Trash Container Patents (Class 220/908)
  • Publication number: 20070181579
    Abstract: A descending control system for a garbage bin includes a bin provided with a pedal to control an active rod to ascend and descend to open and close a lid. A gear and a rack are provided in the bin. Both the gear and the rack are disposed with teeth to engage with each other. The height of the teeth on the rack decreases from a first end toward a second end of the rack. The engagement between the teeth of the gear and the teeth of the rack reduces the closing speed of the lid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2007
    Publication date: August 9, 2007
    Applicant: YUAN MIN ALUMINUM CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Terng-An Kuo, Chi-Liang Chang
  • Patent number: 7237689
    Abstract: A plastic waste container is rotationally molded with a hollow material carrying or holding compartment having a bottom, rear, front and opposed side walls. A plastic pocket defining a prong receiving channel, located on each side wall, is integrally formed with the compartment, i.e., molded therewith or premolded and subsequently bonded thereto. Preferably a skirt, extending around each of the pockets, is integrally molded with the compartment and includes struts extending along the side walls of the compartment, above and below the pockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Global Distributors LLC
    Inventors: Richard A. Maggio, Sr., Ronald C. Pearson
  • Patent number: 7234327
    Abstract: A lockable container comprising an open-faced receptacle with a locking mechanism aperture, at least one lid covering at least a portion of the open face of the receptacle, and a locking mechanism for engaging with a padlock and securing the lid in a partially opened position over the receptacle open face. The locking mechanism has a receptacle engagement portion that is moveable into a receptacle engagement position, and when in such position, a lid engagement portion attached to the receptacle engagement portion receives the partially opened lid, and a lock engagement portion attached to the lid engagement portion is moveable into the receptacle and through the locking mechanism aperture, and out of the receptacle, where it is engageable with a padlock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Assignee: Wasteline Rentals Ltd.
    Inventor: Donald E. Howes
  • Patent number: 7225943
    Abstract: A trash can assembly has a shell having an enclosing wall that defines a periphery. The assembly has a lid fitted over the top of the shell, and a foot pedal positioned adjacent the bottom of the shell, with a portion of the foot pedal positioned inside the periphery of the shell. The assembly also includes a link assembly coupling the foot pedal and the lid. The assembly can also include a liner defining a container body, the liner fitted inside the shell and having an indent provided on the container body. A handle mechanism has a link strip that has a hooked end, with the hooked end engaging the indent to lift the liner from inside the shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: Simplehuman LLC
    Inventors: Frank Yang, Joseph Sandor
  • Patent number: 7198166
    Abstract: A rigid modular container includes a floor and an opposite lid, and between the floor and lid opposite rigid rectilinearly-shaped first and second panels, and oppositely disposed rigid rectilinearly-shaped third and fourth panels extending from and between the first and second panels. The panels are removably mounted to the floor. The side edges of adjacent panels are removably mounted to each other as by bolting so that the side edges of the third and fourth panels abut the side edges of the first and second panels. Fastener bracing means such as bolt bracing are mounted to the side edges of the panels and are aligned between adjacent the panels so that fastener receiving apertures therethrough provide for rigid bracing of rigid fasteners such as bolts mounted through and between the fastener bracing means on the adjacent panels. Rigid fasteners such as bolts may thus be mounted through the fastener bracing means on the adjacent the panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Inventor: Ralph Sholinder
  • Patent number: 7185783
    Abstract: Outdoor and indoor debris receptacles that can be formed from molded plastic. The receptacles include an open upper end with a D-shaped configuration and a closed bottom end with a substantially circular bottom configuration. The receptacles can have a generally cylindrical shape and a flat side wall having a triangular tubular shape for allowing the receptacle to be laid on its side so that rakes and brooms can move debris fully into the D-shaped opening with ease. At least one handle located on the apex of the D-shaped opening allows the container to be easily lifted to a vertical standing position, and curved interior wall surfaces allow debris to easily slide toward the bottom of the container. Embodiments allow for different sizes of container, and extras such as lids, wheels and supports for tools. such as but not limited to rakes, hoes, and shovels to be carried and stored by the receptacles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Inventor: David H. Miller
  • Patent number: 7121421
    Abstract: A trash can assembly has a lid pivotably coupled to an upper end of an outer shell, and a pivoting pedal bar that is coupled to the lid via a link rod. The closing motion of the lid is dampened by counter-balancing the closing force of the lid, which can be accomplished by generating a counter-balance force against the pedal bar that is equal to or slightly less than the closing force of the lid. The counter-balance force can be made to vary during the closing motion of the lid. In addition, the entire link rod can be positioned inside the interior of the outer shell, and the pivot axis of the lid about the outer shell can also also positioned inside the interior of the outer shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: Simplehumer, LLC
    Inventors: Frank Yang, Joseph Sandor
  • Patent number: 7114631
    Abstract: A waste container includes a handle rotatably mounted on the side wall. The handle includes a first grip at an outer end of a short arm and a second grip at the outer end of a long arm. The handle is rotatable relative to the waste container, between a first position where the first grip extends a first distance above an upper edge of the side wall of the waste container and a second position where the second grip extends a second distance above the upper edge of the side wall, with the second distance being substantially greater than the first distance. In this manner, the handle can be moved to the proper location for either pulling the waste container on its wheels or for emptying the waste container into the hopper of a truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Rehrig Pacific Company
    Inventors: Cynthia R. Aiken, William P. Apps, Roger S. Hsu
  • Patent number: 7114629
    Abstract: A carrier is configured to hold a container having a door mounted for reciprocation between opened and closed positions. The carrier includes a body adapted to receive the container as well as an extension coupled for reciprocal movement with respect to the body. The extension is adapted for engagement with the door of the container, and the reciprocal movement of the extension is adapted to reciprocate the door of the container between the opened and closed position. A container system including a container and the carrier is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventor: Robert Joseph Panek, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7114314
    Abstract: Waste disposal device including a housing defining a waste compartment for receiving enclosed waste, flexible tubing received in the housing and which operatively receives waste therein, a retention mechanism for holding a quantity of waste received in a length of the tubing and a rotation mechanism for rotating the retention mechanism when the quantity of waste is held thereby and while a remaining length of the tubing is rotationally held stationary in order to twist the length of tubing receiving the waste and enclose the held quantity of waste. The compartment in the housing receives the enclosed waste. The waste is thus rotated while the cartridge is held against rotation thereby enabling the formation of the twist above the waste to enclose or encapsulate the waste. A pushing mechanism may be provided on a cover of the device to push the waste into engagement with the retention mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Saniquest Industries Corp.
    Inventor: David M. Stravitz
  • Patent number: 7108148
    Abstract: A dustbin has a main lid pivoted thereto, a second lid slidable on the main lid for covering an opening of the main lid with, a pedal, and a tube having a slide movably confined therein; a first rope is connected to the pedal and the slide while a second rope is connected to the slide and the second lid such that the second lid will be opened immediately after the pedal is depressed; a third rope is connected to the main lid at upper end, and passed through the slide, and has a block connected to the lower end, which is a distance away from the slide before the pedal is depressed; thus, the main lid will be opened by pulling the third rope downwards, and the third rope won't be pulled until the pedal is depressed to such a position that the slide contacts the block to make the block move.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Tieh Chin Kung Metal Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jin-Chu Lu
  • Patent number: 7108150
    Abstract: A tubular member is releasably mounted on a base and encircles a trash bag that rests on the base. Once the trash bag is filled, the tubular member is released from the base and removed from the filled trash bag. The filled trash bag can then be removed and discarded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Inventors: Jason C. Rouse, Lindsey Jo Rouse
  • Patent number: 7100791
    Abstract: A trash container with a lid is emptied by a mechanical lifting device. A latch bar is provided that is engaged by the lift when the container is inverted. The latch bar is mounted in openings on both sides of a wide recess on the front wall of the container. The outer ends of the latch bar extend through the openings into the inside of the container and are accommodated with a clearance portion of a lower stacked container when the containers are stacked together for shipment. The lid is initially assembled in an open position with the lid hanging down vertically. After closing the lid for the first time by rotation of the lid through 270°, a hinge stop prevents the lid from being rotated back to the original position. The hinge stop supports the lid in an open position that is rotated about 110° from the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Buckhorn, Inc.
    Inventor: John R. Berger
  • Patent number: 7086569
    Abstract: Dispenser including a cartridge module and a powder or liquid dispensing agent arranged in the cartridge module. Dispensing occurs when the dispenser is jarred which causes the dispensing agent to pass through one or more dispenser openings in a lower wall of the cartridge module. For example, when the dispenser is mounted to an inner surface of a pivotable lid of a waste disposal can, closure of the lid against a base of the can causes a jarring impact on the lid which results in an amount of the dispensing agent falling through the dispensing opening(s). The lid can also be manually tapped when closed to jar the dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Inventor: David M. Stravitz
  • Patent number: 7086557
    Abstract: An animal resistant trash container lid has several transverse ridges cross the top. Longitudinal ridges are on the front of the trash container lid. Within the trash container lid is a frame. Holes in the front of the trash container lid are disposed to receive locks. The locks fasten the lid to the trash container. The trash container lid also has a handle and hinges integral with the frame and extending through the outer wall of the lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: Gill Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley D. Miller, Frederick A. Greca, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7086550
    Abstract: A trash can assembly has a shell, a lid fitted over the top end of the shell, a foot pedal positioned adjacent the bottom end of the shell, a link assembly coupling the foot pedal and the lid, and a lock secured to the lid and removably engaged with the shell to maintain the lid in an open position without pressing the foot pedal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: Simplehuman LLC
    Inventors: Frank Yang, Joseph Sandor
  • Patent number: 7083060
    Abstract: A universal dumpster adapted for use with both front loading and roll-off refuse collection trucks includes a floor, side walls and end walls. The floor, side walls and end walls together define an interior compartment for collecting and containing solid waste. Sleeves rotatably mounted to the side walls engage the lifting arms of a front loading truck to lift and tilt the dumpster above the hopper. A mechanical stop is provided on the side walls that engages the distal end of the lifting arm to thereby reduce the stress exerted on the lifting arm. One of the end walls is formed by an upper door and a lower door having side panels to contain and direct the refuse into the hopper. A safety lock is provided on the side walls that engages the corresponding sleeve to limit over travel so the dumpster does not tip over the front loading truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Inventor: Nathan L. Pickler
  • Patent number: 7077571
    Abstract: A device includes a base member that has inner and outer layers abutted thereagainst. An upper body extends upwardly from the base member and has a top end portion aligned about a longitudinal axis of the receptacle. The upper body has a deformably resilient outer surface including a plurality of coextensive pleats equidistantly spaced about a circumference of the upper body wherein longitudinal length of the pleats is greater than width of the pleats. Such pleats extend along a longitudinal length of the upper body and are simultaneously adaptable during operating conditions. The base member and the upper body are adaptable between compressed and expanded positions. The base member has a substantially cylindrical shape when adapted to an expanded position and the upper body has a spherical shape when adapted to an expanded position. Such an upper body has a circumference greater than the circumference of the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Inventor: Patricia B. Wilson
  • Patent number: 7073677
    Abstract: The present invention relates to kit for a trash container utilizing injection molded plastic panels capable of being packaged and shipped in a knocked-down state and constructed into a secure container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: Suncast Corporation
    Inventors: Jed Richardson, Torrence Anderson, Robert Kopp
  • Patent number: 7070064
    Abstract: A hands-free trash barrel lid opener utilizes an actuating mechanism that is secured at the lower end of the trash barrel. A mounting means affixes the actuating mechanism to the lower end of the trash barrel. Connecting cables run along the outside of the barrel to connect the actuating mechanism to a lid control mechanism that is affixed to the trash barrel lid. The lid control mechanism includes leverage arms that receive the ends of the connecting cables. A stabilizing bar that is positioned at the back of the trash barrel includes a counterbalance means, typically a spring, that urges the lid of the trash barrel back to a closed position when the actuating lever is released. The opener is constructed so that it can remain in position when the trash barrel is lifted by mechanical arms on a garbage truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Inventors: Michael L. Henry, Lee L. Henry
  • Patent number: 7044323
    Abstract: A trash can assembly has a shell having a bottom end, a base secured to the bottom end and a foot pedal assembly coupled to the base. The foot pedal assembly has a pedal bar pivotably secured to the base, and a foot pedal. The foot pedal can be separated from the pedal bar before placing the trash can assembly inside a containing box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: Simplehuman LLC
    Inventors: Frank Yang, Joseph Sandor
  • Patent number: 7033039
    Abstract: A trash storage apparatus includes a can, an illuminating element and a driver. The can is used for receiving garbage. The illuminating element is mounted on the can. The driver is used for driving the illuminating element to shine in the dark. The trash storage apparatus may include a lid for covering the can and a pedal connected with the lid. The illuminating element is attached to the pedal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Inventor: Tsong-Yow Lin
  • Patent number: 7021463
    Abstract: The present invention is a mechanical contrivance integrated into the closure of a sharps collector. It is intended to allow for the safe removal and disposal of a used pen needle from a pen syringe device. The pen syringe, with the used pen needle attached, is inserted into the specially designed port of the present invention. The pen syringe is then rotated counterclockwise about its longitudinal axis. The pen needle itself is constrained by at least one tooth, which only allows the pen needle one degree of freedom (linear displacement along its longitudinal axis). These conditions cause the pen needle to be unthreaded from the pen syringe, such that when the pen syringe is withdrawn from the port, a tang then blocks the pen needle from being withdrawn with the pen syringe, and the used pen needle falls into the sharps collector without the use of a secondary operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventor: Vu Phan
  • Patent number: 7017773
    Abstract: A waste container provides at least one protrusion spaced below a lip extending radially outwardly from an upper edge of the waste container. The at least one protrusion is spaced below the lip to permit a gripper from an automatic lifter to grasp the waste container between the at least one protrusion and the upper lip. The at least one protrusion may be a plurality of triangular shaped bosses formed midway between the upper edge and lower edge of the waste container. Alternatively, the at least one protrusion may be a base portion which extends radially outwardly at a lower edge of the waste container. The at least one protrusion prevents the waste container from slipping completely through the grippers while the waste container is inverted while emptying the contents into a truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Rehrig Pacific Company
    Inventors: Robert V. Gruber, Jon P. Hassell
  • Patent number: 7014059
    Abstract: An explosion resistant waste container (10) includes an outer open-topped container (16). The outer open-topped container (16) is sized to receive an inner open-topped container (12) and leave a space therebetween. Both the outer open-topped container (16) and the inner open-topped container (12) are cylinders made of sufficiently strong materials, e.g. 11 gauge steel, for withstanding the forces of an explosion. A reinforcing material (14), e.g. reinforced concrete, is disposed within the space between the outer open-topped container (16) and the inner open-topped container (12). The outer open-topped container (16) and the reinforcing material (14) reinforce the inner open-topped container (12) so as to provide greater resistance to deformation caused by explosions and to shield surrounding persons and property from the explosive forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Master Lite Security Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Herbert W. Reynolds
  • Patent number: 7008001
    Abstract: A tarping system that automatically covers and prevents trash from spilling from a trash opening in the rear vertical panel of a CRC. The tarping system automatically draws a tarp from the lower edges of the trash opening up over the opening, effectively closing the opening completely. The lower edges of the tarp are secured around the lower side edges and bottom edge of the trash opening of the CRC and the upper edges are secured to a tarping bar. The tarping bar is spring-biased to automatically swing upward when the CRC is moved away from a trash compactor site, in the process collecting any trash that spills from the trash opening and preventing trash from slipping from the CRC at the bottom of the tarp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Inventor: James F. Reynolds
  • Patent number: 7000347
    Abstract: A device and method for preparing a vase or other container to receive a floral arrangement. The device includes a grid cover that is placed around the open end of a vase or similar container. The grid cover has a flat top surface and a peripheral wall that extends downwardly from the edge of the top surface. The grid cover is made of elastomeric material and is initially smaller than the open top of the vase. The grid cover is stretched over the open top of the vase, wherein the peripheral wall of the grid cover passes over the edge of the vase's open top and retains the stretched grid cover element in place. A plurality of openings are distributed throughout the top surface of the grid cover. As the grid cover is stretched over the top of a vase, the openings become positioned across the open top of the vase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Inventor: Linda Roskin
  • Patent number: 7000796
    Abstract: A refuse receptacle has an outer container with a lid closing an insertion opening in the upper region. A foot pedal is attached to the refuse receptacle and the actuation of which enables the lid of the refuse receptacle to be moved into an opening position. The foot pedal is of annular design and encircles the outer container and being arranged in the lower region thereof. The foot pedal is designed in a manner such that it can be depressed in a linear movement in order to open the lid, and an outer housing, which is connected to the foot pedal, or a casing of the refuse receptacle being able to be depressed together with the foot pedal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: Hailo-Werk Rudolf Loh GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Dirk Goritzka, Friedrich-Ernst Weller, Udo Thielking
  • Patent number: 6991127
    Abstract: A collapsible refuse can includes a can body, a bottom, a cap, a pedal and a cap opening member and plural bag hangers. The can body consists of two half shells combined by means of elongate hooks, with the bottom fitted firmly in a lower open side with an open upper side closed with a cap possible to be opened by the cap opening member, when the cap opening member is lifted up by the pedal stepped down. And a refuse bag is secured on an upper inner surface of the can body by means of the plural bag hangers. Then the collapsible refuse can has a small size when collapsed, beneficial for carrying, transporting and storing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Inventor: Hsiang-Hua Chiu Huang
  • Patent number: 6983685
    Abstract: A garbage can capable of compressing garbage volume consists of an outer cylinder and a top cylinder. A top cover has a top plate with a through hole. The circumference of the top plate extends downwards to form an inner wall and the outer circumference of the top plate extends downwards to form an outer wall such that a space between the outer and inner walls can be formed. The front and the back sides of the space form a front trough and a back trough respectively and a small sheaf is placed on the front and back sections of the left and right hand walls of the space with a pedal located below the upper cover. A reset component includes mainly a first elastic part and a second elastic part. The first elastic part is located inside the front trough of the top cover, and the two ends have been fixed on a wire pedal. The second elastic part is placed inside the back trough of the top cover, and the two ends are fixed respectively on pedal with the wire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Inventor: Wen-Hsiung Ko
  • Patent number: 6978576
    Abstract: An Improved Gate Assembly is disclosed. The preferred gate assembly is constructed primarily from plastic or other resilient material that resists denting, bending, chipping, cracking, and graffiti painting. The gate assembly includes a novel mounting and hinge system from which the gates hang and swing, and which permits the pivot points to flex in order to prevent damage to the gate members themselves. The preferred gate system includes a cane bolt assembly that remains retracted while the gates are being moved, and also flexes and/or bends if the gates are struck by a vehicle. The gates include shock-absorbing bumper assemblies to prevent damage to them and may include display sections for displaying pertinent warnings or other information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Inventor: R. Kevin Shirk
  • Patent number: 6971697
    Abstract: The present invention provides a liner-dispensing trash receptacle system for use in combination with a motor vehicle. The liner-dispensing trash receptacle system essentially comprises a trash-receiving container, a liner-dispensing assembly, and a liner roll. The trash-receiving container essentially comprises a container bottom, a container rim, an inner container surface, and an outer container surface. The inner container surface essentially defines a superior matter-receiving volume and the outer container surface is cooperatively associated with a container-engaging surface. The liner-dispensing assembly comprises first and second laterally spaced rod-retaining members, first and second anchor structures, and a liner-retaining rod. The liner roll essentially comprises a continuously-furled liner length and a rod-receiving center. The rod-receiving center receives the liner-retaining rod and the container rim supports a roll beginning end of the first trash-receiving liner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Inventor: Kimberly A. Morales
  • Patent number: 6968972
    Abstract: A universal lid for industrial or commercial large size solid waste containers, has a ribbed single layer central portion and a peripheral edge having a hollow double wall boxed configuration. The boxed perimeter may have a predetermined height such as approximately one inch, and the lid is provided with hinge lugs having a vertical extent substantially more but not more than twice than said predetermined height. In addition, the lids have substantial symmetry so that the lids may be stacked and nested with alternate lids oriented in opposite front-to-back directions. With this type of lid, the advantages of both single layer and double layer lid constructions may be realized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Inventor: Craig V. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6953199
    Abstract: A container assembly designed for the collection, temporary storage and transport of refuse, waste material or other objects including a housing having a hollow interior in which the refuse is collected and stored and further including a supplementary support structure movably mounted on the housing and selectively positionable between an operative position and a stored position. The supplementary support structure is at least partially defined by a support platform which, when in the operative position, extends outwardly from a sidewall or other exterior surface portion of the housing and is structured to support and have mounted thereon one or more objects or containers of additional refuse material, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Inventor: John Cyril Malloy, III
  • Patent number: 6929146
    Abstract: A waste container includes a container body defining at least one opening; a door sized and configured to close off the at least one opening; a seal connected with one of the container body and the door; a hinge assembly connected between the container body and the door to permit the door to swing between a closed position covering the opening and an open position uncovering the opening, the hinge assembly including at least one hinge unit and at least one control mechanism, the at least one hinge unit having at least first and second door rotation axes and the hinge assembly including a control mechanism mechanically connected between the container body and the door to control the degree of rotation of the door about the at least first and second door rotation axes; wherein the seal is juxtaposed relative to the container body and the door to provide a fluid tight seal between the container body and the door when the door is in a closed and sealed position; and, a latching assembly mechanically connected bet
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Inventors: Donald E. Galbreath, Randy Sommers
  • Patent number: 6921661
    Abstract: A composting device for composting organic matter, includes a hollow container having a bottom end, a top end and at least one sidewall extending therebetween. The top end includes a charge opening therein for adding organic matter. The container also includes a discharge opening for proximal the bottom end for removing compost matter. A removable top cover for cooperating with the top end of the hollow container, covers the charge opening. The top cover is removable to expose the charge opening and includes connection means. An ornament including a corresponding complementary connection means, the complementary connection means cooperating with the connection means of the top cover, for mounting the ornament on the top cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: Ideas That Grow Inc.
    Inventors: Jayne Nagy, Kathy Rayburn, James Kirby Rayburn, Richard Paul Morawietz
  • Patent number: 6920994
    Abstract: A garbage storage device includes a base, a bin, a pedal, a lid, a linkage, a buffer and a guide. The bin is installed on the base. The pedal is mounted on the bin. The lid is mounted on the bin. The linkage includes a crankshaft and a rod. The crankshaft includes a shaft mounted on the base, a first crank extending from the shaft for contact with the pedal and a second crank extending from the shaft. The rod includes a middle portion, a first end extending from the middle portion into connection with the second crank and a second end extending from the middle portion into connection with the lid. The buffer includes a first end connected with the base and a second end connected with the first end of the rod. The guide is mounted on the base for guiding and ensuring smooth movement of the first end of the rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Inventor: Tsong-Yow Lin
  • Patent number: 6918505
    Abstract: A fastener device in the form of a generally U-shaped wire clip for manual application to temporarily cause a plastic bag liner to be held in inserted position in a waste container and to also serve as a twist-tie closure for the plastic bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Inventor: Robert W Gifford, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6915921
    Abstract: A lid for a dustpan/trash can comprising a generally circular top having a downwardly depending, circumferentially extending lip projecting from the outer periphery of said top, a trough like member attached to the lip of the top including a planar base positioning the top generally perpendicular to a surface on which the base is placed, said trough section having an upwardly inclined ramp, an elongated straight edge so that waste material may be scooped into the trough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Inventor: George Mensch
  • Patent number: 6902080
    Abstract: A lockable container particularly suitable for storing confidential documents or recyclable material has a locking system provided by an elongate tongue that projects downwardly from the underside of the front of a hinged lid and passes through a slot in the material of the upper front wall so that in the closed position of the lid the tongue lies closely behind and is shielded by an apron that extends transversely across the upper end of the front wall of the container. Holes provided in the lower end of the tongue and near the bottom of the apron are brought into alignment when the lid is closed so that the lid can be locked in the closed position by a padlock with a hasp passed through the aligned apertures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Busch Systems International, Inc.
    Inventor: Craig William Wayne Busch
  • Patent number: 6902081
    Abstract: A garbage can lid securing system to secure a garbage can lid against removal by animals such as raccoons, the garbage can assembly comprising: a garbage can having a bottom wall, a side wall extending upwardly from said bottom wall and an open top, a lid having a top wall and a side wall extending downwardly from the top wall, the side wall being in removable telescoped engagement over portions of said side wall with garbage can in proximity to the open top, to close the garbage can, a first snap lock mechanism provided on a first side of the lid and can and a second snap lock mechanism provided on a second side of the lid and can, each snap lock mechanism comprising a male snap buckle and a female snap buckle adapted to engage each other in a telescoping snap fit relationship and for release by manual squeezing of one of the male and female snap buckles, one of the male and female snap buckle of each snap lock mechanism coupled to the can and the other of the male and female snap buckle of each snap lock me
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Inventor: Warren Thomas Walker
  • Patent number: 6896410
    Abstract: Flexible and semi-rigid refuse containers are provided for long term storage of refuse in environments where permafrost conditions prevail. The preferred containers are formed from woven fiberglass coated with a UV resistant polymer such as PVC.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: JPS Converter and Industrial Corporation
    Inventors: H. Landis Carter, Shobha Murari
  • Patent number: 6889604
    Abstract: A lid 14 for fitting to an open-topped refuse container 10 has a compacting mechanism comprising a compacting plate 36 mounted under the lid, a telescopically adjustable actuating rod 42 mounted over the lid, and means 40 slidably coupling the plate to the rod through an aperture in the lid such that the rod may be manoeuvred from a storage position wherein the rod lies across the lid and the plate is drawn up under the lid to an operative position wherein the rod stands upright over the aperture and may be pushed downwardly through the aperture (as seen in FIG. 4) to push the plate down into the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Inventor: Tibor Ernst
  • Patent number: 6883676
    Abstract: A garbage storage device includes a base, a bin installed on the base, a pedal mounted on the bin, a lid mounted on the bin, a linkage arranged between the pedal and the lid and a buffer arranged between the base and the linkage. The buffer includes a first cylinder including a closed end connected with the base and an open end through which a spring is inserted and a second cylinder including an open end through which the spring is inserted and a closed end connected with the linkage. The first cylinder is partially inserted in the second cylinder. The first cylinder includes an ear formed at the closed end and mounted on ears of the base. The second cylinder includes a tube transversely extending from the closed end for receiving the first end of the second lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Inventor: Tsong-Yow Lin
  • Patent number: 6880717
    Abstract: A device for securing lids of waste containers is provided. The device may be attached to an existing waste container or, at least part of the device may be formed integrally with the container. The device includes a strap with fasteners at each end that are matingly engageable with each other to secure the lid to the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: Thomas F. O'Conor
  • Patent number: 6877182
    Abstract: An improvement to a four sided trash container having wheels and a hinged lid includes a ramp in at least one side of the can near an upper rim of the container, the ramp being either fixed or pivotal, with the upper rim on which the ramp is located also including a tapered sweep above the ramp, for raking or sweeping debris into the container without the debris falling back out of the container during filling of the container while on its side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Inventor: Felix A. Hutson
  • Patent number: 6874797
    Abstract: A collapsible refuse collection apparatus. The invention includes a body; the body includes a frame portion and a covering portion having predetermined dimensions. The frame portion has an opened and closed position, two sides and a base; the two sides being adjacently and pivotally attached to the base. The covering portion is surroundedly attached to the frame portion, wherein the covering portion protects the frame portion and, in the frame portion's opened position, forms an inner compartment, a top, an opened end and a closed end. The apparatus also includes a wheel assembly attached to the frame portion providing mobility for the apparatus, a flap pivotally attached to the opened end of the covering portion and having predetermined dimensions. The inner compartment, formed by the frame portion's opened position, has predetermined dimensions such that the inner compartment can accommodate a collection bag. The inner compartment and the collection bag are used to collect the refuse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Inventor: Larry Gardenour
  • Patent number: 6857538
    Abstract: A cover assembly includes a ring mounted on a garbage bin, a cover mounted on the ring and a slow pivot device for slowly pivoting the cover relative to the ring. The slow pivot device includes a slow pivot element installed between the ring and the cover. The slow pivot element includes an internal tube, an external tube enclosing the internal tube and a spring connected between the internal tube and the external tube. Thus, rotation of the internal tube relative to the external tube exerts a torque on the spring. The spring is received in the internal tube so that an end thereof is connected with the internal tube. The internal tube is received in the internal tube so that an end thereof is connected with the internal tube. The internal tube is received in the external tube so that the other end of the spring is connected with the external tube. The internal tube includes a clip formed on an internal side thereof for clipping an end of the spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Inventor: Tsong-Yow Lin
  • Patent number: 6837393
    Abstract: A garbage can has two shutters, which can be made to pivot between a closed position by means of a tension spring and an opened position by means of depressing a pedal; the pedal is connected to a connecting rod up and down movable together with an actuating plate for the shutters; the connecting rod is further connected to a buffer mechanism consisting of a fixed rod part, and main body, which is movable relative to the rod part together with the connecting rod, so that the main body will move up relative to the rod part at such a speed as to counteract the tension spring, and slow down the movement of the shutters from the opened position to the closed position after the pedal is released from the depressed position, preventing the shutters from hitting the containing body too hard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Sincere & Well Being Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chen-Hung Kuo
  • Patent number: RE39726
    Abstract: A waste bin structure includes an inner barrel, an outer barrel, and a barrel lid. The lid cover includes an inner cover, an outer cover, and a locking portion. The inner cover is provided with a touch portion that may be pressed to pivot the inner cover upward independently. The outer barrel has a connecting portion defining a hanging recess, and the inner barrel is provided with a hanging hook portion secured in the hanging recess. The outer barrel is provided with a hood to form a handle portion of the outer barrel, so that the outer barrel is portable. The lid cover of the waste bin structure can be opened by a triggering action, and alternatively by a stepping action of a foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Inventor: Tsong-Yow Lin