Folding Patents (Class 220/6)
  • Patent number: 8146763
    Abstract: A collapsible container includes a plurality of wall panels, wherein each wall panel is connected to each adjacent wall panel at a hinged connection. The wall panels are arranged so as to articulate at the hinged connections between a collapsed position and an expanded position defining a bottom wall and a plurality of side walls extending upwardly from the bottom wall. The collapsible container also includes an anti-fold lock that is disposed proximate to a hinged connection between first and second adjacent side walls. The first side wall includes at least two wall panels defining a diagonal hinge extending substantially between diagonally opposite corners of the side wall and the anti-fold lock is articulable into a locked position across the diagonal hinge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson Home Storage, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert R. Turvey, Brian C. Dais, Sanjay Dhall
  • Patent number: 8146773
    Abstract: A storage device includes a collapsible container and a lid for the collapsible container. The collapsible container includes a plurality of wall panels hingedly connected to articulate between a collapsed position and an expanded position that defines an upper lip, and the upper lip further defines a square opening. The lid includes (i) a body that is adapted to cover the square opening in the collapsible container, (ii) a peripheral groove disposed in a side of the body, the groove extending along a square path configured to receive the upper lip of the collapsible container in the expanded position, and (iii) a plurality of wall sections projecting from the same side of the body. The wall sections are disposed radially inwardly from the peripheral groove and define a recess having four sides formed to receive therein an outer periphery of the collapsible container in a substantially parallel orientation with the body when the collapsible container is in the collapsed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert R. Turvey, Brian C. Dais, Sanjay Dhall
  • Publication number: 20120067878
    Abstract: A crate includes a bottom, two end walls, and two side walls. The end walls and the side walls are configured to be foldable with respect to the bottom. The end walls and the side walls comprise respective latch elements engaging with each other to form a latch when the end walls and the side walls are in the unfolded state. A latch release mechanism is provided at the respective end walls or at the respective side walls, wherein the latch release mechanism and/or the latch elements on the respective walls are configured to be movable so as to extend at least partly above an upper edge of the crate for releasing the latch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2010
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Applicant: IFCO SYSTEMS GMBH
    Inventor: Wolfgang ORGELDINGER
  • Publication number: 20120067880
    Abstract: A crate includes a bottom having two projections arranged at opposite length sides of the bottom and extending upward from the bottom, opposing end walls extending along width sides of the bottom, and two opposing side walls extending along length sides of the bottom. The end walls and the side walls are configured to be foldable with respect to the bottom. The side walls have a height such that the side walls at least partially overlap when being folded. Each side wall is coupled to the bottom via at least one hinge. Each hinge is provided slidably in the projection such that the hinge is movable between a lower position and an upper position, the lower position being closer to the bottom than the upper position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2010
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Applicant: IFCO SYSTEMS GMBH
    Inventor: Wolfgang ORGELDINGER
  • Publication number: 20120067879
    Abstract: A crate includes a bottom, two end walls, and two side walls. At least one of the end and side walls comprises an inlet having a dimension allowing to introduce a predefined amount of cooling liquid into the interior of the crate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2010
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Applicant: IFCO SYSTEMS GMBH
    Inventor: Wolfgang ORGELDINGER
  • Publication number: 20120055922
    Abstract: A container includes a plurality of panels integrally arranged with respect to each other and with respect to a set of orthogonal x, y and z axes, the z-axis defining a direction line in which the container is configured to support a stacking load. The plurality of panels include a first panel having a first planar surface, and a second panel having a second planar surface, wherein the first panel and the second panel form a contiguity with a fold line disposed therebetween, and wherein the first planar surface is disposed parallel to the x-z plane or the y-z plane. The container further includes a compression reinforcement feature having a planar edge oriented orthogonal to the first planar surface and perpendicular to the z-axis, the planar edge being disposed a distance away from the fold line but at a distance no greater than half a thickness of the first panel, the first panel having a void between the fold line and the planar edge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Applicant: GEORGIA-PACIFIC CORRUGATED LLC
    Inventors: Yavuz Aksan, Ernest B. Widner, Wayne P. Gasior
  • Publication number: 20120048850
    Abstract: A collapsible frame container assembly comprises a frame component comprising a plurality of panels connected to each other, the panels being movable relative to each other between a first substantially folded condition wherein the panels are collapsed and a second unfolded condition wherein the panels are opened to define a frame structure. Also provided is a container component comprising first and second sides defining a space therebetween of a size which can be varied according to the relative positions of the first and second sides. The frame component when in the unfolded condition and the container component are releasably coupled to each other to define a predetermined frame container assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: Thomas Barry Garcia, Rodolfo Garcia
  • Publication number: 20120048851
    Abstract: A portable hanging assembly for supporting a hunting bow or other tool on a tree trunk or a similar support is described. A rope is passed through a pouch which is attached to a hook or other, similar object. The rope is then tied around a support, thereby securing the pouch and hook to the support. The hunter may then hang weapons or tools on the hook for easy access with minimum movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: MARC BEARDSLEE
  • Patent number: 8123062
    Abstract: The present patent application relates to a plastic molded box with parallelepiped structure and rectangular base provided with collapsible walls, designed to stack a corresponding box with lower dimensions, it being provided with two oscillating shelves (5) on the internal side of the transversal walls (2) basically at the height of the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Inventor: Sergio Tontarelli
  • Publication number: 20120043321
    Abstract: The invention relates to a packaging blank and container having an integral reclosable pour spout which provides enhanced seals, and promotes accurate placement of the pour spout during construction. The blank provides a pour spout assembly having a skewed fold line that facilitate folding operations and promotes accurate positioning of the pour spout, a detachable access tab that promotes sealing and provides tamper evidence, and a novel pour spout assembly that promotes directional and controlled pouring of articles. The invention further relates to a container formed from the blank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2011
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Applicant: Caraustar Custom Packaging Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Brink, Dale Whittington
  • Publication number: 20120031897
    Abstract: A reusable container to transport groceries and the like from the point of purchase which can be closed to a condition for storage in which the container utilizes minimum space to an open position to receive the groceries and the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2011
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Applicant: Reality Group, Inc.
    Inventors: D. Michael Robinson, Patricia R. Robinson
  • Publication number: 20120031898
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relates generally to a high-strength, thermally-insulating receptacle for transporting modular catering containers, such as chafing dishes in general, and disposable aluminum chafing dishes in particular. More particularly, embodiments of the present invention relates to thermally-insulating receptacles for transporting chafing dishes that caterers receive as foldable box blanks and assemble into receptacles prior to transporting the chafing dishes. Embodiments further relate to food-laden chafing dishes disposed in the receptacles of the invention and methods for transporting food laden chafing dishes with the receptacles of the invention and serving food therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2011
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Inventor: LOUIS GINO PESCI
  • Publication number: 20120024846
    Abstract: The invention relates to a folding box (1), comprising a base and first and second side walls (2, 3) pivotably connected to the base which, together with the base, form a box open at the top in a folded open state, as well as at least one retaining element (4) disposed on a first side wall (2) and at least one pin (5) mounted so as to be rotatable on a second side wall (3), and the at least one pin (5) has a cross-section that is not circular on at least one pin end (5a, 5b) and the at least one pin end (5a, 5b) locks the first to the second side wall (2, 3) by means of the retaining element (4) in a first rotational position and unlocks said side walls (2, 3) in a second rotational position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2010
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Applicant: Leisch Beratungs- Und Beteiligungs-GmbH
    Inventor: Gerhard Pittrich
  • Publication number: 20120018428
    Abstract: Disclosed is a foldable storage apparatus. The foldable storage apparatus comprises a sheet having an initial flat configuration. The sheet comprises a receiving portion for receiving one or more contents. The foldable storage apparatus also comprises first and second couplers supported by the sheet and operable to secure at least two sections of the sheet together to at least partially define a capture volume. The foldable storage apparatus further comprises an elongate tail extending from the receiving portion and operable to substantially enclose the capture volume and secure the contents therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2011
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Inventor: Eric Norman
  • Publication number: 20120012581
    Abstract: A locking mechanism for locking first and second panels of a carton together includes first and second male tabs hinged along first and second fold lines respectively to the first panel. The male tabs are arranged so as to oppose one another. The mechanism also includes first and second female tabs hinged along third and fourth fold lines respectively to the second panel. The female tabs are arranged so as to oppose one another. The first and second fold lines are substantially perpendicular to the third and fourth fold lines when the first and second panels are disposed in an overlapping relationship. In a locked position, the male tabs are displaced from the plane of the first panel and pass through an aperture formed in the second panel by displacement of the female tabs. Each male tab is displaced out of the plane of the first panel by an angle greater than 90° and being maintained in position by respective side edges of the female tabs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2011
    Publication date: January 19, 2012
    Applicant: MEADWESTVACO PACKAGING SYSTEMS, LLC
    Inventors: Kyle Schumaker, Bradford J. Walling
  • Patent number: 8091706
    Abstract: A container includes a plurality of walls extending upward from a base. At least one support is movable between a retracted position and a support position. Resilient tabs are provided to prevent inadvertent movement of the support out of the support position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Rehrig Pacific Company
    Inventor: Gerald R. Koefelda
  • Publication number: 20120000954
    Abstract: A collapsible container includes a bottom wall and a plurality of sidewalls. At least two of the side walls include a rigid first segment and a rigid second segment coupled to the first segment by a pivot to permit the side wall to fold so that the first segment and second segment form an acute angle or are parallel when the container is collapsed. The collapsible container can be configured in a storage configuration for containing objects or a collapsed configuration occupying less volume than the storage configuration for stowing the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2011
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Applicant: NISSAN TECHNICAL CENTER NORTH AMERICA, INC.
    Inventors: Daniel Shea, Tomohito Hashikawa, Martin Petersen, Angelo Parisi, Hugh Francis, Kelly Schlotterer
  • Publication number: 20110308993
    Abstract: A collapsible shipping container is capable of configured from a collapsed position for storage and transportation to a constructed position for containment of articles therein and back again to the collapsed position after use. The collapsible shipping container comprises a foldable tray having at least two pallet runner sleeves spaced apart from one another and each of which being formed on respective opposed lateral edges of the foldable tray. A plurality of elongated pallet runners each of which having an inner support structure integrally formed thereto. The plurality of elongated pallet runners each of which is adapted to be inserted into each of the respective plurality of pallet runner sleeves. A foldable side wall body is adapted to rest upon the foldable tray to form an interior space to receive a plurality of articles. The foldable side wall body comprises end walls, side walls, and side body flaps to form an enclosed bottom thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY
    Inventors: John Benjamin Hill, David Fred Kari
  • Publication number: 20110309073
    Abstract: A box for a medical device includes a first panel, a second panel hingedly connected with a lower edge of the first panel, a third panel hingedly connected with a lower edge of the second panel, a first side flap hingedly connected with a first side of the first panel, and a second side flap hingedly connected with a second side of the first panel. The third panel is folded over the second panel and the second panel is folded over the first panel for forming a first storage compartment and a separate second storage compartment. The first and second side flaps are folded over the second panel for closing the sides of the box. The box includes a cover foldable over and interlockable with the first side flap, the second panel, and the second side flap for holding the cover closed and closing the box.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2010
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Applicant: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Denise Marie Dacey, Jonathan William Gillespie
  • Patent number: 8079486
    Abstract: A lock member L1 including an operation portion L1a and a lock bar L1b is disposed on each of first opposite side walls 2 to be brought down firstly toward a bottom portion 1, and a pivotal shaft 13 formed in the operation portion is pivotally supported in a bearing hole 2g2 formed in each of the first opposite side walls to be brought down firstly toward the bottom portion. To allow cancellation of a lock state between the lock member and each of second opposite side walls to be brought down secondly toward the bottom portion, the operation portion is pivotally moved downward. During an unlocking operation, even when an operator pivotally moves the operation portion included in the lock member, the operation portion is prevented from being tilted. Thus, the lock bar of the lock member can be used to reliably perform the unlocking operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Sanko Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hisatoshi Yamauchi
  • Publication number: 20110297674
    Abstract: A product packaging device includes side portions. Each of the side portions includes a first end portion, a second end portion and a loading portion. The side portions fold together for closing the product packaging device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2011
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Inventor: Kevin T. Stevenson
  • Patent number: 8070006
    Abstract: Collapsible containers and associated methods are disclosed herein. Certain aspects of the invention are directed toward a collapsible container assembly that includes a foldable support member that has a length and a width. The support member has a concave cross-section that causes the support member to resist bending until a threshold force is exceeded. The support member has a folded position and an extended position where the support member is unfolded. The assembly further includes at least one surface member carried by the support member. The assembly has a deployed position where the support member is in the extended position and the at least one surface member forms an enclosure with an interior. The assembly also has a collapsed position where the support member is in the folded position. The container assembly has less exterior volume in the collapsed position than in the deployed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Evergreen Innovation Partners I, LP
    Inventors: Ed Austin, William J. Ritter, Martin Albini
  • Patent number: 8066147
    Abstract: A crate, such as for transporting egg cartons or other items, includes a base, opposed side walls and a rear wall extending upward from the base. A front wall opposite the rear wall is selectably moveable between a closed position and a retracted, open position. In the retracted position, access to the interior of the crate is provided. In one embodiment, the front wall includes a plurality of pivotably connected sections, such that the front wall can be retracted to provide access to the interior. A latch selectively prevents movement of the front wall to the retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Rehrig Pacific Company
    Inventors: Ryan C. Meers, Justin M. Smyers, Roger S. Hsu
  • Patent number: 8066137
    Abstract: A flexible, stackable container for storing a quantity of a product may include a sealed package formed from a single sheet of film and retaining the quantity of the product disposed therein, and a lid fitment attached to a first side of the package. The first side of the package may have an outer first surface of the film and outwardly extending first corner seals formed in the film at the edges of the first side and surrounding the first side of the package. The package may also have a second side disposed opposite the first side and outwardly extending second corner seals formed in the film at the edges of the second side and surrounding the second side of the package. The lid fitment may include a base having a central opening and a lid having a complimentary shape to the base to form a seal therebetween when the lid is closed down onto the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Clear Lam Packaging, Inc.
    Inventors: John E. Sanfilippo, James J. Sanfilippo, Jeanne M. Skaggs, Roy Speer
  • Patent number: 8066136
    Abstract: A container includes a plurality of resilient wall panels. Each wall panel is connected to each adjacent wall panel at a hinged connection, and the wall panels are arranged so as to articulate at the hinged connections between a collapsed position and an expanded position defining a bottom wall and a plurality of side walls extending upwardly from the bottom wall and defining an upper lip. At least one of the hinged connections between adjacent side walls is an arched hinge. The container also includes a downwardly projecting bracket disposed proximate the upper lip on an exterior side of a side wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson Home Storage, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert R. Turvey, Brian C. Dais, Sanjay Dhall, Craig R. Gosen
  • Publication number: 20110283627
    Abstract: A smoke-barrier device for under-door gaps is taught. A basic barrier comprises a unit of expandable/compressible material covered by one end of a length of fire-resistant and smoke and gas impermeable material, and is sized to completely seal the mandated gap beneath doors in the event of a fire. Another style includes magnetic material on the other end of the length of fire-resistant, moisture and gas impermeable material to further adhere the barrier to a metal door. Intumescent material may be fixed on the central part of the length of fire-resistant, moisture and gas impermeable material. The device is sized to fit commercial and private doors spaces and is offered in a kit including tape to place about top and sides openings of a door, luminescent tape to be placed on a window in the room, and a flashlight of various styles. The fire-resistant material may also be water impermeable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2011
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Applicant: BUTTERFLY SAFETY PRODUCTS LLC
    Inventor: Alan Shaw
  • Publication number: 20110284533
    Abstract: Structures, methods, and systems associated with a stackable and collapsible container are provided. One structure includes a stackable and collapsible container having at least four non-collapsible, load bearing vertical support members attached to vertical walls of the container and capable of supporting the weight of other containers. A top surface is included having a number of sections which include a pivotal connection to one another and which are collapsible about the pivotal connection to an interior of the container. A bottom surface is included having a number of sections which include a pivotal connection to one another and which are collapsible about the pivotal connection to an interior of the container. The top and the bottom surfaces of the container can be fixedly positioned in a number of collapsed states.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2011
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Inventor: George E. Kochanowski
  • Publication number: 20110284532
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a one piece re-closable unit pack comprising a first layered structure (1) wherein one or plurality of containment(s) (2) are formed to contain product(s) wherein the said containment(s) (2) up stand from first surface of the said first layered structure (1) thereby creating one or plurality of corresponding opening/s on the second surface of the said first layered structure, a second layered structure (3) affixed to the unformed region of the second surface of the first layered structure (1) wherein portion of the second layered structure (3) corresponding to the opening of the containment(s) (2) is ruptured to remove the product, at least one portion (10) comprising the containment(s) (2) wherein the region (4) between the said portions (10, 20) is foldable; optionally one or plurality of unformed portion/s, optionally constructed to provide child resistant capability and/or unique identifiers to authenticate a packaged product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2009
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Inventors: Praful Ramachandra Naik, Avinash Shantaram Mlandale, Urja Bhooshan Kulkarni
  • Publication number: 20110278289
    Abstract: A storage box, comprising a vacuum bag (1), foldable first base board (2) and second base board (3) provided on the bottom of the vacuum bag, a cubic cavity (5) formed by enclosing the first base board and the second base board in which the vacuum bag is housed, a cover board (6) provided on the top of the cubic cavity, and an interlayer (12) provided in the bottom of the vacuum bag, wherein said first base board passes through the interlayer and foldable sections of the first base board extend beyond the interlayer and foldable upward, said second base board is provided across and under the first base board, and the bottom end of the vacuum bag is closely attached to and fixed on the second base board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventor: Zhengbing Shi
  • Publication number: 20110278288
    Abstract: A light-weight case is provided that is cut-resistant, fire-resistant and/or water-proof and that can be easily locked and fasten to stationary objects. The exterior of the case is substantially cut-resistant, while the interior layers can be layers that are fire-resistant, water-proof, any type of padding or nylon for protecting the objects stored in the case. To protect the case from being stolen, a steel cable is threaded through a hole formed by two concentrically aligned grommets and locked to or around a stationary object. The cases include a Global Positioning System (GPS) transmitter that is able to track the location of the case if the case happens to be lost or stolen. The case can be sized and shaped to hold any type of valuable objects, such as guns, jewelry and money.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2011
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventor: David D. Fuller
  • Patent number: 8056723
    Abstract: A container includes a plurality of walls extending upward from a base. At least one support is movable between a retracted position and a support position. The base includes projections downwardly from each corner of the base for interlocking with a larger container stacked thereunder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Rehrig Pacific Company
    Inventor: Mauricio D. Cavalcante
  • Publication number: 20110272400
    Abstract: A container for transporting and storing goods with a container base and at least two sidewalls foldable on top of one another, wherein the sidewalls, which are foldable on top of one another are linked to the container base through hinges. The hinge bolt receivers-include recesses, so that the hinge bolts are movable in the hinge bolt receivers from a lower end position, in which the folded down sidewall contacts the container base, far enough into an upper end position, so that a planar placement of two sidewalls on top of one another is facilitated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2009
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Applicant: Schoeller Arca Systems GmbH
    Inventor: Jan Abraham Huizingh
  • Patent number: 8052000
    Abstract: A pallet includes a plurality of supports supporting a floor. The supports each include a plurality of columns integrally-molded with at least one runner and snap-fit to the floor. At least one wall is moveable between an upright position and a collapsed position on the floor. A hinge connecting the wall to the base includes a first axis and a second axis offset by the first axis. The hinge is locked when the wall is in the upright position to prevent rotation about the second axis but permit rotation about the first axis. A hinge assembly connects a door to the wall and includes a first hinge pin and a second hinge pin. The hinge assembly permits the door to open completely relative to the wall to a position at least substantially parallel to and adjacent the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Rehrig Pacific Company
    Inventor: William P. Apps
  • Patent number: 8052002
    Abstract: A collapsible box that provides access through both its top and front side, said box comprising sets of interior and exterior sidewalls, said interior sidewalls folding inward along a hinge and said exterior sidewalls folding along a hinge that runs along a bias. Said box capable of being made from either flat sheet material or molded parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Inventors: Martin Spindel, Nadine Cino
  • Publication number: 20110259884
    Abstract: The invention relates to a container for transporting and storing goods with a container base (2) and at least two side walls (4) that can be folded over one another, wherein the two side walls (4) that can be folded over one another are respectively pivotably supported through at least one hinge bolt (6) in a hinge bolt receiver (5), wherein the hinge bolt receiver (5) comprises an elongated recess (7), which extends in a direction perpendicular to the container base (2), wherein the folded down side wall (4) is movable from a lower end position, in which the folded down side wall contacts the container base (2), into an upper end position, which is displaced upward from the lower end position in a direction perpendicular to the container base (2), Thus, the hinge bolt (6) is provided with a guided translatoric movement when the side wall (4) is folded up from the lower end position, this means for a rotation of the hinge bolt (6) in the hinge bolt receiver (5), so that the side wall (4) moves upward in a di
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2010
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Applicant: SCHOELLER ARCA SYSTEMS GMBH
    Inventors: Richard Kellerer, Christian Barth
  • Patent number: 8042702
    Abstract: Reconfigurable containers which may adopt two stable configurations are described. In the first configuration, the container is suitable for the storing and transport of goods. When in a second, collapsed configuration, the container occupies a lesser volume than the first configuration and thus requires less shipping space. This is accomplished through the use of at least one deformable active material member that is preferably a shape memory polymer and, optionally, releasable fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Robin Stevenson
  • Patent number: 8033411
    Abstract: A container includes a plurality of wall panels. Each wall panel is connected to adjacent wall panels at hinged connections and the wall panels are arranged so as to articulate at the hinged connections between a collapsed position and an expanded position defining a bottom wall and a plurality of side walls extending upwardly from the bottom wall. The container also includes a first latch that is configured to interlockingly engage when the wall panels are in the expanded position and a second latch that is configured to interlockingly engage when the wall panels are in the collapsed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson Home Storage, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert R. Turvey, Brian C. Dais, Sanjay Dhall
  • Publication number: 20110240638
    Abstract: The collapsible storage basket contains two rigid longitudinal plates, two flexible lateral plates, a flexible first base plate connecting the lateral and longitudinal plates' bottom rims, and a rigid second base plate stitched or adhered to a top side of the first base plate along a middle section of each of the second base plate's lateral edges. A rigid support plate is connected to the top rim of each lateral plate. To put the storage box to use, the longitudinal and lateral plates are raised and the two support plates are flipped inward so that their bottom rims are pressed against the second base plate. When the storage basket is not in use, the support plates are flipped outward and, by the flexibility of the two lateral plates, the longitudinal plates are folded inward. The storage basket then turns into a flat shape for easy storage and transportation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2010
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventor: Pei-Chuan MA
  • Publication number: 20110240639
    Abstract: A collapsible bin container having a base portion and side walls hingedly connected to the base portion. At least one of the side walls includes an integrally formed hinge lug having a first generally cylindrical portion and a second flat angled portion. The base portion includes a corresponding hinge slot having an opening configured to receive the hinge lug only when the side wall is positioned at a first angle with respect to a horizontal surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2010
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventor: Roger Nolan
  • Publication number: 20110226763
    Abstract: The folding container is formed from a single seamless sheet of liquid impervious material to form a container for liquids or bulk goods as desired. The sheet forming the container is folded along fixed fold lines, i.e., folds that remain permanently in place to define the various panels of the container, and hinge folds, i.e., folds along which the side and bottom panels may be spread to open the container for use or closed to fold the container for compact storage. The side and bottom panels fold inwardly between the front and rear panels of the container for storage, thus providing an even more compact configuration. The front, rear, and both side panels are configured as trapezoids, with their bases wider than their upper edges. This provides greater stability for the container when filled, due to the lower center of gravity of the mass contained therein and the wider base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2010
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Inventor: German Valencia
  • Publication number: 20110226762
    Abstract: The packing according to the invention comprises: a first part, made of flexible and airtight material, defining a first portion and a second portion contiguous to the first portion, said first portion being separated from the second portion by an area suitable to be folded; at least one second part, made of a material porous to the sterilizing fluid, forming a pocket for the reception of the at least one object to be sterilized, said second part being connected to said first portion of said first part and being dimensioned so that its edges are, when said second part is connected to said first portion, set back of the edges of said first portion so as to define side assembly areas on said first portion; and airtight connection means for the connection of said second portion to said first portion in said side assembly areas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2008
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Applicant: BETON DICKINSON FRANCE S.A.S.
    Inventor: Emeric Mermet
  • Publication number: 20110220643
    Abstract: A large container (2) comprising: a base component (3); four circumferentially arranged side walls (4, 8) of which at least one is attached to the base component (3) through at least one hinge and the at least one side wall is thus foldable towards the base component (3); at least one locking device at the foldable side wall (4) for attaching the foldable side wall (4) in folded up condition at least at one side wall (8) which joins the foldable side wall (4), wherein the locking device is arranged in a recess (10) of the foldable side wall (4), wherein the recess is configured so that the locking device is actuatable from inside and outside the large container (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Applicant: SCHOELLER ARCA SYSTEMS GMBH
    Inventors: Maximus, Gerardus, Maria Van Der Korput, Peter Johannes Gols, Reinhard Lorenz
  • Publication number: 20110220642
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) for transporting items includes a platform section (14) dimensioned to support an item, a basket section (12) having a plurality of basket walls (18, 20, 22, 24) adapted to transition between an operative condition defining an internal receiving area for accommodating an item, and a folded inoperative condition, and a handle section (16) operatively connected to the basket section (12). The handle section (16) is adapted to transition between a first condition corresponding to the operative condition of the basket section (12) and a second condition corresponding to the folded inoperative condition of the basket section (12). The apparatus (10) further includes at least one forward wheel (46) to facilitate transport when the basket is in the operative condition and at least one rear wheel (54). The platform section (14) also may be adapted to transition between a stored condition and a platform support condition to support the item.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2011
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Applicant: CONAIR CORPORATION
    Inventor: Anthony Kit Lun Leung
  • Patent number: 8011523
    Abstract: Structures, methods, and systems associated with a stackable and collapsible container are provided. One structure includes a stackable and collapsible container having at least four non-collapsible, load bearing vertical support members attached to vertical walls of the container and capable of supporting the weight of other containers. A top surface is included having a number of sections which include a pivotal connection to one another and which are collapsible about the pivotal connection to an interior of the container. A bottom surface is included having a number of sections which include a pivotal connection to one another and which are collapsible about the pivotal connection to an interior of the container. The top and the bottom surfaces of the container can be fixedly positioned in a number of collapsed states.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Inventor: George E. Kochanowski
  • Publication number: 20110198347
    Abstract: A carrier for holding a plurality of containers. The carrier comprises a plurality of panels that extend at least partially around an interior of the carrier. The plurality of panels comprises at least one bottom panel, a front panel, a back panel, and at least two side panels. The interior of the carrier is divided into a front portion and a back portion. The carrier comprises a reinforced handle comprising a handle panel, a handle reinforcement panel at least partially overlapping the handle panel, and a handle reinforcement flap at least partially in face-to-face contact with the handle reinforcement panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2011
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Inventor: Kirsten L. Brand
  • Patent number: 7997044
    Abstract: An enclosure, such as a column for supporting a roof, is defined by plural, adjacent, beveled segments, including two outermost segments, folded and joined. An adhesive is used on the beveled edges to help hold the shape of the enclosure. In addition, the edges of the outermost segments are configured to interlock so that, with manual force and no tools, the outermost segments can be snapped together, thereby holding the enclosure while the adhesive cures. The configurations on the outermost edges are preferably made of interlocking projections and recesses, at least one of which projections is displaced slightly when the outermost segments are joined. The segments may be formed by milling a single panel while applying tape to the joints between segments to hold them in adjacent relationship. The tape may then be removed after the enclosure is formed. The preferred material for the enclosure is foamed plastic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Marhaygue, LLC
    Inventors: Guerry E. Green, Robert T. Hokum, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20110192841
    Abstract: A folding trash can is disclosed. Comprised of seven plastic panels, six metal track hinges, and seventy-two self-tapping stainless steel flange-head screws used for securely holding waste. The folding trash can may be fabricated in a variety of sizes, colors or other decor that is weather resistant, durable and economical to manufacture, thereby providing a compact folding trash can to keep your environment clean. A folding trash can comes assembled and ready for use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2010
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Inventor: Standfield Laranard Hunter
  • Patent number: 7992739
    Abstract: A collapsible frame container assembly comprises a frame component comprising a plurality of panels connected to each other, the panels being movable relative to each other between a first substantially folded condition wherein the panels are collapsed and a second unfolded condition wherein the panels are opened to define a frame structure. Also provided is a container component comprising first and second sides defining a space therebetween of a size which can be varied according to the relative positions of the first and second sides. The frame component when in the unfolded condition and the container component are releasably coupled to each other to define a predetermined frame container assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Inventor: Rodolfo Garcia
  • Patent number: 7984819
    Abstract: A rectangular collapsible, stackable shipping container is provided that is capable of safely, stably, and securely carrying cargo and is capable of being reliably collapsed to save space when empty. The collapsible shipping container preferably includes a top section assembly, bottom section assembly, opposing end wall assemblies, and opposing horizontally hinged side wall panels that are interconnected and articulated. The opposing side wall panels are formed of at least two articulating longitudinal sections and also articulate with the bottom frame section, folding inwardly and downwardly when collapsed. The opposing end wall assemblies, one of which is configured as a door, articulate with the top roof section and with the bottom frame section, folding inwardly when collapsed. Provision is made for increasing security via the integration of a security device in the container walls. Additionally provision is made for weight-reduction through the utilization of a non-metallic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Inventor: Michael B Davis
  • Publication number: 20110168593
    Abstract: A collapsible bulk container for dry, flowable particulate material is provided with a frame to support a bottom wall having a discharge opening and a gate moveable between opened and closed positions relative to the discharge opening. Four side walls are pivotally connected to the frame, with the pivot axes being at different elevations, such that the side walls can be folded between an upright use position and a substantially flat storage position. A lid is pivotally connected to opposite side walls for moving between an open position adjacent the connected side wall and a closed position over the bottom wall. Multiple containers can be stacked one upon another in both the use and storage positions. The base or frame of the container can receive forks from a lift truck on all four sides of the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2011
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Applicant: WOODHAVEN CAPITOL CORP.
    Inventors: JUAN NEUFELD, BERNIE THIESSEN