Patents Issued in May 2, 2017
  • Patent number: 9635932
    Abstract: A height-adjustable desk having a desktop, at least one cabinet positioned beneath the desktop, and at least one height-adjustable column. The height-adjustable column has an upper end secured to the desktop and a lower end secured within the cabinet. The height-adjustable column is selectively raised or lowered to move the desktop up or down. The cabinet has a storage compartment, and the lower end of the column is positioned behind the storage compartment. Substantially the entire length of the height-adjustable column is housed within and concealed by the cabinet when the height-adjustable column is in the lower position. The desk also includes various cable management channels and cable tracks to entirely conceal all electrical cable running throughout the desk to power and control the height of the desk, as well as to provide electrical power or other necessary electrical cables for any electrical equipment used on the desktop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Assa Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Mike R. Kelley, Ryan D. Sullivan, Dante M. Zeppa
  • Patent number: 9635933
    Abstract: An overbed table wherein a flex top (40) is selectively coupled to a table top frame (38). Flex top (40) has fasteners (118, 120) that engage openings (114, 116) in the table top frame. Flex top (40) also includes pins (74, 76) that cooperate with stops (78, 80, 82, 84) that are defined in tracks (50, 52). When pins (74, 76) are seated on first stops (78, 80) flex top is planar. When pins (74, 76) are seated on other stops (82, 84) panels (54, 56) form a peak (86) that is ergonomically favored for certain activities and uses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: G-Tracking, LLC
    Inventors: Howard S. Rosing, Jonathan Liberty
  • Patent number: 9635934
    Abstract: A detachable hardcopy support device attached to a reinforced lap pillow that contains a rigid sheet of foam board for strategically using as a connection platform for attaching the hardcopy support device to the reinforced lap pillow so that they may altogether function in a stable manner while being used in a user's lap, with the hardcopy support device being used for displaying fiber arts patterns, such as a knitting pattern, and with the lap pillow having a soft, cushioned, non-rigid, outer work surface on both the top and bottom sides for strategically using for long periods of non-irritating, comfortable contact with the user's skin, arms and legs while working in fiber arts, such as knitting, crochet, embroidery and cross-stitch for making hand-made items, and which altogether is best used while sitting in a reclined position with the footrest and the user's legs raised up to help prevent edema, is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventor: Donna Lynn Norton
  • Patent number: 9635935
    Abstract: A game table for exercise and recreation provides an engaging game for players wherein a ball or other game piece may be advanced to score goals or points. The game table includes an angled playing surface to which a pair of paddle assemblies may be movably secured via corresponding slots in the playing surface. Typically, the slots will be at the ends of the playing surface and extend laterally. A pair of goal box assemblies provide a scoring opportunity for players and are located at the ends of the playing surface. Side openings may be formed in the walls of the game table to allow improved range of motion, including rotationally, of the paddle assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: First In Recreation & Entertainment, Inc.
    Inventor: Jose Javier Silva Guridi
  • Patent number: 9635936
    Abstract: A food display system for display food items on a table includes a cart having a tray storage recess in either side thereof, a bin storage area in a top side thereof, and a bin holder storage recess in a rear side thereof. A plurality of nestable trays are each storable in the at least one tray storage recess of each side of the cart. A plurality of bins are each storable in the bin storage area of the top of the cart. A plurality of nestable bin holders are each adapted for displaying at least one of the bins while resting on one of the tables. In a deployed configuration, the cart is positioned in front of the table, and each of the bin holders is placed on the table and each holding at least one of the bins which display the food items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventors: Robert Swislow, Steve Levin
  • Patent number: 9635937
    Abstract: A rack mounting kit is configured to allow mounting of a telecommunications equipment chassis into a rack by a single person. The rack mounting kit includes two complimentary brackets that form a shelf-like feature. The complimentary brackets also include a mating latch for interfacing with a chassis to secure the chassis in place. Additionally, a cross brace is provided that is removably installed onto the two complimentary brackets to provide additionally rigidity to a rack while a chassis is being installed. The cross brace can be removed once installation of the chassis is complete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Cisco Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Lin Shen, Maurilio De Nicolo, Mark Siechen, Timothy Lee
  • Patent number: 9635938
    Abstract: A refrigerator a first rail assembly provided at a first side surface of the storage compartment, and a second rail assembly provided at a second side surface of the storage compartment. At least one of the first or second rail assembly includes a fixed rail, a movable rail and an auto closure module. The fixed rail is mounted to first or second side surface of a storage compartment. The movable rail slides along a lateral direction of the fixed rail and is coupled to a door frame. An auto closure module is provided at the rear of the fixed rail, and includes first and second elastic springs having different lengths. The first elastic spring moves with the movable rail such that a restorative force is not exerted for a prescribed distance as the door is pulled, and the second elastic spring has a first end, which moves with the movable rail, and a second end, which is fixed, and such that the second elastic spring exerts a restorative force as the door is pulled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventor: Lyunsu Kim
  • Patent number: 9635939
    Abstract: A covered sliding operator includes a body; a slot formed in the body; a spindle extending through the slot and which is slidable along the length of the slot; and a generally oval cover rotatably mounted on the spindle. The body has a first impinging wall and a second impinging wall. The cover is shaped such that: when the spindle is central in the slot, the cover completely covers the slot; moving the spindle towards the first end of the slot moves the cover against the first impinging wall and causes it to rotate in a first direction such that the slot remains completely covered by the cover; and moving the spindle towards the second end of the slot moves the cover against the second impinging wall and causes it to rotate in a second direction such that the slot remains completely covered by the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventor: Philip Taylor
  • Patent number: 9635940
    Abstract: An expandable wall storage system designed to provide maximum storage without loss of floor space. The system provides functional storage for bulky items on top, the flexibility to hang items below and the ability to see what is on the shelf through a gridded shelf. The system includes an interface defined by side portions and at least two support brackets of the storage system for engaging an adjacent expandable wall storage system when aligned in a side-by-side relationship. The system allows easy installation and avoids struggles with overhead mounting. The system can be provided in multiple length configurations and further extensions can also be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: SOLUTIONS MURALES PROSLAT INC.
    Inventor: Éric Letham
  • Patent number: 9635941
    Abstract: A wall assembly includes at least one horizontally extending rail having a rear surface adapted to engage the wall. A plurality of horizontally spaced and vertically extending stiles are coupled to the rail, with the stiles disposed forwardly of the rear surface of the rail. A plurality of interface components are coupled to the plurality of stiles. In various embodiments, the stiles may be interconnected to draw together adjacent interface components. The interface components also may include overlapping upper and lower edges. The stiles may be vertically and/or horizontally (laterally and longitudinally) adjustable relative to the rail. A lock member may be provided to secure at least one of the stiles to the rail. Various systems and methods of assembly and use are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Herman Miller, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Bates, Andrew J. Boyce, Chul Min Kang, Michael J. Katje, Susan R. Lyons, Kurt E. Porter, Jeffrey D. Roetman, Perry L. Sellers, Gianfranco Dino Zaccai
  • Patent number: 9635942
    Abstract: A slide rail assembly includes a first rail, a second rail, a bracket and a supporting base. The first rail defines a first passage along a first direction. The second rail is movably connected to the first rail and is movable relative to the first rail in the first passage. The bracket is connected to an end of the first rail. The supporting base is movably arranged on the bracket and is movable along the first direction relative to the bracket. The supporting base includes a first supporting portion defining a supporting passage corresponding to the first passage, and the supporting base is configured to allow the second rail to move into the supporting passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignees: KING SLIDE WORKS CO., LTD., KING SLIDE TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Ken-Ching Chen, Shun-Ho Yang, Chien-Li Huang, Hsiao-Han Lu, Chun-Chiang Wang
  • Patent number: 9635943
    Abstract: A reclining mechanism for use on a chair is disclosed that allows the chair to be placed in close proximity to a wall, and allows the chair back to recline, in part, by moving the seat forwardly, but not upwardly. A chaize option is also disclosed that allows the seating portion of the chaize to move forwardly as the back reclines. In an alternative arrangement, an extendable ottoman is disclosed that is independently operable from the back recline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: L&P Property Management Company
    Inventor: Gregory Mark Lawson
  • Patent number: 9635944
    Abstract: A system of controlling various actuators associated with human support surfaces is disclosed. Such a system is made up of a support surface, a controller, and an actuator. The system may optionally include batteries, a means of charging the batteries, and a graphical user interface as well as a communication link between the graphical user interface and the support surfaces. The actuators are capable of altering contour and/or firmness, of a support surface, they may be vibrational or heating/cooling in nature, and they may also alter the overall relative position of a support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventor: Steven Jerome Caruso
  • Patent number: 9635945
    Abstract: A furnishing includes a seat and a base that supports the seat. The furnishing further includes a geometrically shaped backrest that is pivotal relative to the seat and has at least a front, a back, a bottom, a right side and a left side that is substantially parallel with the right side. The furnishing further includes at least one hinge including a first hinge body attached to and protruding from the seat and a second hinge body attached to and protruding from the backrest. The first hinge body is coupled to the second hinge body at a pivot point. The pivot point is spaced apart from the seat and spaced apart from the backrest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Target Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: George K. Smithwick, David R. Angel, Chad M. Bogdan
  • Patent number: 9635946
    Abstract: Disclosed is a chair footrest frame, comprising a base sliding block (1) fixed to both sides of a bottom face of a chair base, sliding rods (2) arranged in a sliding manner respectively on the base sliding blocks (1), a footrest cushion (7) provided between the two sliding rods (2), and a roller ball (12) suitable for the sliding of the sliding rods (2) being provided on the base sliding block (1). The frictional force between the sliding rods and the base sliding block is relatively small, abrasive wear is relatively low, and operation is simple and convenient, which benefit improvement of the functionality and service life of the footrest frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: ZHEJIANG HENGLIN CHAIR INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jianglin Wang, Zhengxing Wang
  • Patent number: 9635947
    Abstract: An air permeable envelope has a gripper for securing the envelope to a seat. A mixture contained in the air permeable envelope can react exothermically upon exposure to air. A sealed bag that is relatively air impermeable, initially holds the air permeable envelope and mixture together with the gripper. Upon opening and unsealing the bag, the mixture is exposed to air in order to start an exothermic reaction. The envelope and the gripper are removed from the bag and the gripper is used to attach the envelope upon the seat to warm it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventor: Steven Baureis
  • Patent number: 9635948
    Abstract: A blanket/sheet lifter comprising a small resilient foam cushion blanket/sheet support having a flat bottom, an upwardly extending back, vertically extending sides, a front face and a top. The cushion is tall enough to accommodate the length of a user's foot, and is wide enough, such that it does not tip over readily to either side, and yet does not take up too much space on either side or below of a user's foot or feet. The bottom insufficiently long that the blanket/sheet lifter supports blankets/sheets above a person's knee, and the bottom provides a firm base such that it does not tip over front to back or back to front when positioned on its bottom; a cover for said cushion which includes pockets on the front face and sides for holding hot/cold packs. In use, the cushion rests on either its flat bottom surface or its flat back surface, depending on whether it is to be positioned adjacent the user's foot or knee.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventor: Lisa M. Spaugh
  • Patent number: 9635949
    Abstract: To provide a bottom for a bed apparatus that can make the user feel comfortable when lying on the bed apparatus. The bottom for a bed apparatus, which is height adjustable and is mounted on the top of a bed apparatus, comprising a plurality of parts each formed of a resin plate having a thickness, including a back bottom, a hip bottom, a knee bottom and a foot bottom. Of the parts, essential parts are joined by connecting parts, and the connecting parts are formed of the same material with, to be thinner than, and integrally with, the essential parts, and, depressed portions are formed on the top surface of the bottom around the center in the width direction of the bottom, and a plurality of passage holes are perforated in the depressed portions from the top surface to the undersurface of the bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Paramount Bed Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Katsuyoshi Nomura, Yuji Nakano, Tatsuya Shimada, Eita Hirai, Takeshi Yanagihara, Takaki Matsumoto, Dan Kageyama, Shinnosuke Kubota
  • Patent number: 9635950
    Abstract: A point-of-sale demonstration system includes a display system for viewing the underside of the plunger matrix mattress allowing a person sitting or lying on the mattress to readily view the impression created by their body weight on the plungers. The display system includes a camera positioned to image the underside of the mattress and a monitor (display screen) positioned for viewing by a person lying on the mattress so that they can see the deflection in the bottom of the plungers caused by their own weight on the mattress. Seeing the image of the downwardly displaced plungers immediately conveys the operation of the plunger matrix mattress to the viewer. The system may also be configured to capture individual frames and video images, store the images, transmit the images, and edit as desired, for example by zooming, cropping, changing the speed of the video, and so forth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: DREAMWELL, LTD.
    Inventors: Craig Saunders, John E. Spirk, Lindsey Tufts-Junior, William E. Rabbitt, Gary R. Stephan
  • Patent number: 9635951
    Abstract: A pillow retention assembly for displaying pillows on a bed includes a rack that may be positioned on a bed. A plurality of pillows may be positioned on the bed. A plurality of clips is provided and each of the clips is attached to the rack. Thus, each of the clips may engage an associated one of the pillows thereby retaining the pillows on the rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventor: Sharon James
  • Patent number: 9635952
    Abstract: The present application provides a cushion having a core layer and a quilt support/comfort layer. The core layer may comprise innersprings, foams, air cells, or combinations thereof. The support/comfort layer comprises a sleep layer that simulates a conventional quilted fabric layer. The sleep layer includes a thick, comfort fabric and a backing fabric, which backing fabric may be the same as the thick, comfort fabric. The sleep layer is formed by coupling the thick, comfort fabric to the backing fabric to form a plurality of individual pockets in which micro spring coils are placed. The micro spring coils have less uncompressed height than conventional innerspring coils. The sleep layer coupling is formed by spot coupling without using a metal needle to stitch the layers together. In other words, the spot coupling may comprise an adhesive or weld.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: HICKORY SPRINGS MANUFACTURING COMPANY
    Inventors: Richard J. Anthony, Timothy M. Witherell, William B. Limer, Bradley G. Crump, John R. Mayo
  • Patent number: 9635953
    Abstract: A method and system may include transmitting a signal to a pump of an air mattress to set the pressure of the air mattress to an initial pressure; receiving, at a central controller, a user preference condition for an automatic adjustment of the pressure in the air mattress; receiving, at the central controller, an indication that the air mattress is empty; and based on determining that the user preference condition has been met and receiving the indication: detecting a change in the pressure of the air mattress beyond a threshold value; and based on the detection, adjusting the pressure of the air mattress to the initial pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignees: SleepIQ Labs Inc., Select Comfort Corporation
    Inventors: Rob Nunn, Wade Daniel Palashewski, Steven Jay Young, Carl Hewitt
  • Patent number: 9635954
    Abstract: A device is disclosed that provides parasite, dust mite and allergen protection for an encasement used for a mattress or foundation. The device can be part of the original encasement or added as an after-market item to a conventional encasement to prevent the egress of parasites, dust mites and allergens from the gap between the zipper slide and the zipper stop and prevent movement of the zipper slide when the zipper is completely zipped up. The device includes a at least one compressible material that is used. The compressible material is compressed to seal the gap and prevent movement of the zipper slide. In one embodiment of the invention, the device allows the mattress or foundation within the encasement to breathe while blocking parasites, dust mites and allergens from escaping from within the encasement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: LEVITATION SCIENCES LLC
    Inventor: William J. Scarleski
  • Patent number: 9635955
    Abstract: A multi-mode high chair for a child that may be alternatively configured as a high chair, a toddler chair, or a booster seat. The high chair comprises a toddler chair on which is nestingly mounted a booster seat to define a high chair configuration. An easily operable latch mechanism secures the booster seat to the toddler seat to retain the chair in the high chair configuration. The latch is easily and conveniently operable to enable the booster seat to be removed from the toddler chair to convert the high chair into a toddler chair and a separate booster seat. Folding feet on the booster seat allow it to stably rest on a chair or the like. A tray selectively attachable to the booster seat and an adjustable footrest add further utility to the high chair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: ARTSANA USA, INC.
    Inventor: Jeff G. Greger
  • Patent number: 9635956
    Abstract: An accessory for an infant carrier. The accessory includes a padded sleeve that serves as an arm cushion. A canopy, stowable in the sleeve, can be fully or partly deployed to cover all or half of the carrier. The canopy has a central opening that permits the caregiver to insert her forearm under the handle when the canopy is deployed. The opening in the canopy also permits the caregiver to see inside the carrier under the deployed canopy and to reach inside with a bottle or toy for the baby. When the canopy is fully deployed, it covers the top and bottom half of the carrier with the handle spanning the central opening. In this position, the sleeve can be rotated on the handle to partially furl or unfurl either side of the canopy around the sleeve to open or close the opening over either half of the carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventor: Jamie S. Leach
  • Patent number: 9635957
    Abstract: A merchandise display system can include a pusher extender that increases the pushing surface of the pusher. The pusher extender may define an elongated pusher body having a cavity. The pusher extender may be configured to slide over the pusher wall via the cavity like a sleeve. The pusher extender with an enlarged, substantially planar surface thereby creates an enlarged pushing surface for pushing larger products toward the front of the display system. The pusher extender can also be provided with an angled pusher surface to accommodate larger products. The display system can be mounted to a rear hang bar located towards the back of the shelf. A hanger may be positioned within a cavity formed in the divider and extend the length of the divider. The hook end of the hanger may then be positioned on the hang bar and the entire system may cantilever out from the hang bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: RTC Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen N. Hardy
  • Patent number: 9635958
    Abstract: The present application provides a shelf assembly for a display case. The shelf assembly may include a shelf, a pair of shelf brackets with a shelf bracket pocket, and a support rail with a pair of tabs. The support rail extends between the pair of shelf brackets and the tabs of the support rail fit with the shelf bracket pockets of the pair of shelf brackets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Heatcraft Refrigeration Products LLC
    Inventors: Chera Selvan Neelagantan, Satish Kumar Jatashanker Singh, Randall Booker
  • Patent number: 9635959
    Abstract: A retail display hanger for supportively displaying a fluid container and a secondary component, where the fluid container has a neck, typically threaded, with a cap, which is likewise complementary threaded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: ALI INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Terry Ali, Christopher Ali, Frank Ali, Wayne Carl Leblanc
  • Patent number: 9635960
    Abstract: A system for displaying graphic contents that comprises a permanent base that includes a first inner sliding member, which can move in and out. The system also includes a second inner sliding member that is inserted into the first inner sliding member, which can move in and out. The system also includes a third inner sliding member that is inserted into the second inner sliding member, which can move in and out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventor: Mordeckai Mouyal
  • Patent number: 9635961
    Abstract: A dispenser for pillow napkins is provided that includes a carton having a bottom panel, opposite left and right panels extending vertically from the bottom panel, opposite front and back panels positioned between the left and right panels and extending vertically from the bottom panel, and a top panel extending parallel to the bottom panel. Left and right supports are positioned within a cavity of the carton. A plurality of pillow napkins are wound about a spool. The spool is positioned in the cavity such that the spool rotatably engages the left and right supports and the pillow napkins are spaced apart from the top and bottom panels. Methods of use are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Bedgear, LLC
    Inventor: Eugene Alletto, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9635962
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a U-shaped travel pillow having a base cushion and raised cushion fixed to the top side of the base cushion. The inner peripheral walls of the base and raised cushions are mutually flush, while the rear walls are mutually flush and substantially flat for better contact with flat surfaces, such as a headrest, seat, or chair. Furthermore, the rear wall of the raised cushion is thinner than the sides, providing more liberty to adjust head position by easily adapting to the shape of the headrest, seat or chair. A removable cover is adapted to cover the base and raised cushions, while a drawstring with an adjustable cinch mechanism can be used for adjusting the travel pillow around the neck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: CABEAU, INC.
    Inventors: David Bret Sternlight, Kyna Rose Sternlight
  • Patent number: 9635963
    Abstract: Embodiments relate generally to washable pillows, particularly washable foam pillows, and methods for assembling such pillows. The washable pillow may comprise one or more cushion element and a fabric cover attached to and possibly enclosing the one or more cushion element. The pillow may also comprise a shell formed by the one or more cushion element, wherein the shell may comprise a cavity therein, and the cavity may contain a filler material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Jiajing USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph E. Blazar
  • Patent number: 9635964
    Abstract: A dispensing closure comprising a closure base, a dispensing disk, a magnet, and a fastener. The magnet and closure base sandwich the dispensing disk, which are all held together with the fastener. A user fills ajar with items to be dispensed and stored and then mounts the dispensing closure onto the jar with a jar screw band. To dispense the items, the user rotates the dispensing disk to an open position and then inverts the jar. To store and display, the user rotates the dispensing disk to a closed position and then attaches the jar with the magnet to a surface attracted to a magnet. The design allows for manual seal and storage in any orientation (horizontally, vertically, or some other odd angle) and for the dispensing disks to be easily switched. The dispensing closure may further comprise a spacer, which enables easier rotation of the dispensing disk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventor: Michael Martinez-Schiferl
  • Patent number: 9635965
    Abstract: Containers having a fitment have been used to store food product. Oftentimes the product contained within the container is easier for a user to consume if a utensil such as a spoon is used. The present disclosure is directed towards an assembly for mounting to a container. The assembly includes a fitment with a passage. The spoon is at least partially disposed within the passage of the fitment. The spoon may be attached to the fitment, and covered by a protective cover. The protective cover may include a first half and a second half. The protective cover can be secured with a safety seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Pouch Pac Innovations, LLC
    Inventor: R. Charles Murray
  • Patent number: 9635966
    Abstract: A stackable gear support stand may be provided. The stackable gear support stand may have an elongated central member, a bottom leg member, a top leg member, and a cross member. The bottom leg member, top leg member, and cross member may be stacked horizontally on a vertically oriented central member to form a working support stand. The bottom leg member, top leg member, and cross member may alternatively be stacked coaxially on the central member to form a collapsed storage and transportation orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventor: Gregory B. Procaccini
  • Patent number: 9635967
    Abstract: The sock-donning tripod is adapted for use with stump socks commonly used by amputees. The sock-donning tripod is a free standing structure that is formed with a top plate. The top plate is formed with center cut out and plurality of posts. Each of the plurality of loop of the stump sock are hooked over a post selected from the plurality of posts which holds the stump sock open over the center cut out. The amputation stump can then be placed into the stump sock. The stump sock is then pulled into position using the patient's hand or a dressing stick by using each of the plurality of loops to pull the stump sock into position. The sock-donning tripod comprises a plurality of legs, a top plate, and a brace plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventor: Charles Hopper
  • Patent number: 9635968
    Abstract: A curtain rod mounting system includes a support surface that has a pair of faces. Each of the faces forms a right angle with respect to each other. A pair of curtain rods is provided. A suspension unit is removably attached to the support surface. The suspension unit engages each of the faces such that the suspension unit bisects the right angle. Each of the curtain rods removably engages the suspension unit such that each of the curtain rods is oriented to be coextensive with an associated one of the faces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventor: Michael L. Martinez
  • Patent number: 9635969
    Abstract: A curtain holder or claw that gathers and securely holds a curtain or drapery in place. The holder comprises two sides biased to a closed or clamped position. The sides of the holder may comprise extensions to assist in gathering and holding fabric. The holder is independent and free-standing, and can be used at different heights and locations, with no connection or installation to walls or window frames and with no damage to the curtain or drapery fabric. One of more decorative elements may be permanently or removably attached to the holder. Decorative elements can be easily interchanged by a user to provide a plurality of decorative fixtures, elements, figures, logo, or indicia, or combinations thereof. These elements can match the room décor, or relate to a holiday, kid's themes, movies, animals, sports teams, or other topics or themes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventors: Michael E. Haarlander, Thomas M. Haarlander, Ira Brown, Diane Brown, Joe Brown
  • Patent number: 9635970
    Abstract: A tool (1) for separating flesh from a core and a rind of a fruit, in particular a pineapple, comprising: a corer (10) that, op opposite ends, is provided with a driving member (40) and a cutting edge (12); a flesh cutter (20) extending radially on the corer and having at least one cutting edge (22), wherein the shape of the flesh cutter is such that upon rotation it executes a helical movement with a predetermined pitch; a rind cutter (30), provided at an outer end of the flesh cutter and extending parallel to the corer, said rind cutter including a cutting edge (32). The tool further comprises a section cutter (60), including an annular hub (62) configured to be slidingly received on the corer, an annular rim (66), and one or more spokes (64) radiating from the hub and interconnecting the hub and the rim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: BIN Innovations B.V.
    Inventors: Patrick Lambertus Kerkhof, Eelco Jan Gerardus Witteveen, Jasper Wilhelmus Petrus Van Winden, Rui Medeiros Santos
  • Patent number: 9635971
    Abstract: The invention concerns a container (1) for storing and dispensing a flowable product comprising a tank (2) and a dispensing closure for dispensing the product from the tank comprising disc member (3, 4) with apertures (31, 41) therein, one of the disc (4) being rotatable and susceptible to cooperate with a rotatable shaft. The invention also concerns a machine susceptible to be fed with a flowable product stored in such a container, said machine comprising disc members (8, 9) with apertures (81, 91) therein, one of the disc (9) being rotatable and cooperating with a rotatable shaft (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Karine Laithier, Alain Contal, Thierry Jean Robert Fabozzi, Zenon Ioannis Mandralis, Lucio Scorrano
  • Patent number: 9635972
    Abstract: Apparatuses, methods and systems for retrofitting an indoor water dispenser of an existing refrigerator having a water outlet with one or more components to provide secondary water conditioning to dispense an enhanced beverage using water from the water outlet of the indoor water dispenser are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Tiemen T. Van Dillen, Lukasz D. Skalski, Luca Gamberoni, Steven J. Kuehl
  • Patent number: 9635973
    Abstract: An infusion device for making beverages using cartridges, such as capsules or pods, comprises an openable infusion unit (3) comprising at least one part (4) able to move between a home position and an operating position, a first standby zone (8) for a cartridge (2) being formed when the mobile part (4) is in the home position, first retaining means for a cartridge (2) in the first standby zone (8), a motor (13) for moving the mobile part (4), means for expelling the cartridge (2) from the unit (3), and at least one device (1) operation check and control unit (35); there are also second retaining means (36) positioned between a cartridge insertion section (34) and the first standby zone (8), to selectively retain a cartridge (2) at a second standby zone (37), the check and control unit (35) being programmed to cause the dispensing of two beverages, one after another, using two cartridges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: CAFFITALY SYSTEM S.P.A.
    Inventor: Roberto Degli Esposti Venturi
  • Patent number: 9635974
    Abstract: According to a method for preparing and dispensing milk foam a drink made of powdered milk of self-dissolving drink preparation powder, improved milk foam not directly consumed from a preparation vessel (6) is intended to be foamed easily. To this end, at least one hot water stream (2a) is applied to the milk powder or drink preparation powder in the above open or opened preparation vessel (6), in particular a foaming vessel, said hot water stream flowing out of a hot water channel under hot water pressure. The preparation vessel (6) is fixed. The milk foam (22) or drink so prepared in the preparation vessel automatically flows, i.e. merely by way of the effect of the hot water stream and the force of gravity, from the preparation vessel (6) through a laterally and/or downwardly led discharge of the preparation vessel or through an outlet spout to a collection vessel (4), preferably a cup or a glass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: EUGSTER/FRISMAG AG
    Inventors: Daniel Fischer, Christian Brendle
  • Patent number: 9635975
    Abstract: A see-through and stir-through lid is provided for cookware. The lid includes a transparent main body having an outer periphery. An access port extends through the main body with a splatter guard secured within the access port. The splatter guard has a self-regulating opening of variable size allowing passage of a working end of a cooking utensil through the opening in the splatter guard while minimizing size of the opening about a shaft of the cooking utensil. A support structure supports a cooking utensil atop the lid with the working end resting above the splatter guard so that liquid and/or food residue may drain through the opening in the splatter guard into the cookware.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: TONOGA, INC.
    Inventor: Kelly E. Walker
  • Patent number: 9635976
    Abstract: An elastically deformable fastener is configured to secure a lid to a pot. The fastener includes a body having a first retaining member and a second retaining member. The first retaining member receives a first pot handle and the second retaining member receives a second pot handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventor: Keith Charles
  • Patent number: 9635977
    Abstract: Described herein is a cooking device for foodstuffs that are wrapped in bacon, dough or other food items. The device includes a tray that holds a number of silicone holders that hold bacon-wrapped food items while they cook in an oven or toaster oven, microwave or grill (where made of metal). The cooking holders or assemblies hold bacon wrapped food items upright and in place during the cooking process. The entire cooking holder is made of silicone so the food item slides easily off the cooking apparatus when cooking is complete. The cooking tray is designed to allow grease to flow away from the food into a reservoir located around the edges of the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventors: Trevor Lambert, Ty Joseph Caswell, Adam Elznic
  • Patent number: 9635978
    Abstract: A pellet-fired grill for barbecue cooking includes a cleanout port in the bottom of the combustion chamber and an access door so that the ash may be cleaned out and removed from the grill without necessitating disassembly of the upper components of the grill. The access door is operated by a pull link, and a stop catch mechanism adjacent to the pull link enables actuation of the pull link assembly only when the stop catch mechanism is released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventors: S. Ty Measom, Brett Bennett
  • Patent number: 9635979
    Abstract: A pizza oven may include an upper portion, a lower portion, and cooking surface apparatus located between the upper portion and the lower portion. The pizza oven may be configured to provide a consistent and an even cooking environment in an enclosed region defined by the upper portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventors: John Luther Abrams, Matthew Charles Goeden, Abran James Kean, Christopher David Hill
  • Patent number: 9635980
    Abstract: A fajita meal serving apparatus comprises a thermally-insulative serving platter defining an upper recessed area configured for securely receiving and supporting a serving plate, a two-way drawer disposed in a cavity under the upper recessed area of the serving platter, where the two-way drawer defines a circular recess configured for holding tortillas. The apparatus further includes first and second diametrically opposed handles formed in the serving platter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventor: Brian Butler
  • Patent number: 9635981
    Abstract: A food processing assembly (20) includes a base member (21), a container (22) and a cover (23). The base member (21) has a platform portion (26) adapted to carry the container (22) and a housing portion (25) for a motor. A wall (29) of the housing (25) has a plurality of air inlet slots (35) and a gutter (37) protects the slots (35) from receiving any liquid which might be on the base member (21). The container (22) has a sidewall (52) with an open top that has a peripheral rim (57). A cover (23) includes a tab assembly (73) that has a notch (70) to receive the rim (57). The vertical lifting of a handle portion (77) of the tab assembly (73) removes the cover (23) from the container (22). A spout (61) and a handle (60) are formed near the top of the container (22). A heat shield (62) includes a body portion (63) which is attached to the sidewall (52) at a location under the spout (61), and it also includes a flap (62).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Vita-Mix Corporation
    Inventors: John K. Barnard, Richard D. Boozer, Eugene J. Kozlowski, Fred H. Mehlman, Robert M. Ulanski