Biasing Means Patents (Class 220/264)
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Patent number: 12110724Abstract: An actuator includes a spindle drive, a first gear which causes a translational displacement of a first connection unit connected to the spindle drive, and a second gear which engages with the first gear and is connected to a second connection unit. The relative rotation of the two gears causes an actuation of the spindle drive and a rotation of the spindle drive about the rotational axis of the second gear.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2019Date of Patent: October 8, 2024Assignee: Stabilus GmbHInventors: Thomas Reif, Jörg Hillen
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Patent number: 12083996Abstract: A storage device for vehicle includes: a storage portion of which one surface is an opening and which stores a storage item inside; a shaft portion provided in the storage portion; a lid swingably supported by the shaft portion to open and close at least a part of the opening; a coil spring that biases the lid in an opening direction; and a stopper integrally formed with the storage portion to restrict displacement of the coil spring when an opening degree of the lid reaches a predetermined opening degree.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2022Date of Patent: September 10, 2024Assignee: MORIROKU TECHNOLOGY COMPANY, LTD.Inventors: Masatoshi Takano, Song Hong
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Patent number: 12064921Abstract: Disclosed is a sealing member for a build unit of a 3D printing system, the build unit comprising a surface which is exposed to residual build material in use. The sealing member is adapted to engage with the build unit and form therewith a sealed fluid flow path comprising an inner surface including said surface, a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2019Date of Patent: August 20, 2024Assignee: HEWLETT-PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P.Inventors: David Chanclon Fernandez, Pablo Antonio Murciego Rodriguez, Jorge Diosdado Borrego
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Patent number: 12036951Abstract: A storage box includes a door that is coupled to the base. A pivot pin is coupled to the door and is operable between an engaged position, wherein the pivot pin is rotatably engaged with the base, and a disengaged position. The pivot pin is configured to move door-inboard due to contact with the base as the pivot pin moves from the disengaged position to the engaged position.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2020Date of Patent: July 16, 2024Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Satyanarayana Raju Vemulapati, Juergen Koehler, Linh Ngoc Doan, Brent Clifford Dalton, Bhavani Thota
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Patent number: 11964247Abstract: An apparatus includes a blender lid configured to cover an opening in a blender receptacle and a lid arm coupled to the blender lid and coupled rotationally about a first horizontal axis. The lid arm is configured to rotate about the first horizontal axis to selectively position the blender lid to cover and uncover the opening in the blender receptacle. The blender arm may rotate the blender lid about the first horizontal axis to cover the opening in the blender receptacle and apply a downward force on the blender lid to seal the opening of the blender receptacle with the blender lid. The blender arm may include a horizontal rod having a longitudinal axis that corresponds to the first horizontal axis and having a first end attached to the blender lid.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2020Date of Patent: April 23, 2024Assignee: 6D BYTES INC.Inventors: Vipin Jain, Venkateswaran Ayalur, Vijayasimha Doddabalapur, Kevin Andrew Marshall
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Patent number: 11958656Abstract: The present disclosure relates to storage boxes commonly used to organize and store items such as school-related supplies that may be carried by a student. The storage boxes generally include a lid and a base. The base optionally includes a divider which provides for two or more storage portions within an interior of the base, while also acting as a functional grip on the outside of the box. A latch mechanism is provided which securely latches the lid and base together in a closed configuration.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2023Date of Patent: April 16, 2024Assignee: IdeaStream Consumer Products, LLCInventors: Curtis Taylor, Daniel Perella, Matthew Hanson
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Patent number: 11858695Abstract: A breathing assistance apparatus has a lid and latch assembly configured for one-handed operation. The apparatus also includes a hinge assembly that separates when over-rotated but that reengages upon closing of the lid onto the main body of the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2022Date of Patent: January 2, 2024Assignee: Fisher & Paykel Healthcare LimitedInventors: Jeremy Livingston Miller, Arjen David Kat
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Patent number: 11773631Abstract: A cover opening-closing device comprises a rod, a casing in which at least a portion of the rod is stored, a lock unit, an interlock mechanism, and a connection unit. The lock unit can rotate about a central axis line between a lock position, in which locking with the cover is possible, and a release position, in which locking is not possible. The interlock mechanism is configured so that the rotation of the lock unit and the displacement of the rod are interlocked. The connection unit is configured so as to connect the lock unit to the casing and to restrict displacement of the lock unit in the direction of the central axis line.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2019Date of Patent: October 3, 2023Assignee: CHUO HATSUJO KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Toshio Kuwayama, Hiroki Tanaka, Takashi Tomoto
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Patent number: 11623797Abstract: A beverage container closure or lid adapted for closing an open end of a beverage container. The lid is couplable to the beverage container and includes a selectively openable stopper that when closed, creates a fluid-tight seal between the beverage container and the environment. The stopper may be opened by pressing a button disposed on a side of the beverage container closure. The stopper is subsequently automatically closed when the button is released. Thus, the user may open and close the beverage container closure using a single hand without the need to remove the beverage container closure from the beverage container. The beverage container closure includes an actuating lever configured to press the button when a user applies a force to the lever. By utilizing the mechanical advantage provided by the lever, a user is able to selectively open and close the stopper using a relatively low amount of force.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2021Date of Patent: April 11, 2023Assignee: Pacific Market International, LLCInventor: Sarah Danger George
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Patent number: 11480300Abstract: A refueling adapter for an alternative fuel vehicle includes a first filling port that is fluidly coupled to an inlet nozzle of a fuel tank of the alternative fuel vehicle. The first filling port is configured to fit an inlet nozzle of a first dispensing type. A second filling port fluidly coupled to a dispenser nozzle of an alternative fuel dispenser. The second filling port is configured to fit a dispenser nozzle of a second dispensing type, the second dispensing type being different from the first dispensing type. An adapter controller is configured to communicate with a vehicle fueling system of the alternative fuel vehicle and a valve providing a fluid connection between the first filling port and the second filling port and is operated by the adapter controller to selectively open and close the fluid connection.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2021Date of Patent: October 25, 2022Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia CorporationInventor: Thomas Patzer
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Patent number: 11483941Abstract: A pivoting assembly for an electronic device, being a clickable-open and clickable-shut cover or shield with click-step positioning includes a pivoting shaft extending along an imaginary axis, an inner movable member, an intermediate movable member, and an outer stationary member concentrically surrounding the imaginary axis. First positioning structures and first engaging structures are connected to one of the inner movable member and the intermediate movable member and a number of second positioning structures and second engaging structures are also so connected. When the pivoting shaft is rotated in an opening direction, the first positioning structures compress and slide across the first engaging structures. When the pivoting shaft is rotated in a closing direction, the second positioning structures compress and slide across the second engaging structures.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2020Date of Patent: October 25, 2022Assignee: AMBIT MICROSYSTEMS (SHANGHAI) LTD.Inventor: Jian-Feng Xiao
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Patent number: 11439122Abstract: A pet water bottle includes a shell, a triggering member, a transmission member and a first sealing member. A cavity for water storage is formed inside the shell, a first recessed region is formed on an outer surface of the shell, and a first through hole communicating with the cavity is arranged on an inner wall of the first recessed region; the first sealing member is arranged in the cavity, at least part of the transmission member is fixed inside the cavity, and the first sealing member is fixed onto the transmission member; the first through hole is in contact with and fully covered by the first sealing member; at least part of the triggering member is fixed outside the shell, and the triggering member and the transmission member are spaced apart from each other; the triggering member is capable of moving in a direction close to the transmission member.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2021Date of Patent: September 13, 2022Assignee: Shanghai Mimeng Network Technology Co., Ltd.Inventors: Chong Zhang, Lin Jin, Tao Tong
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Patent number: 11407584Abstract: An inductive cover assembly is configured to connect a can body of a trash can. A side of the can body is provided with an assembly groove extending downward. The inductive cover assembly includes an insert, and an inductive ring and a cover that are hinged to the insert. The assembly groove and the insert are pluggably connected, so as to allow the inductive cover assembly detachably arranged on the can body. Therefore, there is no need to remove the inductive cover assembly during the replacement of trash bags.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2020Date of Patent: August 9, 2022Assignee: EKO GROUP LTDInventor: Yizhi Chen
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Patent number: 11192692Abstract: A handle structure includes a handgrip body and at least one rotating body. The rotating body is pivotally connected to the handgrip body, the rotating body is used to pivotally connect a first object, and when rotating, the rotating body drives the handgrip body to move toward the first object for reducing the height of the handle structure. Therefore, the handle structure can make a handgrip body moved out toward a direction distant from the first object when used, and can make the handgrip body moved in toward a direction of the first object when not in use for reducing the height of the handgrip body so as to operate and use easily and prevent collision.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2019Date of Patent: December 7, 2021Inventor: Ting-Jui Wang
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Patent number: 10434950Abstract: A double opening storage device includes two opening and closing mechanisms that open and close a lid leftward and rightward relative to a box body. Each opening and closing mechanism include: a shaft member disposed so as to be coaxial with a rotation shaft; a support member that supports the shaft member so as to rotate the shaft member; an urging member that generates urging force for rotating the shaft member relative to the support member in an opening direction; and a locking device that holds the lid in a closed state against the urging force, and cancels, by an opening operation, holding of the lid. The shaft member and the support member include opposing surfaces, respectively, which are spaced from each other in the lid closed state, and projections, respectively, which interfere with each other while the lid is shifting from the closed state to a predetermined opened state.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2018Date of Patent: October 8, 2019Assignee: TOYODA GOSEI CO., LTD.Inventors: Yasufumi Ike, Yu Hishida, Yoshinori Noda
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Patent number: 10308428Abstract: Lift rod assemblies for waste receptacles having pedal-operated lids are provided. Such lift rod assemblies can include a first end configured to couple to the pedal and a distal second end configured to couple to the lid, and a spring configured to dampen a force in excess of a predetermined force threshold applied to the pedal by the user and transferred to the elongated lift rod assembly. Waste receptacles including such lift rod assemblies are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2016Date of Patent: June 4, 2019Assignee: Rubbermaid Commercial Products LLCInventors: Gary DeCarr, Jacob Connelly
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Patent number: 10294023Abstract: A device for rotating a cover of a trash can opens the cover so that a predetermined space is exposed, or closes the cover onto the frame so that the predetermined space is disconnected with the outside. The device includes an external force applying part rotated by first external force based on a fixed rotating shaft; and a mediating part which mediates the external force, interconnected to a rotation of the external force applying part by the external force to make the cover open. The cover closes by weight of the cover when the external force is released, in which when the standing of the cover is limited by second external force, the mediating part is transformed by the rotation of the external force applying part by the external force and prevents the external force from being transmitted to the cover.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2017Date of Patent: May 21, 2019Assignee: Janibell, Inc.Inventor: Kwang-Ok Chang
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Patent number: 10124746Abstract: The automobile lid device capable of opening and closing an opening of an automobile interior component includes a lid body configured to open and close the opening by being attached to and detached from the opening; a first engaging claw arranged at a periphery edge of the lid body, the first engaging claw having an outwardly downward inclination section; and a second engaging claw arranged at a periphery edge of the opening having an inwardly upward inclination section. Faces of the outwardly downward inclination section and the inwardly upward inclination section are engaged as being mutually contacted such that the outwardly downward inclination section crawls under a lower face of the inwardly upward inclination section when the lid body is attached to the opening.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2015Date of Patent: November 13, 2018Assignee: KASAI KOGYO CO., LTD.Inventor: Junichi Kubo
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Patent number: 9814337Abstract: Bag holding devices are presented including: a base having an inclined housing portion and a raised planar portion; a spring-loaded clamping element disposed along the raised planar portion and pivotally coupled with the planar portion; and a retractable reel disposed within the inclined housing portion. In some embodiments, devices further include: a mating groove disposed along an outer edge of the inclined housing portion; and a bowl having a mating portion that mates with the mating groove. In some embodiments, devices further include: a mating groove disposed along an outer edge of the inclined housing portion; and an accessory having a mating portion that mates with the mating groove, where in the accessory is any of: a novelty item, a promotional item, and a message plaque.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2016Date of Patent: November 14, 2017Assignee: Michael Bert James LoewenbergInventor: Michael Bert James Loewenberg
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Patent number: 9669995Abstract: A waste receptacle for collecting waste with a carrier that allows for easy transport. The receptacle uses a closing system to manage odor, and an actuator system to open and close the closing system. The closing system has a clamping mechanism housed inside a body that can clamp a bag placed inside the body with the opening of the bag disposed about the clamping mechanism. The receptacle may also have a lid in which actuation of the actuator system causes the clamping mechanism to open and close simultaneously with the lid. The actuation system may utilize pedals that can be replaced with a hand actuator.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2016Date of Patent: June 6, 2017Assignee: 1908 BRANDS, INC.Inventors: William Hess, Kristen Hess
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Patent number: 9655378Abstract: A heated air popcorn popper and related methods of popping popcorn in which unpopped kernels are retained in a heating zone and are prevented from being expelled before they have been exposed to a heated air stream for sufficient time to result in popping of the kernels. The popcorn popper can have a popping portion including a retention mechanism capable of moving in response to physical contact with popped kernels that experience a dramatic volumetric increase in size following popping. As the number of popped kernels within the popping portion increases, the level of the popped kernels rises until they physically contact the retention mechanism, whereby the retention mechanism is forced to transition from a covering disposition to an open disposition in which popped kernels are allowed to exit the heating zone.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2014Date of Patent: May 23, 2017Assignee: National Presto Industries, Inc.Inventors: Seth Rooney, Michael R. Berge
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Patent number: 9597991Abstract: A cupholder assembly includes an outer housing and an inner carriage movably disposed within the outer housing. The inner carriage defines at least one cup well. A first door and a second door are movable between closed positions, which block the inner carriage, and open positions, which allow access to the inner carriage. A biasing member is configured to one of: bias the inner carriage away from the outer housing, and rotate one of the first door and the second door. Opening one of the first door and the second door releases the biasing member and allows at least a portion of the inner carriage to move upward relative to the outer housing.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2015Date of Patent: March 21, 2017Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventor: Douglas J. Amick
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Patent number: 9593498Abstract: A system is provided for automatically opening and closing a two-part longitudinally hinged longitudinal cover for a swim spa. The automatic swim spa cover opening and closing system is characterized by a longitudinal support that spans between and along longitudinal ends of the two cover parts, first and second drive mechanisms disposed on opposite longitudinal ends of the swim spa, a first drive arm operatively connected to and between the first drive mechanism and a first end of the longitudinal support, and a second drive arm operatively connected to and between the second drive mechanism and a second end of the longitudinal support. The drive mechanisms each include a hydraulic cylinder operating configured drive gearing that operates configured drive arm gearing. The drive and arm gearing provide a two-stage operation of the drive arm to separately pivot the two cover parts for opening and closing the two-part swim spa cover.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2013Date of Patent: March 14, 2017Inventor: Justin Wyrick
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Patent number: 9551551Abstract: A lens cover for a firearm scope comprises a lens ring configured to mount to a lens, a cover bracket pivotally mounted to the lens ring, and a cover membrane disposed upon a portion of the lens ring and a portion of the cover bracket. When the cover bracket is in a closed position, the cover membrane creates a seal against the lens ring. The lens ring comprises an elastomeric material so as to enable mounting of the lens ring to lenses of differing diameters. The cover bracket includes a plurality of opposing mounting holes for selectively mounting the cover bracket to the adjustable lens ring.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2014Date of Patent: January 24, 2017Assignee: APPLIED MECHANICAL TECHNOLOGIES INCInventor: Anthony Ilacqua
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Patent number: 9321403Abstract: An overhead console assembly for a vehicle includes a plurality of interchangeable storage bin modules each defining at least receivers and a differently sized or shaped storage bin or holder. An overhead console is provided, defining a storage cavity adapted to receive the plurality of storage bin modules. The assembly further includes pins including a first end adapted to be received in the overhead console and a second end adapted to be received in one of the receivers. Each of the interchangeable storage bin module differently sized or shaped storage spaces is independently configured to hold a different item. One of the pin first ends includes a gear for interfacing with a dampener. Another of the pin first ends is associated with a biasing member adapted to apply a closing force to a one of the interchangeable storage bins held in the overhead console storage cavity.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2015Date of Patent: April 26, 2016Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventor: Marc David Nedelman
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Patent number: 9309049Abstract: A waste receptacle for collecting waste with a carrier that allows for easy transport. The receptacle uses a closing system to manage odor, and an actuator system to open and close the closing system. The closing system has a clamping mechanism housed inside a body that can clamp a bag placed inside the body with the opening of the bag disposed about the clamping mechanism. The receptacle may also have a lid in which actuation of the actuator system causes the clamping mechanism to open and close simultaneously with the lid. The actuation system utilizes pedals that can be replaced with a handle actuator.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2015Date of Patent: April 12, 2016Assignee: 1908 BRANDS, INC.Inventors: William Hess, Kristen Hess
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Patent number: 9272668Abstract: A temporal engaging portion is provided at a bin. Therefore, by engaging a bin-side arm with a bin-side engaging portion and temporally engaging a panel-side arm with the temporal engaging portion after elastically deforming the panel-side arm, a torsion spring can be set to the bin before the bin is coupled with a panel. The bin set with the torsion spring is inserted into a recess of the panel. During rotation of the bin toward a closed position, a temporal engagement of the panel-side arm with the temporal engaging portion is released, and upon being released, the panel-side arm is elastically sprung-back to be finally engaged with the panel-side engaging portion. As a result, by only coupling the bin set with the torsion spring with the panel, the bin and the torsion spring can be coupled with the panel so that coupling work is improved.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2014Date of Patent: March 1, 2016Assignee: KOJIMA INDUSTRIES CORPORATIONInventors: Kenta Suzuki, Tomohiro Miura
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Patent number: 9233793Abstract: An apparatus and method for easily and simply lifting and holding open residential size trash containers thereby allowing the user the use of both hands for hoisting and dumping the trash without having to touch the lid with bare or both hands. The device also holds the lid in an open position without having to rest the lid against a wall or abutment or having the lid completely flip to the back side of the receptacle through the hinge.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2014Date of Patent: January 12, 2016Assignee: Original Design Products, LLCInventors: Michael Jackson, John Christie
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Patent number: 9174583Abstract: A container for a vehicle interior has a base body in which at least one compartment is formed and a lid for at least partially closing the compartment and movable between a closed position and an open position. An actuator biases the lid into the open position and a latch can retain it in the closed position. A first brake associated with the actuator retards movement of the lid during movement of the lid from the closed into the opened position. A second brake further retards movement of the lid in only a limited end portion of its movement into the open position.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2012Date of Patent: November 3, 2015Assignee: GRAMMER AGInventor: Stefan Kuhn
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Patent number: 9038842Abstract: The invention relates to a storage compartment comprising a storage space, a cover flap (3) covering the opening (5) of the storage space, said flap releasing the opening (5) in an opened position and closing it in a closed position, and a mechanism (4) for opening and closing the cover flap, wherein the mechanism comprises a first coupling rod (40) that is mounted on a first pivot rotatably about a first axis (41) in the storage space and comprises a second pivot spaced from the first pivot, and a lever (30) arranged rigidly on the cover flap is mounted on the second pivot rotatably about a second axis (42). According to the invention, a gear wheel section (33) that is in engagement with a further rotatably mounted gear wheel (44) is present on the cover flap, wherein the gear wheel is also arranged on the coupling rod.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2010Date of Patent: May 26, 2015Assignee: Faurecia Innenraum Systeme GmbHInventor: Volker Doll
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Patent number: 8960490Abstract: A lid assembly including a cover member for attachment to a container, the cover member including a top surface and a side surface extending from the top surface, wherein the top surface includes an aperture providing access to contents of the container; an actuating member attached to the cover member and positionable between closed and open positions to close and open the aperture, wherein depressing the actuating member opens the aperture and releasing the actuating member closes the aperture; and a locking member provided on the actuating member, the locking member positionable to lock the actuating member in either the closed or open position to maintain the aperture in either the closed or open position.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2013Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: Leedsworld, Inc.Inventors: Alison Carlile, Mindy Hoffmann, Jaime Morgan
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Patent number: 8943952Abstract: A brewer, system, and method of use for producing and dispensing a beverage. The apparatus, system, and method of use includes a receiver for receiving a brewing substance container. The receiver receives the container, positions it for infusion with heated water, and then positions the container for removal from the receiver. The present apparatus, system, and method minimizes the drive mechanisms associated with the apparatus and improves the control and reliability of the apparatus. The apparatus facilitates collection and dispensing of beverage produced in the receiver and removal of the brewing substance container from the receiver.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2009Date of Patent: February 3, 2015Assignee: Bunn-O-Matic CorporationInventors: Christopher W. Rahn, James I. Miller
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Patent number: 8919593Abstract: A lid assembly includes a lid, which defines openings and a guide channel, and a body slidably engaging the lid and defining protrusions that correspond with the openings. A resiliently deformable member of the body is guided within the guide channel of the lid. The body is movable between a first position in which the openings and protrusions are aligned to block fluid flow and a second position in which the openings and protrusions are misaligned to allow fluid flow through the lid. The body is biased in the direction of the first position by the resiliently deformable member.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2011Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Inventors: Russell Sinacori, Douglas Ramsey
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Patent number: 8915358Abstract: A moist wipes dispenser has a top attached to a bottom along a hinge. The top is adapted to pivot about the hinge's axis of rotation. The top is adapted to assume a closed position and a dispensing position. In one embodiment, the top can assume a warning position adapted to warn a user that the top is not shut. The top is urged to the warning position if the top is angularly disposed in a red zone that extends between the closed position and the warning position. The warning position is angularly displaced from the closed position by at least five degrees. In another embodiment, the hinge includes a pin integrally molded with the top or bottom, and an open knuckle integrally molded with the other of the top and bottom. The hinge is adapted to urge the top into closed and dispensing positions in selected angular ranges.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2013Date of Patent: December 23, 2014Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: Kroy D. Johnson, Linda J. Van Dyke, Robert Schlaupitz
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Patent number: 8887950Abstract: A case for a cosmetic or body hygiene product comprises a body having a bottom and a free edge 2B and containing a dish 5 containing a solid, pasty or pulverulent product, and a lid 3 mounted pivotably on the body.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2009Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Assignee: Chanel Parfums BeauteInventors: Christian Salciarini, Olivier Perrin, Sylvie Legastelois
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Patent number: 8844746Abstract: Closures having an integrated over center latching assembly including an end wall, a skirt wall depending from the end wall, an outlet opening associated with the end wall and an over center latching assembly are disclosed. The over center latching assembly includes a link pivotally coupled to the closure at a first pivot point, a lever pivotally coupled to the link at a second pivot point, a closing member pivotally coupled to the closure at a third pivot point and pivotally coupled to the lever at a forth pivot point and a biasing spring coupled between the first pivot point and the fourth pivot point. The link and the lever are configured to move the over center latching assembly between a first position and a second position and the closing member is configured to close the outlet opening when the over center latching assembly is moved to the second position.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2011Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignee: Runway Blue, LLCInventors: David O. Meyers, Steven M. Sorensen, Kim Sorensen
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Patent number: 8844745Abstract: A lid structure for use with a container for storing personal care products is disclosed. The lid structure includes a lid-activation button that when pressed allows the lid top to rotate about the lid base giving a consumer access to the contents of the container. Additionally, the lid-activation button functions so that the lid top is released independent of where the lid-activation button is pressed by the consumer. To create better and more consistent opening of the lid top portion, an inner longitudinal edge of the lid-activation button may be attached to the lid bottom via a living hinge that is formed integrally with the lid base. A strengthening rib is attached to the living hinge that keeps the main body side of the living hinge immobile and encourages the button side of the living hinge to flex when the lid-activation button is depressed.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2010Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: Timothy James Peters, Ryan Leslie Fulscher, Robert Samuel Schlaupitz, Kieron H. Tse, James Wolford, Tyson Manullang
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Publication number: 20140271403Abstract: The invention relates to a closure system for a holder for a reaction vessel in an automatic analysis apparatus. The closure system comprises a lid secured movably on a retainer element, wherein the lid closes an opening of the holder in a closed position and opens it in an open position. The closure system further comprises a restoring element, which is designed in such a way that, depending on the position of the lid, it exerts a restoring force in the direction of the closed position or of the open position.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 4, 2014Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: SIEMENS HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS DIAGNOSTICS GMBHInventor: Hugo Wilmes
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Patent number: 8833588Abstract: The invention pertains to a foot operated latch and linkage means permitting hands-free access to a waste or recycling container. The latch includes a kick plate which is interlocked with a foot pedal whereby displacement of the kick plate permits release of the foot pedal to move from a latched position to an unlatched position, which pedal movement engages a linkage which opens a user access door in the container.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2013Date of Patent: September 16, 2014Assignee: Haul-All Equipment Ltd.Inventors: Peter Spahmann, C. Kelly Phillip, John Jansen
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Publication number: 20140246434Abstract: A trash can with a lid can include a lock for the lid. The lock can include a latch that cooperates with the trash container body to lock the lid over the opening of the body. The latch can be configured to slide with respect to the edge of the opening of the body from an unlocked position to a locked position. This latch can be integrated into, built into or self contained in the lid. The trash can can also include a pedal actuator for opening the lid. The trash can can also include a damping mechanism mounted to the body of the trash can with a mounting plate. The mounting plate can be made from a material that is harder than the material used for the body of the trash can. Additionally, the trash can can have wheels.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 5, 2014Publication date: September 4, 2014Applicant: simplehuman, LLCInventors: Frank Yang, Joseph Sandor
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Patent number: 8820573Abstract: As monitor 1 held by casing 3 is upwardly pushed, clamp 2 is rectilinearly moved toward push latch 4 in cooperation with rotation of the monitor 1, the monitor 1 is rotatable by claw section 2a disengaged from locking hole 1b, and a striker holding section 4a engages with striker 2b to be forced into the main body of the latch 4 to be in engagement locked position. As the opened monitor 1 is upwardly pushed, the clamp 2 is rectilinearly moved toward the latch 4 in cooperation with the rotation of the monitor 1, the holding section 4a placed in the locked position with the striker 2b is forced into the main body of the latch 4 to be in engagement-lock releasing position, and the released section 2a is urged and moved by spring 5 to lock the hole 1b to hold the monitor 1 in closed position.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2009Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric CorporationInventors: Kazuhiro Tsuzuki, Masahiro Kanamaru, Jiro Yoshizawa
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Patent number: 8820561Abstract: In a closure for closing the orifice (13) of a neck (12), in particular the orifice of a fuel filler neck for automotive vehicles, a spring mechanism is provided which takes the form of a tightening device for drawing the closure part (14) automatically into its final closed position. The movement of the closure part (14) is controlled by a first guide slot (19). The operating lever (35), by means of which the closure part is moved, is furthermore hinged to the closure part (14) by means of a second guide slot (39), which, when an opening force is introduced via the closure part (14), blocks the movement of the closure part (14) from its closed position in the opening direction so that the closure part (14) cannot be manually opened from outside.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2010Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Assignee: Temtec Fahrzeugtechnik Entwicklungsgesellschaft mbHInventor: Angelika Barbara Maria Bauer
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Publication number: 20140238989Abstract: A foot operation container includes a garbage bin having a bin lid, a foot-operable pedal mounted to the garbage bin, a pedal guide arrangement mounted to the garbage bin for enabling downward and upward movement of the foot-operable pedal, and a driving arrangement connected to the bin lid and the bin lid, wherein when the foot-operable pedal is pressed by a foot of a user, the foot-operable pedal moves downward under a guidance of the pedal guide arrangement to drive the pulling thread to lift up the bin lid. A pedal cushion arrangement is also provided to provide a cushion effect to avoid the production noise when the foot-operable pedal is released from the foot of the user.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2013Publication date: August 28, 2014Inventors: Xin Wang, Jiangqun Chen
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Publication number: 20140209605Abstract: The invention pertains to a foot operated latch and linkage means permitting hands-free access to a waste or recycling container. The latch includes a kick plate which is interlocked with a foot pedal whereby displacement of the kick plate permits release of the foot pedal to move from a latched position to an unlatched position, which pedal movement engages a linkage which opens a user access door in the container.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 30, 2013Publication date: July 31, 2014Applicant: HAUL-ALL EQUIPMENT LTD.Inventors: Peter Spahmann, C. Kelly Philipp, John Jansen
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Patent number: 8720862Abstract: The apparatus is to assist in the removal of trash receptacles and or bag liners from under counter single, double, or multiple slide-out trash can cabinets. By stepping on the lever located below the trash can, the trash-can will be raised approximately one inch which will allow a person to remove the plastic trash bag (bag liner) from the rim of the trash can. It will also allow easy removal of the trash receptacle itself once it is raised by allowing a person to grasp the rim of the trash can. The unit can be retrofitted onto existing pull-out trash can cabinets or mounted in new.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2011Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Inventors: Gretchen Elizabeth Ernest, Thomas Matthew Hoffmam
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Patent number: 8720728Abstract: A trash can with a lid can include a lock for the lid. The lock can include a latch that cooperates with the trash container body to lock the lid over the opening of the body. The latch can be configured to slide with respect to the edge of the opening of the body from an unlocked position to a locked position. This latch can be integrated into, built into or self contained in the lid. The trash can can also include a pedal actuator for opening the lid. The trash can can also include a damping mechanism mounted to the body of the trash can with a mounting plate. The mounting plate can be made from a material that is harder than the material used for the body of the trash can. Additionally, the trash can can have wheels.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2008Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: simplehuman, LLCInventors: Frank Yang, Joseph Sandor
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Patent number: 8695825Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein provide an apparatus that includes a container configured to store and transport drilling waste, a lid coupled to the container, and at least one arm coupled to the lid and configured to lift or lower the lid when moved, wherein the at least one arm comprises a counterweight. Disclosed embodiments also provide a method of opening and closing an apparatus. The method includes moving at least one arm coupled to a lid of the apparatus to an open position, wherein the apparatus is configured to store and transport drilling waste, disposing drilling waste in the apparatus, and moving the at least on arm coupled to the lid of the apparatus to a closed position. Disclosed embodiments also provide a method of modifying a mud skip that includes coupling at least one arm to a lid of the mud skip configured to store and transport drilling waste, wherein the at least one arm comprises a counterweight.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2007Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Assignee: M-1 LLCInventor: Kjell Magne Oksnevad
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Patent number: 8689989Abstract: A drink bottle with a removable lid includes an inner lid attached to the mouth of the bottle and an outer lid pivotably mounted on the inner lid. A drink spout extends from the inner lid. The outer lid may be locked into a closed position covering the drink spout. A push button on the inner lid can be operated to release the locked outer lid, permitting the outer lid to open to permit drinking from the drink spout. The push button moves a lid slide that extends opposite to the hinge and contains an extension that engages with a notch in the upper lid to hold the upper lid closed. On actuating the push button, the lid slide is pulled toward the push button and the extension at the other end of the lid slide moves out of engagement of the outer lid, thereby opening the outer lid.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2012Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Assignee: Thermos L.L.C.Inventor: Marvin Lane
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Patent number: 8678219Abstract: A lid operation arrangement of a container includes an automatic operated unit for automatically operating a lid panel, a foot operated unit for manually operating the lid panel, and a motorized unit operatively linked with the automatic operated unit and the foot operated unit. When the motorized unit is activated by the automatic operated unit, the motorized unit is arranged for generating a torque enhancing force to move the lid panel from the opened position to the closed position and for generating a decelerating force to move the lid panel back to the closed position from the opened position in a hydraulic manner. After the lid panel is lifted up to the opened position by the foot operated unit, the motorized unit only generates the decelerating force to move the lid panel back to the closed position from the opened position in a hydraulic manner.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2012Date of Patent: March 25, 2014Inventors: Xin Wang, Jiangqun Chen
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Patent number: 8662337Abstract: A waste storage device is provided including a waste storage cassette receiving chamber for receiving a cassette rotatable within the chamber and containing tubing for enveloping waste. The device further includes a waste inlet and a throat area therebetween, wherein a releasable gripping assembly is provided in the throat area and arranged for actuation between a released configuration defining an aperture for passage of waste therethrough and a gripping configuration defining a restriction in the throat area.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2009Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Assignee: Sangenic International LimitedInventors: Graham Keith Lacy, Nicholas Gerald Fitton, Benjamin Douglas Vinal Cramp, Julian Swan