In Situ Patents (Class 206/524)
  • Patent number: 10351287
    Abstract: A package insert for cushioning an object during transport includes a plurality of support pins disposed in parallel with respect to each other, and a perforated sheet having a plurality of perforation holes disposed therein. Each of the plurality of supporting pins is disposed within a corresponding perforation hole of the plurality of perforation holes. Each of the plurality of perforation holes has a diameter or width that is equal to or smaller than a diameter or width of its corresponding supporting pin such that the corresponding supporting pin is kept in place by friction when inserted into the corresponding perforation hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventor: Adam H. Eberbach
  • Patent number: 9956324
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a medical material including a copolymer having a repeating unit (A) represented by the following formula (1): wherein R11 is a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, Z is an oxygen atom or —NH—, R12 is a C1-6 alkylene group, R13 and R14 are each independently a C1-4 alkyl group, and R15 is a C1-6 alkylene group, and a repeating unit (B) represented by the following formula (2): wherein R21 is a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, R22 is a C1-6 alkylene group, and R23 is a C1-4 alkyl group. The repeating unit (A) is contained in a proportion of 0.6 to 7 mol % based on all the structural units of the copolymer. The disclosure makes it possible to provide a medical material and a medical device, which exhibit excellent antithrombogenicity even when used under severe conditions prone to thrombus formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: TERUMO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Takao Anzai, Kaori Nishida
  • Patent number: 9834365
    Abstract: Novel method of preserving the internal environmental air temperature and thereby stabilizing the temperature within the cargo compartment of a transport container, and thereby protecting the cargo itself from degradation due to temperature fluxuations, including a freeze and heat barrier attained through the characteristics of the article of manufacture, composition of matter, and method of preservation of the internal environmental air temperature and proximate cargo within said cargo compartment; along with a machine or devise that is used as either a stand-alone container, or as an insert to retrofit existing containers so as to make said retrofitted devices capable of providing cooling over an extended period of time are disclosed. The inserted cargo compartments described herein are particularly useful for temperature-stabilizing cargo compartment shipping containers that are required to maintain a temperature below ambient for a time sufficient to complete delivery of the container and its contents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Inventors: Robin L Pointer, P. Mario DiNello, Joseph Altomonte, Robert C Raymond
  • Patent number: 9067178
    Abstract: Objects of the present invention are to provide a blood purifier package which shows a less increase in the amounts of extracts from the materials of its blood purifier, particularly of its selective permeable separation membranes, attributed to the deterioration of the same materials with time after exposure to a radioactive ray or an electron ray, and which is therefore highly reliable in safety in use for hemocatharsis, and to provide a process for manufacturing the same. The present invention relates to a blood purifier package obtained by packing a blood purifier which comprises selectively permeable separation membranes as a main component, and this blood purifier package is characterized in that the blood purifier is packed and sealed together with an oxygen scavenger in a packaging material capable of shutting out an external air and a water vapor, under a condition of a relative humidity of above 40% RH at 25° C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Assignee: Nipro Corporation
    Inventors: Kimihiro Mabuchi, Noriko Monden, Noriaki Kato, Yuuki Hatakeyama, Takashi Sunohara, Toshiaki Masuda
  • Patent number: 8813958
    Abstract: The present invention provides a liquid crystal glass package box, which includes a box body, a plurality of mounting sections mounted inside the box body, and cushioning devices respectively mounted to the mounting sections. The cushioning devices each include a cushioning section and a receiving section connected to the cushioning section. The cushioning section includes an air pocket. The receiving section forms a receiving channel corresponding to the respective mounting section in order to mount the cushioning device in the box body. The liquid crystal glass package box provided by the present invention uses an air pocket to serve as a cushioning section mounted inside the box body to provide effective cushioning to liquid crystal glass for protecting the liquid crystal glass from damage during shipping. The raw material used is economic so as to effectively lower down the material cost. The structure is simple and is easy to manufacture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Shenzhen China Star Optoelectronics Technology co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yicheng Kuo, Shihhsiang Chen, Gang Yu, Jiahe Cheng, Zhilin Zhao
  • Patent number: 8434622
    Abstract: [Object] To protect a large-sized article or a large number of articles from impacts and vibrations applied thereto during transportation. [Solution Means] An article packaging unit includes a combination of an outer box 1 and a packaging mat 2. The outer box 1 is an openable and closable container for storing articles, and has a cushion 4 for supporting an article P inside. The packaging mat 2 is formed by filling cushioning bodies in an airtight bag, and attached to an inner lid 3 attached to the outer box 1. When the inside of the packaging mat 2 is deaerated, the cushioning bodies increase the filling density, solidify the packaging mat 2, and come into close contact with the surface of an article P stored in the outer box 1 and hold the article P at a fixed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Yamato Packing Technology Institute Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kouichi Kasiwabara
  • Patent number: 8210346
    Abstract: A munitions container includes an inner container and an outer container formed of a fibrous material. A form is positioned within the inner container and receives munitions. The outer container is placed on a rigid baseplate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignees: Raytheon Company, Warwick Mills, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert P. Johnson, Charles A. Howland, Jay A. Stern
  • Patent number: 8146748
    Abstract: A packaging device is provided for an item of three-dimensional shape comprising a non-porous deformable outer wrap characterized in being deformable in three dimensions to at least partially surround the item of three-dimensional shape therein. The device includes a mass of loose fill elements disposed within the outer wrap and can occupy a first volume in a first storage state sufficient to permit the packaging device to be stored. The device further provides that the mass of elements disposed within the outer wrap can occupy a second volume in a second use state to shape about the item of three dimensional shape and to permit the elements to deform within the outer wrap to accommodate the three-dimensional shape of the item. The outer wrap and the elements disposed within the outer wrap are biodegradable. The elements are adapted to change from the first storage state of unpopped corn kernels to the second use state of popped popcorn kernels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Shurtech Brands, LLC
    Inventor: Brian Vulpitta
  • Patent number: 8062682
    Abstract: A method for producing a beverage or liquid comestible from a single capsule by subdividing the interior of the capsule into a plurality of compartments, at least two compartments containing beverage-forming ingredients, introducing a liquid into one of the compartments of the capsule and starting to produce and drain a first beverage component on the basis of the ingredient contained in the first compartment, and opening a fluid communication between the first and the second compartment such that after the start of the production of the first beverage compartment, a production of a beverage component on the basis of the ingredient contained in the second compartment commences. The capsule is preferably used to make cappuccino-style beverages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Zenon Ioannis Mandralis, Jean-Paul Denisart, Tony Ward, Julien Gaillard
  • Patent number: 8006844
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a packaging system for producing a foam-in bag and method of mixing foam for the packaging of articles for shipment and storage, and in particular, to an improved, flexible, multilayered packaging system with a vented, deformable outer bag and an inner confinement structure made of paperboard box or a plastic bag with reclosable opening for optimal mixing and controlled release of the foam using preferential paths, score lines, weakness points, and/or obstacles to flow. In addition, the precursor fluids are placed in individually sealed pouches with calibrated and aptly positioned frangible seals to facilitate mixing after rupture inside of the inner confinement structure. In another embodiment, one of the precursor fluids is placed directly in the inner confinement structure, and in yet another embodiment, both sealed pouches are adhesively joined to the inner confinement structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Ivex Protective Packaging, Inc.
    Inventors: Kerry McKinley, Thomas V. Trauscht
  • Publication number: 20100263764
    Abstract: The spill curtailing tool has an elongated expandable frame; a first handle on a first end of the frame; a second handle mounted to an intermediate position along the frame, and a tube mounted to a second end of the elongated frame. The second end of the frame supporting the tube is telescopically movable toward and away from the first and second handles. A pair of pressurized instant-foam-producing tanks are mounted to the elongated telescoping frame between the first and second handles. The tanks are connected by hoses to the tube for delivering instant foam through the tube. A folded bladder is mounted over the tube for receiving instant foam therein. The tube is angularly movable relative to a plane of the elongated frame, such that it can be pointed in different directions relative to a plane of the elongated frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Glenn Cox
  • Publication number: 20100155291
    Abstract: A packaging component comprises a first block including a first support member having a first protective layer disposed on an external surface thereof and a second block opposite the first block and including a second support member having a second protective layer disposed on an external surface thereof. A spacer is coupled between the first block and the second block, and defines a longitudinal axis therebetween. The spacer is adjustable in length along the longitudinal axis so that the packaging component can be adjusted to a desired size within a range provided by the spacer to enable the packaging component to provide an interference fit within a product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2008
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventor: Bruce Dunn
  • Patent number: 7077636
    Abstract: A foam-in-place apparatus includes a foam containment unit, a foam precursor storage unit, and a foam precursor heating unit, in one embodiment. During operation, the foam precursor heating unit is activated to provide activation heat to one or more foam precursor components stored within the foam precursor storage unit. The activation heat may cause temperatures of one or more of the foam precursor components to increase to temperatures within an activation temperature range. The pre-heated component or components are combined to produce an expansive foam, which is deployed in the foam containment unit, and which causes the foam containment unit to expand and displace or contour around any physical objects within the expansion limits of the foam containment unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: 3FI Products LLC
    Inventors: Robert Anders, David Schumm
  • Patent number: 7070238
    Abstract: A custom moldable seating product includes a seat having a seat bottom and a seat back, and a moldable element for being carried by the seat. The moldable element is transformable from an initially flexible unactivated state to an activated state, such that the moldable element conforms to a seat occupant positioned on the seat. The moldable element may include a first component contained in a first compartment and a second component contained in a second compartment. The first and second compartments may be contained in an initially flexible enclosure. The first and second compartments may be ruptured to allow the first and second components to mix within the enclosure. The reaction of the first and second components create an expandable foam that conforms to a body part of a seat occupant positioned on the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: Britax Child Safety, Inc.
    Inventors: Cherie Alexander, John Arendt
  • Patent number: 6997319
    Abstract: The invention is a thermoplastic film having a heat resistant coating. The film is particularly useful in the preparation of bags and associated packaging systems that are used for protecting and packaging articles. Typically, the heat resistant coating has a melting range that is greater than the melting temperature of the thermoplastic film and exceeds the temperature of the heat generated during foam formation. As such, packaging films and bags that are prepared in accordance with the invention help prevent foam-in-bag cushions from fusing together. Particularly useful heat resistant coatings include ink varnishes and resins that are solvent-based, water-based, or energy cured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Sealed Air Corporation
    Inventors: William Joseph Mahon, Timothy Theodore Oberle, Joe Milton Bowen, Robert Don Wheeler
  • Patent number: 6983839
    Abstract: A packaging system for producing a foam-in-bag cushion upon demand includes a bag of flexible plastic film and defining therein an enclosed space which is vented to the outside of the bag, a foam precursor packet positioned at a predetermined location within the enclosed space in the bag and being formed of a barrier material. The packet includes first and second compartments with a first frangible seal separating the first and second compartments which when ruptured will permit the contents of the compartments to be mixed to form a foam cushion and a second frangible seal between one of the compartments and the enclosed space in the bag. A first foam precursor component is contained in the first compartment of the packet and a second foam precursor component is contained in the second compartment of the packet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Assignee: Sealed Air Corporation
    Inventors: George T. Bertram, William R. Armstrong, Lawrence J. Pillote, William J. Mahon, Robert D. Wheeler, Laurence B. Sperry
  • Patent number: 6974025
    Abstract: A packaging system for producing a foam-in-bag cushion upon demand includes a bag of flexible plastic film and defining therein an enclosed space which is vented to the outside of the bag, a foam precursor packet positioned at a predetermined location within the enclosed space in the bag and being formed of a barrier material. The packet includes first and second compartments with a first frangible seal separating the first and second compartments which when ruptured will permit the contents of the compartments to be mixed to form a foam cushion and a second frangible seal between one of the compartments and the enclosed space in the bag. A first foam precursor component is contained in the first compartment of the packet and a second foam precursor component is contained in the second compartment of the packet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: Sealed Air Corporation (US)
    Inventors: George T. Bertram, William R. Armstrong, Lawrence J. Pillote, William J. Mahon, Robert D. Wheeler, Laurence B. Sperry
  • Patent number: 6871739
    Abstract: The invention pertains to a foldable carrying ease for a notebook computer which has two states an open state wherein the notebook computer can be used on the open case and a closed state wherein the notebook computer can be transported with the computer being protected with padding on all 6 faces of the computer. The computer case is sized closely to the dimensions of the computer to provide a carrying case that is approximates the dimensions of the case plus the thickness of padding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Inventor: Carlos Lopez
  • Patent number: 6872270
    Abstract: There is disclosed a method of forming a foam product, comprising the steps of forming a layer of uncured polymeric foam; applying to the layer of uncured foam a layer of bubble pack, such that the bubbles that extend outwardly from the bubble pack at least partially penetrate into the uncured foam; and curing the layer of uncured polymeric foam. Products made by the process are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: Textile Rubber & Chemical Co.
    Inventors: Byoung In Cho, Jeffrey W. Manning, M. Brad Giddens, James W. Thomte
  • Publication number: 20040178108
    Abstract: A system and method for packing agricultural produce including functionality for:
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2004
    Publication date: September 16, 2004
    Applicant: STEPAC L.A., LTD.
    Inventor: Ariel Shapiro
  • Patent number: 6712201
    Abstract: A packaging system for producing a foam-in-bag cushion upon demand includes a bag of flexible plastic film and defining therein an enclosed space which is vented to the outside of the bag, a foam precursor packet positioned at a predetermined location within the enclosed space in the bag and being formed of a barrier material. The packet includes first and second compartments with a first frangible seal separating the first and second compartments which when ruptured will permit the contents of the compartments to be mixed to form a foam cushion and a second frangible seal between one of the compartments and the enclosed space in the bag. A first foam precursor component is contained in the first compartment of the packet and a second foam precursor component is contained in the second compartment of the packet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Assignee: Sealed Air Corporation
    Inventors: George T. Bertram, William R. Armstrong, Lawrence J. Pillote, William J. Mahon, Robert D. Wheeler, Laurence B. Sperry
  • Patent number: 6629599
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for enhancing the mixing of foam precursors in foam-in-bag precursor systems, to thereby enhance the quality of the resulting foam. The apparatus comprises a heated chamber for storing bags containing the precursors in separate compartments, an opening for dispensing the heated bags, and mechanical agitators for externally agitating the bag containing the separated foam-forming precursors to mix the precursors and form foam. Also, a foam cushion packaging precursor is disclosed and comprises such a heated bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2003
    Assignee: Sealed Air Corporation
    Inventors: Laurence Burst Sperry, Anthony Orkin Davlin, Kerry Michael McKinley, George Teofilius Bertram
  • Publication number: 20020157985
    Abstract: Denture baths comprise an outer container for containing an aqueous composition; means for supporting a denture in the container, which means allow the denture to be immersed in the aqueous composition; and an aqueous composition. The aqueous composition comprises a polymeric coating agent having a surface tension in 0.1% aqueous solution of less than 37 mNm−1 and a weight average molecular weight of 1,000 or greater. In addition, the denture baths comprise a means for passing the denture through an interface of the aqueous composition with the surrounding air, the means being selected from means for draining the composition from a position beneath the denture and means for lifting the denture through the interface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2001
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Inventors: Mark Ieuan Edwards, Iain Allan Hughes
  • Publication number: 20020153270
    Abstract: A neon light system for extending the useful life and durability of neon lighting products. The neon light system includes a container having an interior portion, a volume of fluid filler positioned within the interior portion, and a length of glass tubing positioned within the fluid filler. The filler is allowed to harden with only portions of the glass tubing exposed above the upper surface of the filler thereby creating the display or sign utilizing neon lighting methods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2001
    Publication date: October 24, 2002
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Voigt
  • Patent number: 5996782
    Abstract: A foam in bag cushion precursor is disclosed that is particularly useful for manual operation. The cushion precursor comprises a bag formed of two sheets of flexible plastic film material closed on all four side edges; a frangible seal that defines separate interior cells in a portion of the bag; a first foam precursor composition in one of the interior cells; and a second foam precursor composition in another of the interior cells. One of the cells has a nonfrangible seal wall other than one of the side edges for directing the contents of the cell to mix with the contents of the other cell before the mixed contents enter the remaining portion of said bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Sealed Air Corporation
    Inventors: Laurence Burst Sperry, Anthony Orkin Davlin, George Teofilius Bertram, Charles Paul Kannankeril
  • Patent number: 5988393
    Abstract: A storage box is provided for the safe-keeping of fabricated or semi-fabricated semiconductor wafers. This wafer storage box allows the wafers to be tightly secured in position when held in the storage box for storage or shipping without the possibility of breaking the wafers as in the prior art. The wafer storage box includes a receptacle member having a first piece of soft material such as anti-static sponge on the inside thereof, a holding member which is accommodated in the receptacle member, and a covering member having a second piece of soft material such as anti-static sponge on the inside thereof. When the covering member is mounted on the receptacle member, the first and second pieces of anti-static sponge are disposed on opposite sides of the holding member, thus pressing against the wafers to secure them in position in the storage box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: United Microelectronics Corp.
    Inventors: Jason Hsia, Jason Horng
  • Patent number: 5984132
    Abstract: An internally pressurized fluid vessel, in particular for liquids and/or gases exerting pressure outwards from the container has a sandwich structure capable of withstanding the internal pressure. The vessel has an interior container, an outer jacket in which the container is positioned and a material filling the space between the container and the outer jacket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: ODIN
    Inventor: Gerard Dinouard
  • Patent number: 5899325
    Abstract: A foam-in-bag packaging system and method of forming the same is provided in which a bag of flexible plastic film material includes superposed panels joined around their peripheral edges to define an enclosed space which is vented to the outside of the bag by venting perforations in the panels, a packet or pouch of barrier material capable of maintaining foam precursor components in a stable, unreacted state for an extended time period is positioned in the enclosed space in the bag adjacent one end thereof and secured from movement therefrom, the packet has first and second compartments therein separated by a first frangible seal extending across the packet and first and second foam precursor components contained respectively in the first and second compartments, the packet has a second frangible seal between one of the compartments and the enclosed space in the bag, the bag being folded along spaced transverse fold lines into a relatively compact form and being folded along a fold line coincident with the fi
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1999
    Assignee: Sealed Air Corporation
    Inventors: George Teofilius Bertram, William Richardson Armstrong, Lawrence John Pillote, William Joseph Mahon, Robert Don Wheeler, Laurence Burst Sperry
  • Patent number: 5868181
    Abstract: A protective apparatus for use with a fuel pump filler gun having in sequence a barrel, a head, and a handle, includes a protective body. The protective body has an energy absorbing inner layer, e.g., upholstery material, surrounding a portion of the filler gun to protect the filler gun from impact forces. The protective body also includes an outer layer surrounding at least a portion of the inner layer. The outer layer is harder than the inner layer so as to resist scratching, absorb the initial impact, and distribute the forces over the softer inner layer. The protective apparatus further includes means for attaching the protective body to the filler gun or to a boot covering a portion of the filler gun. A spring can be provided between the filler gun and outer shell to absorb direct impacts, and ribs can be provided on the inner surface of the outer shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Assignee: Alvern Norway A/S
    Inventors: Stein Alvern, Oyvind Alvern
  • Patent number: 5788078
    Abstract: Cushioning device and method for packaging an article in a container using fill material contained within a sealed flexible enclosure. In one disclosed embodiment, the pressure within the enclosure is first reduced to decrease the internal volume of the enclosure and compress the fill material and thereafter increased to allow the fill material to reexpand into cushioning engagement with the article. In another disclosed embodiment, fill material within a flexible enclosure is molded to form a cushion of predetermined shape with the assistance of vacuum pressure and mechanical force. The fill materials include conventional loose fill packing materials, granules, fibers, particles, and the like, such that a body of the fill material has a resiliency and an ability to spring back to near the original volume after being compressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Assignee: Free Flow Packaging Corporation
    Inventor: Gunter G. Fuss
  • Patent number: 5699902
    Abstract: A foam-in-place packaging system is disclosed that comprises a bag foamed of two sheets of flexible plastic film material sealed on all four sides by respective edge seals. A plurality of frangible seals are between the two sheets and define three separate interior cells in the bag. The frangible seals extend between the edge seals or between an edge seal and another frangible seal to thereby define a single cell bag when the frangible seals are broken. The cells separately contain a first and second foam precursor composition, and the bag includes means for permitting gases to vent from the bag as the foam precursors form foam while preventing foam or foam precursors from escaping from the bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1997
    Inventors: Laurence Burst Sperry, Anthony Orkin Davlin
  • Patent number: 5637389
    Abstract: A thermal barrier in the form of a base material with a plurality of microcapsules containing a phase change material forms an insulative pad, such as a shoe insole. The microcapsules are surroundingly encapsulated and embedded within the base material. In addition, substantially all of the microcapsules are spaced apart from each other, the space between neighboring adjacent microcapsules containing a phase change material. The microcapsules may be anisotropically distributed to further reduce thermal conductivity of heat through the thermal barrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Inventors: David P. Colvin, Yvonne G. Bryant
  • Patent number: 5607054
    Abstract: A carrying case for a notebook computer includes front and back panels configured to cover opposite sides of the notebook computer, a top panel flexibly connecting top edges of the front and back panels, a bottom panel flexibly connected to a bottom edge of the back panel, a closure flap flexibly connected to a bottom edge of the bottom panel and overlapping a bottom edge of the front cover when the carrying case is in a closed position folded around the notebook computer, and a pair of tabs depending from opposed lateral edges of the front panel toward the back panel when the carrying case is in a closed position. In the closed position, the carrying case serves as a folio to protectively cover the notebook computer and, in an open position, can also serve as a computer stand supporting the notebook computer in an ergonomic position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 4, 1997
    Assignee: Port, Inc.
    Inventor: W. Dale Hollingsworth
  • Patent number: 5595806
    Abstract: The mat disclosed has an air-tight flexible envelope closable by means of a valve and filled with a granular filling material. The filling material is lodged in a fabric sack made from a spacing fabric. The filling material is a composite body composed of at least two materials having different mechanical properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1997
    Assignee: Karfmacher Trading GmbH
    Inventor: Georg Korfmacher
  • Patent number: 5562209
    Abstract: A lightweight small personal appliance items for covering, storing and protecting curling irons. The item includes (6) A Foam rubber outer shell, (9) a layer of insulation, (8) a heat resistant inside lining and (7) an elastic security strap. The curling iron cooler is a single part with the elastic security, strap being an attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Inventors: Patricia N. Jackson, Daniel L. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5445251
    Abstract: A portfolio (10) includes a first panel (12), a second panel (14) hingedly attached to one side of the first panel (12) and a third panel (16) hingedly attached to the other side of the first panel (12). The first panel (12) includes provision in the form of cut-outs 200-216 for receiving and storing business accessories such as a calculator, a Post-it note pad, paper clips, and a ball point pen, for example, in the form of a resilient foam block (26) provided with cut-outs (210-216) shaped to suit the accessories. The second panel (14) provides a cover which is foldable over the first panel (12) and held in place by the third panel (16), the cover (14) being sandwiched between said first and third panels. The third panel (116) is adapted to receive a writing pad J. A modified portfolio (110) includes a fourth panel (118) which cooperates with the second panel (114) to provide a closure for the binder (110).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1995
    Assignee: American Trading & Production Corporation
    Inventor: Richard Redwood
  • Patent number: 5435441
    Abstract: A shipping support system for moveable articles within a refrigerator having an interior compartment containing a plurality of movable articles such as shelves and the like, wherein the packing support system includes a conformable bag containing expandable foam material. A shipping support is formed by dispensing the expandable foam into an open receiving end of the conformable bag and then the receiving end is sealed closed. Upon forming the shipping support, the conformable bag is secured to a door hingedly mounted to the refrigerator before the expandable foam has completely expanded and formed. Subsequently, the door is closed, capturing the conformable bag between the door and the moveable articles within the refrigerator. As the expandable foam expands, the conformable bag conforms to the configuration of the moveable articles such that the moveable articles are securely supported within the refrigerator cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1995
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Maurice R. Tiedt, Devin K. Cochran, Tariq A. Diab, Gregg A. Greulich
  • Patent number: 5356009
    Abstract: Cushioned overpacks are employed for containing, transporting, and storing discarded electrical transformers contaminated by toxic materials such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB's). Other articles may be similarly contained, transported, and stored using such cushioned overpacks. The discarded transformers are then consigned to such overpacks together with one or more cushions. The cushions serve to prevent puncturing of the overpack by the transformers during transport and storage. Preferred cushions have a foam composition and are inserted into the overpack by means of a pour-in-place process. Preferred overpacks include an inner surface which is roughened so as to adhere to the inserted cushion. After the insertion of the transformer and cushion is complete the assembly is hermetically sealed by a spin welded closure onto the receptacle. Uncushioned overpacks are fabricated at or near the process site by rotational molding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1994
    Assignee: Environmental Protection Polymers, Inc.
    Inventor: Hyman R. Lubowitz
  • Patent number: 5267422
    Abstract: An insulation containment apparatus includes a pair of side panels and a plurality of spacer panels. The side panels are flexible and allow the apparatus to be compressed by accordianing for storage and transport. The apparatus is expanded to form a containment area between the side panels that is placed over a duct. The containment area is then filled with insulation to insulate the duct. Openings are provided in the spacer panels to receive the duct. Stakes are also provided to secure the apparatus in a particular location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1993
    Inventor: Theron L. Crall, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5258212
    Abstract: An improvement is proposed in the assemblage of a cover-packing bult-up body for a magnetic hard-disc unit to be freed from the troubles caused by dusts or contamination of the gap space between the magnetic recording disc and the magnetic head as well as by the poor vibration-damping characteristics of the rubber packing between the covering member and the body of the casing. The improvement comprises, instead of using a pre-shaped rubber packing, the built-up body is assembled by using a curable liquid silicone rubber-based composition filled with fine hollow microspheres to form a packing on the surface of the covering member by the in situ curing of the composition applied thereto so that the rubbery packing layer has a spongy structure exhibiting good vibration-damping characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1993
    Assignee: Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuhiko Tomaru, Akira Matsuda, Noboru Shimamoto
  • Patent number: 5246114
    Abstract: A method and device for protecting objects in storage from damaging environments including a collapsible bag with a sealable opening having a vacuum attachment, for evacuating the bag, and an injection valve, for injecting an atmosphere, attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1993
    Inventor: John P. Underwood
  • Patent number: 5115915
    Abstract: The package (10) for shipping and storing articles such as cut flower arrangements (14) includes a flower container (12) lower portion is provided with water-containing absorbent foam block (18) receiving the flower stems (38) in pierced relation and a block (20) of non-absorbent, relatively rigid foam, above the absorbent block sealing said block and said flower stems in place. A plastic film vented shell (16) is disposed about the flowers and connected to the container in shrink-wrap relation. The package includes U-shaped insert (22) which holds the container firmly in place in the shipping carton (24) and refrigerated gel envelopes to ensure freshness of the flowers on arrival at their destination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1992
    Inventor: Charles C. Harris
  • Patent number: 5091229
    Abstract: Packages prepared from a flexible static charge-dissipating structure comprising a substrate film, a coating layer of heat sealable thermoplastic matrix containing micron sized particles of a silica containing material surface coated with antimony-containing tin oxide crystallites, and optionally a thin layer of metal, provide excellent static charge protection to sensitive electronic components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1992
    Assignee: E. I. Du Pont de Nemours and Company
    Inventors: Ralph C. Golike, Hua-Feng Huang, Herminio C. Llevat
  • Patent number: 5086583
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for securing a cut tree is presented. A tree stand has a frustro conical side wall connected to a base at a bottom thereof, and having an aperture at the top. The aperture communicates with the receptacle adapted for receiving a tree trunk. An opening in the frustro conical side wall allows the introduction of water into a cavity defined by such side wall. A further opening in the receptacle communicates with the cavity, allowing water to enter therein and surround a tree trunk received thereby. Securement of the tree trunk within the receptacle is achieved by the introduction of a closed cell foam introduced about the tree trunk within the receptacle, forming a frustro conical ring thereabout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1992
    Inventor: William C. Breen
  • Patent number: 5038929
    Abstract: A disposal system for sharp instruments comprises a rectangular container, and a plurality of elongated aligned receptacles therein for receiving sharp instruments. The receptacles each comprise a puncture resistant casing defining an entry opening, a rupturable seal deployed over the entry opening and a curable liquid contained within the casing and seal, said liquid being curable to a hardened state upon rupture of the seal. A lid pivots over the seal prior to use, and one or more of the containers is positionable on a wall bracket. A sharp instrument is inserted through the rupturable seal and immersed in the liquid within the receptacle, whereupon the liquid hardens and encases the instrument. The seal is provided with ascending numbers, respectively positioned over the entry openings, to provide a count of receptacles which have been used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1991
    Inventor: Susanne Kubofcik
  • Patent number: 5007539
    Abstract: A packing of small components, in which at least one small component (9) is packed by means of a packing body (1) having a multilayer construction and comprising a relatively non-deformable base plate (3) and a thermoplastically deformable elastic carrier layer (5) fixedly connected to the base plate, the small component (9) being depressed into the heated carrier layer (5) thereby forming a nest by thermoplastic deformation of the carrier layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1991
    Assignee: U.S. Philips Corporation
    Inventor: Hans-Werner Ruter
  • Patent number: 4941572
    Abstract: The package (10) for shipping and storing articles such as cut flower arrangements (14) includes a flower container (12) lower portion is provided with a water-containing absorbent foam block (18) receiving the flower stems (38) in pierced relation and a block (20) of non-absorbent, relatively rigid foam, above the absorbent block sealing said block and said flower stems in place. A plastic film vented shell (16) is disposed about the flowers and connected to the container in shrink-wrap relation. The package includes U-shaped insert (22) which holds the container firmly in place in the shipping carton (24) and refrigerated gel envelopes to ensure freshness of the flowers on arrival at their destination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 17, 1990
    Assignee: Jetram Sales, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles C. Harris
  • Patent number: 4925508
    Abstract: Moldless process for manufacturing foamed articles is disclosed wherein a trim cover is first prepared as having a composite structure of an outer facing material such as fabric and an inner backing material of low melting point such as a thin foam of polystyrene and having a shape substantially corresponding to a final contour of the finished article; the trim cover is heated and forced to form a pre-shaped cover conforming to the final contour of the finished article preferably by means of a restraining frame such as basket or plastic cage configured to the final contour of the finished article; highly reactive polyurethane composition foamable at low internal pressure is poured inside the pre-shaped cover and allowed to foam and expand to fill substantially an entire volume within the pre-shaped cover; and then the pre-shaped cover is externally heated to around the melting temperature of the backing material so as to significantly shrink and virtually dissipate the backing material interposed between the
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 15, 1990
    Assignee: Namba Press Works Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Fumio Goto, Taro Ogawa
  • Patent number: 4856655
    Abstract: A combination box and box cushioning having a flat box blank member with a plurality of adhesive strips positioned on the inside thereof with a planar sheet of material adhered to said flat box blank at the position of the adhesive strips which when the box is folded and set up form a plurality of pockets between the inside of the box and the sheet material which are filled with foam material to form pockets of cushioning within the box which are prearranged as to position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 15, 1989
    Inventor: Samuel M. Barsky
  • Patent number: 4823956
    Abstract: A unique composite shipping container (10) comprises a straight tubular sidewall (12) of predetermined polygonal cross-sectional configuration which is preferably formed from corrugated fiberboard. Opposite open ends of the sidewall (12) are closed by foam end caps (14), which are preferably formed from expanded polystyrene to close the container and cushion the product (16) therein against shock. The end caps (14) are secured to the sidewall (12) by tape (18) or other suitable fastening techniques to seal the container (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1986
    Date of Patent: April 25, 1989
    Assignee: Donaldson Company, Inc.
    Inventor: John I. Belisle