Plural Distinct Feet Or Supports Type Patents (Class 206/511)
  • Patent number: 4789130
    Abstract: A container and ice cube tray assembly to store a plurality of relatively small similarly shaped items with easy user manual access. The container has a corrugated bottom wall and two spaced apart side walls integrally connected to the bottom wall and terminating at the top thereof in an outwardly directed flange. Located near the junction of the side walls and outwardly directed flanges is a longitudinal groove extending therealong. The container has two spaced apart end walls, said end walls integrally connected to the bottom and side walls and extend up the side walls a substantial distance and each has a terminal end extending in a horizontal plane parallel to the bottom wall the full width of the container to allow user manual access from either end of the container to the small items stored in the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1988
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Richard A. Stich, William J. Armstrong
  • Patent number: 4785930
    Abstract: An ammunition container having a container tube and a lid at the front end is used for the storage and transport of grenades (10), rockets or the like. The intention is to rationalize transfer and facilitate operation (stackable, loading and unloading in the horizontal position). For this purpose, two parallel stacking surfaces (3, 4) located opposite one another are provided in the region of the two tube ends, and the lid is in the form of a hinged lid (6), the joint of which (axle 7) is located within the distance between the stacking surfaces and preferably parallel to the stacking surfaces. A pair of stacking surfaces is expediently provided on a collar, which is penetrated by the container tube (2). A double container having two adjacent tubes in common collars is advantageous. Two variants of lid closures, a transport lock, and a simple, cheap pressure equilibration valve are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1987
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1988
    Assignee: Muller AG Verpackungen
    Inventors: Marco Fischer, Hans Kaspar, Heinrich Wohlgemuth
  • Patent number: 4785939
    Abstract: In a stacking tray combination of the kind containing a series of trays overlying one another in vertical spaced relationship and containing support means for holding said trays in that described position, the improvement is characterized by at least a portion of the support means comprising a hollow channel shaped member, which is connected to the side of a tray and which contains an open side portion; and by an insertable key means positioned within said channel shaped member, with said key means containing a key portion for linking said channel member within another portion of said support means; and with said key means further having a surface for closing the open side of said channel shaped member and together with that member simulating a thick solid post. In an additional aspect of the invention a cap is provided for covering the upper end of the channel member to add to the impression of solidness of form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1987
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1988
    Assignee: Eldon Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert R. Huerto, Cory A. Saulsberry
  • Patent number: 4775050
    Abstract: A stackable and nestable beverage case is provided. A rib structure to afford rigidity and durability, tapered sides to facilitate removal of containers from the case and tapered surfaces to provide secure nesting of cases are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1987
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1988
    Assignee: Spectrum International, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas Box
  • Patent number: 4757910
    Abstract: A beverage case with mating tapered top and bottom edges is provided. Slots and extensions in registry with the slots to afford positive fitting of stacked cases are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 19, 1988
    Assignee: Spectrum International, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas Box
  • Patent number: 4752007
    Abstract: A disk shipper is configured so as to allow the disk contents to be handled either by their internal diameter or by their external diameter. The bottom of the disk shipper is further configured so as to be compatible with certain existing disk carriers in transferring the disk contents to the particular disk carrier and vice versa. Since the particular disk carrier with which the bottom of the disk shipper is compatible prohibits external diameter handling, the novel disk shipper bottom facilitates transposing the disks into a configuration that permits both external and internal diameter handling. Supporting members inside the disk shipper maintain the disks in axial alignment preventing relative motion of the disks during handling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 21, 1988
    Assignee: Fluoroware, Inc.
    Inventors: Alexander N. Rossi, Lynn Milbrett
  • Patent number: 4742933
    Abstract: A container of plastics material for mortar having such a holding capacity that it can be carried by one person in the filled state either not at all or with great difficulty. The container has support bars on its bottom side and is equipped on its top or filling side with two essentially symmetrically constructed plastics material covers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1986
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1988
    Assignee: Joh. Panick GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Klaus Panick
  • Patent number: 4736861
    Abstract: Substantially slip and skid resistant reel carriers are disclosed for storing, carrying and shipping reels of motion picture film, videotape, magnetic tape and the like. The reel carriers include a plurality of tapered cylindrical bumpers or feet formed of a material having a high coefficient of friction which are adhered to the external surfaces of the top and bottom walls of the reel carrier. In preferred embodiment the bumpers are formed of a polypropylene-butaliene copolymer and are riveted to the reel carrier. The reel carriers exhibit satisfactory functional affinity for conveyor belts and are well suited for shipping and handling by contemporary automated shipping equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1982
    Date of Patent: April 12, 1988
    Assignee: Plastic Reel Corp. of America
    Inventor: Robert A. Basili
  • Patent number: 4718552
    Abstract: A disk shipper and transfer tray are configured so as to allow the disk contents to be handled either by their internal diameter or by their external diameter. The transfer tray and the bottom of the disk shipper are further configured so as to be compatible with certain existing disk carriers in transferring the disk contents of the transfer tray or the bottom of the disk shipper to the particular disk carrier and vice versa. Since the particular disk carrier with which the transfer tray and the bottom of the disk shipper are compatible prohibits external diameter handling, the novel disk shipper bottom and transfer tray facilitate transposing the disks into a configuration that permits both external and internal diameter handling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1988
    Assignee: Fluoroware, Inc.
    Inventors: Alexander N. Rossi, Lynn Milbrett
  • Patent number: 4711355
    Abstract: Stackable box for receiving objects, provided with a bottom, whether or not detachable, and upright side walls comprising side and transverse walls which join each other in corner points, the box being provided with detachable extension pieces having legs extending upwardly from the side walls, each extension piece also being provided with a pair of wings, each wing extending parallel to the side walls joining each other in a relevant corner point and taken up at least with their bottom ends in recesses made in said side walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1985
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1987
    Inventor: Simon J. M. Veenman
  • Patent number: 4694950
    Abstract: An assembly tray is injection molded with an open bottom to provide access to articles supported by the tray during manufacturing. Gear teeth are included on the bottom of the tray in the shape of a timing belt for indexing the tray during manufacturing. Stacking ledges are provided in the rim on top of the tray so that one tray can be stacked on top of another without sticking. A torsion box is provided on the sides of the tray to provide torsional stability. The assembly tray can be selected from a stack of other trays, used in automated manufacturing and stacked in another stack. The assembly tray is particularly suited for assemblying components of tape cassettes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1984
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1987
    Assignee: Shape Inc.
    Inventor: Robert B. Macleod, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4678084
    Abstract: A novel shipping container, package, and method of packaging are provided for facilitating the packaging, shipment and storage of heavy, bulky, and deformable endless belts. The shipping container includes top and bottom members which cooperatively engage each other to provide an interior hollow chamber. Interposed wall portions are provided in the bottom member which extend at an angle between the side walls and bottom wall of the bottom member. The side walls and interposed wall portions of the bottom member cooperate with portions of an endless belt positioned in the container to ensure that the belt maintains its substantially cylindrical configuration during transportation or storage in order to avoid the damaging effects to the belt which result from its collapse within a conventional container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1985
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1987
    Assignee: United States Supply Company
    Inventors: Lewis W. Maker, Horace Nicholson
  • Patent number: 4673087
    Abstract: A container is formed of a rigid, flat base, a rigid cover, and four vertically arranged, flat wall forming panels that are connected together along their adjacent vertical edges by hinge-like corner connectors and whose upper and lower edges are removably held in corresponding grooves formed in the base and cover. The panels are made of plastic extruded into parallel, spaced apart rigid sheets that are interconnected by numerous, spaced apart, transverse strips whose opposite ends are integral with the sheets. Each corner has a flat, sheet-like base strip that is integrally formed with a flexible center and rigid opposite edge sections that extend along the length of the connector base. Each of the opposite edge sections has an integral T-shaped rib extending along its length. The ribs are inserted endwise into elongated vertical slots formed in the endmost strips of the adjacent panel edges for fastening the connectors to the panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1985
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1987
    Assignee: Peninsula Plastics Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel D. Webb
  • Patent number: 4671411
    Abstract: A molded plastic and metal case is provided which is designed to be stackable with other cases of the same construction to provide a sturdy display of the products contained therein and which is also nestable with other like cases to provide compact storage of empty cases. The display case is formed primarily of molded plastic and includes two upstanding metal frames on either side which form handles for carrying the case. Along the inside bottom of the case is a metal ring which is welded to the upstanding metal frames. The upper portion of each handle forms a stacking ledge which is received within a channel positioned adjacent and parallel to the side edges along the underside of each case, thus allowing the cases to be securely stacked. Adjacent each channel is a parallel slot which extends through the underside of each case and is used for nesting empty cases. The slot is designed to receive the frames of the next two lower cases thereby permitting a nesting ratio of 3:1 or greater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1987
    Assignee: Rehrig Pacific Company
    Inventors: James B. Rehrig, John Hagan
  • Patent number: 4660724
    Abstract: A container replacing a 55-gallon drum is substantially elongate rectangular with a length and width equal to or greater than its height to present a low center of gravity. An upstanding lip on a top wall and a depending lip on a bottom wall rest within one another to prevent lateral shifting of stacked containers. The lips have pairs of registered notches along all four sides to facilitate fork lifting from any side. The bottom depending lip spaces the bottom wall of the container from a floor to create a space for receiving the lift truck tines thereunder. The nesting depending and upstanding lips likewise create a space between stacked containers for receiving the lift truck tines therebetween. Openings in the top wall and both end walls provide access to the internal storage chamber, and the openings are protected from damage by overhanging top and bottom walls and the upstanding lip. The upstanding lip also includes perforations for lifting the container with such as rope, slings or chains from above.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1986
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1987
    Inventor: Chester Gaynes
  • Patent number: 4660725
    Abstract: An integrally molded storage receptacle having sidewalls which taper slightly from front to back to facilitate removal of the receptacle from the mold in which it is made. The receptacle also includes pairs of compensating ribs to enable it to be stacked on similarly constructed receptacles while maintaining vertical alignment. The receptacle also includes a transparent pivotable door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1985
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1987
    Assignee: APL Corporation
    Inventors: Aaron H. Fishman, Joseph Bottitta
  • Patent number: 4650381
    Abstract: The present invention is directed towards a container for the handling of truck-trailer chassis in overland and marine transportation. The container is capable of being stacked with other containers and is provided with front and rear endframes, removably secured to front and rear bolsters of the interlocking container chassis frame, which hold a stack of chassis of same or different lengths, in place for shipping. Strong points provided at the corners of the front and rear end endframes facilitating handling and allowing for the securement of the container to overland transportation vehicles and when stowed above deck on marine vessels through the use of conventional securement devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1985
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1987
    Inventor: Robert O. Durkin
  • Patent number: 4638941
    Abstract: Paperboard containers for shipping and display have been invented that utilize the various parts of the container. Columns of containers possess excellent stacking strength and stability because rigid relationships exist between the containers. The rigid relationships are derived from good connections between the parts of the containers and the contents within. Since only a part of the contents are needed to develop column strength and stability, the contents are displayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1985
    Date of Patent: January 27, 1987
    Assignee: Weyerhaeuser Company
    Inventor: Robert L. Watson
  • Patent number: 4618059
    Abstract: A divider for separating stacked articles, particularly yarn spools, includes a substantially rigid planar member in which plural apertures, preferably having the shape and arrangement as shown in FIG. 1, are defined so that the divider is capable of accommodating various diameters of yarn spools, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1983
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1986
    Assignee: Burlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: James A. Cochran
  • Patent number: 4615443
    Abstract: A beverage bottle package display system is disclosed. The display system includes a base unit, a plurality of shelves and a shelf holder. The base unit and each shelf have a horizontally extending rib and two vertically extending ribs on their top sides. Each horizontal rib intersects two vertical ribs to form six rectangular compartments on the top side of the base unit and each shelf. Each compartment is define to accept one package of twelve 12-ounce beverage bottles or two packages of six 12-ounce beverage bottles. The display is built by placing any combination of 12-bottle packages or two 6-bottle packages in the base unit compartments. A first shelf is then placed on top of the packages in the base unit, and the first shelf compartments are filled with 12-bottle and/or two 6-bottle packages. Successive shelves of 12-bottle or 6-bottle packages may be added to the display system in the same manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 1985
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1986
    Assignee: Visual Marketing Inc.
    Inventors: John F. Deffner, Raymond R. Young, Russell M. Barnes
  • Patent number: 4601393
    Abstract: A rectangular or square stackable plastic carrier, more particularly a plastic crate, comprises a support bottom part 1 formed of a bottom 2 with an upright edge 3 at its periphery.Corner columns 4 are able to fit at their top end and bottom end respectively, into the bottom and top side of a carrier disposed thereon and therebeneath.The length H of the corner columns is a multiple of the height h of the bottom part 1.The external distance L.sub.1 between two opposite set-back sides 5 of the bottom part 1 is substantially equal to or less than the internal distance L.sub.2 between two corner columns measured between the same opposite set-back sides 5, said set-back sides being provided with a handle 6. The set-back part 5 corresponds to the transverse dimension of a corner column. In the space between two corner columns 4 and the set-back part 5 free ends of corner columns of a carrier being therebeneath in a staggered relationship, may be received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1984
    Date of Patent: July 22, 1986
    Assignee: Simon J. M. Veenman
    Inventors: Simon J. M. Veenman, Coenraad J. B. M. Benraad
  • Patent number: 4599314
    Abstract: A specimen tray apparatus is disclosed primarily for use in cell culture studies. The apparatus includes a tray and a plurality of individual cells in the form of specimen vessels which can be removably located in the tray. A lid is also provided for the tray and is physically identical therewith. Each vessel has a cover which is received in an opening in the lid when the tray and lid are assembled, so that pressure sensitive tape can then be used to releasably secure the covers to the lid while allowing one or more of the covers to be released when appropriate by peeling back the tape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1983
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1986
    Assignee: HSC Research Development Corporation
    Inventor: Yehezkel Shami
  • Patent number: 4591065
    Abstract: A foldable container assembly (10) comprises a base (12) having a plurality of sides, at least one side wall (14, 16, 18, 20) extending vertically upwardly from each side of the base (12) with the tops (22) of the side walls all being aligned in a horizontal plane. The invention is characterized by hinges (24) interconnecting each of the side walls to the base with the hinge for a first wall (14) being in a vertically spaced horizontal plane from the hinge for a second side wall (16) for folding the first (14) and second (16) side walls over the base (12) and into overlapping vertical relationship to one another. Hinges (24) on the first and second walls (14, 16) have an associated link (50) having slots (52) therein for allowing the side wall to move vertically relative to the base (12) for locking and unlocking the walls from one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1984
    Date of Patent: May 27, 1986
    Inventor: Dennis M. Foy
  • Patent number: 4580680
    Abstract: A shipping pallet is provided formed of a unitary sheet of material and having a generally planar base with a plurality of spaced proturberances extending upwardly from the upper surface of the base. The protuberances are adapted to receive respective items to be shipped thereon and to maintain such items in a predetermined relationship. The pallets further include a plurality of foot means projecting downwardly from the base, with portions of said foot means being proximal to each upwardly projecting protuberance so that said foot means effect enhanced support for items to be positioned on the protuberances and effect enhanced load distribution for the items positioned on the pallet. Additionally, a shipping container formed from two of the shipping pallets is provided for containing and transporting a load of items or packages having tubular carrier cores.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1984
    Date of Patent: April 8, 1986
    Assignee: Bigelow-Sanford, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph H. Wind
  • Patent number: 4580681
    Abstract: The nestable case is generally box-shaped with four side walls and a base. The side walls include upper fixed wall portions that are rigidly joined together to define a mouth portion of the case. The side walls also include moveable wall portions that are hinged to corresponding foldable sections of the base. When the case is fully loaded with containers the moveable wall portions and foldable sections of the base are in an expanded limit position. When the case is emptied the moveable wall portions and the foldable sections of the base can be moved to a contracted condition, which permits nesting of similarly empty cases. Fully loaded cases in the expanded limit position can be stacked one upon the other or arranged in a pinwheel configuration. A further embodiment of the invention includes provision of a shield at corner clearance openings to protect bruising of any portions of the containers that project from the corner clearance opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1984
    Date of Patent: April 8, 1986
    Inventor: Bernard Braun
  • Patent number: 4579489
    Abstract: A container, which is typically rectangular, includes a bottom and an upwardly extending sidewall. Upper and lower support surfaces, preferably adjacent the sidewall, allow the containers to be stacked. The container has an interlocking member for laterally coupling containers in one vertical column with containers in an adjacent vertical column. The interlocking member extends laterally from the outer surface of the sidewall. The interlocking member includes an upper portion extending a first distance above the upper support surface. The container includes a cavity extending upwardly from the bottom. The cavity is open at the bottom and is sized for insertion of the upper portion of an interlocking member therein. In so doing a container on one level becomes laterally interlocked with a container on a level either above or below it and to one side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1984
    Date of Patent: April 1, 1986
    Assignee: Palcon Corporation
    Inventor: Anthony Sarantitis
  • Patent number: 4572372
    Abstract: A radioactive waste multiple container system which provides a simplified method whereby a plurality of drums can be placed in a remote, unmanned storage facility in one materials handling sequence, as opposed to a plurality of separate materials handling sequences, such as required for individual drums utilizing a remotely-controlled materials handling system. The multiple container system also functions as an interim storage system in that it will allow for stacking up to a total of ten levels high. Each container interlocks with each successive unit, through automatic, passive alignment of the individual container with the previously placed unit, while being handled completely by remote control. This interlock and alignment feature insures greater stack stability, substantially increasing the overall storage efficiency of the remote storage facility. While a "6-pack" container system has been described, a 4, 8, 10, 12 etc. system may be used instead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1982
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1986
    Assignee: Gilbert Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald J. Smith, L. David Garman, W. Evans Reynolds
  • Patent number: 4566588
    Abstract: An ammunition storage system includes a plurality of like containers each having two internal compartments for receiving two rounds of ammunition in side-by-side relationship, the upper and lower faces of each container being formed with complementary nesting elements permitting a plurality of like containers to be stacked in nested relationship and secured together to form a multi-layer honeycomb construction for a plurality of ammunition rounds. Each container is constructed with an outer rigid plastic housing, an inner liner for each compartment, and a cushioning body of foamed plastics material surrounding each of the liners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1983
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1986
    Assignee: Urdan Industries Ltd.
    Inventor: Nachman Kataczynski
  • Patent number: 4545487
    Abstract: A food serving tray has a hood shaped to define a generally planar upper surface along with a downwardly depending first marginal skirt. A generally planar lid has an upwardly projecting second marginal skirt that is bonded to the first skirt. A food support is also of generally planar shape and has a downwardly depending third marginal skirt that is bonded to an upwardly-projecting fourth marginal skirt of a likewise generally planar base. The lid is indexed so as to lie in mating relationship atop the support. A liner desirably covers the support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1984
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1985
    Assignee: Anchor Hocking Corporation
    Inventor: Edward Asmus
  • Patent number: 4541529
    Abstract: A stackable plastic container has a unitarily formed handle on a top surface thereof. In accordance with a first feature, the top wall is provided with a pair of upwardly projecting portions that are asymmetrically disposed relative to a center line extending across the container and between which the handle extends. The bottom portion is provided with supporting and stacking nubs that are situated at positions corresponding to the projecting top wall portions, and the top wall portions have nub-receiving stacking recesses positioned on opposite sides of the handle so as to enable stacking of a like container on the container by engagement of supporting and stacking nubs of the like container in the stacking recesses of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1983
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1985
    Assignee: Bomatic, Inc.
    Inventors: Borge Hestehave, Kjeld Hestehave
  • Patent number: 4518085
    Abstract: An article of manufacture having specific utility as a multi-purpose, stackable transport tray for printed-wiring boards and accessories therefor in reusable carrier shuttles and comprising an open-work base with side portions extending upward from the base. A shelf runs the inside length of each side portion with a plurality of fin-shaped support members spaced away from the shelf by an arbitrary amount and extending inwardly from the side portion. A plurality of stiffening members extend from the base to the shelf. A plurality of ribs on the bottom surface of the base extend in a direction parallel with the sides and positioned so as to interlock and engage the support members of an underlying tray. A plurality of transverse ribs on the bottom of the base are also so positioned to engage the support members of an underlying tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1983
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1985
    Assignee: AT&T Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: William M. Chisholm, Fred E. Thompson
  • Patent number: 4505391
    Abstract: A cook-in carton includes a two-panel wall. The inner one of the two panels is provided with vent openings, and the outer one of the panels extends over the openings and is adhered to the inner panel by tabs on opposed edges thereof. The outer panel includes between the tabs a weakened section and opposed flaps. Parallel score lines are provided in each of the flaps, and lugs are formed on the free edges of the flaps upon removal of the weakened section. The flaps are then foldable, in accordion fashion, followed by insertability of the lugs into apertures aligned therewith, where they are restrained in formation of carton support legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1983
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1985
    Assignee: James River-Norwalk, Inc.
    Inventor: Morris W. Kuchenbecker
  • Patent number: 4496270
    Abstract: A chain cap is provided for forming a stable load suitable for vehicular travel from a plurality of elongate articles. A plurality of the chain caps are provided for encompassing the elongate articles. Each of the chain caps are provided with interfitting surfaces which interlock when the chain caps are stacked, tie bar surfaces which define tie bar channels extending between adjacent chain caps and conformal surfaces for engaging the elongate articles. Each of the elongate articles is engaged by at least a pair of the chain caps, the conformal surfaces of the chain caps engaging opposing sides of the elongate articles. A first planar array of the elongate articles is established, the elongate articles being disposed in a roughly parallel relationship with pairs of chain caps being adjacently disposed for defining a tie bar channel therebetween. A tie bar is mounted in the tie bar channel, the tie bar extending between adjacent pairs of chain caps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1982
    Date of Patent: January 29, 1985
    Assignee: Urban Systems Streetscape, Inc.
    Inventor: Curtiss W. Miller
  • Patent number: 4491231
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved collapsible square case having a square open top and being particularly adapted for holding a plurality of items. The case includes a pair of opposed corner panels. Each of the corner panels has a flat side and a corner wall formed integral with one edge of the respective flat side being substantially perpendicular to the flat side. Each of said corner panels being an integral molded plastic panel. Said flat sides are parallel to each other. Said corner walls are parallel to each other. A pair of flat panels, each having one edge hingedly connected to a corner wall and the opposite edge connected to the edge of the flat side of the other corner panel. Each of the flat panels being an integral molded plastic part. A floor panel being an integral molded plastic part. Said floor panel being hingedly connected to the lower edge of a flat side of one of the corner panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1983
    Date of Patent: January 1, 1985
    Assignee: Family Distributors, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce Heggeland, George Garcia, Sam S. LoBosco
  • Patent number: 4485924
    Abstract: A stackable drum as disclosed. At one edge of the top, a water collecting channel is defined having outlet holes communicating with it. The walls of the drum are reinforced. A skirting on the bottom of the drum is received within the lip of the drum beneath. The top, bottom and side walls are adapted to cooperate, when a plurality of such drums are stacked vertically, to pass the weight of an upper drum directly through the rim of the top, through the walls and bottom, and into a third drum stacked below it. A cap seal is applied atop the lid of the drum. It is in the form of a closed pan, with a stopper in it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1982
    Date of Patent: December 4, 1984
    Inventors: Angel Ripoll, Antonio Vidal
  • Patent number: 4480748
    Abstract: A shipping pallet is disclosed which comprises a unitary sheet of material and which is so constructed so as to be usable with another substantially identical pallet to serve as a bottom and top of a shipping container for transporting and storing a product. The pallet comprises a base with a plurality of a foot means projecting from one side thereof, a first sleeve receiving groove extending adjacent the periphery of the pallet on the side opposite the foot means, and a second sleeve receiving groove on the same side of the pallet and positioned so as not to extend beyond the confines of the first groove. The two grooves are constructed and arranged so as to each receive a sleeve therein of different cross-sectional configurations, such as either a square sleeve or an octagonal sleeve, and with the opposite ends of the sleeve being positioned in the corresponding one of the first and second grooves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1982
    Date of Patent: November 6, 1984
    Assignee: Bigelow-Sanford, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph H. Wind
  • Patent number: 4478156
    Abstract: A stackable load carrier for transporting and furnishing objects comprises an open-top box-like member which has a side wall and a bottom from which there extends downwardly a frame having, on the one hand, two opposed similar open recesses extending from the lower edge surface of the frame substantially up to the bottom and adapted to permit the insertion of at least one fork of a hand-lift truck or the load-carrying part of a sack trolley underneath the bottom, and, on the other, two opposed similar windows laterally spaced apart from the recesses and arranged to permit the insertion of at least one fork of a fork-lift truck or the load-carrying part of a sack trolley underneath the bottom. One or more shoulders or projections disposed on the outer side of the side wall or the frame above or on a level with the upper edge of the windows are arranged for abutting engagement with the lower frame edge surface of another load carrier telescopically stacked on the first load carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1982
    Date of Patent: October 23, 1984
    Assignee: Alfa-Laval AB
    Inventor: Kjell Andersson
  • Patent number: 4458815
    Abstract: A tray is disclosed especially suitable for use in the candy industry. The tray has a unique arrangement of legs, lugs, and anti-slip features which facilitate stacking, handling, and cleaning of the trays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1982
    Date of Patent: July 10, 1984
    Assignee: Molded Fiber Glass Tray Company
    Inventors: Robert E. Mollman, Charles E. Kappelt
  • Patent number: 4444320
    Abstract: A stackable shelf unit is disclosed which is adapted to be stacked and supported upon a like shelf unit. The shelf unit is preferably fabricated from plastic coated metal wire, and includes a pair of spaced side frame members between which extend a plurality of spaced shelf members. The side frame members each include a pair of downwardly depending leg portions, with each leg portion including an offset portion adapted to engage and be supported upon the like shelf unit so that the shelf unit may be stacked thereupon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1981
    Date of Patent: April 24, 1984
    Assignee: Selfix, Inc.
    Inventor: John P. Chap
  • Patent number: 4441615
    Abstract: A stackable tray includes a generally planar tray bottom and a pair of opposed side walls extending upwardly therefrom. A pair of rails extend downwardly from the bottom and lie generally below the side walls. Ridges are provided at the bottom of the rails and slots and support edges are provided adjacent the side walls to permit the trays to be stacked in a variety of configurations. The H-design of the trays of the present invention improves stacking and stability characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1982
    Date of Patent: April 10, 1984
    Inventor: D. Stephen Goodrich
  • Patent number: 4440303
    Abstract: An improved insulated tray having both of its top and bottom surfaces configured so that either may receive food articles. In addition, the configuration is such that the trays may be stacked one upon the other in a wide variety of configurations. When so stacked, the depressions in the upper tray serve to provide a closure for the depressions in the lower tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1981
    Date of Patent: April 3, 1984
    Assignee: King-Seeley Thermos Co.
    Inventor: Richard H. Seager
  • Patent number: 4435026
    Abstract: A gravity fed dispensing device of the type designed to serially dispense a plurality of cylindraceous containers. The containers to be dispensed are charged into the device at the top thereof, and follow a series of downwardly descending ramp means to the discharge station. Each successive ramp means segment is sloped in a direction opposite to the direction of slope of the ramp means segment that precedes and succeeds it. The ramp means are disposed in interconnecting relation to transversely spaced sidewall members, and a tray member is defined by one set of sidewalls interconnected by a pair of such ramp means segments, adjacent the upper and lower edges thereof. The tray members are stackable to increase the storage capacity of the device as desired, and the ramp means segments are specifically positioned so that the upright and overturned positions of the tray members are identical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1982
    Date of Patent: March 6, 1984
    Inventor: Michael R. Johnson
  • Patent number: 4428487
    Abstract: A sectional display rack comprising a novel construction of horizontal rectangular trays and support legs, each tray and leg formed of plastic, wherein both upper and lower sides on each tray bottom wall are formed with upstanding ribs defining a space between the rib and the side wall into which a wing portion of each support leg is fitted and in which wedge shaped cams are provided on side walls of the tray to lock in corresponding recess or groove portions in the wing portions of the supporting leg to lock the leg in position. A spaced apart pair of wedge shaped cams is provided in each wall and the cams in the upper wall portion above the floor of the tray are offset from those cams formed in the lower wall. The advantages of these upright rib projections on the bottom walls and the locking tabs in the side walls in the tray are to provide a stable rack and to permit a low cost molding operation for manufacturing the attachment means comprising ribs, cams and recesses above and below the tray floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1982
    Date of Patent: January 31, 1984
    Inventor: James Hepp
  • Patent number: 4413737
    Abstract: A shipping container is provided comprising a pallet as the bottom thereof, an inverted identical pallet as the top thereof, and a peripheral sleeve forming load-bearing side walls mating with each pallet via a peripheral sleeve-receiving groove defined by a peripheral rim. The unitary pallet is configured so that a bottom pallet of one container will mate with the inverted top pallet of a lower container, when containers are stacked, in such a way as to prevent shifting between containers. Said pallets are also self-nesting for transport or storage when unloaded. The containers will stack even if vertically adjacent mutually inverse pallets are rotated 180.degree. in a horizontal plane with respect to each other. This ability to tolerate a 180.degree. rotation is provided by depending members and platform members of the pallet feet, oriented so that (i) a 180.degree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1981
    Date of Patent: November 8, 1983
    Assignee: Bigelow-Sanford, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph H. Wind
  • Patent number: 4399159
    Abstract: A tray and lid assembly formed of synthetic plastic material for containing a pre-cooked meal which is to be stored in the frozen state and thereafter reheated before being served. The tray which has a polygonal shape is provided with an outwardly-extending continuous flange running along the upper edge of the sides to surround the open mouth. The lid, which has the same geometry as the tray and is of the same material, has a downwardly-extending peripheral skirt which engages the periphery of the tray flange and a continuous underside strip which is received within the mouth of the tray. Because of the presence of the meal in the tray, when the assembly is subjected to freezing temperatures, the lid contracts to a somewhat greater extent than the tray, as a consequence of which the skirt is caused to press against the flange to effect an outer seal, whereas the strip is inwardly displaced from the mouth to provide a leakage path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1981
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1983
    Assignee: Sunset Ltd.
    Inventor: Raul Guibert
  • Patent number: 4375265
    Abstract: This invention pertains to a one-piece molded pallet-container made of a foamed plastic. In a preferred embodiment the pallet provides a stacking capability with a series of like pallet-containers. The container may have its base formed with entrances on all four sides for the placing and positioning of the forks of a fork lift truck. The base or bottom of this molded pallet-container has reinforcing ribs extending downwardly particularly at and forming the support portion for the forks of the lift truck. The exterior of the walls of this pallet-container are formed with ribs providing side wall strength to the container for a full load of fluid or similar material exerting a side thrust on the walls. In a like manner, the ribs on the bottom also provide strength and rigidity to the bottom member. The bottom support surface and the outwardly extending portion of the bottom are adapted for placing on and transport by a roller conveyor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1978
    Date of Patent: March 1, 1983
    Inventors: Gerrit van de Wetering, Jack J. Isler
  • Patent number: 4373633
    Abstract: The invention pertains to containers capable of being vertically stacked, and in particular, relates to lids and bottoms for cans which facilitate stacking. The can lids and bottoms are identical, formed of a generally planar sheet metal body having an annular ridge extending from the body plane which projects beyond the plane of the can rolled edge. Alternate depressions and projections of complementary configuration and dimension are defined upon the ridge wherein the stacking of cans permits the recesses of one can to receive the projections of the adjacent can end, the interconnection of the recesses and projections resisting lateral can displacement, and producing an "indexed" interlocking between stacked cans.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1981
    Date of Patent: February 15, 1983
    Inventor: Milton F. Lutz, Sr.
  • Patent number: 4366905
    Abstract: A plastic material handling rack adapted to receive and translate small or relatively large parts or units, capable of being stacked vertically one rack upon another, and to be loaded by conventional fork lift trucks into transportation vehicles. The plastic material handling rack is assembled with corner posts, side rails and end rails that form the unit into a rectilinear framework. A floor plate is removably attachable to the framing. Transverse rails are attached to the side or end rails for support of larger machine units or devices, and solid or perforated side walls are attachable to the corner posts and upon the side rails and end rails, converting the open framework of the rack into a tub rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1981
    Date of Patent: January 4, 1983
    Assignee: Syn-Trac Systems Inc.
    Inventor: David J. Forshee
  • Patent number: 4364477
    Abstract: A plastics fish box for use on board fishing boats at sea is described. The fish box has a bottom, and side and end walls of substantially uniform thickness which terminate in a rim around the upper edge of the box. The lower parts of the walls are formed without contour, while the upper portions have a wave-shaped contour region to define with the rim a plurality of handgrip recesses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1978
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1982
    Inventor: Per S. Stromberg
  • Patent number: RE32344
    Abstract: A shipping container is provided comprising a pallet as the bottom thereof, an inverted identical pallet as the top thereof, and a peripheral sleeve forming load-bearing side walls mating with each pallet via a peripheral sleeve-receiving groove defined by a peripheral rim. The unitary pallet is configured so that a bottom pallet of one container will mate with the inverted top pallet of a lower container, when containers are stacked, in such a way as to prevent shifting between containers. Said pallets are also self-nesting for transport or storage when unloaded. The containers will stack even if vertically adjacent mutually inverse pallets are rotated 180.degree. in a horizontal plane with respect to each other. This ability to tolerate a 180.degree. rotation is provided by depending members and platform members of the pallet feet, oriented so that (i) a 180.degree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1984
    Date of Patent: February 3, 1987
    Assignee: Bigelow-Sanford, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph H. Wind