Stacked Or Aligned Similar Sections Patents (Class 220/4.26)
  • Publication number: 20100147719
    Abstract: A dispensing container for probe covers includes a hollow main body and a bottom portion. The hollow main body has a first opening at one end and a second opening at an opposite end. The probe covers are placed in the hollow main body with their open ends facing the first opening. At least a pair of first abutting portions are provided inside the hollow main body adjacent to the second opening. The bottom portion has one end inside the hollow main body and an opposite end jutting out of the second opening. The bottom portion has a third opening facing the first opening for receiving hollow bodies of the probe covers and is exteriorly provided with at least a pair of second abutting portions adjacent to the third opening for abutting on the first abutting portions, thereby preventing the bottom portion from coming off through the second opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2009
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Inventor: Liang-Yi Li
  • Patent number: 7703704
    Abstract: In a spray gun for spraying paint and similar media, there is provided a gun housing and a reservoir tank removably attached to the gun housing for holding the medium to be sprayed. The reservoir tank is configured as a commercially available storage container, for example in the form of a paint can, and is directly attached via an adapter to a projection connected to the gun housing. Thus, commercially available storage containers, differing considerably in their dimensions, can be directly fitted onto the gun housing in a short time and by a reliable method. Viscosity settings and transferring of media to be processed from one container to another are therefore not necessary, and the medium can be matched to the particular working implement and application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: J. Wagner GmbH
    Inventors: Alfred Göhring, Hermann Probst, Elmar Krayer, Jens Ulbrich
  • Publication number: 20100089914
    Abstract: A retainer for securing together upper and lower shipping containers includes interconnected upper and lower retaining members each adapted to be inserted into a hole in a corner piece of a respective one of the upper and lower shipping containers, and at least one swing member disposed inside the lower retaining member. The upper retaining member has a top end aligned with a bottom end of the lower retaining member along an axial line of the retainer. The swing member includes a lower pivot portion connected pivotally to the lower retaining member, and an upper engaging portion which is proximate to the axial line in a non-engaging position and when the axial line of the retainer is substantially vertical, and which moves away from the axial line in an engaging position when the axial line of the retainer is inclined and non-vertical.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: Universal Global Investment Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Jen-Yao Hung
  • Patent number: 7627992
    Abstract: A stackable riser section having a single side wall having a first open end defined by an edge and a second open, channel end. The riser section includes a plurality of bosses extending to the first open end and connected to an interior surface of the sidewall by narrow webs. A channel, on the channel end of one riser is adapted to receive the bosses of a mated riser. A wall defining the boss receiving channel has a plurality of slots with at least a portion defined by parallel edges. The slots receive the webs that connect the bosses to the riser sidewall. The bosses are wider than the portion of the slots defined by the parallel edges. The slotted wall includes thickened wedge portions to snugly fit with the first open end of another riser section. A cover is disclosed that includes the same channel end to coact with the first open end of a riser section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Inventor: Peter W. Gavin
  • Publication number: 20090277913
    Abstract: A paint tray includes a cavity defined by a bottom wall, a first side wall, a second side wall, a first end wall, and a second sloping end wall. Each of the first side wall, second side wall, first end wall, and second sloping end wall inclines upwardly and outwardly from the bottom wall. The cavity terminates at a top edge. The paint tray also includes a top tray rim adjacent the top edge of the cavity, a perimeter rim that inclines downwardly and outwardly from the top tray rim, a handle disposed at an edge of the perimeter rim proximate each end wall, and a leg panel extending downwardly and outwardly from each of a first side and a second side of the perimeter rim proximate the second sloping end wall. The leg panel has a bottom edge that is co-planar with the bottom wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Applicant: Bercom International, LLC
    Inventor: Mark W. Bergman
  • Patent number: 7569768
    Abstract: In various embodiments, the present disclosure provides a base for a data distribution terminal pedestal that includes a first wall structure interlockingly connectable with a second wall structure such that the base can be assembled absent assembly hardware.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Emerson Network Power, Energy Systems, North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Jerome A Maloney, George I Wakileh, Simon Shen-Meng Chen
  • Publication number: 20090184115
    Abstract: A storage container includes a container body formed of multiple upright peripheral panels linked to one another with stitches and a flexible bottom bearing sheet stitched to the upright peripheral panels at the bottom side, each upright peripheral panel being formed of a bamboo curtain that is formed by using weaving cords to link bamboo strips together in a parallel manner and wrapping a reinforcing strip at each side, and a bottom panel supportable on the flexible bottom bearing sheet inside the container body and formed by using weaving cords to link bamboo strips together and having each peripheral side thereof respectively covered with a flexible covering material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2008
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Inventor: WEN-TSAN WANG
  • Patent number: 7562784
    Abstract: An enclosure assembly (1), and method of assembling transportation packaging therefrom, which is adapted to be supported on a container (2) and in situ the enclosure assembly encloses a region above the container, said enclosure assembly comprising co-operable attachment means (3, 7), the arrangement of the enclosure assembly being such that in use the attachment means of a first enclosure assembly which is supported on a container is engaged with the attachment means of a second enclosure assembly, said enclosure assemblies forming a stack in which the second enclosure assembly encloses a region above the first enclosure assembly. Advantageously, the enclosure assemblies can be stacked together to form a substantially rigid structure above the container according to the height of the goods in the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Le Carton Limited
    Inventor: David Stevenson
  • Publication number: 20090166357
    Abstract: A waste receptacle comprising a cylindrical body portion including a body portion thereof which is movable between open and closed positions. The body portion has a trash container support provided at the lower end thereof which extends inwardly therefrom for supporting a trash container thereon. When the body portion is in its closed position, the trash container is positioned within the waste receptacle. When the body portion is pivotally moved outwardly with respect to the receptacle, the trash container moves outwardly from within the waste receptacle to a position outwardly thereof to facilitate removal of the trash container from the trash container support on the lower end of the body portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2007
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventor: Chris C. Petersen
  • Patent number: 7530465
    Abstract: A waste recycling bin has a first compartment adapted to receive recyclable waste paper, and at least a second compartment adapted to receive non-recyclable waste. Rim engaging flange portions support the second compartment against a portion of the rim of the first compartment such that the second compartment descends into the opening of the main body of the first compartment so as to form two openings to the first compartment on opposed sides of the second compartment for inserting waste paper therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Paper to Paper Australia Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Graeme Holland
  • Patent number: 7510096
    Abstract: The present invention provides a multi-layered container, including a cover (10), with a plurality of first locking projections (15), and a plurality of container bodies (20) having a plurality of locking flaps (23). Each of the plurality of locking flaps (23) rotatably extends from each of predetermined portions of the circumferential outer surface of the container body (20), with a locking hole (24) provided on the locking flap (23). The multi-layered container further includes an intermediate lid (30) provided between the cover (10) and an uppermost container body (20) or between the container bodies (20). The intermediate lid (30) has a plate-shaped part (31), a coupling part (32) bent into a channel-shape while extending from an edge of the plate-shaped part (31), and a plurality of coupling flanges (35) extending downward from predetermined portions of the coupling part (32), with a second locking projection (25) provided on an end of each of the plurality of coupling flanges (35).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: Korea Alphaline Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Soo Chang Wang
  • Patent number: 7464827
    Abstract: A shipping unit for shipping items of varying length defines first and second tray sections which are connected and selectively move relative to one another to accommodate items of varying lengths. The first and second tray sections include base portions that allow shipping units to be stacked upon one another. Alternatively, the shipping unit includes a tray and a lid. The lid is connected to the tray and defines a tab and a slot on an end of the lid opposite the tab. The shipping units are connected by snap fitting the tab of one shipping unit into the slot of another shipping unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Assignee: Rehrig Pacific Company
    Inventor: Cynthia R. Meissen
  • Publication number: 20080197130
    Abstract: A multilevel container is disclosed which comprises circumferentially continuous wall or bottom elements of sheet metal with radially outwardly beaded end faces. The wall and bottom elements are placed on top of each other on butt joints so as to seal the end faces and are detachably braced with a minimum of one neighboring container level. The multilevel container also comprises one or more sealing rings and bracing components that act on neighboring end faces. In order to provide a readily manufacturable and form a stable multilevel container without multiple beads in alternating directions or weldings in the butt joint portions, a separate and independent shape retaining ring is provided. This ring reinforces the container and has shape retaining surfaces on its two end faces. In the region of their end faces, the neighboring wall and bottom elements are set on and tightly braced against the shape retaining surfaces of the reinforcing shape retaining ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2008
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Inventor: Thilo Volkmann
  • Publication number: 20080135573
    Abstract: A dispenser for dispensing rubber bands is disclosed, the dispenser comprising a lower container and an upper container. The lower container is open at a top end thereof and comprises at least one side wall and one bottom wall. The bottom wall has an upward facing inner surface. The upper container is likewise open at a top end thereof, and comprises at least one side wall and one bottom wall. The bottom wall includes an aperture therein and a downward-facing outer surface. The lower container encompasses a larger volume than the upper container, the difference between the volume of the two containers being essentially the storage volume for rubber bands.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2008
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Stephen Cotsalas
  • Patent number: 7380685
    Abstract: Containers, lids, and sleeve structures are disclosed. Particularly, sleeve structures configured for insulating, stabilizing, or both insulating and stabilizing a container are disclosed. Further, a sleeve structure including a plurality of circumferentially adjacent, longitudinally extending sections and a sleeve structure including one or more frustoconical regions are disclosed. Containers, lids, and sleeve structures including at least one stabilizing feature are disclosed. Assemblies including a lower container, associated lid and sleeve structure, wherein at least one of the lower container, the lid, or the sleeve structure includes at least one stabilizing feature for engaging at least a portion of a sleeve structure associated with an upper container, wherein the upper container is positioned longitudinally above and is substantially aligned or centered with respect to a lower container, are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Inventors: Michael J. Simmons, Jack Simmons, John M. Simmons, Tom M. Simmons, David M. Simmons
  • Patent number: 7357268
    Abstract: A storage rack includes a pivot shaft, a plurality of plastic trays pivoted to the pivot shaft, each tray having a plurality of upwardly protruded locating blocks, and flat accessories boxes of different sizes selectively and detachably carried in the trays, each flat accessories box having a plurality of recessed bottom locating holes connectable to the locating blocks at the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Assignee: Global Industries Holdings Ltd.
    Inventor: Qinghao Yang
  • Patent number: 7321096
    Abstract: A shell body assembly structure includes a first shell body, a second shell body and a frame. A plurality of fixing portions is projectively disposed at the peripheral edge of the first shell body. A locking point is formed on each of the fixing portions. The second shell body has a plurality of holes corresponding to the locking points to lock the locking points so that the first shell body and the second shell body can be locked together. A plurality of openings corresponding to the fixing portions is disposed at the peripheral edge of the frame. A locking hook is formed on each of the opening. When the locking point is pressed down, the fixing portion can be pushed away and then locked with the locking hook, thereby separating the first shell body and the second shell body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2008
    Assignee: Altek Corporation
    Inventor: Yu-Cheng Huang
  • Publication number: 20080000898
    Abstract: The present invention relates to apparatus and methods having a plurality for chambers for storing edible substances. More particularly, the present invention relates to container caps, storage units, kits, and methods for sealing and isolating a plurality of edible substances.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2007
    Publication date: January 3, 2008
    Inventor: Christopher Edward Ramsden
  • Patent number: 7314148
    Abstract: Containers, lids, and sleeve structures are disclosed. Particularly, sleeve structures configured for insulating, stabilizing, or both insulating and stabilizing a container are disclosed. Further, a sleeve structure including a plurality of circumferentially adjacent, longitudinally extending sections and a sleeve structure including one or more frustoconical regions are disclosed. Containers, lids, and sleeve structures including at least one stabilizing feature are disclosed. Assemblies including a lower container, associated lid and sleeve structure, wherein at least one of the lower container, the lid, or the sleeve structure includes at least one stabilizing feature for engaging at least a portion of a sleeve structure associated with an upper container, wherein the upper container is positioned longitudinally above and is substantially aligned or centered with respect to a lower container, are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Inventors: Michael J. Simmons, Jack Simmons, John M. Simmons, Tom M. Simmons, David M. Simmons
  • Patent number: 7287660
    Abstract: A two-compartment container has a lid portion and a base portion hingedly connected to one another and openable and closable in the manner of a clamshell. Both the lid portion and the base portion have partitions, which extend from the hinge and which are aligned with one another. When the container is closed, the partitions abut against one another, effectively isolating the two compartments formed in the base portion by its partition from one another. The base portion includes a locking flap which fits into a gap between the partition in the lid portion and its face and seals it to further isolate the two compartments from one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: Tekni-Plex, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard L. Ramirez, Mark A. Bergeron
  • Publication number: 20070228038
    Abstract: A multi part storage container including at least two walled containers whereby a first walled container includes one closed end and one open end, and a second walled container includes two open ends, whereby at least one of the two open ends of the second container is configured to interconnect with the open end of the first container and a secure cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventor: Peter Louis
  • Patent number: 7159730
    Abstract: Folding crates includes a base and pivotable side walls which fold open from a stacked storage condition in which the walls are in juxtaposition and within the perimeter of the base. Latches are provided to connect the open walls and provide support between the walls. A pedestal and legs on the base are arranged so that the pedestal of one crate may be received and secured by the legs of a similar crate with side walls folded to the stacked storage condition. Crate connection assemblies are included for joining multiple crates into a crate array when the crates are open. The connection assemblies use receiver sockets that receive connection links therein. The links are preferably tubular to allow a tension fastener to extend therethrough and be secured by a septum wall against which the tubular links abut. The connection links provide compression transfer and resistance to shearing action between conjoined crates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Inventor: Donald Rumpel
  • Patent number: 7155865
    Abstract: A housing structure includes a first plurality of wall panels which form a lower course and a second plurality of wall panels which form an upper course. Each of the wall portions is generally rectangular and includes integrally formed interlocking portions which facilitate attachment of adjacent lateral edges of the wall portions of the first plurality to each other. Integrally formed interlocking portions facilitate attachment of the panels in the lower course to the panels in the upper course. In addition, rectangular roof panels are provided to enclose the housing structure. The interlocking portions enable the panels to slide into an interlocked engagement configuration thereby forming a rigid structure without the need for tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: Certified Lumber, LLC
    Inventor: Abraham Rosenberg
  • Patent number: 7128230
    Abstract: An adapter for use with at least a pair of dispensers, to provide for convenient stacking of a plurality of dispensers one upon the other, one of such adapters being arranged intermediate each pair of vertically stacked decanters, during usage. The adapter includes a series of ribs and flanges, that provide convenient seating and stable support for a variety of the decanters when stacked one upon the other. The adapter includes an aperture approximately centered thereof, through which a beverage may be brewed, into the decanter arranged therebelow, and the adapter being applied to a beverage brewer during usage, as during a beverage brewing cycle. The cap provides for closure of the adapter aperture, to provide the adapter with the attributes of a lid, and to help retain the warmth of any beverage contained within its dispenser upon which the adapter is applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: Newco Enterprises Inc.
    Inventors: Jody G. Jacobson, David L. Brandsma, Joseph P. Webster
  • Patent number: 7036673
    Abstract: A lot management production method in which the lot size is reduced in order to respond to an order for small volume of large variety, without increasing the intermediate inventory and reducing lead-time, however without reducing the productivity of a production of large volume of small variety. Part of the processes in a production line are performed for pieces, or products to be manufactured, in a single lot, while other processes are done for pieces in a group or aggregate of single lots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventor: Tomohide Jozaki
  • Patent number: 6961977
    Abstract: A magnetic hinge defining a hinge axis includes first and second hinge plates of non-magnetic material and first and second magnets disposed therein, respectively, for movement therewith. The plates are generally parallel and independently pivotable about the hinge axis between a closed orientation, wherein the plates are essentially superposed, and an open orientation, wherein the plates are essentially not superposed. The first and second magnets are essentially superposed, generally coaxial with the hinge axis, and in the same magnetic orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Assignee: Concept Workshop Worldwide, LLC
    Inventor: David Seidler
  • Patent number: 6908004
    Abstract: A collapsible storage bin having a base member and an upper containment member is provided. The base member includes a plurality of base walls, and a downwardly facing lip is disposed on at least one of the base walls. The upper containment member includes a plurality of containment walls, and an upwardly facing lip is disposed on at least one of the containment walls. The upwardly facing lip is configured to matingly engage the downwardly facing lip when the base member and the upper containment member are in an assembled position. A locking tab on the containment member is configured to lockingly engage a recess on the base member to lock the base member and the upper containment together in the assembled position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Assignee: KidKraft, LP
    Inventor: David Alan Barr
  • Patent number: 6886704
    Abstract: A container assembly comprises a first container and a second container. The first container includes a first continuous body portion and a first rim. The rim has a first plurality of ribs projecting generally upwardly therefrom such that first spaces are formed between adjacent ribs. The second container includes a second continuous body portion and a second rim. The rim has a second plurality of ribs projecting generally upwardly therefrom such that second spaces are formed between adjacent ribs. The second rim and the first rim are shaped substantially the same. The first container and the second container are adapted to be releasably lockable to each other by fitting the first plurality of upwardly-projecting ribs into respective second spaces and fitting the second plurality of upwardly-projecting ribs into respective first spaces. The first container may be shaped substantially the same as the second container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: Pactiv Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas J. Hayes, Scott D. Brown
  • Publication number: 20040262306
    Abstract: A multi-sectioned container comprising a bottom section and at least one upper section that stacks thereon. The bottom section includes a bottom surface and a side-wall that includes, at a top portion thereof, a connector for connecting the bottom section to an upper section stacked thereon. The connector may be screw threads or a snapping mechanism. The upper section is essentially a tube that is configured in a bottom portion thereof to connect to the bottom section. The upper-section is also configured at a top portion thereof to connect, selectively, to another stacked upper section or a lid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: Steven W. Smith
  • Publication number: 20040238536
    Abstract: A multilevel container is disclosed which comprises circumferentially continuous wall or bottom elements of sheet metal with radially outwardly beaded end faces. The wall and bottom elements are placed on top of each other on butt joints so as to seal the end faces and are detachably braced with a minimum of one neighboring container level. The multilevel container also comprises one or more sealing rings and bracing components that act on neighboring end faces. In order to provide a readily manufacturable and form a stable multilevel container without multiple beads in alternating directions or weldings in the butt joint portions, a separate and independent shape retaining ring is provided. This ring reinforces the container and has shape retaining surfaces on its two end faces. In the region of their end faces, the neighboring wall and bottom elements are set on and tightly braced against the shape retaining surfaces of the reinforcing shape retaining ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Applicant: Volkmann GmbH
    Inventor: Thilo Volkmann
  • Patent number: 6786303
    Abstract: A method for increasing golf course revenues through increased sales of consumable items, comprising the steps of stocking a golf cart with a supply of consumable items prior to a golfer's use of said golf cart in a golf outing, taking inventory of said supply of consumable items contained in said golf cart at the end of said golf outing to determine what items were consumed by said golfer, charging said golfer for the cost of the consumable items consumed by said golfer during said golf outing, and restocking said golf cart with a supply of consumable items, using an apparatus comprising: a base section having insulation means, an inner and outer surface, a substantially closed bottom end, an open top end, one or more slotted flanges disposed on said outer surface of said base section for fastening said apparatus to a golf cart, and an inwardly tapered ledge disposed horizontally on said inner surface of said base section near said base section's upper edge; a removable pull-out container configure
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Inventor: Michael P. Allen
  • Publication number: 20030226844
    Abstract: A tray assembly for conveying food to and from a cooking site utilizes first and second covers wherein each cover has a cup-shaped form and a peripheral edge which extends around the cup-shaped form of the first cover, and further utilizes an intermediate section positionable between the first and second covers. The intermediate section provides two opposite tray surfaces against which food can be placed for conveying purposes and has a boundary edge section, and the boundary edge section cooperates with the peripheral edges of the first and second covers so that the first and second covers can be placed in snug-fitting relationship with the intermediate section along the boundary edge section thereof. Therefore, when any residue or fluid which may be left from or flow from uncooked food carried upon one of the tray surfaces of the intermediate section to the cooking site is isolated from the other tray surface of the intermediate section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2003
    Publication date: December 11, 2003
    Inventors: Wilson A. Felknor, Jim Ferron
  • Patent number: 6655093
    Abstract: A riser section and cover is disclosed. The riser section has a smooth cylindrical sidewall surface, a tapered end and a channel end, a removable anchor tab and bosses and ribs on the inside of the sidewall. The riser sections are stackable. The cover has a channel end to removably connect to a riser section. The cover has stowable handles and posts extending from a bottom surface that define wells open at a top surface which fit into the wells of another cover. A bracket is disclosed to releasably secure and position a cover with attached riser section on a concrete form wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Inventor: Norman W. Gavin
  • Publication number: 20030132184
    Abstract: Stackable plastic container including side portions having at least one of protrusions and depressions which nest with one of matching protrusions and depressions of a second container, and with the bottom portion including depressions which nest with the pouring spout and handle of a second container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventors: James C. Dorn, Richard A. Lovelace, John P. Reynolds, Richard C. Darr
  • Patent number: 6588616
    Abstract: A wastepaper bin for a paper shredder includes a bottom portion member disposed with a wastepaper bin in a bucket shape and an elastic clamping device disposed adjacent to a top end area thereof; a top portion member slidably inserted onto the exterior portion of the bottom portion member is assembled by a unitarily molded peripheral wall and has a clamping device disposed in the area of a lower opening for retaining the elastic clamping device thereby fastening the top portion member on the bottom portion member; an unclamping device is disposed on the peripheral wall of the top portion member; a supporting device for supporting a main body of the paper shredder is disposed adjacent to the upper opening area of the top portion member; the wastepaper bin is capable of tremendously reducing the transportation and storage cost of the paper shredder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Inventor: Ming-Hui Ho
  • Patent number: 6484451
    Abstract: A stackable riser having a substantially smooth outer surface has a first open end defined by an edge and a second open end defined by a pair of adjacent channels, so that the edge defining the first open end of a first riser can mate with one of the channels defining the second open end of a second riser. A detachable anchor tab extends radially from the outer surface about the circumference of the riser. A plurality of risers can be stacked one on top of another, with, for example, the bottommost riser embedded in concrete and the risers above it embedded in soil. Preferably, the anchor tab of the bottommost riser remains attached to the riser and the anchor tab of the risers above it is removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: United Concrete Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Norman Gavin
  • Patent number: 6457636
    Abstract: A packing member formed as a U-shaped channel comprises a base (1a) and two side legs (1b, 1c). The base is provided with a longitudinal folding line (2′) near its median line. The folding line divides the bases into two parts which are pivotable about the folding line. When the two parts are pivoted away from each other with the legs flared outward, the U-channel structure will be transformed into a substantially W-shaped structure to facilitate stacking for storage and/or shipping of the packing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Assignee: ITW Litec France
    Inventors: Jacques Van de Ven, Thierry Birkel, Hannes Heertjes
  • Publication number: 20020130126
    Abstract: A variable-length, multi-sectioned container, wherein a larger composite container may be shortened by the removal of a section or lengthened by the addition of a section is provided. The present invention provides solutions to the messy dispensing and wasted space normally associated with larger containers used when buying in bulk quantities, or otherwise. The closures of the removable section(s) are selected to be complementary with the closures of both the lid and the container, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2001
    Publication date: September 19, 2002
    Inventor: Mark L. Rosenberg
  • Patent number: 6450355
    Abstract: A reversible overcap for an adjustable volume container for consumer products is provided. A first side of the overcap includes a radially extending surface and an annular rim extending outwardly therefrom for engaging a retaining rim of the adjustable volume container. A second side of the overcap includes an annular member that is adapted to frictionally engage the exposed end of the remaining portions of the container that are formed by separating a portion of the container from the remaining portion of the container. The reversible overcap of the present invention is thus a multi-functional end closure and forms part of a completely self-contained adjustable volume container for consumer products that continuously accommodates the volume of the food product in the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Sonoco Development, Inc.
    Inventor: James W. Lowry
  • Patent number: 6386381
    Abstract: An adjustable length containing device comprises modular, molded polymer members. The containing device members are ribbed and attached to each other by connection flanges and bottom panels. The containing device is used to store and ship heavy, large objects and is used as an underground storage tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Inventor: Joe Csiszar
  • Patent number: 6359218
    Abstract: A modular enclosure for electronic equipment of selectable height is achieved via the use of intermediate stackable frame members. The enclosure consists of a lid and a base and optionally, one or more intermediate frame members that may be disposed between the lid and the base. The lid and base may be assembled one to the other to form a minimum height enclosure. To obtain enclosures of greater height than the minimum height, one or more intermediate frame members are interposed between the lid and the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Assignee: Sun Microsystems, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark J. Koch, James B. Harmon
  • Patent number: 6321926
    Abstract: A method for increasing golf course revenues through increased sales of consumable items, comprising the steps of stocking a golf cart with a supply of consumable items prior to a golfer's use of said golf cart in a golf outing, taking inventory of said supply of consumable items contained in said golf cart at the end of said golf outing to determine what items were consumed by said golfer, charging said golfer for the cost of the consumable items consumed by said golfer during said golf outing, and restocking said golf cart with a supply of consumable items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Inventor: Michael P. Allen
  • Patent number: 6318575
    Abstract: An egg server for cooked eggsin the shell. The server includes a bottom wall from which a sidewall extends, to form an interior which partially receives an egg. An inclined support face is formed within the interior to accommodate a wide variety of egg sizes, increasing the usefulness of the server. The lower outer face of the server may be of reduced size to nest within the interior of another of the egg servers, permitting multiple egg servers to be placed in a stacked position for storage. An upper rim of the sidewall may have a shape which mates with itself in an inverted position, permitting the upper rims of two egg servers to abut when the upper of the two egg servers rest upon the other egg server in an inverted relationship referred to as an insulating position. In this insulating position the two egg servers combine to encase an egg, retaining its heat prior to serving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Assignee: Dart Industries Inc.
    Inventors: Stig Lillelund, Jakob Heiberg
  • Patent number: 6315142
    Abstract: A portable terminal device, capable of improving the releasing property of fitting pieces of an upper case and a lower case at the time of disassembling the appliance, and lowering generation of deformation or crack of the main body by bend or twist while maintaining a sufficient fitting holding force. In the main body of the portable terminal device, a plurality of fitting pieces are provided each in an upper case and a lower case for holding and fixing with each other. The fitting pieces have a fitting horizontal surface to be substantially parallel for holding with each other when the upper case and the lower case are engaged. A part of the fitting horizontal surface of the fitting pieces of at least one of the upper case and the lower case has a fitting twisted surface twisted in the direction away from the fitting horizontal surface of the other fitting piece in the fitting pieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshiyasu Kitamura, Kazuhiro Konishi, Makoto Tamaru
  • Publication number: 20010038011
    Abstract: A collapsible, foldable container with reduced deflection and increased strength and convenience is provided. A door can be provided in the lower portion in one or more of the sidewalls, opening upward and outward without unduly loading the door hinges. A latch is provided to hold the door in the open configuration engageable by slamming open and disengaging by jerking close. In one embodiment, the base of the container includes a plate having ribbing extending upwardly therefrom. When a smooth-bottomed surface is desired, a plate may be installed on top of the upwardly extending ribbing. Ribbing on the bottom surface and/or sidewall surfaces can include close-loop or circular ribs with integral ribbing extending radially therefrom. Preferably, containers are configured so that they can be stacked, one upon the other, either with or without a top or lid. Preferably, the lid, when provided, avoids pooling of liquids such as rainwater by having a domed-shape and by providing channels in a peripheral ridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2001
    Publication date: November 8, 2001
    Inventor: Mark Hillis
  • Patent number: 6311858
    Abstract: An adjustable length containing device comprises modular, molded polymer members. The containing device members are ribbed and attached to each other by connection flanges and bottom panels. The containing device is used to store and ship heavy, large objects and is used as an underground storage tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Inventor: Joe Csiszar
  • Patent number: 6305565
    Abstract: A transport chamber implemented to retrieve a substrate from at least one storage facility that is external to the transport chamber and transition the substrate into at least one processing chamber that is external to the transport chamber is provided. The transport chamber includes a bottom plate having an inner surface that is configured to accept a first O-ring. Further provided is a chamber housing that is defined from a rolled forging. The chamber housing has a top surface, and a bottom surface that is designed to join with the inner surface of the bottom plate such that the first O-ring seal forms a seal. The top surface of the chamber housing is suited to accept a second O-ring seal fastened to the perimeter of the top surface of the chamber housing. The transport chamber further includes a top plate that is configured to sit over the second O-ring seal and thereby form a seal over the top surface of the chamber housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: Lam Research Corporation
    Inventors: Trace L. Boyd, Eric A. Terbeek
  • Patent number: 6276547
    Abstract: An incrementally variable volume container includes a sectionalised side wall and a closed bottom end. Each section has a top rim with an external thread for engaging a threaded lid. A tear strip is integrally molded between each top rim and a next section of the container to permit the next section to be removed. The container is used to contain perishable liquid, semi-solid or granular food items. The sections can be detached and discarded as the food content is consumed, and the lid can be used to close any section in fluid tight seal. Air volume in the container above the food content is thereby reduced and the freshness of the food content is maintained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Inventor: Thomas M. Petryna
  • Patent number: 6273284
    Abstract: A retractable microwave plate stacker that can cook up to four dishes in any microwave oven at once. The plate stacker can be adjusted by rotating plate members in opposite direction which can retract and contract. The plate stacker can be retracted to a height of 1 inch, making this product easy to store and transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Inventor: Santana Lavon Nottage
  • Patent number: 6244452
    Abstract: A holder for use in disposable feeding systems includes a body which is made from two straight pieces or sections capable of being arranged in an abutting, end-to-end relationship in which they assume a non-coaxial arrangement that results in an angular body shape designed, for instance, to promote infant feeding in a semi-upright position. From this feeding position, the body sections of a transformable embodiment can be moved to a filling position, in which they are arranged coaxially to form a straight body shape that facilitates the insertion and/or filling of a disposable liner, preferably via movement of a friction fit mechanism. The body sections of both the transformable and non-transformable embodiments may also be provided with finger guides, which promote the proper gripping of the holder by a user, and finger holes, which facilitate the expulsion of air from a liquid-filled liner receivable in an interior of the holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies, Inc.
    Inventors: Emanual Peter Morano, Robert W. Shaw, Paul Dowd, Lorena S. Telofski, Alan G. Trojanowski