Clamps, Clips, Hooks, Or Latches Patents (Class 220/324)
  • Patent number: 9950302
    Abstract: Systems, apparatus, and articles of manufacture for stand-alone chemical dispensers are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2018
    Assignee: Crossford International, LLC
    Inventors: David L. Walsh, Joseph J. Franzino
  • Patent number: 9930996
    Abstract: A closure for a container for storing granulated powder. The closure includes a collar and a lid, a locking portion on the collar, and a locking portion on the lid, the collar locking portion operable to releasably engage the lid locking portion when the lid is in a closed position on the collar. The closure further includes a latch element on the collar and a latch element on the lid, the collar last element operable to releasably engage the lid locking portion. Some embodiments are operable to provide two audible sounds verifying the lid has been properly closed. Some embodiments include a modified elongated scoop having a length equal to the diameter of the inner perimeter of the lid for improved user experience scooping product from the bottom of a container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Mead Johnson Nutrition Co.
    Inventors: Robin P. Wiggins, Johanna Kahn
  • Patent number: 9926116
    Abstract: Packaging which can accommodate medical articles such as a series of orthopedic implants e.g. femoral stem components for prosthetic hip joints which have a dimension which varies minimally across the series but which vary considerably in overall size. The packaging is designed to minimize the travel of any member of the series packaged therein such that all the packaged components in the series can pass the standard handling and shipping tests typically used by the manufacturers of medical articles such as implants and preferably comprises two thermoformed tray components which each carry three types of cavities which are interconnected and designed to be assembled with their cavities facing each other to contain the lower stem, body and angled shaft of the stem component, respectively, with the cavities for the lower stem and the body cooperating to capture a minimally varying dimension of the series.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2018
    Assignee: Bemis Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Tad R. Kinyon
  • Patent number: 9908475
    Abstract: A securement system is provided for use with a storage area of a vehicle having a cover panel adjustably positionable relative to the storage area. The securement system includes a locking portion cooperating with the cover panel including a body having a first end and an opposing second end terminating at a securement member. A receiving portion cooperates with the storage area and includes a housing, a channel extending at least partially through the receiving portion housing to receive and engage the locking portion securement member. The receiving portion channel includes a first passage configured to receive the locking portion securement member and a second passage configured to guide the locking portion body between at least a first position and a second position to receive and secure the securement member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2018
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Cesar Alejandro Ayala Diaz, Alejandro Valencia Angeles, Rodolfo De La Mora Ramirez
  • Patent number: 9862267
    Abstract: In a fuel collection device for a fuel tank in a motor vehicle, a swirl pot is connected, by a catching connection and a locking connection, to a holding element mounted in the fuel tank. The catching connection, along with a supporting element, allows the swirl pot to be secured in a plane. The locking connection retains the swirl pot on the holding element. A sliding element allows the locking connection to be blocked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Assignee: Continental Automotive GmbH
    Inventors: Marc Gerhardt, Peter Menzl, Markus Wellhäuser, Tobias Schneider, Toni Heimer
  • Patent number: 9849403
    Abstract: A fractionation tray includes a manway unit positioned to cover a manway opening in the fractionation tray. The manway opening is framed by one or more fractionation tray panels having apertures therethrough adjacent to the manway opening. The manway unit includes a first manway panel having: perforations for the passage of fluid; first and second opposing side edges and two opposing end edges; and finger elements extending from the second side edge. The finger elements of the second side edge are received within the apertures adjacent to a first side of the manway opening. The manway unit is configured to open and close by rotation of the finger elements within the apertures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Assignee: Sulzer Chemtech AG
    Inventors: Daniel Richard Summers, Salvador Lopez Magana, Robert Bowden, Charles Sidney Parker
  • Patent number: 9834342
    Abstract: According to an aspect of the invention, a latching mechanism/device is provided, as well as a method of maintaining a closed position between opposing first and second portions of a container. The latching mechanism includes a latch attached to the first portion and a latch keeper integrally molded to the second portion. The latch keeper includes an elongated keeper slot and a recessed pocket formed in the keeper slot, such that when at least a portion of the latch is received within the recessed pocket, the container is closed and/or sealed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Assignee: YETI Coolers, LLC
    Inventor: Roy Joseph Seiders
  • Patent number: 9827730
    Abstract: A method for fabricating a lid for attachment to a vessel having an open top surrounded by a peripheral edge portion, includes injection molding from a molten plastic material a first shot structure defining a web portion, a peripheral portion surrounding the web portion; in a second shot procedure, over-molding an elastomeric material different from said plastic material onto the first short structure to form a seal structure portion integrated with the lid portion to form a unitary lid-seal structure, wherein the seal structure portion is permanently adhered to the peripheral portion of the first shot structure, and wherein the seal structure portion is configured to provide an air-tight seal between the lid and a sealing surface portion of the peripheral edge of the vessel when the lid is attached to the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2017
    Assignee: Snapware Corporation
    Inventor: Justin Smyers
  • Patent number: 9821830
    Abstract: A covered wheelbarrow system includes a wheelbarrow that has a bucket. A lid is hingedly coupled to the wheelbarrow. The lid is positioned to selectively close the bucket to inhibit material from being removed from the bucket. The lid is positioned in an open position to facilitate the material to be removed from the bucket. A pair of hinges is provided and each of the hinges is coupled to the lid. Each of the hinges releasably engages the bucket such that the lid is removably coupled to the wheelbarrow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2017
    Inventor: Janelle Matlock
  • Patent number: 9823007
    Abstract: A vessel for chilling wine with ice or ice-water mixture has an inner support chamber for standing up wine bottle and separating them from liquid water to avoid over chilling. The inner support as a plurality of perforations in an upper portion of the vessel to facilitate heat exchange. As ice outside the support melts, the water formed will remain below the perforations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2017
    Assignee: Meyer Intellectual Properties Limited
    Inventors: Stanley Kin Sui Cheng, Edward S Sherman
  • Patent number: 9821956
    Abstract: A latch for a container is disclosed. The latch can comprise a body, which can be mounted to a lid of the container. The latch can further comprise a wheel that is rotatable relative to the body. The latch can engage the receptacle of the container. For example, the wheel can protrude under the rim of the receptacle when the lid is in a closed orientation relative to the receptacle. In other instances, the latch can be mounted to the receptacle of the container, and can releasably engage the lid of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2017
    Assignee: WASTEQUIP, LLC
    Inventor: Todd Wright
  • Patent number: 9764880
    Abstract: A hopper cover for a dispensing machine includes an exterior side having an exterior surface and an interior side having an interior surface that defines a plurality of recesses. The plurality of recesses are configured to receive a plurality of components of the dispensing machine. Each recess of the plurality of recesses corresponds with a specific component of the plurality of components. The hopper cover is configured to cover a hopper cavity of the dispensing machine when in a first orientation and facilitate organized disassembly and reassembly of the dispensing machine when in a second orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2017
    Assignee: The Vollrath Company, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Jill Hundley, Richard Koehl, Ken Wetenkamp
  • Patent number: 9763457
    Abstract: A food cutter has a base and at least two transverse panels extending from the base and sized to complement a pan. The panels may form a grid with an upper end located in the base. The grid has a lower end with cutting edges adapted to cut food. The upper end may be concave and the lower end is flat. The base is formed from a smooth rigid material and may be covered in a soft pliable material. The grid may be coated with a food safe, non-stick material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2017
    Inventor: Jennie Kathryn Brown
  • Patent number: 9737044
    Abstract: An animal enclosure including a plurality of members defining an interior of the enclosure. One of the plurality of members includes a first member having a frame structure and door assembly formed by a plurality of interconnected horizontal and vertical wires. At least two of the horizontal wires of the frame structure form a hook positioned inside the defined opening. The door assembly is coupled to the frame and moves between open and closed positions. The door assembly includes a first door and a second door removably coupled to one another. The enclosure also includes a latch assembly for releasing the door assembly from the frame structure. In the closed position, at least one horizontal wire of the first door and at least one horizontal wire of the second door are coupled to the hooks formed by the at least two horizontal wires of the frame structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: Mid-West Metal Products Co., INC.
    Inventors: Brad Cantwell, Stew Kerr, Michael E. Greene, Terrance L. Jones
  • Patent number: 9662664
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a centrifuge, in particular, a laboratory centrifuge, with a housing comprising a centrifuge lid, which delimits the centrifuge to the outside, a rotor and a rotor cover for closing the rotor, a connecting device comprising a holding arm and a holder being provided, via which the rotor cover and the centrifuge lid can be detachably connected with each other in such a way that the rotor cover is lifted off of the rotor upon opening of the centrifuge lid and is placed on the rotor upon closing the centrifuge lid. The holding arm is detachably and movably mounted in the holder during opening and closing of the centrifuge lid, and the holding arm and the holder are spaced via a gap space when the centrifuge lid is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2017
    Assignee: Thermo Electron LED GmbH
    Inventor: Norman Ballhause
  • Patent number: 9644619
    Abstract: A compression machine (110) includes an oscillating body (111) oscillating between two reversal points (U1, U2), wherein the oscillating body has a first mass (m1), and a maximum value of resulting compression force (F*) when the oscillating body is used is less by a predetermined factor (F) than a maximum value of the resulting compression force when an oscillating reference body (121) having a reference mass (mref) is used in a reference compression machine (120) of same construction and using the same fluid (112), wherein the first mass exceeds the reference mass by a percentage that is a function of the predetermined factor, and wherein maximum value of the resulting compression force is reduced by the predetermined factor F by reducing cross-sectional area (A) of the oscillating reference body if the oscillating reference body were used. A related method is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Assignee: Linde Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Christoph Nagl
  • Patent number: 9580244
    Abstract: A locking device is provided, preferably for a container. The locking device keeps the lid of the container closed when the container is knocked over on its side, with a sudden jerking or jarring motion, such as by impact with the ground, to prevent spillage of its contents. The locking device, however, allows the lid to open when the waste container is tipped over, preferably in a forward direction, by a dumping operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2017
    Assignee: Serio-Us Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: David L. Reeb, James L. Martin, II
  • Patent number: 9540163
    Abstract: According to an aspect of the invention, a latching mechanism/device is provided, as well as a method of maintaining a closed position between opposing first and second portions of a container. The latching mechanism includes a latch attached to the first portion and a latch keeper integrally molded to the second portion. The latch keeper includes an elongated keeper slot and a recessed pocket formed in the keeper slot, such that when at least a portion of the latch is received within the recessed pocket, the container is closed and/or sealed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2017
    Assignee: YETI Coolers, LLC
    Inventor: Roy Joseph Seiders
  • Patent number: 9469447
    Abstract: A sealing mechanism for packaging containers offers the end recipient a way of testing and guaranteeing that the container has not been tampered with or opened during transport operations, and that it has reached its destination in the same condition as when it left. The sealing mechanism for packaging containers of the “low-coefficient” type includes a first and second pin for engaging with a relative seat present on the edge of the container, and a tab designed to fit into the space between the pins. The mechanism for packaging containers of the “high-coefficient” type features, a plate as a first component envisaged to fit into a relative seat present in the container, a second component including an opening block and a fitting designed to engage with the lid of the container, and a pin envisaged to engage with the first component and the second component, securing the entire mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2016
    Inventor: Luca Zacchi
  • Patent number: 9435783
    Abstract: A hatching egg inspection apparatus includes: a plurality of light emitter, the light emitter being disposed two dimensionally at prescribed positions; light receiver, which are provided in a one-to-one relationship with the light emitter and each of which receives light from the corresponding light emitter; and an egg container, which is for arraying in advance a hatching egg between each of the light emitter and the light receiver corresponding thereto. Each hatching egg is inspected by the corresponding light receiver that receives, among the lights from all the light emitter, transmitted light that transmitted through the interior of the hatching egg. When one light emitter of the plurality of light emitter is emitting light, other of the light emitter within a prescribed range centered on the one light emitter do not emit light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2016
    Assignee: NABEL Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kunio Nambu, Kenji Yasuda, Toyoaki Ohashi, Hiroshige Iguchi
  • Patent number: 9408315
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus includes: a first cover forming a first external surface of the electronic apparatus; a second cover forming the first external surface in conjunction with the first cover, the second cover being capable of being separated from an edge of the first cover in a first direction along the first external surface; an elastically deformable first engaging portion formed at the edge of the first cover; and a second engaging portion formed at an edge of the second cover, the second engaging portion being engageable with the first engaging portion. The first engaging portion is elastically deformable in a second direction intersecting the first direction and being along the first external surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Interactive Entertainment Inc.
    Inventors: Shinya Tsuchida, Yasuhiro Ootori, Yuta Tamaki
  • Patent number: 9376236
    Abstract: A container includes a chute for supporting reels, the chute including a bottom, a lower wall zone, an upper wall zone, and a support frame for supporting the chute. The container has a horizontal support plane on both sides of the chute, the upper wall zone being formed by a first support surface of a wedge-like support member placed onto the support plane, a second support surface of the support member resting against the support plane when the support member is in a first use position; a pivot mechanism allowing the support member to be turned in relation to the support frame so that the first support surface sets against the lower wall zone of the chute and the second support surface sets onto the same height level as the support plane for forming a uniform loading plane and for placing the support member to a second use position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2016
    Assignee: OY LANGH SHIP AB
    Inventor: Laura Langh-Lagerlof
  • Patent number: 9314919
    Abstract: A truck box is provided having a reinforced lid which resists bending, crimping, torqueing and misalignment when being opened and closed, and which avoids the appearance or a wave or roll along the surface of the lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2016
    Assignee: Daws Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Craig Harrison
  • Patent number: 9309003
    Abstract: Systems for improved access door assemblies. In particular, disclosed are boltless/screwless access door assemblies with a radial sealing mechanism. In some embodiments, the access door assembly includes a shoulder configured to withstand interior stresses and a retaining strip configured to withstand exterior stresses. The access door assembly is also configured to be opened when the retaining strip is released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2016
    Assignee: Zodiac Aerosafety Systems
    Inventors: Amine Sannadi, Nicolas Picco
  • Patent number: 9254057
    Abstract: A can cooker includes a main body that is generally cylindrical in shape having a bottom portion, wall portion, neck portion, and lid ring. The bottom portion, wall portion, and neck portion may be integrally formed and connected to one another. A lid is sized and shaped to fit within a part of the neck portion. The lid includes an outer lip that engaged with lid ring on the main body in such a way that a seal is formed between the lid ring and the outer lip. The lid is secured to the main body through a plurality of latches. Handles may be placed on the exterior surface of the lid and main body to ease use and transportation of the can cooker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Inventor: Seth D. McGinn
  • Patent number: 9244507
    Abstract: An electronic device of the present invention has a battery storage structure with a battery pack inserted into a battery storage section provided in a device case, a battery electrode provided on a side surface of the battery pack that comes in contact with a connection electrode provided within the battery storage section and the battery storage section is openably/closably covered by a battery cover. This electronic device includes a locking member which engageably locks the battery pack into the battery storage section by sliding the battery pack into place, and a guide pressing section provided on the battery cover which presses the battery pack towards the connection electrode once inserted between inner surface parts positioned on opposite sides of the connection electrode of the battery storage section and the battery pack opposing side with the battery cover covering the battery storage section where the battery pack is stored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Casio Computer Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Yasunori Chiba
  • Patent number: 9234379
    Abstract: A paper sheet storage container and a paper handling apparatus that includes the container. The container includes an outer case, an open-closable door attached to the outer case, a lock that locks the door in a closed state with respect to the outer case, and a seal attachment portion that seals the door closed with respect to the outer case, so as to indicate that the door is closed with respect to the outer case, and to lock the door in the closed state with respect to the outer case. The paper sheet handling apparatus, includes a storage container mounting portion detachably mounted with the paper sheet storage container, which may function for storage of banknotes for handling within an outer case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2016
    Assignee: OKI ELECTRIC INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hajime Togiya
  • Patent number: 9226417
    Abstract: A lock mechanism includes: a lock arm provided in a cantilever manner on an inner wall of a part compartment of a box body of an electric connection box; and a lock projection provided to the lock arm on its surface facing a part housed in the part compartment. The lock arm can be divided in a longitudinal direction into: a base end region fixed to the inner wall; upper end region located in the free end which interferes with the part and receives a pressing force for unlocking operation; and a middle region located within a predetermined distance range between the base and upper end region. The flexural rigidity of the base and upper end region is set larger than that of the middle region by providing ribs on the base and upper end region and providing no ribs on the middle region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2015
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Makoto Nakayama, Masahiro Kanamaru
  • Patent number: 9187223
    Abstract: Stackable lids for a container each include a top surface facing generally in a first direction and a bottom surface opposite the top surface and facing generally in a second direction. Pivotable wing portions extend from each side edge of the lid and each pivotable wing portion is joined to its respective side edge by a hinge. The wing portions are moveable between engaged and disengaged positions, and an inner surface of each wing includes a tab member configured for detent engagement with a rim of the container. The lid also includes corner portions extending between the side edges. Each corner portion includes a skirt portion extending generally in the second direction. Each corner portion also defines a recessed shoulder configured to receive the skirt portion of another when the lids are stacked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignee: WKI HOLDING COMPANY, INC.
    Inventors: Travis S. Harvey, Steven M. Grider, Justin M. Smyers
  • Patent number: 9187232
    Abstract: According to an aspect of the invention, a latching mechanism/device is provided, as well as a method of maintaining a closed position between opposing first and second portions of a container. The latching mechanism includes a latch attached to the first portion and a latch keeper integrally molded to the second portion. The latch keeper includes an elongated keeper slot and a recessed pocket formed in the keeper slot, such that when at least a portion of the latch is received within the recessed pocket, the container is closed and/or sealed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignee: YETI Coolers, LLC
    Inventor: Roy Joseph Seiders
  • Patent number: 9173533
    Abstract: An upright vacuum cleaner with one or more features, such as a top opening rigid container, a headlight, a replaceable power cord a motor housing suspended within the vacuum to reduce noise and/or vibration a clutch assembly with a RPM sensor, and/or one or more filter plates to improve airflow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2015
    Assignee: EMERSON ELECTRIC CO.
    Inventor: John L. Theising
  • Patent number: 9145230
    Abstract: A storage device for coupling at least one box and at least one cover having a carrier grip, together is formed by a lock or a snap lock, which is provided in one gable or side wall of the cover or the box, while a locking pin is provided in the opposite gable or side wall. The snap lock is adapted to engage a gripper flange, which is provided at the top of the gable or side wall of the box or the cover, while the locking pin is adapted to engage a locking edge, which is provided in the opposite gable or side wall of the box or the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Assignee: TANOS GMBH VERPACKEN ORDNEN PRASENTIEREN
    Inventor: Jens Ole Madsen
  • Patent number: 9127700
    Abstract: A plug-type mounting is provided for separably connecting an equipment element to a substructure that includes a retainer and a plug element, wherein an interlocking device for engaging the plug element with the retainer is assigned to the retainer and the plug element includes a retaining bolt with a rear bolt ring surface for cooperating with the interlocking device, and wherein the interlocking device includes at least one sliding segment with an arc-shaped interlocking surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Assignee: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBH
    Inventor: Sebastian Wendel
  • Patent number: 9113561
    Abstract: A case including a casing body formed with an opening and a cover attached to the opening to be capable of opening and closing. The case further including a first grip tab that extends from the cover towards the opening inner side and a second grip tab that includes an anchor portion that anchors in the cover opening direction to an anchored-to portion provided to the casing body. The second grip tab disposed facing towards the first grip tab and resiliently supported by the first grip tab to be capable of approaching and moving away from the first grip tab such that an insertion portion opened in the opening direction is formed between the first grip tab and the second grip tab and such that an anchored state of the anchor portion to the anchored-to portion is released by the second grip tab moving away from the first grip tab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2015
    Assignee: FUJITSU LIMITED
    Inventors: Takanao Kominami, Kaigo Tanaka, Masahiko Hoshi
  • Patent number: 9091048
    Abstract: A toilet removal and disposal tray (1) for removing and transporting an old toilet (2) from a bathroom. The toilet removal and disposal tray has a planar base panel (3) having a perimeter edge (6) and a perimeter wall (7) extending upward a predetermined distance from the perimeter edge. The perimeter wall contains any liquids that leak from the toilet after the toilet has been uninstalled and placed on the toilet removal and disposal tray. A drain line connector (12) and/or one or more bolt hole connectors (13) attach the toilet to the toilet removal and disposal tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Inventors: Thomas A. Arthurs, Jody A. Arthurs
  • Patent number: 9090380
    Abstract: A plastic container used for holding fluid material with an attachable handle is provided. The container includes a body, a plurality of walls, a spout, an attachable handle and a sliding structure. The spout is a hollow, cylindrical portion that extends from an opening in one of the walls. The cylindrical portion is configured to insert or remove the fluid material from the container. The attachable handle includes a rail structure that further includes a pair of non-parallel offset rails and a latch. The latch has a latching surface that is located at the ends of the offset rails farthest from each other. The slide structure includes a generally rectangular projection. The projection further includes a pair of non-parallel offset grooves and a latching surface. The latching surface is located where the grooves are farthest from each other. The offset grooves are adapted to mate with the offset rails and are fully engaged by the offset rails when the latch is engaged with the latching surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Assignee: Silgan Plastics LLC
    Inventors: Laura Flanagan-Kent, Stephen J. Kocis, David A. Hayward, Frederick P. Minkemeyer, Gary L. Mengeu, Edmund L. White
  • Publication number: 20150144635
    Abstract: A holding apparatus comprises a tray configured to hold food product therein, a holding portion configured to hold the tray therein, and a cover configured to cover the tray held in the holding portion. The cover comprises a covering portion, a pair of flange portions, the covering portion being disposed between the pair of flange portions, and a channel formed in each of the flange portions. The channel comprises a first portion extending from an edge of each of the flange portions, a supporting portion, and a second portion formed between the first portion and the supporting portion. The holding apparatus further comprises a projecting portion disposed on the holding apparatus and configured to be coupled to the channel such that the cover is suspended in the holding portion via contact between the projecting portion and the supporting portion of the channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2013
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Applicant: HENNY PENNY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Michael SHIELDS, Bradley LOASE
  • Patent number: 9038843
    Abstract: A food container includes a glass container, a lid and a protective sleeve. The sleeve covers at least a portion of the side walls and bottom surface of the glass container. The lid has a perimeter that is absent of features directly securing the lid to the container. The lid has a receiving feature which is engaged by a latch on the protective sleeve when the latch is moved from an open position to a locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: Lifefactory, Inc.
    Inventor: Daren Edward Joy
  • Publication number: 20150136793
    Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of a vessel-lid combination includes a ceramic or glass vessel having an open top surrounded by a peripheral edge, a lid fabricated of a plastic material, and a seal structure. The lid is configured to attach to the open top by means of a latch or set of latches integrated with the lid, and the seal structure is configured to provide an air-tight seal between the lid and the peripheral edge of the vessel when the lid is attached to the vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2014
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventor: Justin Smyers
  • Publication number: 20150136786
    Abstract: A container for storing a food product includes a receptacle and a plunger slidably movable along an inner wall of the receptacle. The plunger includes a support surface for the food product and a seal configured to form a seal between the support surface and the inner wall. A rounded lid with an apex is configured to be sealingly coupled to the receptacle. The lid includes a vent located at the apex.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2014
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventors: Sharon Lonner, Jane Caplan, Ran Lerner
  • Publication number: 20150129597
    Abstract: A container (10) for holding granular or powdered material. The container (10) includes walls, a collar (14), a lid (16) and a latch (200). The walls define an interior space (26) and an upper portion, the upper portion defining a sealing flange (30) and an opening to the interior space. The collar (14) is attached to the upper portion. The lid 816) is attached to the collar (14) for positioning between an open position and a closed position, and adapted to cover the opening while in the closed position. The latch (200) is attached to an outer surface of the lid (16). The latch may have an actuator (202) rotatable in two directions relative to the lid and detachably engaged to a catch (220) which protrudes from an outside surface of the collar (14).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2013
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Applicant: ABBOTT LABORATORIES
    Inventors: Jeremy McBroom, James Perry
  • Publication number: 20150122688
    Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention include a retainer, a lid, and a sensor, where the sensor is configured to detect information about the retainer, the lid, or the contents in the retainer. The sensor also may be configured to communicate with an internal or external computer system, thereby facilitating showing the detected information as a representation via a display element. In certain embodiments, the system may include an action element such as an open/close lid opening assembly configured to permit automatically or manually opening or closing a drink aperture or another type of dispensing aperture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2014
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Inventors: RICK DIAS, MARIVN LANE, SHAWN YOUNG, MICHAEL DENNIS TETREAULT, MICHAEL MURRAY, GARY VICTOR PIEPER, ERIC LEE FERGUSON
  • Patent number: 9016095
    Abstract: A lockbox includes a body and a lid connected to body and pivotable between a closed position and an open position. The body defines an enclosure and includes a body aperture and the lid includes a first lid aperture positioned adjacent to the body aperture when the lid is in the closed position, such that insertion of a padlock shackle through the body aperture and the lid aperture prevents pivoting movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position. The lockbox includes a slot intersecting one of the body aperture and the lid aperture for insertion of an item into the enclosure when the lid is in the closed position. A padlock shackle inserted through the body aperture and the lid aperture prevents passage of an item through the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Master Lock Company LLC
    Inventors: Matthew T. Dudgeon, Scott B. Stevens
  • Publication number: 20150096990
    Abstract: A cover assembly for an access opening in a pressure vessel is held in sealing position at least partially by the positive pressure in the pressure vessel by engaging an interior wall of the pressure vessel when the pressure vessel is under pressure. A peripheral rim on the housing is adapted for engaging the interior wall of the pressure vessel, and positioning tabs on the housing engage and position the housing and the peripheral rim relative to the access opening in the pressure vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2013
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Inventor: Steven Richard Ambriz
  • Publication number: 20150090719
    Abstract: A quick disconnect lock for a trash container. A snaplock secures on one end to a U-Bolt on the hinged lid of a trash container, and is secured at the other end to a second U-Bolt attached to the wall of the trash container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2014
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Inventor: Kathi Lyon
  • Patent number: 8995605
    Abstract: A lid frame for a nuclear fuel assembly shipping container and a shipping container for nuclear fuel assemblies are provided. The shipping container can include a lower container in which a cradle is installed, an upper container detachably coupled to the lower container, and a base frame coupled to the cradle with at least one nuclear fuel assembly placed thereon. The lid frame can include a plurality of supports installed apart from each other so as to surround the nuclear fuel assembly placed on the base frame, and a plurality of clamps separated from each other, coupled to the plurality of supports perpendicular to the plurality of supports, rotatably hinged to the base frame, and configured to clamp the nuclear fuel assembly. The lid frame safely protects the nuclear fuel assembly that is being transported.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Kepco Nuclear Fuel Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hung Soon Chang, Chang Hwan Hwang, Deuk Yeon Kim, Jae Soon Choi, Weon Chan Hwang, Se Yong Shin, Young Hoon Kim, Jong Sung Hong
  • Patent number: 8985372
    Abstract: The present invention relates to cooking utensils. The present invention provides a slow cooker and a locking assembly that have simple and practical structure, easy to clean and can engage the lid with the liner container for preventing spillage of cooking content such as soup. The structure comprises a container, a lid and a locking assembly. The locking assembly retains the lid on the opening of the container. The container has a rim projecting outside at the opening. The locking assembly comprises a connector disposed on the lid for engaging the lid with the opening of the container, and locking end components provided at ends of the connector for engaging with the rim of the liner container. Using the locking assembly to retain the lid in sealing engagement with the opening of the container, the slow cooker can effectively engage the lid with the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Midea Group Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Guoqing Yang, Jianfeng Li, Jinshui Wu, Pingtao Chen
  • Publication number: 20150076149
    Abstract: A packaging sleeve (2) having at least one latching cap (1) arranged on the end. The shape of the latching cap is adapted according to the outer perimeter of the packaging sleeve (2) and securely attached to the packaging sleeve by its side walls (13) by a latching wall (15).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Applicant: ROSE PLASTIC AG
    Inventor: Peter Roesler
  • Publication number: 20150069064
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a one-piece food container with an integral hinge and one or more latching mechanism, a full perimeter seal, and ribbed or ridged support structures. The food container is fabricated from hybrid bio-based and polymeric a material that has heat resistance capabilities. In particular, the present apparatus and method utilize a hybrid slurry of simple, abundant and renewable materials, such as food or plant starch and calcium carbonate (limestone), and a polymeric material, that uses high temperature and high pressure presses. An optional coating, such as wax, is applied to the surface of the food container. The present invention one-piece food container has a plurality of ridges that are incorporated into the container to provide rigidity and resisting folding or bending. Lastly, the one-piece food container with has enough rigidity and strength to be stackable for efficient storage for distribution to a user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2013
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventor: Sophie J. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20150069061
    Abstract: A sift-resistant dispensing closure is disclosed. The sift-resistant dispensing closure includes a base, a lid, and a hinge connecting the lid to the base. The base contains a circular end wall, a cylindrical skirt extending downward from the periphery of the end wall, and a sift deck elevated from the upside of the circular end wall. The sift deck contains a deck surface surrounded by a first snap bead and a first sealing surface, and pouring holes formed on the deck surface. The lid contains a second snap bead and a second sealing surface that are formed on the underside of the lid and engage with the first snap bead and first sealing surface, respectively, to form a seal around the sift deck when the lid is in a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2013
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Applicant: WEATHERCHEM CORPORATION
    Inventor: Barry Michael Daggett