Biased By Distinct Member Patents (Class 220/827)
  • Patent number: 11965674
    Abstract: An air purifier or air conditioner including a filter device. The air purifier includes: a main body: a suction port provided to allow air to flow into the main body; a filter provided in the main body to filter the air suctioned from the suction port and including a frame and a filter body fixed to the frame; an auxiliary filter member separably mounted on the filter; and a locking device provided on the frame of the filter such that the auxiliary filter member is separably mounted on the frame of the filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2024
    Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Juwan Park, Nakhyun Kim, Juyoung Kim, Changhyun Park, Moonsun Shin, Wonhee Lee, Hojin Lee, Changwoo Jung
  • Patent number: 11439281
    Abstract: The present invention is for wipe dispensers for dispensing interconnected wipes. An exemplary wipes dispenser may include a container body and a removable lid forming an interior region into which a plurality of interconnected wipes may be disposed. Pulling on a lead end of a lead wipe causes a following wipe to also be pulled and follow the lead wipe. The removable lid may cover a portion of a container aperture (e.g., an open top of the container body). A landing member in the lid covers a portion of the container aperture by extending from a top rim of the container body toward the middle of the interior region. The landing member may form an angle with a substantially vertical exterior wall of the container, where the formed angle may be less than 90°. In an embodiment, the landing member may include a concavely shaped portion. The landing member may include one or more fingers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2022
    Assignee: The Clorox Company
    Inventors: Kerry D. Azelton, Russell E. Bell, Jon Markey, Joshua Glessner
  • Patent number: 9823706
    Abstract: A hinge component for an electronic device includes a fixing member, a rotating member and a central shaft. The fixing member includes a side plate and two fixing plates, a curved guiding rail is formed on the side plate. The rotating member includes a rotating portion, a connecting portion and an engaging portion. The fixing member and the rotating member are assembled to the casing and the back plate of the electronic device. The fixing member is disposed inside the casing but not exposed. As a result, the electronic device is made thinner. The hinge component is not easily damaged under an external force, and the lifecycle of the hinge component is improved. The rotating portion rotates around the connection of the back plate and the casing as a virtual rotating axis. At the same time, the central shaft is driven to slide in the curved guiding rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2017
    Assignee: AUSUTEK COMPUTER INC.
    Inventors: Chien-Hsun Chen, Yen-Chung Chen, Yu-Kang Lin, Chung-Chieh Huang
  • Patent number: 9233785
    Abstract: A lid opening/closing mechanism switches a lid between a closed position closing an opening portion of a box-like base body, and an open position opening the opening portion. A distinct point is to include an arm allowing a tip side to turn to a front of the base body as a support point on a base end side pivotally supported at the base body by a first axis support portion, and connected to the lid turnably by a second axis support portion. The lid is turned in an opening direction or a closing direction in association with a turn of the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2016
    Assignees: NIFCO INC., HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Taku Hirama, Taku Kamiya, Hiroyuki Inoue
  • Patent number: 9027749
    Abstract: A container for storing wipes that can be dispensed by a consumer includes a container body. The container body includes a bottom wall, a midsection, and a top wall. The container body can define an interior cavity for storing the wipes. The container can further include a dispensing aperture in the container body and a lid. The lid is configured to be opened and closed, providing access to the dispensing aperture when open and hindering access to the dispensing aperture when closed. The lid can be urged to the closed position when the lid is in a first range of positions between the open position and the closed position and can be urged to the open position when the lid is in a second range of positions between the open position and the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert M. Hill, Ryan L. Fulscher, Robert Schlaupitz, Kevin C. Possell, Kroy D. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8991645
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device including a hinged cover, which is pivotable about an axis of rotation out of a closed final position into an open final position, and a flexible element, which acts on the hinged cover with a force along a spring line of action. The flexible element is axially loaded in at least one final position of the cover and is loaded with transverse forces in bending or extension in at least one further position. In the open position of the cover, the spring line of action approaches the axis of rotation of the cover or lies substantially on the axis of rotation of the hinged cover, the spring line of action coincides with the axis of rotation of the cover such that the cover can be fixed in the open final position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Hachadorian Design & Calculation GmbH
    Inventor: Gary Hachadorian
  • Patent number: 8985370
    Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention include a drink bottle with a removable lid including an inner lid attached to the mouth of the bottle and an outer lid pivotably mounted to the inner lid. A drink spout extends from the inner lid. The outer lid may be latched into a closed position covering the drink spout. A push button can be selectively actuated to release the latched outer lid, permitting the outer lid to open to access the drink spout. The push button moves a lid slide containing a catch extension that engages a catch notch in the outer lid to latch the outer lid closed. Actuating the push button moves the catch extension out of engagement with the catch notch, thereby opening the outer lid. A push button lock selectively prevents the push button from being depressed and the lid slide from being actuated, thereby locking the outer lid in a latched and closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Thermos L.L.C.
    Inventor: Marvin Lane
  • Patent number: 8900454
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device comprising a base (2) and a door (20), said device having a closed door position in which a circuit (8) of the device comprises a bag comprising two flexible films and connectors of the conveying network, and a press (9) comprising a first shell (16) disposed on a front face (5) of said base (2) and a second shell (17) disposed in said door (20); and a hinge system hinging said door (20) relative to said base (2), and disposed only on one side of said door (20) so as to form lateral clearances between said door (20) and said base (2) over the rest of a perimeter of said door (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: EMD Millipore Corporation
    Inventors: Sebastien Cirou, Rene Reinbigler, Virginie Buisson, Jean-Louis Weissenbach
  • Patent number: 8857658
    Abstract: A packaging container includes a base, a cover including a resilient unit and defining a deformable slot at the resilient unit, and a positioning hinge member provided at the base and rotatably received at the deformable slot to pivotally couple the cover with the base so as to enable the cover being pivotally folded between an opened position and a closed position, wherein the positioning hinge member has a non-circular cross section and is arranged in such a manner that when the positioning hinge member is rotated within the deformable slot, the resilient unit generates a resilient restoring force to assist the cover being folded between the opened and closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Rexam Plastic Packaging (HK) Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chinglang Lin
  • Patent number: 8794473
    Abstract: A console box includes a housing defining an article accommodating space therein and having an opening formed at a front side thereof; a cover coupled to the front side of the housing via hinge couplers disposed at opposite sides of the cover; dampers, each being disposed between each of the hinge couplers of the cover and the housing and controlling an opening speed of the cover; and a torsion spring disposed between each of the hinge couplers of the cover and the housing and elastically supporting the cover. The console box further includes a hinge cover disposed outside each of the hinge couplers of the cover and preventing the cover and the torsion spring from separating from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Nifco Korea Inc.
    Inventor: Yong Gu Kang
  • Patent number: 8769770
    Abstract: A hinge on a cover for a container, has a pivot axis and includes at least one first member fixed against rotation and at least one second member rotatable about the axis, which first and second members are arranged coaxially along the axis. A third member is arranged coaxial with the first and second members. A damper element is provided between the first and the third members in order to dampen the relative rate of rotation between the members. A first spring is arranged between the second and the third tubular members, which first spring is connected to the respective second and third members so that relative rotation between the tubular members is permitted in a first direction, when the cover is pivoted towards a first position, and prevented in a second direction, when the cover is pivoted towards a second position. A container provided with such a hinge is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: SCA Hygiene Products AB
    Inventors: Marcus Kullman, Robin Sundberg
  • Patent number: 8763431
    Abstract: A washing machine comprising a cabinet open at an upper portion, a top cover coupled to the upper portion of the cabinet and including an opening for loading and unloading laundry therethrough, a lid assembly rotatably coupled to the top cover to open and close the opening, and a first hinge unit connecting the lid assembly with the top cover and reducing a speed of closing the lid assembly is provided. In the washing machine, the closing speed of the lid assembly is reduced to mitigate shock between the lid assembly and the top cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Dongyoon Kim, Youngbae Park, Seongno Yoon, Kichul Cho, Younggon Kim
  • Patent number: 8746479
    Abstract: A method for closing a fuel tank includes providing a base sized to be received within an interior of a fuel tank filler neck, movably mounting a closure structure on the base, and securing a biasing mechanism to the base wherein the biasing mechanism biases the closure structure into a closed position on the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Inventors: Neal L. Keefer, Kenneth A. Watson, Evan Waymire
  • Patent number: 8677562
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling movement of a first member relative to a second member in a piece of furniture includes a damper. When relative movement occurs between the first and second members, force is transmitted through a clutch drive mechanism to a movable member in the damper. A viscous damping medium in the damper resists movement of the movable member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Inventor: William Ernest Taylor Vallance
  • Patent number: 8678219
    Abstract: A lid operation arrangement of a container includes an automatic operated unit for automatically operating a lid panel, a foot operated unit for manually operating the lid panel, and a motorized unit operatively linked with the automatic operated unit and the foot operated unit. When the motorized unit is activated by the automatic operated unit, the motorized unit is arranged for generating a torque enhancing force to move the lid panel from the opened position to the closed position and for generating a decelerating force to move the lid panel back to the closed position from the opened position in a hydraulic manner. After the lid panel is lifted up to the opened position by the foot operated unit, the motorized unit only generates the decelerating force to move the lid panel back to the closed position from the opened position in a hydraulic manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Inventors: Xin Wang, Jiangqun Chen
  • Patent number: 8668113
    Abstract: A protective bag for a portable electronic device with a first body and a second body is provided. The first body may be carried on a carrying surface. The second body may be folded relative to the first body to cover the first body or unfolded relative to the first body to stand on the carrying surface. The protective bag comprises a first covering plate for covering a bottom surface of the first body, a second covering plate for covering a rear surface of the second body and at least a connecting component connected between the first covering plate and the second covering plate. When the bottom surface is carried on the carrying surface via the first covering plate and the second body is unfolded relative to the first body, the second covering plate stands on the carrying surface with a support provided by the connecting component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Inventor: Fu-Yi Hsu
  • Patent number: 8622229
    Abstract: A drink bottle with a removable lid includes an inner lid attached to the mouth of the bottle and an outer lid pivotably mounted to said inner lid. A drink spout extends from the inner lid. The outer lid may be latched into a closed position covering the drink spout. A push button can be selectively actuated to release the latched outer lid, permitting the outer lid to open to access the drink spout. The push button moves a lid slide containing a catch extension that engages a catch notch in the outer lid to latch the outer lid closed. Actuating the push button moves the catch extension out of engagement with the catch notch, thereby opening the outer lid. A push button lock selectively prevents the push button from being depressed and the lid slide from being actuated, thereby locking the outer lid in a latched and closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Thermos, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Marvin Lane
  • Patent number: 8567637
    Abstract: A mobile device is disclosed. A battery housing cover mechanism (80) of the mobile device comprises a cover member (81), a pivot shaft module (90) having a pivot shaft (92), and a pivot shaft module support mechanism (I00). The module (90) is movably supported by the module support mechanism (I00). The pivot shaft (92) is located in the recessed section (107). When the cover member (81) is opened excessively beyond the normal open position, the module (90) is moved to pull the pivot shaft (92) out of a recessed section (107). Therefore, the pivot shaft (92) is prevented from receiving an excessive force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignees: Fujitsu Component Limited, Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Yukihiro Mori, Hiromi Ohtsuka, Takeshi Miyahara
  • Patent number: 8567630
    Abstract: A receptacle having a lid which has a pair of dampers configured to slow the movement of the lid from an open position toward a closed position. The dampers are provided at opposite ends of a pedal connected to the receptacle body at opposite lateral positions relative to a side of the receptacle body. The receptacle includes an air filtration device mounted in its lid which guides air through the filter device during the downward motion of the lid. The receptacle also includes at least one damper which provides dampening forces against the motion of the lid in both opening and closing directions. The receptacle also includes an anti-sliding device which increases the receptacle's resistance to sliding across a floor when a user steps on a pedal to actuate the lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: simplehuman, LLC
    Inventors: Frank Yang, Joseph Sandor
  • Patent number: 8556118
    Abstract: The moving mechanism has a first stationary-side gear part and a second stationary-side gear part provided on a support body side; a movable-side gear part and a pinion gear provided on a supported part of a movable body; and a guide device positioned so that the movable-side gear part engages with the first stationary-side gear part and the pinion gear engages with the second stationary-side gear part. The first stationary-side gear part is formed along an arc of a virtual circle, and has teeth oriented toward a center side of this virtual circle; the second stationary-side gear part is provided adjacent to this first stationary-side gear part on the center side of the aforementioned virtual circle, is formed along an arc of a separate virtual circle from this virtual circle, and has teeth oriented toward a center side of this separate virtual circle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Nifco Inc.
    Inventor: Tsuyoshi Hamaguchi
  • Publication number: 20130257083
    Abstract: A storage container having a pivotable door pivotable between an open and closed position is provided. The storage container includes a housing configured to hold the pivotable door and a biasing member operable to bias the pivotable door between the open and closed position. A mount is disposed on the pivotable door. The mount includes a loading member. The biasing member is operatively connected to the mount. The biasing member is configured to engage the loading member so as to retain the biasing member in a fixed position with respect to the pivotable door prior to assembling the pivotable door to the housing. A method for installing or assembling a storage container having a pivotable door is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Nicholas Earl Merkel, Roy Thorsell
  • Patent number: 8523010
    Abstract: In one example, a bistable cover assembly includes a cover, a base, an intermediate part; and pre-tensioned spring, the spring being attached to the base and the intermediate part such that the spring biases the intermediate part into two stable positions, the cover interfacing with the intermediate part and being closed in a first of the two stable positions and open in a second of the two stable positions. A method for assembling a cover assembly is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Josep Ortiz Mompel, Ismael Chanclon Fernandez, Eduardo Martin Orue
  • Publication number: 20130134175
    Abstract: A sealing lid assembly used in connection with a service port, the sealing lid assembly including a cap; a plug extending from an underside of the cap and at least partially receivable in the service port, a first seal supported on the plug and extending radially outward therefrom to sealingly engage the service port when the cap is in a closed position; and a biasing assembly adapted to urge the cap toward the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: Shaw Aero Development LLC
    Inventors: Michael O'Hara, Michael Ostertag, John Koonce, David Steck
  • Patent number: 8418869
    Abstract: A receptacle having a lid which has a pair of dampers configured to slow the movement of the lid from an open position toward a closed position. The dampers are provided at opposite ends of a pedal connected to the receptacle body at opposite lateral positions relative to a side of the receptacle body. The receptacle includes an air filtration device mounted in its lid which guides air through the filter device during the downward motion of the lid. The receptacle also includes at least one damper which provides dampening forces against the motion of the lid in both opening and closing directions. The receptacle also includes an anti-sliding device which increases the receptacle's resistance to sliding across a floor when a user steps on a pedal to actuate the lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: simplehuman, LLC
    Inventors: Frank Yang, Joseph Sandor
  • Patent number: 8403167
    Abstract: A container including a bottom and a plurality of walls that form a storage cavity. A primary lid is disposed over the storage cavity. The primary lid includes a top surface that defines a dispenser portion through which items within the storage cavity may be dispensed. A dispenser lid is pivotally attached to the primary lid. The dispenser lid has a closed position in which the dispenser lid is pivoted downwards relative to the primary lid to cover the dispenser portion and an open position in which the dispenser lid is pivoted upwards relative to the primary lid to expose the dispenser portion. The dispenser lid includes a pivot end portion and an opposite free end portion, and a biasing pin extending from the pivot end portion. The biasing pin has a longitudinal end portion anchored to the primary lid so that the biasing pin urges the dispenser lid towards the open position. The biasing pin and a main dispenser lid portion are formed as a unitary structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Nutek Disposables, Inc.
    Inventors: Robin Damaghi, William M. Child, Dan Allen Murray
  • Publication number: 20120305583
    Abstract: In one example, a bistable cover assembly includes a cover, a base, an intermediate part; and pre-tensioned spring, the spring being attached to the base and the intermediate part such that the spring biases the intermediate part into two stable positions, the cover interfacing with the intermediate part and being closed in a first of the two stable positions and open in a second of the two stable positions. A method for assembling a cover assembly is also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Inventors: Josep Ortiz Mompel, Ismael Chanclon Fernandez, Eduardo Martin Orue
  • Patent number: 8302799
    Abstract: A container for installation in a vehicle has a housing and a lid mounted pivotably on the housing and connected operatively via a gear to a spring device prestressing the lid in an opening direction and supported on the housing. A cardiod control moves and locks the lid. It is in this case important that the cardiod of the cardiod control is disposed continuously on an outer circumference of a shaft having the spring device and co-operates with a movable pin arranged on the housing side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AG
    Inventor: Martin Kayser
  • Patent number: 8286828
    Abstract: A storage/transport container has a plurality of walls defining an upwardly open vessel having an upper rim and a generally flat cover panel hinged on one of the walls and having an inner edge. The rim has opposite to one of the walls structure forming another inner edge. The cover panel is pivotal into a closed position with the inner edges juxtaposed, retaining formations projecting generally perpendicularly from the inner edge of the cover panel and oppositely from the other inner edge that fit together in the closed position. Hooks are formed on the edges and positioned so as to be opened directly at each other in the closed position. The hooks normally are spaced apart but, on deformation of the cover panel, hook together and preventing separation of the edges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Fritz Schaefer GmbH
    Inventor: Gerhard Schäfer
  • Patent number: 8245865
    Abstract: A container includes a bottom and a plurality of walls that form a storage cavity. A primary lid is disposed over the storage cavity. The primary lid includes a top surface that defines a dispenser portion through which items within the storage cavity may be dispensed. A dispenser lid is pivotally attached to the primary lid. The dispenser lid has a closed position in which the dispenser lid is pivoted downwards relative to the primary lid to cover the dispenser portion and an open position in which the dispenser lid is pivoted upwards relative to the primary lid to expose the dispenser portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Nutek Disposables, Inc.
    Inventors: Robin Damaghi, William M. Child, Dan Allen Murray
  • Patent number: 8240499
    Abstract: A trashcan has a hydraulic drop-deceleration mechanism including a can body, a lid, and a connection pole for push-open connection. The lid is connected to the connection pole at a top connection pole end. The connection pole is connected to the foot pedal via a lever at a bottom connection pole end. A hydraulic mechanism is for drop-deceleration. The hydraulic mechanism is connected to the connection pole by a connector. The hydraulic mechanism has a chamber filled with hydraulic fluid. The hydraulic mechanism has a gliding rod moving within the chamber. The gliding rod forms a tip at a gliding rod lower end. The mechanism has upper and lower fluid storage chambers. A piston is slidingly mounted in the hydraulic mechanism is biased in a lid open position by a spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Huanbang Lu
  • Publication number: 20120187143
    Abstract: A preload mechanism for a memory alloy wire actuator is disclosed that includes a rotating element configured to rotate about a pivot. The rotating element has a first contact point that is configured to couple to the memory alloy wire actuator such that contraction of the memory alloy wire actuator displaces the first contact point such that the rotating element rotates from a first position to a second position. The preload mechanism also includes a bias element with a first end that is coupled to a second contact point of the rotating element and a second end configured to be pinned relative to the pivot. The bias element has a line of action extending from the second end through the first end. The line of action has an offset distance that is the minimum distance between the line of action and the pivot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: CareFusion 303, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank Dean WEBER, Christoph POTAKOWSKYJ, Ernst BAYER
  • Publication number: 20120104012
    Abstract: A locking mechanism for a container is disclosed. In one embodiment, the present invention comprises a latch rod comprising a proximal end, a distal end opposite the proximal end, a recessed rod segment disposed between the proximal and distal ends, and a first intermediate rod segment disposed between the recessed rod segment and the distal end. The first intermediate rod segment comprises adjacent horizontal and vertical planar sections. At least one strike plate is provided comprising a slot comprising an open end and a closed end opposite the open end. The slot of the strike plate is configured to slidably engage the first intermediate rod segment, and the open end of the slot is configured to receive the vertical planar section of the first intermediate rod segment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2010
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventors: Charles Henry Cowie, Tobias Mckay Bridges
  • Publication number: 20120073998
    Abstract: The present invention is directed generally to apparatus and method for facilitating improved efficiency, convenience, and device organization and protection for data acquisition with improved efficiency and organization, for example, while on the run or in the field. For example, in various embodiments the invention may include one or more quick locking and quick opening means for storage compartment(s), for example, one or more spring actuated and locking drawers may be included in a clipboard with one or more storage compartment(s). The quick locking and quick opening means may be spring operated to as to push the storage compartment open when actuated and/or to lock the storage compartment into place when the storage compartment is closed. The clipboard and storage apparatus may also be designed to be lightweight, durable and versatile by including a rubber over molded base, a contoured base, and/or may have a smudge resistant clear coat finish.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventor: Yue Fang He
  • Patent number: 8141759
    Abstract: A container assembly for a motor vehicle passenger compartment includes a housing, a door, an arm, a helical spring and a cam. The door is pivotally coupled to the housing for movement about a first pivot between a closed position wherein the door covers an opening in the housing and an open position wherein the door is pivoted about the first pivot to allow access through the opening to a storage space in the housing. The arm is pivotally coupled to the housing for movement about a second pivot. The arm has a cam surface. The helical spring continuously biases the arm toward the first pivot. The cam is coupled to the door and movable with the door about the first pivot between the closed position and the open position. The cam has a center portion and a lobe extending outwardly from the center portion. The lobe remains in contact with the cam surface of the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Charan Singh Lota, Joel T. Runyan
  • Patent number: 8087532
    Abstract: A waste container includes a top chamber, a base chamber, upper and lower lids, and a drive mechanism mechanically coupling the lower lid with the upper lid. The upper lid is disposed on the top chamber and moves between a closed position covering a first opening and an open position exposing the first opening. The lower lid is disposed on the base chamber and moves between a closed position covering a second opening and an open position exposing the second opening. The drive mechanism is actuated so as to move the lower lid to the open position when the upper lid moves to the closed position from the open position. The lower lid returns to the closed position when the upper lid is in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Brown Newman, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Jolie Brown, Eric F. Cabahug, Benjamin F. Feldman, Rachel Katherine Newman
  • Patent number: 7930893
    Abstract: An automated ice transport device and method that can service one or more remote locations is provided. When ice is needed, the container is automatically filled, and then is transported mechanically along a predetermined pathway to the ice storage device in need, where the ice is dispensed therefrom. The container is returned to the source of ice following the predetermined pathway, remaining there until ice is needed at a location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Restaurant Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Jimmie L. Coffey
  • Publication number: 20110049174
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus excellent in workability in mounting a lid to an apparatus housing. The electronic apparatus comprises a housing having a pair of bearing portions, and a battery lid unit having a pair of shafts for being rotatably fitted in the bearing portions, respectively. A movable shaft of the shafts is axially retractable, and the battery lid unit is openable and closable with respect to the housing about the shafts. An urging spring has a contact portion for contact with the housing, and urges the battery lid unit in an opening direction with respect to the housing. The contact portion is moved according to retraction of the movable shaft such that an urging range through which the urging member urges the lid in the opening direction becomes smaller than a range of the pivotal motion of the lid with respect to the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2010
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Nobuyuki Inoue, Satoshi Kawase
  • Patent number: 7843163
    Abstract: A portable weather resistant enclosure for supporting electronics in the field, having a body in sealable engagement with a door, a pedestal for elevating the enclosure above a surface, at least two lifting eyes for transporting the enclosure, the portable weather resistant enclosure being constructed to resist deformation during transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Solarcraft, Inc.
    Inventors: Darrell N. Haun, Donald N. Haun
  • Patent number: 7770749
    Abstract: A cover set includes a ring mounted on a bin, a cover pivotally connected to the ring, a lifting device for lifting the cover from the ring and at least one buffer for buffering the cover near the end of the lifting so that the lifting is steady and quiet from the start to the end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Inventor: Tsong-Yow Lin
  • Patent number: 7743941
    Abstract: The Invention relates to a lid opening mechanism (A), for opening a lid element (1) on a fist side (Y1) about a first lid rotational axis (21), or optionally on a second side (Y2) about a second lid rotational axis (22), whereby the first rotational axis (21) and the second rotational axis (22) are each formed from a front (21a) or (21b) and a rear (22a or 22b) rotational axis element. The operating devices (B1, B2) are connected to and cooperate after a fashion with a rotational axis control device (M), with a control element (150) and with operating bars (161, 162) which cooperate with the operating devices (B1, B2), such that on operating one of the operating elements (110 or 120) for activation of the first or second rotational axis (21 or 22) a control element (150) locks the other operating element (120 or 110) respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Faurecia Innenraum Systeme GmbH
    Inventors: Sven Arnoldo, Burkhard Jägersküpper, Nelly César
  • Patent number: 7731055
    Abstract: A lid opening mechanism (A) for opening a lid element (1) on a first side (Y1) around the first axis of rotation (21) of the lid or selectively on the other side (Y1) around of the second axis or rotation (22), wherein each first (21) and second (22) axes of rotation are formed by the front (21a or 21b) or rear (22a or 22b) element of the axis of rotation and a lid actuating device (B) comprises hinge strips (30a, 30b) each of which is rotating mounted in the area or the first lid-opening side (11) on the thrust sides (6a, 6b) of the lid element (D) transversally with respect to the longitudinal sides (11, 12) and bearing devices (63a, 63b; 62a, 62b) for receiving the elements (21a, 21 or 22a, 22b) of the axes of rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Faurecia Innenraum Systeme GmbH
    Inventors: Sven Arnoldo, Burkhard Jägersküpper, Nelly Cësar
  • Patent number: 7621419
    Abstract: A door operating mechanism is provided for rotatably switching a door relative to a base between a closed position and an open position. A sector gear is disposed in a support arm projected from the door. A rotary gear is disposed substantially in the center of the arc of the sector gear. A first gear of the base has internal teeth disposed to engage the sector gear. A second gear of the base is resiliently and displaceably disposed to engage the rotary gear. The door is rotatably disposed along a track corresponding to the first gear via engagements between the first gear and the sector gear, and engagements between the second gear and the rotary gear. A load received by the door in the closed position towards the bottom of the base is absorbed by resilient displacement of the second gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: NIFCO Inc.
    Inventor: Michihiro Fukuo
  • Patent number: 7611009
    Abstract: A paint tray including a mechanically-openable lid and a mechanism for opening the lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Inventor: Darren J. Youngs
  • Patent number: 7604142
    Abstract: A container for storing one or more articles (e.g., cosmetic substances, accessories, applicators, etc.) is provided. The container includes a base, a cover pivotally coupled to the base about a hinge, a resilient bar supported at one of the base and the cover, and a first cam surface supported at the other of the base and the cover. The first cam surface is configured to engage the resilient bar when the cover has moved a predetermined angle relative to the base. The resilient bar acting on the first cam surface moves the cover to a closed position. According to an exemplary embodiment, the resilient bar and/or the first cam surface is substantially concealed within the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: Rexam Beauty and Closures, Inc.
    Inventor: Joachim Banik
  • Publication number: 20090188933
    Abstract: A waste bin, comprising a container (1) and also a cover (3) which can be moved between an opened positon and a closed position by means of a pivot mechanism, which pivot mechanism comprises at least one auxiliary arm (4) which at one end (6) is pivotably connected to the cover and at the other end (7) is pivotably suspended relative to the container, furthermore, a second auxiliary arm (5) is provided, whose one end (8) is likewise pivotably connected to the cover, and whose other end (9) is pivotably suspended relative to the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2006
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Applicant: Brabantia Nederland B.V.
    Inventor: Rudolphus Cornelis Henricus Daams
  • Publication number: 20090188934
    Abstract: A container for installation in a vehicle has a housing and a lid mounted pivotably on the housing and connected operatively via a gear to a spring device prestressing the lid in an opening direction and supported on the housing. A cardiod control moves and locks the lid. It is in this case important that the cardiod of the cardiod control is disposed continuously on an outer circumference of a shaft having the spring device and co-operates with a movable pin arranged on the housing side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2009
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Applicant: DR. ING. H.C. F. PORSCHE AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventor: Martin Kayser
  • Patent number: 7487884
    Abstract: The present invention provides a structure for receiving a door into an upper side when the door of a tray installed at a center facia of an automobile is operated. When the door of the tray is operated, a production of interference between a gearshift lever and other parts is minimized and thus increases spatial utilization. A locking device is installed at a corresponding portion to the housing and the door to selectively open/close the door installed at the front part of the housing. Each of connecting member is formed at both sides of the door to receive a force of opening the door, with the locking device released. A rotary member, having one end hinge connected to the connecting member and the other end provided with peripheral teeth, is rotatably installed to side surface organic the housing. A resilient member rotates the rotary member to move the connecting member, thereby opening the door. A damper member facilitates to open the door with an even speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Hyundai Mobis Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Young-seok Kim
  • Patent number: 7467727
    Abstract: A portable cosmetic container basically comprises a container, a cover, and an inner dish, where an engagement of the container with the cover for sealing is constructed to be released by push-buttons located at the sides of the container while avoiding increase in the cosmetic container size. The elastic members 6b connected to the push-buttons 6a, face rearward to elastically deform toward the rear of the container 2, and the engaging projection 6c of the elastic members 6b formed to protrude toward the front of the container so as to engage with an engaging protrusion 15a of the cover 3 formed to protrude toward the rear of the container 2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: Yoshida Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yukitomo Yuhara
  • Patent number: 7451888
    Abstract: A lid opening and closing apparatus includes a base having an open portion; a lid having a rotational shaft and supported on the base to be rotatable around the rotating shaft for opening and closing the open portion; and a connecting device with one spring disposed between the base and the lid. The one spring is stretched for urging the lid in an opening direction when the lid is pushed to a pushed-in position beyond a closed position. The one spring is stretched for urging the lid in a closing direction when the lid is closed by a predetermined angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: Nifco Inc.
    Inventor: Tsutomu Tanaka
  • Patent number: 7325680
    Abstract: A net holder for carrying a landing net has an upper housing in the form of a channel member with a downwardly disposed opening hinged at its rearward portion to the rearward portion of a lower housing in the form of a channel member slightly narrower than the upper housing with an upwardly disposed opening. The hinge is spring-biased to force the upper housing downwardly onto and over the lower housing to enclose a landing net therein. The front of the lower housing has a notch into which a handle of a net can be inserted and thereby secured. The holder can be attached to the inside or outside of a boat by any appropriate fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Inventor: Curtis Cooper