinal axis. The overcap moves between a first position or mode of operation where the overcap can rotate about the ROPP closure and a second position or mode of operation where the overcap engages the ROPP closure to transmit a twisting or torque force to the ROPP closure and open the bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2022
    Assignee: Ball Corporation
    Inventor: John R. Ross
  • Patent number: 11185909
    Abstract: An apparatus and methods of forming a metallic closure for a metallic bottle are provided. The present disclosure provides a pre-formed metallic closure and apparatus and methods of forming the metallic closure. The metallic closure can be reformed with a peripheral channel before the metallic closure is positioned on a metallic bottle. An inner tool and an outer tool can form the channel in one operation. Optionally, a thread can be formed on a metallic closure prior to use of the metallic closure to seal a metallic bottle. A capping apparatus of the present disclosure uses less force to seal a metallic bottle with a metallic closure of the present disclosure compared to the force required with a prior art ROPP closure. Accordingly, a metallic closure of the present disclosure can seal a metallic bottle formed of less material (such as by being thinner) than prior art metallic bottles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Assignee: BALL CORPORATION
    Inventors: John R. Ross, David J. Bonfoey
  • Patent number: 11130606
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a container that may be sealed and reclosed with a threaded closure. More specifically, the present invention relates to methods of manufacturing a metallic container having an opening with inwardly facing threads that are formed after a threaded closure is inserted at least partially into the opening. The container opening may be selectively sealed and reclosed with the threaded closure which releasably engages the container threads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2021
    Assignee: BALL CORPORATION
    Inventors: John R. Ross, Anthony J. Scott, Howard C. Chasteen, Linda A. Hines
  • Publication number: 20210031973
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to domed metal containers, and more specifically to pressurized metallic food containers with liquid nitrogen wells and various closure mechanisms. In some embodiments, the metallic food containers are thin-walled aluminum and are pressurized using liquid nitrogen to maintain strength and integrity. The container can have a nitrogen well to receive liquid nitrogen and keep the liquid nitrogen away from the food stuff packaged in the container. In various embodiments, the metallic food container comprises a domed bottom portion shaped and sized to nest with a food stuff packaged in the container. In some embodiments, the container is sealed with a tear away lid, a screw-on lid, or a metallic end closure double seamed to the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2020
    Publication date: February 4, 2021
    Inventors: Jonathan Whitmore, John R. Ross
  • Publication number: 20200406337
    Abstract: An apparatus and methods of sealing a metallic container with a metallic end closure are disclosed. The apparatus includes a tool operable to releasably join the closure to the container. In one embodiment, the tool is configured to form a thread in the closure and the container. The tool may optionally crimp the closure to the container. Once sealed, the container can be opened by rotating the closure in an opening direction. The closure can subsequently re-close the container by rotating the closure in a closing direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventor: John R. Ross
  • Patent number: 10875684
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for sealing a threaded container are provided. More specifically, the present invention relates to a ROPP closure with a novel pilfer band that may be used to seal a bottle shaped container without pressing directly against the bottle or deforming the bottle. The bottle includes an annular ring that is novel. Optionally, the annular ring can be formed without die necking or expanding the bottle neck. At least one protrusion which extends inwardly at least partially into the bottle annular ring is formed on the ROPP closure after the ROPP closure is positioned on the bottle neck. In one embodiment, the ROPP closure includes one inwardly oriented protrusion which extends around the circumference of the ROPP closure. The protrusion can be formed by a roller. Optionally, the protrusion has a substantially uniform depth. In another embodiment, the ROPP closure includes a plurality of individuals studs which each extend at least partially into the bottle annular ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2020
    Assignee: BALL CORPORATION
    Inventors: John R. Ross, David J. Bonfoey, Dean L. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20200339319
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatuses for enclosing containers with a child-resistant overcap and preventing unauthorized access to containers are provided. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an overcap that can be placed onto a container or end closure, and the overcap may require a combination of forces to be removed from the container or end closure. Embodiments of the overcap can have a deflectable center portion where a force applied to the center portion deflects the center portion and causes snap features to release from a container or end closure. A second opposing force may then remove the overcap from the container or end closure. The forces and combination of features restricts the ability of a child or other to access potentially hazardous contents within the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2020
    Publication date: October 29, 2020
    Inventor: John R. Ross
  • Publication number: 20200324941
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatuses for sealing bottles with a Roll-on Pilfer Proof (ROPP) closure and a childproof overcap are provided. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an overcap that can be placed onto or formed onto the ROPP closure. The overcap has a retainer that secures the overcap to the ROPP closure and allows the overcap to move relative to the ROPP closure in a longitudinal axis. The overcap moves between a first position or mode of operation where the overcap can rotate about the ROPP closure and a second position or mode of operation where the overcap engages the ROPP closure to transmit a twisting or torque force to the ROPP closure and open the bottle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2020
    Publication date: October 15, 2020
    Inventor: John R. Ross
  • Patent number: 10660324
    Abstract: A system is disclosed for keeping rats and similar pests away without trapping or killing them. It provides a long-life battery powered LED light system for deterring rats, mice and other nocturnal animals. Embodiments of the present invention are designed to operate continuously for at least one year between battery changes. Embodiments have been proven to deter rats from invading engine compartments of parked motor vehicles, vegetable gardens, attics, garages and outdoor patios. In preferred embodiments the wavelengths of the LEDs are chosen to correspond to the known wavelength sensitivity peaks of the eyes of rats, mice, and other rodents. This new technology transcends traps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2020
    Inventors: Richard G. Morton, Kenneth Avicola, Curtis Mixon, John R. Ross