Patents by Inventor Thomas M. Petryna

Thomas M. Petryna 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).

  • Modular rotatable tray system
    Patent number: 6477966
    Abstract: A modular rotatable food tray supported by a vertical support member features tray segments that are easily removable and free standing. Each tray segment has a depending clip that is received in a hub of a bearing for rotatably supporting the tray. The individual tray segments may be removed for filling and cleaning, and segments of different configuration can be used for different purposes. The trays can also be removed for serving away from the support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Inventor: Thomas M. Petryna
  • MODULAR ROTATABLE TRAY SYSTEM
    Publication number: 20020162490
    Abstract: A modular rotatable food tray supported by a vertical support member features tray segments that are easily removable and free standing. Each tray segment has a depending clip that is received in a hub of a bearing for rotatably supporting the tray. The individual tray segments may be removed for filling and cleaning, and segments of different configuration can be used for different purposes. The trays can also be removed for serving away from the support member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2000
    Publication date: November 7, 2002
    Inventor: Thomas M. Petryna
  • Food containers with detachable and discardable sections
    Patent number: 6276547
    Abstract: An incrementally variable volume container includes a sectionalised side wall and a closed bottom end. Each section has a top rim with an external thread for engaging a threaded lid. A tear strip is integrally molded between each top rim and a next section of the container to permit the next section to be removed. The container is used to contain perishable liquid, semi-solid or granular food items. The sections can be detached and discarded as the food content is consumed, and the lid can be used to close any section in fluid tight seal. Air volume in the container above the food content is thereby reduced and the freshness of the food content is maintained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Inventor: Thomas M. Petryna
  • Childproof cover for compressed gas valves
    Patent number: 6247491
    Abstract: A childproof cover for use with a compressed gas cylinder having a shut-off valve inhibits access to the valve. The childproof cover is especially intended for use with propane cylinders for barbecues. The cover includes a housing that surrounds the valve and an open top end for access to the valve. One embodiment of the cover includes a threaded cap that closes the open top end. The cap is adapted to be removed only when a certain force is applied to the cap. Another embodiment of the cover includes a hinged cap with a clip member for securing the cap to the housing. The cover efficiently safeguards the valve from manipulation by children and can be fabricated from molded thermoplastic or metal parts at low cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2001
    Inventor: Thomas M. Petryna