Patents Issued in February 9, 2016
  • Patent number: 9254021
    Abstract: The present cane and grabber device can be a cane component and a grabber component. The grabber component can be housed within the cane component or can be unsheathed from the cane component and utilized to grab one or more objects. In an embodiment, the cane component can provide support to a user both while housing the grabber component and while the grabber component has been unsheathed. In an alternative embodiment, one or more grabber components can be housed by a walker or other similar support providing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Inventors: George A. Paybins, Sara M Paybins
  • Patent number: 9254022
    Abstract: A self-supporting bag configured to carry attire, equipment, food, beverage, and the like includes a first pair of upstanding mesh side panels joined together at respective side edges to form a shaped compartment body defining an inner body cavity having an opening at an upper end thereof, and an insulated compartment affixed to lower edges of the joined first pair of mesh side panels, a top outer surface of the thermal compartment forming a bottom panel of the bag. The compartment includes a re-closeable opening accessible from the exterior of the bag. The bag further includes a second plurality of mesh panels attached between the compartment and outer surfaces of the first pair of upstanding mesh side panels as a plurality of end pockets and side pockets around the periphery of the bag, the end pockets rendering the bag self supporting in the absence of rigid framing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: Earthly Goods International, LLC
    Inventors: William Brent Meldeau, Tina M. Tillman
  • Patent number: 9254023
    Abstract: A protective cover for a portable electronic device includes a main body and a plurality of cushioning structures. The main body is configured to receive the portable electronic device. Each cushioning structure includes an elastic body protruding from the main body and a clearance defined between the main body and the elastic body. The elastic body is deformed toward the clearance when the elastic body is impacted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: Chiun Mai Communication Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Ho-Chyuan Su, Tzu-Cheng Yu
  • Patent number: 9254024
    Abstract: A purse having interchangeable inner bags includes an outer casing, a plurality of inner bags, and a shoulder strap. A first chosen bag and a second chosen bag of the plurality of inner bags are removably attached to the outer casing, where the outer casing encloses the first chosen bag and the second chosen bag. The shoulder strap is removably attached to the outer casing through a pair of connecting rings. Each of the plurality of inner bags includes a front transparent panel which opens up to the users when the outer casing is unfolded. The users can store items within each of the plurality of bags and access the stored items through a bag zipper. A back panel of the plurality of inner bags magnetically attached the first chosen bag and the second chosen bag with outer casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Inventor: Laura DeWitt
  • Patent number: 9254025
    Abstract: A support apparatus for a head of a user placed in a wash basin maintains the neck of the user in a neutral position, thereby minimizing head or neck injuries. The support apparatus includes a base member with a cushion member to receive the head of the user and a support arm to contact a side wall of the wash basin, a leg member with a shaft rotatably mounted to the base member, the leg member able to adjust so the distance between the base member and the leg member is sufficient to enable the bottom portion of the leg member to be in contact with a drain of the wash basin, and a locking mechanism slidably mounted to the shaft to secure the leg member to the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Inventor: Patrick James McClain
  • Patent number: 9254026
    Abstract: A drawing apparatus, including: a drawing unit which performs drawing of a design by applying inks of plural types to a drawing target area of a drawing target; and a control unit which controls the drawing unit on basis of image data of the design; wherein the control unit sets a plurality of unit areas each of which has a contact part contacting with each other in the drawing target area on basis of the image data, and the control unit controls the drawing unit to perform drawing on a specific unit area of the plurality of the unit areas when the control unit determines that every unit area contacting with the specific unit area is at least a dried unit area for which drying of the applied ink is finished or an un-drawn unit area to which the ink is not applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: CASIO COMPUTER CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Shuichi Yamasaki
  • Patent number: 9254027
    Abstract: A device that is a packaged, individual deodorant powder applicator comprised of an application sheet with a non-impervious surface and a perimeter, an external sealed sheet surface, with a perimeter, the surface being impervious to liquids, capable of containing powder, and able to act as packaging; a means for sealing, at the perimeters, the external sheet surface to the application sheet, such as an adhesive; a powder reservoir created between the interior of the application sheet and the external sheet and contained by the sealed perimeter; powder within the reservoir; a means for closing the device halves without tab, such as adhesive; and a means for holding device such as a handle/spine wherein the sheets are configured and sealed to hold the powder in the reservoir where the using person may hold the device and apply the powder to the selected user's surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Inventor: Cathy Jo Emery
  • Patent number: 9254028
    Abstract: An applicator for applying a composition to the eyelashes or the eyebrows, the applicator including an applicator member, having a core that extends along a longitudinal axis; and at least three rows of applicator elements that are molded with at least one portion of the core, the rows extending longitudinally along the core, and being arranged around the longitudinal axis of the core, the applicator elements being of cross-section that is flat, having a major axis that is oriented substantially perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis (X) of the core, at least two applicator elements having bases that are offset angularly around the longitudinal axis (X) of the core and being superposed, at least in part, when the core is observed along its longitudinal axis (X).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: L'OREAL
    Inventor: Jean-Louis Gueret
  • Patent number: 9254029
    Abstract: A swivel base for use with a training aid having a top member and a bottom member, the top member for receiving a training aid and the bottom member for receiving a holder or stand. The top member is coupled to a ball bearing and a mounting member fixedly coupled to the bottom member is rotatably coupled to the ball bearing to allow the top member to rotate relative to the bottom member. A locking mechanism which has a locking pin coupled to the bottom member secures the top member in one or more stationary positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: Pivot Point International
    Inventors: Denise Podlin, Frans Passage, Leo Passage
  • Patent number: 9254030
    Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention relates to a carrying system with an enclosure member and a shoulder attachment system. The shoulder attachment system includes a first and second shoulder strap individually coupled to the external surface of the enclosure member. The bottom ends of the first and second shoulder straps are intercoupled via a coupling member. The coupling member is slidably routed through a sleeve member within the internal region of the enclosure member. The sleeve member includes an internal channel having a cross-sectional shape that substantially matches the cross-sectional shape of the coupling member, thereby minimizing frictional resistance as the coupling member is translated through the sleeve member. The slidable intercoupling between the bottom ends of the first and second shoulder straps with respect to the enclosure member enables articulation of one shoulder strap to be balanced by corresponding articulation of the opposite shoulder strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: Black Diamond Equipment, Ltd.
    Inventors: Paul Terry, Thomas Zebulon Franke, Nathan M Kuder
  • Patent number: 9254031
    Abstract: A wearable support belt is provided. The wearable support belt includes a support surface having a first end and a second end, the first end and the second end configured to fasten to each other, the support surface composed of a first material disposed over a second material. The wearable support belt includes a section coupling the first end and the second end, the section coupling the first end and the second end having a thickness and a height that is different than a thickness and a height of a front section of the structure. The wearable support belt includes a removable cover disposed around the support belt, the removable cover having an outer surface, the outer surface having a fastening mechanism affixed thereto, the fastening mechanism proximate to the first end and the second end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: ZENOFF PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: Andrew R. Zenoff
  • Patent number: 9254032
    Abstract: A drop-prevention pouch for a cordless power tool has a battery pack that defines a battery pack perimeter. The drop-prevention pouch includes a pouch floor and a pouch sidewall extending transversely from the pouch floor and having a sidewall rim portion defining a pouch opening. The pouch floor and the pouch sidewall define a chamber sized to receive the battery pack when the battery back is attached to the cordless power tool. A flexible conduit extends along the sidewall rim portion. A drawstring extends through the flexible conduit and is capable of restricting the pouch opening to be smaller than the battery pack perimeter, thereby preventing the drop-prevention pouch from being removed from the battery pack when the battery pack is attached to the cordless power tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: Ty-Flot, Inc.
    Inventors: Darrell A. Moreau, Andre W. Moreau
  • Patent number: 9254033
    Abstract: The invention is related to a toothbrush head which comprises a head base, a head frame, and bristles. The head base comprises a front end, a back end, multiple strip-substrates, and multiple junctions. The multiple strip-substrates are aligned between the front end and the back end and each two adjacent strip-substrates link with each other with each of the multiple junctions, and each of the multiple strip-substrates comprises multiple sockets for inserting the bristles. The head frame comprises a bottom surface and multiple accommodating spaces for accommodating the head base. The toothbrush head allows the bristles to be bent into the arc shape when touching the teeth, so as to increase touching areas between the brushes and the teeth for enhancing cleaning effect and decreasing risks of causing caries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: ACUMEN CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Shou-Jen Huang
  • Patent number: 9254034
    Abstract: A combination dining turntable includes a base unit (10) and a rotary unit (20) mounted on the base unit. The base unit has an endless shape and includes a plurality of connecting plates (11) connected with each other and with each having a rectangular or sector shape. Each of the connecting plates has a first end provided with at least one first connecting portion (13) and a second end provided with at least one second connecting portion (14). The rotary unit has an endless shape and includes a plurality of curved connecting pieces (21) connected with each other. Each of the connecting pieces has a first side provided with at least one first linking portion (22) and a second side provided with at least one second linking portion (23).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: Welter's Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Walter W. Hsu
  • Patent number: 9254035
    Abstract: A cable assembly for use in an opening formed in a table top, the cable assembly comprising a substantially horizontal deck member, the deck member forming a plurality of cable passing openings, each cable passing opening dimensioned to freely pass the intermediate portion of a cable, a separate cable passing through each of the cable passing openings, each cable having a distal end located at a height below the deck member and a proximal end located at a height above the deck member, the proximal end for linking to a video source device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: STEELCASE INC.
    Inventors: Lewis Epstein, Brett Kincaid, Hyun Yoo, Suzanne Stage, Lukas Scherrer, Larry Cheng
  • Patent number: 9254036
    Abstract: An expandable frame structure includes at least one set of a transverse plate assembly and at least two vertical frames. Each set of the transverse plate assembly includes at least two transverse plate parts. Each transverse plate part includes a quarter circular arc edge and two side edges spaced and spreading out from each other with 90 degrees in angles. Two lower hook fixing parts extend downward from two side edges, respectively. Each of the vertical frames includes a pair of vertical frame parts and at least two horizontal frame parts. So, each of the transverse plate parts is placed and installed onto the horizontal frame parts of the two vertical frames. The lower hook fixing part is inserted into and engages with the horizontal frame part to form the expandable frame structure. The advantages and effects are easy to assemble and flexible for structural assembling styles, and so on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: HER SHENG CHANG INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Chin-Te Yang
  • Patent number: 9254037
    Abstract: A seat and desk assembly has a seat integrated with a desk by a interconnecting base and floor. One or both of the seat or desk can be disconnected from the assembly and used independently. Removable panels for the desk can be used to display information and hold replaceable placards for various purposes. The height of the seat and desk can be adjusted on the assembly, and the bottom rest of the seat can be pivoted up against the back to allow a user to stand on the floor as a standing platform with a lumbar support curve positioned for leaning support of the low-back while standing. The depth of the seat can also be adjusted relative to the desk to provide additional room for standing. Additionally, the tabletop of the desk may be able to slide fore-aft relative to the seated user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: THE TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY SYSTEM
    Inventor: Mark E. Benden
  • Patent number: 9254038
    Abstract: Extractable drawer device (1), comprising: a drawer (10) having a front end (15) and a rear end (14) with respect to an extraction direction of the drawer in a sliding direction (S-S); a guide and support system of the drawer (10) connectable to a piece of furniture and configured to permit a displacement of the drawer (10) between a retracted drawer position and an extracted drawer position, wherein, in the extracted drawer position, the drawer (10) is completely outside and distant from the space occupied in the retracted position. Piece of furniture with a top (100) having a visible edge (101), comprising said extractable drawer device (1), wherein said drawer device (1) is mounted at a lower face of said top (100), in a hidden and retracted position with respect to the visible edge (101) and at a distance from the visible edge (101) substantially equal to the distance between the drawer in the extracted position and the space occupied by the drawer (10) in the retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: UNIFOR S.P.A.
    Inventor: Piero Molteni
  • Patent number: 9254039
    Abstract: A portable, motorcycle mountable audio entertainment system is provided having a motorcycle-theme housing formed of a faring supporting stereo electronics, speakers and an power supply. A vertical support structure is further provided having a pair of tubular, angled uprights and handle bars for attachment of the fairing. A vertical support pillar and a support plate provide a structured to allow for free standing use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Inventors: Rob Huey, Don Nagy
  • Patent number: 9254040
    Abstract: An improved inverted motion base with left, right, and rear supports, a carriage to travel along a length of the rear support. The inverted motion base includes a first cable connected to the carriage and wound about a first drum to raise and lower the carriage, and left and right load carrying arms, each connected to a respective left and right ends of a transverse support member. The inverted motion base further includes a second cable connected to the right load carrying arm to raise and lower the right load carrying arm, and a third cable connected to the left load carrying arm to raise and lower the second end of the left load carrying arm. One or more rows of seats are positioned between and suspended from the right and left load carrying arms, each row of seats being parallel to the other row of seats.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: OCEANEERING INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Samuel T. Foster, Stephen F. Fromyer, Eric A. King, Clifford A. Jennings
  • Patent number: 9254041
    Abstract: A furniture frame contains a support column, a furniture leg to support the support column, a foot ring, and a fastening device affixing the foot ring to the support column. The fastening device contains a first threaded bushing being non-rotatably connected to the support column and has an external thread, and a second threaded bushing being non-rotatably connected to the foot ring and has an internal thread. The internal thread engages with the external thread. The second threaded bushing is rotatable about the first threaded bushing by at least one revolution such that the second threaded bushing can be axially moved relative to the first threaded bushing. The fastening device has as a locking element which prevents a relative movement between the first and the second threaded bushing in a first operating position and enables relative movement between the first and the second threaded bushing in a second operating position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: VS Vereinigte Spezialmoebelfabriken GmbH & Co., KG
    Inventor: Detlef Kessler
  • Patent number: 9254042
    Abstract: A backrest member (e.g., a portable insert) for use with a seat member of a chair. The backrest member may include an adjustable platform attached to a substrate (e.g., frame) of the backrest member, and an adjustment mechanism configured to adjust the adjustable platform along one or more locations of the platform to provide a desired contour for supporting the back of a user seated in the chair. The adjustable platform may comprise an elongate band attached to the substrate of the backrest member that is disposed along a central longitudinal axis of the backrest member. One end of the elongate band may be attached to the substrate, while an opposite end may be slidably attached to the substrate. In an embodiment, both ends may be slidably attached relative to the substrate. The device allows selection of a height and depth of a lumbar curve provided by the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Inventors: Michael V. Halliday, Steven R. Halliday
  • Patent number: 9254043
    Abstract: A method and apparatus include attaching a lighted cup holder to a seating arrangement. The lighted cup holder includes a cup holder body and a light-producing light source, with the cup holder body being attached to the seating arrangement and having a cup receptacle therein, the light-producing source being disposed within the cup receptacle for illuminating the receptacle. A light-sensitive element operatively connected to the light source selectively controls production of light by the light source in such a manner that illumination of the cup holder is provided only under conditions where visibility is reduced to the point that it becomes difficult to locate the cup holder. The light-sensitive element is mounted on a master lighted cup holder and controls illumination of the master lighted cup holder and one or more slave lighted cup holders operatively connected to the master lighted cup holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: RAFFEL SYSTEMS, LLC
    Inventor: Ken Seidl
  • Patent number: 9254044
    Abstract: A removable tray device is disclosed that offers a simple and easy way to eat or drink when sitting outside. The removable tray device comprises a tray component secured to a folding chair via a pinned hinge that allows the tray component to rotate vertically and a swivel component that allows the tray component to swivel horizontally. The tray component further comprises a catch or lock bracket on a leg of the chair which corresponds with a mating lock pin secured to a back edge of the tray component. Specifically, the lock pin of the tray component mates to and is secured within the catch or lock bracket to further secure the tray component to the folding chair when the tray component is in front of the folding chair or is to the side of the folding chair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Inventor: Jill Dudik
  • Patent number: 9254045
    Abstract: This invention relates to a transformable furniture unit, and in particular to a changing table with shelving that transforms into two sitting benches, and into a bed. The infant's changing table with shelving comprises four posts that support two tiers of shelving, with the capacity to support additional tiers in another aspect of the invention. The tiers of shelving are supported by wooden beams that connect perpendicularly to the four posts. The changing table with shelving transforms into two sitting benches when one tier of shelving is detached from the other. The furniture can be transformed into a bed when the sitting bench with the high back support is used as a headboard, the second sitting bench with no back support is used as the foot of the bed, and a supplementary support panel is attached in between, holding together the headboard and the foot of the bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Inventor: Charbel Nassif
  • Patent number: 9254046
    Abstract: A device for securing bed sheets that includes: a top plate, where the top plate includes an opening at each end of the top plate; a bottom plate, where the bottom plate includes an opening at each end of the top plate; at least two straps, where the straps extend through the openings in the top plate and bottom plate and provide a means to secure the top plate and bottom plate to a corner of a mattress; a plurality of magnets within the top plate; and a securing plate. Preferably, a buckle may be provided for each strap, where the buckle provides a means to tighten each respective strap. In one particular embodiment, the plurality of magnets includes three evenly spaced magnets. Further, the top plate may include three snap components with openings to allow the insert of the plurality of magnets. Preferably, the plurality of magnets includes rare earth neodymium magnets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Inventor: Jon Arenstein
  • Patent number: 9254047
    Abstract: A structural design and weld fabrication method for reinforced vinyl by eliminating butt seams, leaving 100% lap seams, as well as low cost, high strength internal beams for use in high quality air bed mattresses and all inflatable items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Inventors: William Schermel, Ferdinand Schermel
  • Patent number: 9254048
    Abstract: An unlocked-state retention device is adapted for use in a seat assembly. The seat assembly includes a base frame and a seat body, which is mounted removably on the base frame through a locking unit to lock or unlock the seat body relative to the base frame such that the seat body is placed in a locked state or an unlocked state. The unlocked-state retention device includes a pusher adapted to be disposed movably in one of the base frame and the seat body, and includes a push member to retract ably project from the one of the base frame and the seat body and to push the other one of the base frame and the seat body when the seat body is unlocked relative to the base frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: BP CHILDREN'S PRODUCTS HK CO., LIMITED
    Inventor: Hong-Bo Chen
  • Patent number: 9254049
    Abstract: A merchandise pusher tray is provided. The merchandise pusher tray includes a base structure. The base structure is configurable for bar or shelf mounting. The base structure includes a pair of load bearing members for supporting a floor of the base structure. The merchandise pusher tray also includes at least one divider mounted to and adjustable in a first direction relative to the base structure. The merchandise pusher tray includes an anti-sweeping security structure mounted to the base structure. The anti-sweeping security structure extends along a portion or the entirety of the merchandise channel and is adjustable in at least one of vertical and horizontal and is fixed rotationally over the merchandise channel. The merchandise pusher tray with the anti-sweeping structure includes a locking member pivotally attached to the reinforcement bar for securing the tray to the retail merchandise bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: Southern Imperial, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas O. Nagel
  • Patent number: 9254050
    Abstract: An improved method of storing and retrieving cookware and utensils utilizing an assembly that can be attached to a shelf of a kitchen cabinet without the use of tools. The assembly incorporates Cookware hanger assemblies and Cookware guard whose positions are adjustable along the length of the assembly. Cookware can be stored onto the assembly in a hanging position. The Teflon coating of the cookware is protected from damage with the use of Cookware guard assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Inventor: Michael Sean Bradbury
  • Patent number: 9254051
    Abstract: A display system is provided and includes a base, a collapsible support structure, a spinner connector, and a modular panel. The collapsible support structure connects with the base, and the spinner connector receives the collapsible support structure. The spinner connector independently moves around the collapsible support structure. The modular panel is removably connected to the spinner connector such that the modular panel can also move independent of the collapsible support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: Atomic Design, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas McPhillips
  • Patent number: 9254052
    Abstract: A system and method of flavoring food, for example, snack food, is provided. The system may include a metering tray coupled to a frame. The metering tray may be configured to hold a food flavoring. A metering roller also may be coupled to the frame. An exterior axial surface of the metering roller may define a plurality of indentations, which may be configured to capture the food flavoring as the metering roller rotates. The system may also include a metering blade configured to level the food flavoring as the food flavoring is dispensed by the plurality of indentations of the metering roller as the metering roller rotates. The system also may include a displacement blade having a plurality of teeth that are configured to correspond to the plurality of indentations. The teeth may be configured to positively displace the food flavoring as the metering roller rotates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Inventor: Jose A. Villarreal
  • Patent number: 9254053
    Abstract: A three-dimensional coaster apparatus for use with a vessel or container, wherein the coaster apparatus includes a substantially square base, and a substantially circular element container within the square base, wherein a plurality of side flaps extend outwardly from the square base and are hingedly attached at a point tangential to the square base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Inventors: David Arzumanyan, Chris Costa
  • Patent number: 9254054
    Abstract: A garment protection system operational with a horizontally disposed clothes rod, including a pair of stands, each stand including an arched surface portion coupled to a notch portion, the arched surface portion having a curve profile and the notch portion including a pair wall segments joined together defining an angle with the curve profile substantially symmetric about an axis bisecting the angle; and a semi-rigid panel configured to both substantially match the curve profile along a panel length from a first end to a second end when a panel center portion is laterally supported by the arched surface portions at the ends and to non-drapingly support lateral edges of the panel to define a span from one lateral edge to an opposing lateral edge with the rod disposed in between the lateral edges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Inventor: Matthew James Nesper
  • Patent number: 9254055
    Abstract: A stand for a Christmas tree or the like is adapted to cooperate with a base portion of a pole such as a tree trunk to provide a stable support for the pole with its base spaced above a support surface such as a floor. The stand comprises a plurality of support members each having a proximal end spaced above the support surface. The proximal ends of the support members cooperate to form a clamp for receiving the base portion of the pole. The clamp is arranged such that, when the base portion of the pole is received in the clamp, one or more of the support members pivots at its proximal end about the clamp to thereby cause the clamp to close and grip the base portion of the pole. The weight of the pole may be sufficient to cause the clamp of the stand to automatically grip the pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Inventor: Yat Cho Wong
  • Patent number: 9254056
    Abstract: A centrifugal bowl comprises a base that can rotate about an axis of rotation. A filter sieve in the shape of a perforated peripheral side sieve wall extends from an open end to the base, and a plurality of vanes is disposed in a predominantly radial direction on the inner surface of the perforated peripheral side sieve wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventors: Michiel Allan Aurelius Schallig, Theodoor Stolk
  • Patent number: 9254057
    Abstract: A can cooker includes a main body that is generally cylindrical in shape having a bottom portion, wall portion, neck portion, and lid ring. The bottom portion, wall portion, and neck portion may be integrally formed and connected to one another. A lid is sized and shaped to fit within a part of the neck portion. The lid includes an outer lip that engaged with lid ring on the main body in such a way that a seal is formed between the lid ring and the outer lip. The lid is secured to the main body through a plurality of latches. Handles may be placed on the exterior surface of the lid and main body to ease use and transportation of the can cooker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Inventor: Seth D. McGinn
  • Patent number: 9254058
    Abstract: A dispensing assembly for a refrigerator appliance is provided. The dispensing assembly includes a tank that defines a fluid chamber and a heating element for heating fluid within the fluid chamber. An inlet conduit directs liquid into the fluid chamber, a first outlet conduit directs liquid out of the fluid chamber, and a second outlet conduit directs gas out of the fluid chamber. The dispensing assembly also includes valves for regulating fluid flow through the inlet conduit and the first and second outlet conduits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Christopher Francis Bird
  • Patent number: 9254059
    Abstract: A device includes a first water heater, having a first water duct and a first heating member, and a second water heater, having a second water duct. The first water heater and the second water heater are in thermal connection with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventors: Giovanni Berto, Massimo Baldo, Marco Santini
  • Patent number: 9254060
    Abstract: An instant drink vending machine is described. The instant drink vending machine has a water supply system for obtaining mixed warm water with a temperature selected among a set of pre-determined temperatures comprised between an upper and a lower value corresponding to temperatures of hot water and cold water to be mixed, said system including thermostatic shape memory alloy devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: SAES GETTERS S.P.A.
    Inventors: Francesco Butera, Stefano Alacqua, Emanuele Nicolini
  • Patent number: 9254061
    Abstract: A microwavable material having a structure that may be used to enhance the browning and crisping, and thus improve the taste and appearance, of a food item cooked therein. The material may be in the form of a sheet material or formed as a container such as a bag, pouch, or other suitable structure. The material may have one or more features that help bring the material into close contact with the food item and help conform the bag around the food item. Furthermore, the material may have a structure that avoids substantial contact with liquid released by a food item, may have a venting system suitable for the exiting of moisture, may have a coating, a transparent surface, and when formed as a container, may have a gusseted surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: The Glad Products Company
    Inventors: Kara L. Harl, Jason R. Maxwell
  • Patent number: 9254062
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a cooking device for cooking of foodstuffs, comprising a cooking chamber, a product conveyor, a shape-controlling belt, and a lifting member, the product conveyor being arranged to convey said foodstuffs through said cooking chamber, the shape-controlling belt being an endless belt extending along an upper return path, and a lower work path, the lifting member being arranged to shift a part of the lower work path between a first position in which the belt extending along said part is slacking and is adopted to contact said foodstuffs on the product conveyor, and a second position in which the belt extending along said part is adopted to be separated from said foodstuffs on the product conveyor. The invention further relates to a method for switching a cooking device between being adapted for shape-controlled cooking and non-shape-controlled cooking of foodstuffs, and use of the cooking device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: John Bean Technologies AB
    Inventors: Alec Wilson, Robert James Petrie
  • Patent number: 9254063
    Abstract: An insulated container is disclosed. The container has an outer plastic member, an inner plastic member and an insulating, e.g., vacuum space, located therebetween. A vent assembly is located in the outer member in communication with the vacuum space. The vent assembly may be arranged to prevent liquid from entering into the insulating space and may be arranged to equalize the internal pressure within the insulating space and the ambient atmospheric pressures surrounding the outer member, while allowing higher internal pressure within the insulating space to vent to the ambient atmosphere when the container is heated, and to close off to seal the insulating space to maintain the vacuum therein when the container is cooled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: Tervis Tumbler Company
    Inventors: Charles Libourel, James K. Simonelli
  • Patent number: 9254064
    Abstract: The present application relates to an apparatus for processing a food stuff. The apparatus has a housing (2) and a cutting tool (5) for cutting a food stuff which is rotatably mounted in the housing. The cutting tool (5) rotates in the housing (2) about a rotational axis and has a radially extending cutting element (44). One end of the cutting tool (5) slides in a circumferentially extending slot in the housing as the cutting tool (5) is rotated in the housing (2). Therefore, the cutting tool (5) is supported in an axial direction by the housing (2). The present application also relates to a food processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventors: Johan Unteregger, Christian Rosenwirth
  • Patent number: 9254065
    Abstract: A cooking utensil for turning grilled, fried or otherwise cooked items without risk of dropping or breaking the foodstuff. The utensil has two pivotally connected handles, joined by a spring-loaded hinge at one terminus. Each handle is equipped with a large, fan-shaped wire spatula for grasping food. The fan-shaped spatulas are large enough to grasp food items without risk of portions breaking or falling off. Further, the utensil is equipped with a hook and eye closure mechanism to secure the spatulas together when not in use. The device may also have metal prongs extending from the outer edges of the spatulas to better grasp foodstuffs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Inventors: Larry Floyd, Harriet Floyd
  • Patent number: 9254066
    Abstract: A bathtub system, including a tub with a bather access opening in one sidewall and a door mounted on that sidewall. In the closed position, the door is adjacent the access opening, and in the open position the door is substantially clear of the access opening. The system includes a gray water reservoir under the tub of approximately the capacity of the tub and which can be connected to a sewer system. A high capacity toroidal tub drain conducts water from the tub into the reservoir by gravity alone very quickly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: Aquatic Co.
    Inventors: Raymond C. Torres, Jason Slepicka
  • Patent number: 9254067
    Abstract: An infant support has an inflatable seat back portion forming a back support and a portion of a bottom side, a bottom support portion extending below the seat back portion in a direction of a longitudinal end of the infant support device, the bottom support portion forming at least a portion of a bottom side of the infant support. Additionally, an inflatable side portion extends from the seat back portion along transverse sides of the infant support. Together, the inflatable portions form an infant tub when inflated. The bottom support and side portion can be partially or fully deflated, and will thereby dangle or depend from the seat back portion, the infant support thereby forming a chair. A number of inflatable infant care items are combined with the inflatable infant support to form an infant care travel kit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Inventors: Galia Yaari, Michal Yaari
  • Patent number: 9254068
    Abstract: Embodiments of sequenced foam pumps, refill units and dispensers are disclosed herein. One exemplary refill unit includes a container for holding a foamable liquid and a sequenced pump. The sequenced pump has a housing with a chamber located within the housing. There is an air inlet and a liquid inlet into the chamber. A hollow valve stem is movable within the chamber. A sealing member forms a seal between the valve stem and the chamber. When the valve stem is in a first position liquid flows into the chamber and air in the chamber flows into the container; and when the valve stem is in a second position, the sealing member seals off the liquid inlet, and air travels through the air inlet and mixes with the liquid in the chamber. The air and liquid mixture travels through the center of the valve stem and out of an outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: GOJO Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Nick E. Ciavarella, Jonathan E. Fawcett
  • Patent number: 9254069
    Abstract: A vacuum cleaner that includes an upright main body, an upright fan motor generating a suction force, and a wheel assembly that is mounted on the upright main body and guides movement and rotation of the upright main body. The upright main body includes a first housing that is installed on the wheel assembly so as to be rotatable in a leftward/rightward direction, and a second housing that is installed in the first housing so as to be rotatable in a forward/backward direction. The vacuum cleaner can be moved and rotated by freely moving an extension frame extending upward from the second housing in forward, backward, leftward, and rightward directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Tae Gwang Kim, Tak Soo Kim, Oh Kyu Kwon, Dong Hun Yoo, Joo Seok Jeong, Tae Woon Lim, Byung Jo Lee, Yun Won Jung, Jeong Hee Cho, Jung Hoon Hong
  • Patent number: 9254070
    Abstract: An inlet for a vacuum cleaning system which can be mounted in a wall of a structure or in a cabinet. The inlet includes a main frame, a front plate, a door, and an electrical switch that operates the motor of the vacuum cleaning system. The inlet is mounted adjacent a floor so that an individual can clean a room by sweeping up the dirt and debris towards the present invention. The door of the inlet is then opened and the dirt and debris is swept into the present invention. When the door opens the motor of the vacuum cleaning system is turned on so that the dirt and debris is sucked into a collection container. When the door is closed, the motor is turned off. A magnet helps to keep the door in the open position and a retainer helps to keep the door in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: IVD Global Corporation
    Inventor: Peter Schlapkohl