Patents by Inventor Tom Hinzman

Tom Hinzman 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).

  • Coupon inserter for hinge lid pack
    Patent number: 6427423
    Abstract: The present invention is directed toward an apparatus for insertion of coupons or other material into hinge lid pack cigarettes. The apparatus of the present invention inserts the coupons in between the foil wrapped pack of cigarettes and the inner frame portion of the hinged lid pack. The apparatus of the present invention is comprised of a coupon inserter, a third wheel pocket and rail system wherein the pockets travel rotationally with the third wheel after receiving a coupon and thereafter allow the foil wrapped cigarette pack to be inserted thereon. The rail of the hinged lid pack assembly machine has been modified to receive these coupons in conjunction with the coupon multistage inserter or dispenser and all act cooperatively such that the coupons are inserted in timed relation to the rotational speed of the third wheel of the packager.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: Brown & Williamson Tobacco Corporation
    Inventors: Tom Hinzman, Mark Baker, Rickey Johnson, Weston Johnson