Household Or Office Equipment (e.g., Mixer-grinder, Recording Kit) Patents (Class 206/576)
  • Patent number: 6208507
    Abstract: A carrying case having a body in which to transport a workstation including a personal computer, computer peripherals (e.g. a printer), and a source of battery power. Located within and extending along one side of the body of the carrying case is a shroud having a cover that is spaced above the body. Pockets are formed through the cover at opposite ends of the shroud. A switch module having a series of manually operable function switches is removably received within one of the pockets at one end of the shroud. A connector module is removably received within the other pocket at the opposite end of the shroud and adapted to interconnect an available power source, the personal computer, and the computer peripherals within the body of the carrying case without having to disturb either of the computer or the peripherals. The function switches of the switch module are selectively operated so that appropriate power and control signals are supplied to the computer and peripherals via the connector module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: Stephen Harvey
  • Patent number: 6189696
    Abstract: A packaging configuration includes a lavatory basket and a refill bottle assembly interconnected for storage, shipping and sale. The refill bottle assembly includes a refill bottle containing a cleaning agent for refilling the container of the lavatory basket during use, and a closure cap for sealing attachment with the outlet of the refill bottle. The lavatory basket includes a container for holding and selectively dispensing the cleaning agent, and a securing element extending therefrom. The container is configured to be releasably attached to a concave upper surface of the closure cap of the refill bottle by means of a projection tab on the closure cap in locking engagement with a corresponding recess in a wall of the container. A releasable connection is provided between the securing element and the refill bottle assembly to further secure the container to the refill bottle assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Henkel Kommanditgesellschaft auf Aktien
    Inventors: Erich Tuerk, Georg Muehlhausen
  • Patent number: 6149001
    Abstract: A cover for a portable computer is a thin flexible material adapted to fit closely over the computer like a glove. The cover has cut-outs for the keyboard, screen, controls, ports, etc. of the computer so that the cover does not interfere with convenient use of the computer. The cover is compact and adds little additional volume or weight to the computer, while protecting the computer housing or case, providing an attractive appearance and also providing convenient accessories, such as pockets for a power supply cord, floppy disks, CD ROM disks, pencils, etc. The computer may be carried or used with the cover installed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: A. F. Akins, Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony F. Akins
  • Patent number: 6145158
    Abstract: A paint apparatus is disclosed having a plurality of trays for use with a paint roller. A paint reservoir within each tray retains the paint. A grid portion is integrally formed in a lower surface of the paint apparatus, and has a plurality of channels and/or projections. The channels are curved, thereby providing increased surface area for the paint roller. The paint apparatus is also included in a kit containing paint application devices, practice paper, and instructional materials. The paint apparatus is further provided with a metering system which includes a plurality of grids and a mesh structure. The stackable grids are placed within the paint reservoir and permit the paint to wick up to a top surface of the stackable grids. During use of the apparatus, a user fills the paint reservoir with paint to a point below the top surface of the stackable grids. The user the rolls the rolling device over the grids, thereby loading the nap portion with paint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Assignee: Wagner Spray Tech Corporation
    Inventors: George H. Wakat, James A. Thole
  • Patent number: 6134105
    Abstract: A versatile and highly portable command center comprised of a standard carrying case with carrying attachments such as handles, backpacking straps and wheels; said case encloses multiple, operationally connected electronic equipment such as a computer, RF transmission media, printer, scanner, fax, copier, flexible gooseneck type light, Global Positioning System, digital camera, and electronic enclosure with AC/DC/Battery power electronics and control panel. A first deployable bracket is used to move the computer into a convenient operator position. A second deployable bracket system contains the printer and scanner, copier, fax units and is attached to the case in a position providing convenient operational access to the printer and scanner, copier, fax units. Storage for operator supplies such as paper, diskettes, cables, antennas are also included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventor: Mark David Lueker
  • Patent number: 6126011
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a case for storing small appliances for personal use. The case (2) is comprised of a supporting structure (4) having at least two sections (8, 10) jointed to each other by a deflecting means (6). Provided on either section (8, 10) is at least one retaining means (12, 14) receiving an appliance and an accessory. Related to the deflecting means, the retaining means (12, 14) are so arranged that they lie side-by-side in a row when the sections (8, 10) are folded one over the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Assignee: Braun Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Roland Ullmann, Helmut Faulstich
  • Patent number: 6062390
    Abstract: When a recording head unit for an ink-jet printer is shipped, the recording head is filled with a preservative solution, and nozzle surfaces of the recording head are covered with a nozzle protector, while ink-supply ports, to which an ink-cartridge is to be connected, are sealed with a stopper, in order to prevent leakage or evaporation of the preservative solution. Then, the entire recording head unit is vacuum packed in a pouch-like conforming sealing member having a layered structure which is non-permeable to gases. This structure can reliably prevent the preservative solution from evaporating, and keep the interior of the recording head in good condition even if the recording head is stored for a long span of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Hirotake Nakamura
  • Patent number: 6047830
    Abstract: A retainer for receiving knives and cutting boards includes a base having a bottom with a top plate, a lower plate and two side plates. A cover has two lugs extending therefrom which are pivotally connected to the two side plates of the base. A sanitizing bulb is attached to the inside of the top plate and an outlet is defined through the lower plate wherein a collection box is connected to the lower plate and communicates with the outlet. A rack is connected to the bottom of the base and has a plurality of slots defined therein for the knives and the cutting boards being received therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Inventor: Yuan Fu Chang
  • Patent number: 6036011
    Abstract: A carrying case construction 10 for transporting a lap top computer 100 and associated mouse 101 to a point of use wherein the construction 10 is convertible into an elevated work station for the computer 100 and includes a carrying case unit including a carrying case member 20 dimensioned to receive the computer 100 and mouse 101 and having a lower base element 21 provided with four pivoted and telescoping support legs 30, and a shelf member 40 slidably received within the base element 21 wherein the shelf member 40 is dimensioned to receive the mouse 101 and is further provided with a high friction surface 42 that functions as a mouse pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Inventors: Paul DeCurtis, Kelly DeCurtis
  • Patent number: 6026961
    Abstract: A computer cord storage and dispensing organizer pack and system for securing and organizing cords, connectors, lines, power supply, computer mouse, and other equipment is disclosed, the pack being small enough for insertion into a laptop computer carrying case, the pack having pockets for gathering computer equipment, the pockets of the pack having apertures or channels for cords to extend, the pockets and channels being optimized to create an efficient cord interface between pack and computer, and a compact holder during travel, thereby reducing tangle, setup time, loss of components, and damage to equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Assignee: Cordpack Incorporated
    Inventors: Christine Noel McCarthy, Thomas Edward George Hale
  • Patent number: 6000542
    Abstract: The present invention is a seaming iron holder as used in the carpet installation industry. The invention totes the seaming iron and can be used during the seaming process. The holder is preferably made of a material which is flexible enough to lay flat, defining a surface above which the seaming is place intermittently during seaming, while also allowing said surface to be wrapped up around the seaming iron. Said surface then joining together at predetermined edges and defining a holder to tote said seaming iron from job to job.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: Joseph C. Smith
    Inventor: Joseph C. Smith
  • Patent number: 5964347
    Abstract: A package for bed sections and a method of packaging the bed sections includes the head and foot ends which are structured and dimensioned to fit together within a single package so as to form a single parcel and a head section and a foot section, each structured and dimensioned to fit within separate packages so as to form separate parcels. The head and foot ends as well as the head and foot sections each have a length and a girth the sum of which is in the order of 127 inches. A package is provided for containing the head and foot ends, the head section, and the foot section. The package comprises a paperboard box having a length and a girth sum of which does not exceed 130 inches. Neither the head nor foot ends, nor the head section, nor the foot section, and its paperboard box, have a combined weight exceeding 150 pounds. A formula is provided for determining a range of dimensions for the head and foot ends, and the head section, and the foot section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Assignee: Sunrise Medical CCG Inc.
    Inventor: Randall J. Urness
  • Patent number: 5938035
    Abstract: A new car washing bucket and organizer for assisting in washing a car and storing loose belongings. The inventive device includes an outer container having an open upper end, a closed lower end, and a surrounding side wall. The outer container has a handle pivotally coupled thereto. An interior surface of the outer container has a pair of opposed protrusions extending inwardly therefrom. An inner container slidably receives within the open upper end of the outer container. The inner container has an open upper end, a closed lower end, and a surrounding side wall. The inner container has a pair of inverted U-shaped channel members disposed on exterior surfaces of side walls thereof. The channel members receive the protrusions of the outer container therein when the inner container is positioned within the outer container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Inventors: Gerardi Oglesby, Lawrence O. Yates
  • Patent number: 5934473
    Abstract: A packaging assembly comprising a cradle or carton insert onto which an article is bound by stretch wrap film. The packaging assembly further comprises a container which receives the cradle. A method for packaging an article using the packaging assembly is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Assignee: International Paper Co.
    Inventor: Thomas B. Belshe
  • Patent number: 5931297
    Abstract: A glove-like protective cover capable of encasing a notebook computer, thereby allowing it to be used in a hostile operating environment, such as outdoors or at a manufacturing site, without risk of debris and moisture reaching the computer and detrimentally affecting its performance. The protective cover includes a top pocket capable of having the screen section of the notebook computer inserted therein, and a bottom pocket capable of having the keyboard section of the computer inserted therein. In this way, the notebook computer can be placed in its open, operating position while encased in the protective cover. The portions of the cover overlying the screen and keyboard sections of the computer are transparent. Thus, an operator is able to see the screen and keyboard of the notebook computer through the protective cover. Further, the portion of the cover overlying the keyboard of the computer is flexible so as to allow the keyboard to be operated through the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1999
    Inventors: Christopher P. Weill, James R. Forte
  • Patent number: 5909810
    Abstract: Packaging for a fusing belt of a belt fusing apparatus for providing image gloss to a colorant image, the belt fusing apparatus including a fuser assembly having a fuser roller and a steering roller about which said fusing belt is adapted to be entrained for movement about a closed loop path defined by the fusing roller and the steering roller. The fusing belt packaging includes a protective shell, and a support within the protective shell. The support is adapted to secure at least a fusing belt and prevent damage thereto during shipping and handling. To install the fusing belt, the protective shell and the support is aligned with the fusing roller and steering roller of a belt fusing assembly. A pair of guide members, having respective tabs, is used to move the fusing belt from the support onto the fusing roller and the steering roller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 8, 1999
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Muhammed Aslam, Socrates Hryhorenko
  • Patent number: 5899336
    Abstract: A flat sheet 100 of corrugated paper is disclosed that can be folded into a package 200 for packing a fax machine or similar product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1999
    Assignee: Chuo Pack Industry Co., LTD.
    Inventor: Hachiro Kataoka
  • Patent number: 5857568
    Abstract: A briefcase adapter for carrying a portable computer in a briefcase comprising a panel for partitioning the briefcase into an upper and a lower compartment and an adjustable frame including a front frame member and a rear frame member held in substantially parallel spaced relationship relative to each other by a pair of side frame members disposed in substantially parallel spaced relationship to each other and disposed in substantially perpendicular relationship to the front frame member and the rear frame member, front and rear frame member adjustment assemblies to selectively and lockably adjust the length of the front and rear frame members for frictionally holding the adjustable frame in place within the briefcase, side frame member adjustment assemblies to selectively and lockably adjust the spacing between the front and rear frame members, and a frame adjustment assembly to selectively and lockably adjust the spacing between the side frame members to selectively adjust the substantially rectangular comp
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1999
    Assignee: John D. Speirs
    Inventor: John D. Speirs
  • Patent number: 5857570
    Abstract: A container suitable for shipping and dispensing a plurality of individual products is disclosed. The container conforms with accepted beverage industry handling and distribution practices, is conveniently transported from the point of retail sale by the consumer, and facilitates the consumer's dispensing of individual products from the container. The container includes a carton that is adapted with a zone of weakness to break partially away along predetermined lines of weakness. This structure forms a pair of interhinged trays having a common handle between them. The contents of each tray are then disposed in a position that facilitates placing the carton in the consumer's refrigerator without the need for adjusting the spacing of shelves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1999
    Assignee: Labatt Brewing Company Limited
    Inventor: Scott B. Brown
  • Patent number: 5855278
    Abstract: A computer case with a foam inlay into which are embedded lift devices which can be released by a pressure applied to the top thereof so that they can raise the computer out of the inlay. The application of pressure to the lift devices again causes the computer to be moved down into the inlay again.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1999
    Assignee: Consel Kofferlosungen GmbH
    Inventor: Karl-Hermann Harfst
  • Patent number: 5848698
    Abstract: Improvements may be incorporated in the literature holder and blank therefor which allow it to firmly hold upright for display one or two pieces of literature without support of a bottom panel, and which improvement provides a more economical blank, and provides access for insertion and withdrawal of literature from two open sides of the assembled holder; as well as an improvement which allows the blank and literature holder formed from it to dispense literature from the top of, or from the front of the holder; and an improvement which enables the blank and literature holder assembled therefrom to reduce space required by the holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1998
    Inventor: Brian Keating Stompe
  • Patent number: 5816407
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a Christmas light and ornament storage device designed to prevent light strands from tangling. The device comprises a box shaped carrier having a bottom surface, four side walls depending therefrom and an open top. An interior box dimensioned slightly smaller than the carrier is received therein. A plurality of removably attached tubular members vertically depend from the bottom surface some of which are received within the interior box and are arranged in two opposing parallel rows. Opposing pairs of the tubular members received within the interior box each are surrounded by continuous pieces of fabric which form parallel sidewalls. The area between the fabric walls and the interior box define a plurality of soft, flexible storage compartments for receiving fragile decorations. Christmas light strands may be wrapped around adjacent pairs of the tubular members disposed externally of the interior box to prevent the strands from being entangled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Inventor: Ronald A. Daratony
  • Patent number: 5808865
    Abstract: A method of protecting a disc or tape drive unit having ports for wiring connections to a power source and to a computer, that includes providing a flexible, protective case for the drive unit, and providing adjustable windows in the case; locating the drive unit in the case to locate the ports in juxtaposition to said windows; passing the wiring connections through the windows, and to the ports to establish wiring connections to the power source and to the computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Assignee: Scosche Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Kasidy W. Alves
  • Patent number: 5803267
    Abstract: The subject invention relates to a type of structural improvement on keyboard packaging box, said keyboard packaging box comprising an integral cardboard that is cut, folded and assembled; including a bottom box and a top; the bottom box comprising of a bottom, front plate, rear plate and two sides; the side being composed of a first side plate, a second side plate and inner plates; the front plate being adjoined to a separating plate; said separating plate located in the middle part of the bottom box and gradually inclines upward; the keyboard and the armrest can be accommodated respectively below and above the separating plate; the connecting wire of the keyboard can be accommodated in the accommodating chamber formed by one side of the separating plate; by so design to achieve such effects as increased structural strength and better protection of the keyboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Assignee: Chicony Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jung-Pin Tu, Tao-Kuan Chen
  • Patent number: 5799815
    Abstract: An improved device for identifying an individual pop-top can having a pull tab for levering open the can is provided. The device includes a flexible resilient sleeve of elastomeric plastic or rubber or the like which slides over and seats on the free end of the pop-top can tab. The sleeve has a distinctive color, design, texture, written indicia or any combination thereof, in order to identify the individual can. A kit is also provided which includes a number of the sleeves, all of which differ from each other in color, texture, written indicia and/or design. One embodiment of the sleeve includes an integral plug which extends upwardly from the top of the sleeve and is shaped and dimensioned to plug the can opening to preserve the contents thereof after opening. The sleeve is simple, inexpensive and attractive and enables users of similar cans to identify their own cans and thus not drink from another user's can.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1998
    Assignees: Tony David, Gregory A. Gile
    Inventor: Michael A. Lang
  • Patent number: 5797488
    Abstract: A case for a circular saw, including a pivotable compartment for holding at least one blade. When the compartment is closed, at least a portion of the compartment is accommodated by a recess of the base. In this position, access to the interior of the compartment is restricted, such that a blade may not be removed from, or placed in, the compartment. A lock may be used to keep the compartment in this position. When access to the compartment is desired, the compartment may be pivoted, so that at least a portion of the compartment is projecting outwardly, substantially horizontally, from the base. In this open position, access to the compartment is permitted, and at least one blade may be placed in, or removed from, the compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Assignee: Zag Ltd.
    Inventor: Zvi Yemini
  • Patent number: 5740929
    Abstract: A toiletry article storage system includes a main body portion, configured to resemble a body portion of an elephant and having first, second, third and fourth members, and an upper body portion configured to resemble an elephant head and having fifth, sixth and seventh members. Each of the first and second members outwardly project from a front side surface of the main body portion. Respective side surfaces of the first and second members are generally parallel with, and spaced apart from, each other to define a first opening sized to slidingly receive a liquid soap dispenser supported by a surface on which the storage system rests. Each of the third and fourth members outwardly project from a rear side surface of the main body portion. Respective side surfaces of the third and fourth members are generally curved and spaced apart from each other to define a second, generally circular, opening sized to captively retain a stand-up toothpaste tube supported by the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1998
    Inventor: Gail B. Frankel
  • Patent number: 5725099
    Abstract: A vacuum breaker vent valve is disclosed along with a coupler device and the packaging designed to enclose the valve and the coupler device. As packaged, the valve stem is received within the coupler device and the packaging, in two halves, is fastened above and below the valve and coupler device to enclose them. In use, the coupler device is inverted and attached to a sanitary system pipe and the valve is coupled on the coupler device. The packaging halves are assembled over the valve to provide protection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Assignee: Studor Trading Ltd.
    Inventor: Kurt S. B. Ericson
  • Patent number: 5697495
    Abstract: A packaging arrangement for the containment of at least one hydrophilic contact lens in a sterile aqueous solution. More specifically, pursuant to the packaging arrangement, a plurality of disposable hydrophilic contact lenses are contained in a specific number of individual packaging arrangements collectively housed in a box-like container or carton so as to provide a specified or essentially measured supply of contact lenses for use by a consumer over a predetermined period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Vision Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Wayne Abrams, Ture Kindt-Larsen, Wallace Anthony Martin
  • Patent number: 5685420
    Abstract: A composite or secondary packaging arrangement for the containment of hydrophilic contact lenses in a sterile aqueous solution. More specifically disclosed is a composite or secondary packaging arrangement wherein pluralities of disposable hydrophilic contact lenses possessing different optical characteristics or prescriptions are contained in one or more specific packaging arrays which are then collectively housed in separate paired box-like compartments or carton structures in a preselected customized manner so as to provide specified or essentially measured supplies of differing contact lenses for prescribed use in both eyes of a consumer over a predetermined period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1997
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Vision Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Wallace Anthony Martin, Kornelis Renkema, Victor Lust
  • Patent number: 5667072
    Abstract: This invention relates to the design of a packaging set for packing an electric device and its accessories. The packaging set comprises a rectangular cushion block for packing and protecting the electric device, a rectangular carton tightly packed outside the cushion block for protecting the cushion block, one packing slot installed in the cushion block for packing accessories of the electric device and an L-shaped side cover for sealing the slot opening of the packing slot. The side cover can be repeatedly closed and opened for accessing the accessories without damaging the packaging set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 16, 1997
    Assignee: Acer Peripherals, Inc.
    Inventor: Pi-Chun Chang
  • Patent number: 5647484
    Abstract: An encasement device for a portable computer and other associated peripheral devices, which when opened represents an organized, and ready-to-use standalone workstation. It includes a top box-type structure and a bottom box-type structure both having a front, a back, a pair of side walls and cover or bottom respectively. The top box-type structure is hingedly connected and securable to the bottom box-type structure. A droppable front is provided for easy access to the keyboard of the portable computer and has a wrist pad. Alternatively, the case is provided with a contoured structure for easy access. The portable computer is removeably attached to the bottom box-type structure such that access is available to side-orientated internal devices. An electrical containment section is provided to hold connectors, an outlet cord, surge protectors and power conditioners. A foldable staging area is provided to removeably hold a peripheral device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1997
    Inventor: Daniel J. Fleming
  • Patent number: 5645169
    Abstract: A package containing water-soluble bags filled with agricultural chemicals in gel or liquid form facilitates the transport of the bags in a manner which prevents the breakage thereof. The package includes compartments for holding the bags. The walls and base of these compartments contain raised and unraised portions in a pattern such that a baffling effect is created to damper transport shock waves in the gel or liquid bag. These and other features result in the transmission of dynamic shock loads in the package in a manner which prevents such shock loads from breaking the fragile water-soluble bags during transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1997
    Assignee: Ciba-Geigy Corporation
    Inventors: Lawrence Clifford Dull, Larry Arnold Simmons
  • Patent number: 5609255
    Abstract: A washable scrubbing mop head and kit (10) for provided for cleaning floors and other surfaces using minimal amounts of water and cleaning fluids (50). The mop (10) of the present invention includes a mop handle (12), a mop head (20), a mop pad (28), and a storage device (40). The mop handle (12) includes a plurality of sections (14) securable one to another in an end-to-end fashion. The mop head (20) is comprised of a flat plate (22) having a threaded receptor (24) secured thereto for receiving a threaded extension (16) defined by a section (14) of the mop handle (12). A securement device (26) is secured to the mop head plate (22) for the securement of a mop pad (28) thereto. A mop pad (28) is releasably secured to the mop head (20) such that it may be removed for cleaning thereof. The mop pad (28) is comprised of a base member (30), a filler material (32), a fabric covering (34), and a netting (36). The base member (30) is fabricated from a material which is at least semi-rigid such as plastic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1997
    Inventor: Sally S. Nichols
  • 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: 5603402
    Abstract: Container for hydrocleaning apparatuses, in particular compact hydrocleaning machines (16), comprising a couple of opposed and identical half-shells (12,14) hingen to one another on a first side (56) and provided each on a second side (30), opposite to the hinged one, with a central recess (30') circumscribing a through-opening (32) extended transversally; said opening (32) being surmounted by a portion of said second side (30) adjoining edge (40), which develops in the lower part in a sector (34) constituting a half-part of the handle. The configuration and the depth of recess (30') are complementary to the sinking formed on the upper front of the hydrocleaning machines (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1997
    Assignee: Faip S.r.l. Officini Meccaniche
    Inventor: Carlo A. Cuneo
  • Patent number: 5598921
    Abstract: A one-piece molded plastic computer workplace organizer can be screwed to a baseplane such as a pull-out keyboard shelf of a computer desk. A mouse pad is located to the front of the organizer unit which provides a passageway for retaining the mouse cord in place so as to overcome the common problem of the mouse unit working its way to the rear and falling off the shelf edge, especially when the shelf is being pulled out. Storage for several 31/2" diskettes is provided with asymmetrical bistable support positioning: a nearly upright rearwardly-inclined working position and a low profile forwardly-inclined storage position. With the organizer mounted on the pull-out keyboard shelf, upright diskettes will be automatically flipped forward to the low profile position by the shelf edge for storage under the desk counter top when the shelf is pushed back into the storage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1997
    Assignee: Spectrum Concepts
    Inventor: Thomas A. Hunt
  • Patent number: 5595303
    Abstract: A multi-function toilet accessory including a main housing having a top wall having an elongated recess extending inwardly from an open rear thereof. The top wall has a square recess formed therein coextensive with one of a pair of side walls thereof. The open rear has an upwardly extending lip integral with a rear edge of the bottom wall of the main housing. A toilet paper dispensing portion is secured to the top wall of the main housing. A deodorizer portion is dimensioned for securement within the square recess of the main housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1997
    Inventors: Jane Weeks, Tammy Searcy
  • Patent number: 5590022
    Abstract: A compact modular portable work station including a computer, a printer and/or other peripherals, efficiently interconnected with one another with conductors enclosed in a single, shielded composite cable supported by a docking channel having electrical connectors extending therefrom to be connected directly to the computer and the peripheral, all operational from and efficiently packaged within an impact resistant carrying case. Loose, unshielded cables are eliminated and a cellular telephone is placed in a shielded enclosure, under a metal shroud, in order to shield the user and the work station computer and computer peripherals from RF signals emitted by the cellular telephone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1996
    Assignee: The I.D.E.A. Corporation
    Inventor: Stephen Harvey
  • Patent number: 5542637
    Abstract: A mouse pad for supporting a computer mouse, having an ergonomically comfortable sloping front top portion for supporting the hand and/or wrist of a user of the mouse, wherein the pad comprises an interior storage compartment covered by an upwardly-pivotable lid which, when closed, forms a smooth top surface with the adjacent pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1996
    Assignee: Hunt Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Schriner
  • Patent number: 5529174
    Abstract: In order to enhance the desirability of packaging for products, and particularly the packaging for portable cellular telephones, a unique and improved product package is disclosed. The package includes a compartment for receiving the product which is defined at least in part by a side wall and a bottom wall. The compartment has a recess generally conforming in shape to the shape of the product. The package also includes a lid overlying the compartment to normally restrict access to the product during shipment and sale thereof. The lid is movable from a closed compartment position to an open compartment position by a purchaser of the product. The package includes a spring for elevating at least a portion of the product from the recess in the compartment. The spring operates when the lid has been moved from the closed compartment position to the open compartment position. The package thus enhances the visibility of the product in the compartment to the purchaser thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 25, 1996
    Assignee: R. R. Donnelley & Sons Company
    Inventor: Thomas P. McQueeny
  • Patent number: 5515974
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an emergency and security kit that includes an array of articles, such as a flashlight, first aid kit, fire extinguisher, etc., that are housed and organized within a case. In the event of an emergency or a security threat, one can open the case and gain access to one or more articles that will assist in dealing with a particular emergency or security risk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1996
    Inventor: D. Wayne Higson
  • Patent number: 5489023
    Abstract: According to one embodiment of the present invention there is provided a two-part shipping and display carton for use with a stacked array of portable wheeled spreaders, each spreader having a hopper, a pair of wheels disposed below the hopper, a lower frame supporting the hopper, and an upper frame pivoted to the lower frame and being pivoted into a collapsed state so that the upper frame lies generally adjacent the lower frame. A bottom portion of the carton receives the stacked array of spreaders, while a top portion of the carton having a similar cross-sectional shape as the bottom portion and a height that is slightly higher than the height of the stacked array of spreaders fits within the bottom portion so that the outside surfaces of its walls contact the inside surfaces of the walls of the bottom portion when the top portion is lowered into the bottom portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1996
    Assignee: Republic Tool & Mfg. Corp.
    Inventor: Paul M. Havlovitz
  • Patent number: 5489021
    Abstract: A multipurpose carrying case made up of a main compartment in which a binder with a ring has been mounted, which allows a user to secure hole-punched leaves and other business-related items. A pocket and a flap attached to the exterior of the main compartment may be used to secure other objects, thereby giving a user convenient access to especially-needed items without requiring opening of the compartment. Fasteners within the compartment and underneath the flap permit the user to attach to the carrying case small purses in which personal effects might be kept.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1996
    Inventor: Denise L. Wallingford
  • Patent number: 5485922
    Abstract: A portable computer carry case assembly, to be used to safely and securely contain and transport a portable computer and various accessories therefor, the assembly having a main housing which is divided into a top compartment and a bottom compartment by a divider panel. Included within the top compartment are various support members which receive the portable computer suspended thereon in such a manner that the keyboard portion of the portable computer will be co-planar with a top edge of the main housing, and which straddle the portable computer to prevent sliding within the top compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1996
    Inventor: Robert A. Butcher
  • Patent number: 5450993
    Abstract: A carry holder (100) includes a housing (110) having a pocket (120) for receiving a portable product (160), and a latching mechanism (130, 140, 150) to help secure the portable product (160) within the pocket (120). The latching mechanism (130, 140, 150) includes a latch retainer (130), integral to the housing (110), a latch (140) formed to engage the latch retainer (130), and an elastic member (150) having a portion (152) mechanically coupled to the latch (140), and another portion (153) mechanically coupled to the housing (110). The latch (140) and elastic member (150) are pivotable about the pocket (120) such that latch (140) is selectively engageable with the latch retainer (130) to secure the portable product (160) within the pocket (120).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 19, 1995
    Assignee: Motorola, Inc.
    Inventors: Graciela L. Guerrero, Julio C. Castaneda, Randall P. Chambers
  • Patent number: 5437367
    Abstract: A carrying case (10) for electronic components such as a lap top computer, printer, CD ROM, and the like, the case (10) having a first shell half (14) and a second shell half (16) connected along a hinged edge. The first shell half (14) has shelves (20) and (22) foldable from a stowed position laying parallel to the plane of the first shell (14) to a use position in a plane perpendicular thereto, the shelves (20) and (22) lockable in said use position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1995
    Inventor: Mitchell L. Martin
  • Patent number: 5392919
    Abstract: A package for an elongated object such as a flashlight consists of a front panel and a rear panel, with two or more spaced V-shaped ribs being formed in the front panel. One end of the object is engaged with a first one of the ribs, and the opposite end of the object is engaged by the second one of the ribs in a manner such that the portion of the object between the ribs is exposed. Openings are formed in the walls of the front panel defining the ribs, and are configured in a manner so as to positively retain both ends of the object in position relative to the ribs once the front and rear panels are secured together. The package further includes a third rib spaced from one of the first or second ribs. Openings are formed in the third rib and the adjacent rib so as to receive end package objects such as batteries for the flashlight in a manner such that a portion of the length of the batteries is exposed between the ribs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1995
    Assignee: Green Bay Packaging, Inc.
    Inventor: Phillip L. Passamoni
  • Patent number: 5373936
    Abstract: A storage container for housing and storing an ink jet cartridge which has a recording head to discharge ink, and an ink tank to contain ink to be supplied to the recording head and which is structured to be exchangeable with respect to a recording apparatus comprises a capping member to be in contact with the ink discharge port surface of the recording head to cover the surface thereof and absorbing members conductively connected to the capping member to absorb ink which leaks from the recording head. With the capping member and absorbing member, an airtightness higher than that of the discharge ports is obtained in order to suppress the ink evaporation from the discharge ports of the recording head while the cartridge which is still in use is kept in the storage container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 20, 1994
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tsutomu Kawai, Akira Miyakawa, Hideki Yamaguchi, Hitoshi Nakamura, Hisashi Morioka
  • Patent number: 5348347
    Abstract: A pocketbook size organizer that can store a portable cellular phone. The organizer comprises a flexible book which has a first cover portion that can fold onto a center cover portion and a second cover portion that folds onto the first cover portion. The book has hook and loop material that fastens the second cover to the first cover to secure the organizer in a folded condition. The inside of the first cover has a pair of straps that secure the portable phone to the book. The straps are attached together by hook and loop material which allows the organizer to carry phones having different outer dimensions. The book also contains a pocket which can receive a calculator and a slit that can capture a note pad. The organizer can be carried by a handle which is attached to the book and has a free end that can be coupled to the outer surface of the center cover by hook and loop material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1994
    Assignee: Auto-Shade, Inc.
    Inventor: Joe Shink