Closure Permits Access To One Compartment While Blocking Access To Another Patents (Class 220/525)
  • Patent number: 9208635
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for storing one or more items and dispensing the stored items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive a plurality of items and an access assembly configured to prevent unauthorized user access to the interior portion of the dispenser while providing selective access to certain items in response to input received from an authorized user. According to various embodiments, the access assembly comprises a pair of flexible barriers coupled to a sliding door assembly, which includes one or more lockable access doors. Together, the door assembly and flexible barriers prevent access to the interior of the dispenser when in a locked configuration and permit access to certain items when in an unlocked configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2015
    Assignee: Innovative Product Achievements, LLC
    Inventors: Robert Fitzgerald, Kyle Joiner, Joel Eisler, Ward Broom, Keith Stallings, Jason Farah
  • Patent number: 9162799
    Abstract: In the present application, a storage container is configured to provide a sealed portion for the storage of identification material. The storage container includes a container for holding various elements and a sleeve coupled to the container. The sleeve has an opening to accept the identification material. The sleeve is configured to be selectively sealed such that the interior of the sleeve is isolated from the interior of the container and the exterior of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2015
    Inventors: Heather M. Perry, William D. Perry
  • Patent number: 9085884
    Abstract: A sink cover assembly to alternately designate various areas of a dual-basin sink. Cover panel flips on hinge axis generally centered on dual-basin sink to obstruct access to at least one of the basins. The invention includes a method of designating various areas of a dual-basin or multiple basin sink by first securing a base to the sink, hingedly attaching a cover panel, and applying a cover panel over a basin opening and alternately swinging panel to designate areas of the sink. Indicia are used to identify areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2015
    Inventor: Richard Lopchinsky
  • Patent number: 8985378
    Abstract: A cosmetic compact having an expansive base member containing a series of upwardly-facing product wells to accommodate one or more cosmetic items, the compact further having a cover member, and having a shuttle piece interposed between the base member and cover member. The various parts have cooperating slide components for permitting relative movement of the members in four opposed directions. A versatile, four way slide compact construction is thus made possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Inventor: Charles Chang
  • Patent number: 8936157
    Abstract: An indexing cap assembly indexes visual cues or indicia during an open and close cycle so as to help users more easily track container entry as for example with regard to medications so as to ensure proper dosage. The indexing cap assembly basically incorporates six components, including a cover construction, an indexing plate or wheel, a compression coil or spring, a push plate construction, a gear tray or swing plate construction, and an assembly ring. The cover construction and assembly ring are joined together to essentially form or close the cap assembly with the other parts coaxially aligned and operable therebetween. The indexing wheel is rotatively received within the cover construction such that axial displacements of the push plate advance the indexing wheel and indicia upon its upper surface are sequentially revealed by way of the window formed in the cover construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Inventors: Tao Xu, Xiaojun Zhang, Linzhi Fang
  • Publication number: 20140339234
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a multi-storage case for toothpicks, skewers, and cotton swabs, wherein it is possible to store toothpicks, skewers, and cotton swabs together and to easily withdraw and use the same. In the other words, the present invention comprises: a cylindrical storage body for allowing toothpicks, skewers, and cotton swabs to be stored upright; and a rotatable cover boy inserted and coupled to the outside of the storage body, wherein a withdrawing opening means is provided at the storage body and the covert body to allow toothpicks, skewers, and cotton swabs to be selectively drawn. Therefore, the present invention has improved functionality and convenience since toothpicks, skewers, and cotton swabs are separately stored while standing upright, and it is possible to selectively withdraw toothpicks, skewers, and cotton swabs by the rotations of the cover body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2012
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Inventors: Sung-Chul Son, Yong Lim Mon
  • Publication number: 20140238982
    Abstract: There is provided a sealing sectioned container assembly including recessed compartments. The sectioned container assembly comprises a sectioned container comprising a container platform, wherein the container platform includes a downward facing lip at its edges and a plurality of inlaid compartments in the container platform, wherein the plurality inlaid compartments extend in a direction of the downward facing lip, and wherein the plurality of inlaid compartments extends past the downward facing lip. Additionally, the container may comprise an attachable lid for sealing each of the plurality of compartments and an attachable cushion, using fabric hook and loop attachment straps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2013
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Inventor: Michele Dabney-Wiggs
  • Patent number: 8746475
    Abstract: A bottle including a body portion having a dividing wall extending from a base portion to a connection region; a first chamber for holding first content; and a second chamber for holding second content; wherein a height of the dividing wall is greater than an overall height of the body portion, wherein the first chamber is configured to cooperate with a first orifice via a first surface and the second chamber is configured to cooperate with a second orifice via a second surface; and wherein one end of the first surface and one end of the second surface are configured to be adjacent to the connection region of the dividing wall to separate the first content from the second content.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Inventor: Theodosios Kountotsis
  • Publication number: 20140144941
    Abstract: A beverage container having at least two compartments within a liquid reservoir. Each of the compartments is selectively accessed, whereby liquid is only dispensed from the accessed compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2014
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Inventors: Ronald F. Horvath, BARBARA L. JENSEN, HELEN A. RUSK, ROBERT A. BALOW, NANCY T. ELSMO
  • Patent number: 8714076
    Abstract: A system and process for steeping tea in a vessel is disclosed. The present invention incorporates the use of an infusing filter seated on or within a vessel and a lid or retaining mechanism to steep tea in water. The vessel has an retaining ledge that supports a mating infuser placed inside. The infuser seats in a stationery position on the mating ledge inside the vessel, offset from the center of the vessel, to allow for stirring, pouring or drinking of the resulting beverage without introducing the infusible material into the resulting steeped beverage product. The infuser comprises a filter element that holds the infusible material and allows contact with the water. The infusing filter is retained in its seated position in the cup, ether by a lid or positive locking mechanism that allows for the safe and convenient portage of the tea steeping assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Inventors: Maria Uspenski, Alexis Uspenski
  • Publication number: 20140084010
    Abstract: A cosmetic compact having an expansive base member containing a series of upwardly-facing product wells to accommodate one or more cosmetic items, the compact further having a cover member, and having a shuttle piece interposed between the base member and cover member. The various parts have cooperating slide components for permitting relative movement of the members in four opposed directions. A versatile, four way slide compact construction is thus made possible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Inventors: Zicai Wan, Ralph DeVito
  • Publication number: 20140069930
    Abstract: The present application provides a dispensing package for a number of articles therein. The dispensing package may include a tub and a reclosable lid enclosing the tub. The reclosable lid may include a dispensing aperture, one or more mating slots, and a spout flap forming a reclosable spout.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2013
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicant: Dixie Consumer Products LLC
    Inventor: Shawn A. Oakes
  • Publication number: 20130001233
    Abstract: A multiple chamber stackable cup or bottle has an air space separation between the chambers. A rotatable cap with a single sealable spout pivots to access each chamber individually. Alternately, a stationary cap has multiple sealable openings, one for each chamber, which communicate one chamber at a time or can be placed to bridge both chambers to allow access to both chambers at the same time. Tapered bodies enable the multiple chamber bodies to be stacked in a nested array.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventor: Ricardo A. Hylton
  • Publication number: 20120285969
    Abstract: This invention provides a container having at least two compartments one for storing and dispensing snack foods such as sunflower seeds and the other to place the waste after eating same. Each compartment has means for easy opening and closing. Preferably the compartments of the container are in side by side position in a cylindrical shaped container formed to fit inside vehicle cup holders.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2012
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Inventor: Michael B. Kelly
  • Publication number: 20120199546
    Abstract: A dual compartment drinking system comprising a dual compartment container and a drinking lid. The dual compartment container includes a first compartment and a second compartment separated by a dividing strip, a neck positioned atop the dual compartment container, and a thread circumnavigating the neck. The drinking cap attached includes a top to cover the drinking cap, a peripheral edge attached to an outer portion of the top, where the peripheral edge extends down perpendicularly from the top; a flange circumnavigating an inner wall of the peripheral edge, where the flange engages the thread when the drinking cap is positioned on the dual compartment container; and a flap affixed to the top, where the flap exposes an opening in the top. The drinking cap twists upon the dual compartment container to position the opening and the flap over one of at least the first compartment and the second compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Inventor: Jason Dieni
  • Patent number: 8235238
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed for improved containers and lids, and combinations thereof. Multiple compartments are provided in a container, one of which can be formed as the container's handle. The lid incorporates a plurality of hinged openings situated on the periphery of the cover, and the container includes a molded unitary body plastic container comprised of at least two chambers or compartments. The lid openings can be located strategically over or adjacent the container chambers/compartments, to provide independent access thereto. The compartments or chambers within the container separate the contents thereof, while multiple hinged openings may allow access to individual or multiple chambers or compartments within the container. Tamper evidencing structures in conjunction with detents or engagement structures may hold the lid and container openings in the desired relationship during shipping, handling, storage, and/or use. Related methods are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: ROPAK Corporation
    Inventor: Franco Luburic
  • Patent number: 8068932
    Abstract: A container for an access-controlled storage system having a plurality of compartments designed to contain an article where access to the article is controlled by granting access to one or more compartments at a time without moving the article, wherein control is provided by a rotary belt with a cut-out directed by deflection pulleys; and an access-controlled storage system having at least two containers and a housing wherein control of the container is actuated to grant access to one or more defined compartments within the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: Hannes Kirzinger
  • Patent number: 8061548
    Abstract: A segregation disk and method of separately storing items in a collapsible, tubular container uses segregation disks for segregating the collapsible container into multiple chambers of user-selectable size. The segregation disks are generally planar disks having a diameter slightly greater than the interior diameter of the container, and formed of a flexible material that have a plurality of radial slits extending inwardly from their periphery to form a plurality of flexible wedges. At the terminus of each radial slit is a tear break, generally a circular hole. An integral pull tab extends from a peripheral region of one of the flexible wedges to facilitate removal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Inventor: John David Peggs
  • Patent number: 7987629
    Abstract: An embodiment of a bait station comprises a rotatable lid and air-tight bait compartments. An additional compartment also contains bait and is accessible to rodents as they enter the station. The rotatable lid is configured to hold the bait within the compartments and can be rotated in order to replace the previously accessible bait with fresh bait from a different compartment. A key can be attached to an extension pole in order to unlock and rotate the rotatable lid without requiring a person to kneel down or bend over. A base having two entrances provides an inviting environment for rodents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Technicide, Inc.
    Inventor: Jim M. Harper
  • Patent number: 7921994
    Abstract: A package (10) includes a one-piece molded plastic container having a base (14), an outer wall (16), and at least one dividing wall extending across the outer wall to divide the container into at least first and second chambers that are separated from each other by the dividing wall. The container has an open end remote from the base, and a molded plastic lid (12) is provided for receipt over the open end of the container in sealing engagement with the outer wall and the dividing wall. The lid is constructed to seal the chambers from each other and from ambient surrounding the package. In at least one of the chambers, the dividing wall preferably has ribs for engagement by a coating application roller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Behr Procress Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas R. Lee, Duberney Ospina
  • Patent number: 7828169
    Abstract: A merchandiser (10) is disclosed having a main body (20), top shelf (110) and bottom shelf (31). A slidable graphics panel (90) with a bumper (100) formed in the back thereof is positioned such that the interlocking channels (60,61) permit the graphics panel (90) to move between upper and lower positions relative to the main body (20). When the graphics panel (90) is in the upper position, the wares (200) on the bottom shelf (31) are viewable to potential purchasers and when the graphics panel (90) is in the lower position, the wares (200) on the upper shelf are viewable to potential purchasers. A sample opening (80) is also constructed in the body (20) wherein a product sample (200) may be conveniently removed, tested or demonstrated and returned to the merchandiser (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Menasha Corporation
    Inventors: Michael J. Robinson, William P. Manteufel
  • Publication number: 20100237034
    Abstract: A bottle including a body portion having a dividing wall extending from a base portion to a connection region; a first chamber for holding first content; and a second chamber for holding second content; wherein a height of the dividing wall is greater than an overall height of the body portion, wherein the first chamber is configured to cooperate with a first orifice via a first surface and the second chamber is configured to cooperate with a second orifice via a second surface; and wherein one end of the first surface and one end of the second surface are configured to be adjacent to the connection region of the dividing wall to separate the first content from the second content.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2009
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Inventor: Theodosios Kountotsis
  • Patent number: 7784635
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed for improved containers and lids, and combinations thereof. Multiple compartments are provided in a container, one of which can be formed as the container's handle. The lid incorporates a plurality of hinged openings situated on the periphery of the cover, and the container includes a molded unitary body plastic container comprised of at least two chambers or compartments. The lid openings can be located strategically over or adjacent the container chambers/compartments, to provide independent access thereto. The compartments or chambers within the container separate the contents thereof, while multiple hinged openings may allow access to individual or multiple chambers or compartments within the container. Tamper evidencing structures in conjunction with detents or engagement structures may hold the lid and container openings in the desired relationship during shipping, handling, storage, and/or use. Related methods are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: Ropak Corporation
    Inventor: Frano Luburic
  • Publication number: 20100122987
    Abstract: An apparatus for containing liquid chemicals includes a dual chamber container and at least one covering member. The dual chamber container includes a base, a neck portion, and a pair of chambers configured between the base and the neck portion. Each chamber of the pair of chambers is adapted to contain a liquid chemical. Each covering member is capable of being detachably attached to the neck portion for covering an opening of a chamber of the pair of chambers. The each covering member includes a body member and an attachment means disposed on an inner surface of the body member. The attachment means is capable of detachably attaching the inner surface of the body member to the neck portion of the dual chamber container for covering of the opening the chamber of the pair of chambers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2009
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Inventor: Gene Anthony Washington, II
  • Patent number: 7647953
    Abstract: A system for reclaiming residual unspent automotive fluid having a fluid receiver which seats open containers of the automotive fluid in an inverted orientation to allow influences of gravity to self-drain the open containers. The fluid receiver accumulates the residual unspent automotive fluid into classifying compartments. Each compartment can be individually pumped or drained of the accumulated and stored residual automotive fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Inventor: Gang Jin
  • Patent number: 7607386
    Abstract: A system for simultaneously brewing and dispensing multiple beverages from a single substantially unitary structure includes a rigid, thermally conductive substantially cylindrically dispensing container having internally fluid discreet compartments each, in horizontal cross-section, defining a polar segment of the cross-section of the container, each of the compartments including pouring spouts at a corresponding mouth of the container, and handles each corresponding to a spout of the structure. The system also includes a circular planar cover selectably securable and rotatable upon or within the mouth of the container. The cover includes a polar opening sufficient in area and geometry to permit flow of a beverage from a selected on of the compartments when a corresponding handle is engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Inventor: Lorielle Wise
  • Patent number: 7556174
    Abstract: Disclosed is a candy storage and dispenser device. A multi-compartment dispensing device offers a unique device for storing and dispensing candy. Accordingly, multiple types and/or colors of candy may be contained in a transparent housing to create a very colorful presentation. Any number of candy types, including powdered, beads, pellets and the like, may be stored and dispensed with the multi-compartment device. The compartments are joined by a series of apertures which may, or may not, be regulated by a movable barricade. Then, when desired, the multiple candies are dispensed through the series of compartment apertures and a dispensing aperture. One version comprises a flute-shaped device having an operational mouthpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Inventor: Frank P. Gatski
  • Patent number: 7552821
    Abstract: This patent discloses a container for carrying jigsaw puzzle pieces. The container may include a main tray having a handle and a main tray cavity. The container also may include an outer lid, an inner lid, a puzzle support, a first tray, a second tray, a first foam pad, and a second foam pad. The outer lid may be secured to the main tray by fasteners to form a container interior with the main tray cavity. The inner lid may be positioned within the main tray cavity and the puzzle support may removeably reside between the main tray and the inner lid. Both the first tray and the second tray may be positioned within the inner lid cavity and may include the first foam pad and second foam pad, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Inventors: Fernand Demers, Alberta E. Demers
  • Publication number: 20090032538
    Abstract: A package (10) includes a one-piece molded plastic container having a base (14), an outer wall (16), and at least one dividing wall extending across the outer wall to divide the container into at least first and second chambers that are separated from each other by the dividing wall. The container has an open end remote from the base, and a molded plastic lid (12) is provided for receipt over the open end of the container in sealing engagement with the outer wall and the dividing wall. The lid is constructed to seal the chambers from each other and from ambient surrounding the package. In at least one of the chambers, the dividing wall preferably has ribs for engagement by a coating application roller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2005
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Inventors: Thomas R. Lee, Duberney Ospina
  • Patent number: 7186335
    Abstract: A process and a device for biological treatment of a suspension in a bioreactor, wherein the suspension is circulated, at least some of the suspension is routed through a vertically aligned guide zone in the bioreactor so that a vertical flow of the suspension is produced. The top scum in the area of the suspension fill level is controlled by feeding a fluid, especially in the form of a free liquid jet, into the bioreactor via at least one nozzle at the fill level, such that the surface of the suspension and/or the top scum floating on the surface of the suspension is forced into rotary flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: Linde-KCA-Dresden GmbH
    Inventors: Gerhard Langhans, Matthias Herms, Thomas Buechner
  • Patent number: 6997082
    Abstract: An adjustable bed includes a universal, or interchangeable, bed end that can be used at either end of the bed and can be connected with an existing motor drive assembly. The bed end may include a gear box having first and second input shafts that are selectively covered by a movable cover. The bed end may include a frame having drain openings for draining water from the bed end when the bed end is washed. The bed end may also include an end cap that is fastened to the frame in a unique manner, and that helps to maintain a panel of the bed end cover in a curved or bowed configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Invacare Incorporated
    Inventors: Steven Snyder, Howard Loewenthal, Andrew Spriegel, Gerold Goertzen, Robert Puckett, Kevin Wysocki
  • Patent number: 6500390
    Abstract: A microplate assembly comprising a multi-well microplate, a plurality of vent caps and a porous vent film. The microplate includes a frame that houses a plurality of open wells in a rectangular array. Vent caps mount on the microplate to seal and vent the wells. When the vent caps are coupled to the wells, an interior volume is formed in each well. The wells function as a vessel for liquid samples that occupy predetermined spaces within the interior volumes. Each liquid sample remains within its predetermined space for all orientations of the microplate assembly. The vent cap comprises an array of well inserts. Each well insert comprises a sealing plug and a vent tube. A flexible perforated web interconnects the well inserts to each other. The vent tubes are fixed to the sealing plugs and terminate in a vent. A barrier formed from a plurality of nested flaps resiliently mounts on the vent tube to partially cover the vent and help inhibit the evaporation and loss of the liquid samples.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Inventors: David A. Boulton, Carolyn I. Solewski
  • Patent number: 6386409
    Abstract: A vehicle storage box includes a lid pivotally connected to a base structure, and a lid coupler to releasably couple the lid to the base structure. The lid coupler has a first coupling position occurring when the lid is in an opened position. The lid coupler includes a lid latch, a lid actuator, and a hooking cam coupled to the lid actuator to engage the lid latch while the lid is in an opened position. As the lid actuator is rotated, the lid latch tracks along the hooking cam of the lid actuator while the lid is pulled down. A divider can be pivotally connected to the base structure to divide the storage box into two compartments for holding articles. A single hinge can connect the base structure, the divider and the lid. The lid coupler can include first and second adjustable lid actuators coupled together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Inventor: Dale S. Cheney
  • Patent number: 6382410
    Abstract: A pill container for holding one or more pills and attached to a key chain. The pill container has an overall appearance of an enlarged pill for ease in viewing and quick identification. The pill container includes an open top housing and a housing cover pivotally attached to the housing. The housing includes a bottom and an upwardly extending housing ring attached to the bottom of the housing. The housing can include one or more individual open top pill rings for holding individual pills apart from other pills. The pill rings are dimensioned for holding different size pills. Also, the housing may include an outwardly extending key chain ear attached to a portion of the housing ring. The ear is adapted for receiving a portion of a key chain. Further, the housing includes a post sleeve and a knob sleeve. The housing cover includes a top and a bottom portion. The bottom portion engages an edge of the housing ring when the housing cover is in a closed position on the open top housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Inventors: Kenneth M. Magid, Laurel L. Riggs
  • Patent number: 6168059
    Abstract: A storage compartment is covered by two lids that can be opened by a handle in such a manner that the two lids expose a storage compartment from the middle to the edges. An additional compartment is connected to the handle. This compartment, depending on the direction of motion of the handle, is pushed beneath a hider or is moved over the storage compartment in the direction of travel FR.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Hermann Juergen Salenbauch, Alexander Klatt, Robert Stancel, Alex Kazaks, Grace Tseng, Leon Segal, John Raff
  • Patent number: 6058523
    Abstract: An insulated bed bath construction 10 including a thermally insulated dual reservoir basin member 20 which cooperates with a main lid member 30 having a pair of apertures 32, 33 which are alignable with the pair of liquid reservoirs 24, 25 and wherein each of the apertures 32, 33 is provided with a closure unit 13 adapted to sealingly engage the respective apertures 32, 33 to minimize thermal losses from one reservoir 24 when the other reservoir 25 is being accessed through its aligned aperture 33 during the bathing process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Inventor: Renee Sleboda
  • Patent number: 5921440
    Abstract: The multi-compartment container is made from previously formed partial bottles and is preferably made from two "half-bottles" that are individually formed from a pliable plastic with a semicircular wall on one side and a flat wall on the other side, as by blow molding. The two half-bottles are joined together with the flat walls in juxtaposition to define the body portion of the multi-compartment container, with each "half-bottle" serving as one of its compartments or chambers. A cap with a dispenser for each compartment serves as a cover for the container. The pliable plastic from which the container is formed enables a person to squeeze either of the compartments to dispense from one of the compartments or squeeze both compartments to dispense from both compartments. One embodiment of the invention includes a dial-a-matic selection system adapted, but not restricted, to the dispensing of mustard and catsup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Inventor: Morris P. Maines
  • Patent number: 5890440
    Abstract: A multiple compartment cash box assembly including an insert box defining a first compartment and a separate second compartment. A first slot extends into the first compartment and a second slot extends into the second compartment. An access template is included movably coupled to the insert box between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the access template cooperates with the first slot to enable access therethrough into the first compartment while simultaneously cooperatively blocking access to the second compartment through the second slot. In the second position, the access template cooperates with the second slot to enable access therethrough into the second compartment while cooperatively blocking access to the first compartment through the first slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1999
    Inventor: Mark Spur
  • Patent number: 5873462
    Abstract: A pen needle dispenser having a cover rotatably mounted on a circular shaped container having a plurality of cavities, with each cavity dimensioned to receive a pen needle assembly with or without shields. The cover includes a slot that is rotated into alignment with one of the cavities in the container to provide the user with access to one unused shielded pen needle and thereby permits the pen needle to be mounted on a medication delivery pen. After use the used unshielded pen needle is returned to and locked in the cavity. Then, the cover is rotated until the slot is aligned with another cavity containing the next unused shielded pen needle to be used during the next injection. The pen needle dispenser prevents the cover from rotating the slot back to cavities containing used pen needles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1999
    Assignee: Becton Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Tuan V. Nguyen, Michael A. DiBiasi, Robert E. West
  • Patent number: 5794819
    Abstract: A dual compartment bottle system for dispensing of two separate products, such as shampoo and conditioner, from within one convenient bottle which separates the two separate products. The device includes a substantially cylindrical bottle including a vertical partition which creates two distinct compartments, and a threaded dispensing cap secured to a threaded neck of the cylindrical bottle. The threaded dispensing cap having two passages, one passage into each separate compartment, such that a user can separately dispense the desired product without contamination from the other product within the cylindrical bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Inventor: Trevor A. Smith
  • Patent number: 5794810
    Abstract: A scuttle device for pouring frangible, extruded wood pellets through a slot-like fill port of a hopper of a pellet-burning stove, the device having a wall formed to provide a pellet containment cavity, and having a top cap formed with an opening for filling and emptying the cavity, wherein a fine mesh sieve is supported in the cavity and is spaced from substantially the entire inner surface of the wall to provide a collection space for receiving and retaining pellet fines, and wherein a top rim of the sieve lies closely adjacent the underside of the top cap for preventing spill-over of pellets into the collection space during pouring out of the pellets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Inventor: Carroll G. Hensley
  • Patent number: 5762199
    Abstract: The invention includes embodiments of compartmented containers as daily pocket pill organizers. The containers are cylindrical with removable caps. The caps are designed to be supplied with consideration of a patient's functional ability. The containers are pocket sized and have pill compartments in various multiples accordance with the container use. The material of choice is clear plastic so pills in the compartments can be seen. The caps are single and double structures designed for easy access to the pill compartments. The caps can be unsnapped from the containers for easy washing and sterilizing the cap parts and the containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Assignee: Mark Aguilera
    Inventor: Mark A. Aguilera
  • Patent number: 5753289
    Abstract: A portable food container for use in holding dry and liquid foods for consumption. The container allows an individual to consume a combination of dry cereal and cold milk in a remote location away from the kitchen without the use of a bowl and a spoon. The portable food container is inverted to allow dry cereal to flow therefrom, and squeezed to allow milk to flow therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Inventor: Richard B. Ness
  • Patent number: 5724764
    Abstract: A storage box with compartments for items, such as fishing hooks, sinkers and lures, having a pair of endless belts which revolve perpendicular to each other. Each belt has at least one aperture in it, so that when the respective apertures in the belts are aligned with a compartment in the box, the item in that compartment can be removed. An other embodiment has only a single belt with an aperture that will allow the removal of large items. A third embodiment has an endless belt with a disc, having an aperture, pivoted on the belt. A pair of tensioning devices may also be used to maintain the belts in a snug fit around the storage boxes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Inventor: Charles Kent Alsup
  • Patent number: 5690223
    Abstract: A surgical container for sterilizing, transporting and storing small surgical instruments such as drill, pins, screws and the like. The container comprises a base having at least one well, and includes an apertured plate for holding the instruments, covering the well at least in part. The apertured plate has apertures sized to accommodate selected instruments, and a cover rotatably mounted over the apertured plate. The cover has an opening for providing access to a limited area of the plate and any instruments loaded therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1997
    Assignee: Poly Vac Incorporated
    Inventor: Timothy E. Wood
  • Patent number: 5685351
    Abstract: A filler adapter assembly for a multichambered container. The filler adapter mounts on the open end of a multichambered container. The filler adapter enables individual chambers within the container to be emptied or filled without contaminating adjacent chambers. The assembly includes a filler adapter and a releasable closure. The filler adapter is a hollow tubular member having a closure end which matingly engages the open end of the container. The closure end provides plugs and a gasket for sealing all chambers except a single selected chamber. A small opening in the closure end overlies the selected chamber providing fluid communication between the selected chamber and a conical lumen within the filler adapter. The releasable closure provides a leak proof seal between the filler adapter and container. The stem of the funnel or similar device may be placed in the larger opening of the conical lumen and a fluid introduced into the selected chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1997
    Inventors: Randal Kazarian, David Mills
  • Patent number: 5588550
    Abstract: A container of the present invention comprises a body portion including a bottom wall and a side wall defining a cavity and a shoulder portion extending from the body portion and further defining the cavity. A plurality of compartments separated by a partitioning member positioned in the cavity are provided, wherein the compartments and partitioning member extend through the cavity. Each of the compartments are adapted to hold a content. A neck portion extends from the shoulder portion and has an outer wall and an inner wall. A fitment is positioned within the neck portion and engaged with the inner wall. The fitment includes at least a portion thereof in sealed relationship and freely rotatable relative to the neck portion, the portion including a cover substantially traversing the inner wall and having an opening therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1996
    Assignee: Pepsico, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert C. Meyer
  • Patent number: 5588561
    Abstract: A portable food container for use in holding dry and liquid foods for consumption. The container allows an individual to consume a combination of dry cereal and cold milk in a remote location away from the kitchen without the use of a bowl and a spoon. The portable food container is inverted to allow dry cereal to flow therefrom, and squeezed to allow milk to flow therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1996
    Inventor: Richard B. Ness
  • Patent number: 5577629
    Abstract: A package box for flat objects having relatively small dimension and including a parallelepiped-shape main part with a separation wall, which extends in a longitudinal middle plane of the box, and with a plurality of transverse separation walls, and a closing cover, in which box the upper edge of the longitudinally extending separation wall has at least one rib equally spaced from both end walls and having a height not exceeding the thickness of the cover, and the cover has in its longitudinal middle plane at least one slot corresponding to the rib for receiving the rib in the closed condition of the box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Assignee: Rose-Plastic GmbH
    Inventor: Peter Rosler
  • Patent number: 5501355
    Abstract: A work box comprises a central box unit and two lateral box units. Each of the box units has a bottom wall, a front end wall, a rear end wall, two opposing lateral side walls, and adjacent surfaces of complementary shape so that when the work-box is closed it forms an essentially solid block. Guide means of the work-box is arranged between the central box unit and the lateral box units, respectively. The bottom wall of the central box unit comprises downwardly inclined slanted wall portions, with the contour of the central box unit essentially corresponding to a triangular prism. The central box unit opens in an upward direction and has a lower edge defined by the slanted wall portions of its bottom wall, which faces in a downward direction. The upper edges of the front end, rear end, and side walls of the lateral box units define a plane that is parallel to the slanted wall portions of the central box unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1996
    Inventors: Manfred Elzenbeck, Klaus Haar