Plural Patents (Class 206/362)
  • Patent number: 11882947
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for displays are disclosed. The display includes a header and a stand, where the stand may be configured to house a plurality of consumer products. The header is movable between a shipping configuration and a display configuration, wherein it is shorter in the shipping configuration and requires little assembly to move to the display configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2024
    Assignee: Mars, Incorporated
    Inventor: Terry A. Chow
  • Patent number: 11305906
    Abstract: A system and method are provided for packaging and sterilizing analyte sensors. The packaging system provides a structure for securing the analyte sensors in a fixed position and fixed orientation within the package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2022
    Assignee: Dexcom, Inc.
    Inventors: Minda McDorman Grucela, Jinsong Gao
  • Patent number: 11013665
    Abstract: An apparatus that includes a container portion and a coupler portion. The container and coupler are, in one embodiment, mated via an adapter that includes a one-way valve. The coupler includes a second one-way valve. In use, a fluid source, such as a vial, is connected to the coupler. An air source, such as a syringe is also connected to the coupler. Air from the syringe is introduced to the vial via the second one-way valve. The second one-way valve prevents fluid from the vial from being drawn into the syringe. Introduction of air from the syringe into the vial forces fluid from the vial into the container via the first one-way valve. The first one-way valve prevents the fluid from escaping the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2021
    Assignee: ENT SOLUTIONS GROUP, LLC
    Inventors: James H. Atkins, Jr., Lori Jean Atkins
  • Patent number: 10787029
    Abstract: A paint tray and paint tray liner include a paint tray housing having a receptacle for holding paint and/or a paint liner. The housing has an upper edge that surrounds at least a first side and a second side of the perimeter of the housing. The upper edge has an edge defining a gripping portion that coincides with an approximate location of a center of gravity of a paint load in the paint tray. A tool holder is positioned on a side of the paint tray for holding a tool adjacent the receptacle for holding paint. The paint tray liner is for seating in the paint tray in close relation to the shape and size thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2020
    Assignee: THE SHERWIN-WILLIAMS COMPANY
    Inventors: Joshua R. Robertson, Michael C. Lambertson, Jr., Sarah B. Mulroy
  • Patent number: 10675119
    Abstract: Novel tools and techniques are provided for implementing a medical kit, and, more particularly, to methods, systems, and apparatuses for implementing a medical kit for cleaning endoscopes. In some aspects, a medical kit may comprise an outer bag capable of being vacuum sealed, at least one inner bag contained within the outer bag, at least one solution container comprising a solution contained within the outer bag, at least one absorbent pad contained within the outer bag, and/or the like. The air from the outer bag may be evacuated to form a vacuum seal surrounding the at least one inner bag, the at least one solution container, and the at least one absorbent pad. In an additional aspect, the medical kit may comprise an absorbent pad and solution contained within a bag capable of being vacuum sealed. In yet another aspect, a dispenser may be implemented to dispense medical kits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2020
    Assignee: Certol International LLC
    Inventor: Edward A. Cassinis
  • Patent number: 10675120
    Abstract: Novel tools and techniques are provided for implementing a medical kit, and, more particularly, to methods, systems, and apparatuses for implementing a medical kit for cleaning endoscopes. In some aspects, a medical kit may comprise an outer bag capable of being vacuum sealed, at least one inner bag contained within the outer bag, at least one solution container comprising a solution contained within the outer bag, at least one absorbent pad contained within the outer bag, and/or the like. The air from the outer bag may be evacuated to form a vacuum seal surrounding the at least one inner bag, the at least one solution container, and the at least one absorbent pad. In an additional aspect, the medical kit may comprise an absorbent pad and solution contained within a bag capable of being vacuum sealed. In yet another aspect, a dispenser may be implemented to dispense medical kits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2020
    Assignee: Certol International LLC
    Inventor: Edward A. Cassinis
  • Patent number: 10538126
    Abstract: A paintbrush utility container for stowing paintbrushes and associated shucks includes a brush bag having a first portion pivotally coupled to and extending from a first lateral edge of a bottom wall and including a second portion pivotally coupled to and extending from a second lateral edge of the bottom wall. A plurality of first pockets are situated on the first portion and a plurality of second pockets are situated on the second portion, each respective pocket defining an interior space dimensioned to receive a respective paintbrush shuck and a respective open end giving access to the interior space. The first and second portions include upper ends, respectively, and are pivotally movable from an open configuration in which the first upper end is displaced from the second end and a closed configuration in which the first upper end bears against the second upper end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2020
    Inventor: Wayne Terry Hutchison
  • Patent number: 10273440
    Abstract: Systems and methods for growing microbes and biofilms on a hydrogel in a controlled environment. The system can have a cup, and a liner with the liner inserted into the cup and a hydrogel inserted into the liner. The cup, liner, and hydrogel assembly can be placed into a containment tray. The hydrogel can be sterilized before being placed into the containment tray. A lid can seal the cup, liner, and hydrogel into the containment tray. A lid can have inoculations ports, or can be made out of a self-sealable material keeping the inside environment sterilized and free of contaminants. The hydrogel can be inoculated with microbes through the inoculations ports, and incubated for a period of time at a set temperature to allow the microbes, and biofilms time to grow. After being grown the microbes and biofilms can be separated from each other allowing for both microbes and biofilm to be separately tested.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2019
    Inventors: Jeffry B. Skiba, Mina Izadjoo, Hosan Kim
  • Patent number: 10045830
    Abstract: A storage device is provided to store a tool or component in an operating theater and includes a receiving portion and a retaining member. The receiving portion is configured to support the tool or component thereon. The retaining member is transitionable between an initial configuration and a deployed configuration and includes a securing region thereon. In the deployed configuration, the retaining member is spaced away from a plane defined by a surface of the receiving portion. The securing region is configured to facilitate the passage of a tool or component through the retaining member such that the tool or component is secured therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2018
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Kevin Sniffin, Divya Vijaya Vittala Nadig
  • Patent number: 9814631
    Abstract: A surgical container has more than one surgical sponge, more than one dispensing containers containing respectively the more than one surgical sponge, and more than one disposal containers each proximate to and visually associated respectively with the more than one dispensing containers to receive a used surgical sponge, wherein a selected surgical sponge is visible in one of the dispensing container or the corresponding disposal container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2017
    Inventors: Sambhu Choudhury, Sean Lynch, Arturo David Sanchez
  • Patent number: 9757007
    Abstract: A blank for a package, a package, and a kit having a package with a cleaning implement therein. The package has a front panel and side panels with a transition that provides for regions of relatively greater and relatively lesser depth in said package. A window is disposed in the front panel, and registered with the portions of the side panel having relatively lesser depth. This geometry provides the benefit that the package may hold all contents deemed helpful at point of sale, while allowing the cleaning implement to be visible through or protrude through the window without shadows being cast from the side panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2017
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Murphy Greene Mongeon, Jose Juan Fuentes, Jr., Marcus Paul McDuffie, Yassir Halty, Richard Lee Lane, Matthew Joshua Brewer
  • Patent number: 9713374
    Abstract: A painting caddy device carries paint and a painting tool in an upright position to prevent spilling while attached to the body of the user. The device includes a mounting panel and a reservoir having a closed bottom, an open top and a perimeter wall extending between the closed bottom and the open top. The perimeter wall has an outwardly flared section adjacent to the open top. The outwardly flared section extends around lateral sides and a front side of the perimeter wall. A pivot arm has a first end rotationally coupled to the mounting panel and distal ends relative to the first end being rotationally coupled to an associated one of the lateral sides of the reservoir. A receptacle extends from the reservoir having an open upper end for receiving a paint brush for storage adjacent to the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2017
    Inventor: Douglas M. Page
  • Patent number: 9649035
    Abstract: An introducer having a dilator positioned in a sheath is inserted into a first artery and, thereafter, only the dilator tube is drawn out of the first artery and the sheath while the sheath remains in the first artery. A diagnostic instrument having an outer diameter smaller than a maximum outer diameter permitting insertion into the sheath tube is inserted into the second artery, and a stenosis of the second artery is diagnosed. While keeping the sheath indwelling in the first artery, a therapeutic instrument or a catheter permitting the therapeutic instrument to be inserted therein, which therapeutic instrument or catheter has a maximum outer diameter permitting insertion into the sheath tube, is inserted into the second artery, and the second artery is treated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Assignee: Terumo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Naofumi Okajima, Ryo Okamura
  • Patent number: 8944710
    Abstract: A container for disposable applicators is described. The container has a main body section and a coupling portion for coupling a reservoir with the container. The reservoir can contain a substance suitable for the disposable applicators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Diva International S.R.L.
    Inventor: Pasquale Cocchioni
  • Patent number: 8770209
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a color highlighting cosmetics container including a detachable makeup brush, and more particularly to a color highlighting cosmetics container including a body having a plurality of receiving grooves partitions for storing contents and a cover for closing/opening the body. The body includes a plurality of brushes, a brush supporter from which the plurality of brushes is detachable, and brush-receiving grooves and a brush-supporter-receiving groove on which the plurality of brushes and the brush supporters are mounted, respectively. As a result, the plurality of brushes are detachable from the brush supporter. Therefore, the brushes can be replaced using the brush supporter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Yonwoo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: You-Seob Kim, Hee-Young Kim, Shin-Bok Jung, Hae-Young Jung
  • Publication number: 20140131350
    Abstract: A storage container having a collapsible unit and a twist cap is described. The collapsible unit is a type of bellows which includes a base and a sidewall attached to the base. The sidewall has a spiral fold that traverses along a portion of the length of that the collapsible unit. The length can be compressed by folding the collapsible unit along the spiral fold. As the length of the collapsible unit is reduced, access to any remaining products, such as acne pad products, stored at the bottom of the collapsible unit can be more conveniently obtained. The cap of the storage container includes a ring collar; a sleeve attached to the ring collar; and a guide attached to the sleeve. When the cap is turned or twisted the guide and the spiral fold are configured to slideably engage each other which results in shortening the length of the collapsible unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2012
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Inventors: Michael A. Wojcik, Kelly Sanborn
  • Patent number: 8714353
    Abstract: A package (100) of articles, such as oral care implements (200) comprising: a tubular body (109) having a cavity (115), an open top end (167) and a closed bottom end (126). An annular wall (120) divides the cavity into a central cavity (125) and an annular cavity (115) that circumferentially surrounds the central cavity. A plurality of radial walls (130) extend from an outer surface (121) of the annular wall to an inner surface (112) of the tubular body and divide the annular cavity into a plurality of subcavities (135). At least one oral care implement is disposed within each of the subcavities. A cover (170) is coupled to at least one of the tubular body and the annular wall. The cover comprises a central opening (177) that forms a passageway into the central cavity and a dispensing opening (174).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Colgate-Palmolive Company
    Inventors: Douglas Hohlbein, Alan Sorrentino, James Kemp, Emily Fink, David Lee
  • Patent number: 8707607
    Abstract: A gun cleaning tool kit, comprising an openable case, at least one mount for receiving a removable tool insert, a portable miniature gun cleaning tool kit disposable in the openable case, a foldable work surface apron. The kit may further comprise at least one removable tool insert, a plurality of gun cleaning tools disposed on the removable tool insert, and an exterior pocket formed in the openable case for storing the portable miniature gun cleaning tool kit. Preferably, the foldable work surface apron is removably attached to, and stored within, the openable case. Preferably, both the openable case and the portable miniature gun cleaning tool kit are closable by zippers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: The Otis Patent Trust
    Inventors: Nicholas Williams, James R. Brooker
  • Patent number: 8607979
    Abstract: A paint brush protector and maintenance device provides storage, protection, and care for paint brushes includes a clamshell enclosure that opens to encase bristle and ferrule portions of a paint brush. The enclosure in at least one embodiment provides a rigid plastic to ensure that the bristles remain in a straight position and a plurality of drying holes along a front surface to aid in drying the bristles after cleaning. An end portion of the enclosure has a compressible stabilizer pad to hold the paint brush securely in place. The apparatus also provides a brush comb that clips onto the exterior of the enclosure providing a toothed comb and a pair of stiff bristle brushes to clean and condition the bristles as needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Inventor: Scott G. Cody
  • Publication number: 20130202483
    Abstract: This disclosure describes example antiseptic applicators that may be used in combination with one or more cleansing, antimicrobial and/or antiseptic agents to reduce or eliminate contaminates on a surface. According to some embodiments, the disclosure describes that the applicators may contain an impermeable layer and a permeable layer, where the impermeable layer prevents contaminates for transferring from a user's hand to the permeable layer and the surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2013
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: HYPROTEK, INC.
    Inventor: HYPROTEK, INC.
  • Patent number: 8501109
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a disinfection system, arrangement comprising at least two sequentially arranged disinfection systems and containers comprising various chambers usable for the disinfection system. In particular, the present invention relates to a disinfection system comprising at least one chamber adapted for containing at least one first chamber adapted to contain disinfectant and at least one second chamber adapted to contain at least one swab and/or sponge, said at least one swab and/or sponge and additional separated space for taking up the disinfectant. The system is designed such that a predetermined amount of disinfectant is brought into contact with the at least one swab and/or one sponge immediately before use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Georg-August-Universtaet Goettingen
    Inventors: Abdolhamid Huschmand Nia, Reinhold Wegener
  • Patent number: 8464868
    Abstract: A cleaning article holder is provided which is capable of fitting within a cabinet drawer and supports in a nonvertical position one or more cleaning articles having a neck that extends between a cleaning head and an elongated handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Inventors: Gary Iver Kruger, Susan Kruger
  • Patent number: 8397933
    Abstract: A lid covering an interior of a medical waste receptacle base. The lid includes an intermediate waste repository connected to the cover. The repository is moveable between a holding position adapted for holding waste segregated from the receptacle base interior, and a dumping position adapted for biasing waste by gravity into the receptacle base interior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Mark Brian Finnestad
  • Patent number: 8371448
    Abstract: A storage system for storing used surgical towels, sponges or other medical waste materials includes a rear panel having an upper portion and a lower portion formed from a flexible sheet material. The upper portion of the rear panel has a coupling mechanism for coupling the device to a sterile structure of a surgical room. In certain embodiments, the rear panel may have a weakened partition area for separating the lower portion from the upper portion. A compartment assembly is formed by two or more flexible compartments provided on the lower portion of the rear panel. Each compartment may be liquid impervious and have an upper opening for introducing materials into the compartment. Each compartment has a forward wall that is at least partially transparent so that the contents of the compartment are observable. All components of the storage device may be sterile for use in a sterile environment. In certain embodiments, a storage system may be provided by coupling at least two storage devices together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Inventor: Brian K. Reaux
  • Patent number: 8342841
    Abstract: A storage device is provided for holding bone implant surgery articles. The storage device includes a body defining a plurality of openings capable of holding at least one rotatable drill bit that may be mounted on a drill and used to form a bore in bone and at least one implant container that holds an implant capable of being placed in the bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Zimmer Dental, Inc.
    Inventors: Tyson Vogel, Charles Howlett, Mojtaba Esfahni
  • Publication number: 20120325703
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a display package that, in one embodiment, comprises a plurality of packs containing one or more products and a sleeve. The primary packs are arranged in a bundle and disposed within the sleeve. A separator panel can be included in certain embodiments of the bundle between the packs. Portions of the packs may protrude through apertures in the front and rear panels of the sleeve and apertures within the separator panel to assist with maintaining the bundle within the sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY
    Inventors: Alan Sorrentino, Andreas Haefliger
  • Patent number: 8286790
    Abstract: The paint brush cleaning and carrying device provides the advantage of a vented transparent pail with brush viewing from the exterior. The sealable removable lid provides tubular brush handle holders, each handle holder twistable and having varied height multiple pairs of orifices. Removable pins pass through the orifices and through existing holes in existing paint brush handles to dangle the brushes downwardly into selectively disposed brush solvents. The lipped removable lid can be inverted and returned atop the pail for brush drainage without solvent loss.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Inventor: Rocky G. McBryar
  • Patent number: 8245844
    Abstract: A package for displaying a plurality of items where the package has first and second containers connectable between an open position and a closed position, each container having an outer surface having at least one elongated protrusion, the at least one protrusion having a head end and a tail end, the head end extending further outwardly from the package than the tail end, and an inner surface having at least one inner cavity aligned with the at least one protrusion, the cavity having a depth varying along the protrusion and configured to receive one of the plurality of items, wherein the head end of the at least one protrusion of the first container is proximate the tail end of the at least one protrusion of the second container in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Colgate-Palmolive Company
    Inventors: Alan Sorrentino, Robert Moskovich, Andreas Haefliger
  • Patent number: 8096414
    Abstract: A medical implement dispensing and disposal system. The medical implement dispensing and disposal system comprises a container having an open end with a dispensing chamber and a disposal chamber defined within the container. A cover is configured to substantially close the open end of the container. The cover defines a disposal opening in communication with the disposal chamber. A dispensing opening is defined in either the container or cover and in communication with the dispensing chamber. A biasing assembly is positioned in the dispensing chamber and configured to provide a biasing force toward the dispensing opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventors: Mark Brian Finnestad, Michael Sansoucy
  • Patent number: 8091700
    Abstract: A package for holding and displaying paint brushes includes one or more receptacles for holding paint. Once the paint brushes are removed from the package, empty paint receptacles formed in the cover of the package can be filled with paint and thereby serve as an artist's palette. The package can be reused over and over and thereby reduce trash.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Loew-Cornell, LLC
    Inventor: Joe Nardozza
  • Patent number: 8074316
    Abstract: A wet to dry, single use fiber optic connector end face cleaning device. The device is comprised a of a first swab, the first swab having a cleaning head and a first grasping end, the cleaning head having a presaturated fabric attached thereto, and a second swab, the second swab having a drying head and a second grasping end, the drying head having a drying fabric attached thereto. In use, the cleaning head of the first swab is positioned adjacent to the drying head of the second swab, the cleaning head and the drying head at different elevations. Also disclosed is a method for using the fiber optic connector end face cleaning device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: Paul M. Blair
  • Patent number: 7946418
    Abstract: A case assembly for holding a selection of paintbrushes of the type having bristles bound to a handle with a metal band. The case assembly has ventilation openings that provide ventilation to the interior of the case. A support board is provided that is sized to fit within the interior of the case. At least one magnet is coupled to each support board. Each magnet attracts the metal bands of the paintbrushes, therein attaching the paintbrushes to each support board. By attaching the paintbrushes to the support boards with magnetism, the bristles of the paintbrushes remain unconfined. Furthermore, the paintbrushes can be attached in any orientation, such as a bristle-down orientation. This prevents water from gathering near the metal bands of the paintbrushes and causing rust.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Inventor: Douglas L. Cerynik
  • Patent number: 7921994
    Abstract: A package (10) includes a one-piece molded plastic container having a base (14), an outer wall (16), and at least one dividing wall extending across the outer wall to divide the container into at least first and second chambers that are separated from each other by the dividing wall. The container has an open end remote from the base, and a molded plastic lid (12) is provided for receipt over the open end of the container in sealing engagement with the outer wall and the dividing wall. The lid is constructed to seal the chambers from each other and from ambient surrounding the package. In at least one of the chambers, the dividing wall preferably has ribs for engagement by a coating application roller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Behr Procress Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas R. Lee, Duberney Ospina
  • Publication number: 20100108550
    Abstract: A swab dispensing carton is provided which includes a housing defining a hollow receiving space and a drawer disposed within the receiving space, and containing multiple rows of swabs. The housing includes a pair of first side walls, a pair of second side walls, and a closure panel covering one end of the receiving space and being opposite an open mouth. The drawer includes a pair of first side panels, a pair of second side panels, and a floor opposite a dispensing opening. The floor is provided with at least three interleaved flaps having a strength to resist a pressure of at least 30 pounds of force. The dispensing opening is oriented to face one of the first or second side walls of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2008
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Applicant: CONOPCO, INC., D/B/A UNILEVER
    Inventors: Slavica Cesare, Joshua Michael Sternthal, Scot Lawrence Forrest, Richard Paul McNabb
  • Patent number: 7617927
    Abstract: A holder includes top, middle, and bottom sections respectively. The middle section includes hollow cylinders connected to the top and bottom sections respectively. The cylinders extend along a vertical axis and have a vertical wall oriented thereabout. The top, middle and bottom sections form a hollow chamber. The top section has a bottom end connected to an upper end of the middle section and a top surface provided with a plurality of apertures. An outer wall is formed with the bottom end and the top surface respectively. The bottom section is mated to a lower end of the middle section and includes a plurality of apertures therein, and has a diameter greater than a diameter of the lower end of the middle section. A mechanism for telescopically adjusting the top and middle sections is spaced from the bottom section and anchored to a bottom one of the cylinders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Inventor: Elliott Smith, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7581638
    Abstract: A container has an exterior wall and a interior wall that form a reservoir. A top or lid covers the reservoir. The top of lid has one or more orifices that receive a head of a toothbrush, which is immersed in a sanitizing agent contained in the reservoir. A second container engages the first container within a receptacle formed in the first container. The second container contains mouthwash. The close proximity of the toothbrush to the second container encourages the use of mouthwash at the time of brushing, and improves oral hygiene over brushing alone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Inventor: Louis P. Shaw
  • Patent number: 7549194
    Abstract: Implements including handles and working ends and product lines thereof are described. The implements are typically cleaning implements, such as mops mad brooms, but may be garden implements such as hoes and rakes. Various methods for using such implements are described. In one aspect, the methods relate to shipping the implements, each of which includes the same overall, length. In another aspect, the methods relate to displaying the implements, most often in a retail environment for presentation to consumers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Assignee: Quickie Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Peter S. Vosbikian, Robert E. Petner
  • Patent number: 7537120
    Abstract: Equipment for dispensing sheet goods and use of hair coloring solutions, or in other words a system for a hair colorist, is described. An aspect of the invention is a system for a hair colorist including a housing defining a first region capable of receiving one or more sheets of a stack of sheet goods. An indexing device is located on an exterior surface of the housing. A first bowl configured to be mated with the indexing device to restrain movement of the first bowl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Inventor: Rey Cardenas
  • Patent number: 7484629
    Abstract: A sanitizing toothbrush holder is described for sanitizing one or more toothbrushes in a household dishwasher. The holder is designed so as to fit in a space in the dishwasher rack used typically for holding a dinner plate, and has one or more holes in a top surface sized so as to pass a toothbrush handle but not a toothbrush head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Inventor: Carolyn Cottrell
  • Publication number: 20090001080
    Abstract: The present invention describes methods and apparatus store materials in a refuse container or a storage container. An exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a container enclosing system having an inner container enabled to store multiple materials. Furthermore, the container enclosing system has a first exterior panel and a second exterior panel, both in communication with the inner container. Additionally, the container enclosing system provides an access mechanism enabled to move the first exterior panel and the second exterior panel from a first closed position to a second open position located a predetermined distance from the center vertical axis of the inner container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2008
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Applicant: Lifetime Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Tom Mirabile, Hugh Biber
  • Patent number: 7434681
    Abstract: A wetting vessel (6) designed to contain an element made of absorbent material (8) saturated in its lower part with wetting liquid and including elements (80) for decanting pigments if any contained in the wetting liquid. In accordance with one possible embodiment, the decantation elements are studs (80) whereon is set the absorbent material and the vessel (6) has a lid (7) defining an open wetting compartment for the absorbent wetting material (8) and a drying compartment including a drying absorbent material (9) set on a base forming a sieve. The paint can include a series of paint blocks (4) arranged so as to provide projecting each side by side a paint surface constituting a common dipping surface for a paint brush (4d) of the type having a foam dipping spatula.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: BHM Diffusion
    Inventor: Hamza Benderdouch
  • Publication number: 20080142385
    Abstract: Left-handed and right-handed twist tip cleaning devices for cleaning left and right ear canals of a user comprise a shaft having a soft twist tip head which is positioned over a hemisphere type end of the shaft which is supported by two angled inwardly legs. The soft twist tip head has six flutes encircling a bullet shaped body along the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The flutes of the left-handed twist tip cleaning device differ from the right-handed twist tip cleaning device by angling the flutes to optimize cleaning of the ear canals when rotated by the user. A tickler extends from the top of the twist tip head to provide a safety warning when the tickler contacts an ear drum. A storage box comprises a plurality of left-handed twist tip cleaning devices in one-half of the box with one end removably hinged to an edge of the box. A second half of the storage box comprises a plurality of right-handed twist tip cleaning devices removably hinged to an edge of the box.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2006
    Publication date: June 19, 2008
    Inventors: Michael J. Stein, Udo H. Fritsch
  • Patent number: 7387204
    Abstract: A cosmetic brush container has a cylindrical sidewall, a closed bottom, and an open top. A tray is carried within the container for axial movement relative to a longitudinal axis of the container from a lower storage position. A lid releasably fits over the top of the container. A rod extends between the tray and the lid. Brushes are carried in the container, with lower ends supported on the tray and bristles supported by the sidewall of the container. Lifting the lid causes the tray to move upward and the bristles of the brushes to move above the top of the container for access by a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignee: Bao Sheng Corporation
    Inventor: Choon Woo Lee
  • Patent number: 7299922
    Abstract: The present invention is directed towards a dentifrice item holder; most particularly a holder capable of holding toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes and other various items, such as a rinse container, mouthwash, dental floss, toothpicks, and the like, all together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Inventor: Tamara Ceballos
  • Patent number: 7273148
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a tool holder convertible between storage and display configurations and a method of manufacture therefore. In one embodiment, the tool holder includes a flexible wrapper including first and second parallel major and minor edges and a fold line located between the first and second major edges. The tool holder also includes a first fastener including first and second portions located proximate the first and second minor edges, respectfully, that is alignable in opposition to allow a coupling of the first and second minor edges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Inventors: Martha Starr Perry, Michael Stuart Perry
  • Patent number: 7213706
    Abstract: A packaging system comprising a plurality of disposable cleaning heads, each of the plurality of cleaning heads including at least one cleaning substrate and a one-piece flexible fitment, the fitment including an engagement member adapted to removably engage a handle, and a shell having a bottom and a top, the top being hingedly connected to the bottom whereby said shell has an open position and a closed position, the bottom including a first cavity adapted to receive and retain at least one of the plurality of cleaning heads, the top including a second cavity adapted to receive and retain at least one of said plurality of cleaning heads. Preferably, the first and second cavities are adapted to receive and retain at least three of the plurality of cleaning heads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: The Clorox Co.
    Inventors: Deborah A. Belser, Thomas Cantwell, John Hoffman, Christopher Pressley
  • Patent number: 7128215
    Abstract: A container for swabs with and opening, a hinged lid and a movable internal support member. The movable support member is mechanically linked to the lid so that the support member moves up when the lid is opened so that the swabs protrude from the opening. Grasping a swab is thus facilitated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Inventor: Sasan Danechi
  • Patent number: 7090072
    Abstract: A paint storage apparatus comprising a cap, a container divided into a plurality of chambers, and a lid having a plurality of orifices is disclosed. The apparatus is preferably substantially cylindrical and is uniformly formed from a homogenous material. When the lid is fixed on the container, the orifices are aligned over the chambers, with one of the plurality of orifices over each of the plurality of chambers. Further, when the lid and the container are mated, the plurality of chambers in the container are sealed such that paint cannot be interchanged between the chambers. The cap is configured to detachably couple to the lid and prevent spillage and spoilage of paint stored within the container. In addition, the cap and the lid preferably each further comprise tabs configured to facilitate removal of the lid from the container and to facilitate removal of the cap from the lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Excelligence Learning Corporation
    Inventor: Ronald C. Elliott
  • Patent number: 6926151
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a tool holder convertible between storage and display configurations and a method of manufacture therefor. In one embodiment, the tool holder includes a flexible wrapper including first and second parallel major and minor edges and a fold line located between the first and second major edges. The first minor edge includes a first notch proximate a corner thereof. The tool holder also includes a first fastener including first and second portions located proximate the first and second minor edges, respectively, that is alignable in opposition to allow a coupling of the first and second minor edges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Inventors: Martha Starr Perry, Michael Stuart Perry
  • Patent number: 6752267
    Abstract: A case for storing a plurality of commercial paint brushes comprised of a hinged lid and tray. Paintbrushes are suspended in the air through the cooperation of the handle pin, which secures a single brush's lower handle by its display hole, and a forward serrated bridge of aligned recesses which support the brush at the upper handle. The brush is locked in place by the closing of the lid when syncline divots in a lid mounted press form alternating seals and apertures with the recesses of the lower bridge. Brushes are kept vertically oriented through rubber protrusions forward of the apertures. The brush is prevented from slipping off the pin anchoring the handle by a bumper which cannot be cleared by the handle when a brush is in the horizontal locked position. Dividers keep the brushes segregated and the bristles protected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Inventors: Murray Allan MacPherson, Jaret Austin Parker