Trash Container Patents (Class 220/908)
  • Publication number: 20040226949
    Abstract: An animal resistant insert for a trash container is disclosed. The insert comprises a platform portion bounded by an edge and a flange portion extending from the edge of the platform portion at an angle. The flange portion terminates at a terminal circumference, the terminal circumference being approximately equal to the inner circumference of the trash container. The insert further comprises at least one handle extending from the platform portion. The insert may also comprise a rim of resilient material attached to the terminal circumference of the flange portion and at least one ventilation hole disposed on the platform portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2003
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Inventors: Jonathan Michael Power, Meredith Rothschild Power, Hananah Rothschild Power, Rachel Rothschild Power
  • Patent number: 6808081
    Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses a refuse and recycling container 12 for cans, bottles or paper that includes a light weight container body 12 with integrally formed bottom 14 and side wall 16 wherein the upper end of the side wall around the periphery thereof defines a mouth 18 for receiving refuse or recycling items and for receiving and supporting a lid 20 having an open grip handle 27. Also shown are a plurality of base 24 and upper 26 disposed handles for easy manipulation of the pail 12. The recycling container also has base apertures 34 for drainage and a reflective element 28 encompassing a portion of the outer periphery that provides address identification blocks 30 for owner identification. In addition, there are interior indicia 32 and indicia lines 38 used to guide the user in the proper use of the recycling container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Inventor: Angelo Citro
  • Patent number: 6808080
    Abstract: An apparatus designed to automatically latch and unlatch the lid of a container. The apparatus includes a weight pivotally mounted on the side of the container for movement between first and second positions. The weight is positively connected to a latch by a connecting rod, and as the weight pivots between first and second positions, it moves the latch between latching and unlatching positions. Tipping the container causes the weight to shift thus the container is unlatched only when it is being dumped. A method for operating the latch is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Kent Spiers, Barry Sandlin
  • Publication number: 20040206759
    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: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2003
    Publication date: October 21, 2004
    Inventor: Craig William Wayne Busch
  • Patent number: 6805257
    Abstract: A lid for large size industrial or commercial solid waste containers is mounted to the upper rear edge of the containers by double linkages, with each linkage including two substantially equal length links; and frictional engagement arrangements such as notches or grooves are provided in the lid adjacent the rear thereof for engagement with the upper rear edge of the trash containers, to hold the lid in a partially open configuration. The double linkage also permits the lid to hang down close to the rear of the container, to reduce the front to rear extent of the assembly when the lid is fully open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Inventor: Craig V. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20040188453
    Abstract: A door mechanism for a transportation container having a material receiving opening extending through a surface of the transportation container is disclosed. The door mechanism includes at least one substantially rigid door element to removably cover at least a portion of the material receiving opening of the transportation container. Further, the door mechanism includes at least one latching mechanism in operable communication with the door element for securing the door element over the material receiving opening and against at least a portion of an adjacent surface surrounding the material receiving opening. A transportation container is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2003
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Inventor: David Ireland
  • Publication number: 20040178196
    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: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2004
    Publication date: September 16, 2004
    Inventor: Ralph Sholinder
  • Patent number: 6758366
    Abstract: A bin comprising a vessel and a pivoting lid that can be moved between an open position and a closed position. The lid and the vessel are arranged in such a manner that the air leaving the vessel during closure of the lid and when the lid is close to its closed position is forced to turn at least twice, being forced to pass between substantially vertical surfaces belonging respectively to the lid and to the vessel, at least at the front of the lid, preferably at least at the front of the lid and on both sides therefore, and more preferably still all round the four edges of the lid, so as to encourage the creation of raised pressure inside the vessel, which raised pressure tends to brake the displacement of the lid towards its closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: Campagnie Plastic Omnium
    Inventors: Hervé Bourgund, Richard Gourlin, Denis Obriot
  • Publication number: 20040124195
    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: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2002
    Publication date: July 1, 2004
    Inventor: George Mensch
  • Publication number: 20040108320
    Abstract: A fastener and plug device for mounting a trashcan bar to a trashcan and for covering the hollow ends of the trashcan bar includes a plug portion and a fastener portion. The plug portion includes an end cap and a plurality of spaced apart discs for enclosing the openings in the ends of the trashcan bar. The fastener portion includes an extension member extending outwardly from the end cap for engaging and extending through an aperture in the trashcan bar for securing the trashcan bar to the trashcan. The fastener and plug device of the invention reduces the known multiple steps of installing the trashcan bar onto the trashcan, eliminates the use of multiple fasteners typically needed to secure the trashcan bar to the trashcan, is installable in the field, and permits the trashcans to be more easily stackable for storage and transportation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventors: Michael F. Brletich, Robert L. Kempf
  • Patent number: 6739565
    Abstract: A trash can hold down apparatus is attached to the sides of a conventional household trash can to permit engagement by a person's feet to restrain vertical movement of the trash can when the trash bag liner is removed from the trash can. The hold down apparatus is formed with an upright portion and an integral engagement portion that projects generally orthogonally from the upright portion. The engagement portion is free to move relative to the upright portion to allow the engagement portion to rest on the surface of the floor irrespective of the angle at which the upright portion is attached to the sides of the conventional household trash can. The upright portion is provided with an adhesive attachment device to fix the upright portion to the sides of the trash can. Preferably, the attachment device is in the form of a hook and loop fastener to permit the hold down apparatus to be detached from the trash can.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Inventor: Michael Spadafora
  • Publication number: 20040094561
    Abstract: A lid for a container. The container comprises a center piece and two identically shaped and sized end pieces separably attached to opposite sides of the center piece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2002
    Publication date: May 20, 2004
    Applicant: Salco Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Alex Degutis, Charles Lonnie Horne, Kathryn R. Sims Johnson, Joshua J. Chesser, Bryan S. Allen
  • Patent number: 6728996
    Abstract: An adjustable liner retainer system comprising a container having an opening defining an upper edge and an outer surface and a liner situated in the container wherein an upper portion of the liner extends from the opening, folds over the upper edge, and at least partly hangs below the upper edge adjacent to the outer surface of the container. An adjustable liner retainer is tensioned around an upper end of the container pressing the hanging upper portion against the outer surface of the container. The adjustable liner retainer comprises a strip of material at least a portion of which is elastomeric material to create the tension to press the liner to the outer surface. A hook portion and a loop portion of the hook-and-loop fastener are attached to the first and second ends of the strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventor: Robert F. Roscow
  • Publication number: 20040074913
    Abstract: An insert bin for use with a rollout type waste container or cart. The insert bin limits the volume of refuse or recyclable material that a customer may deposit in the container. The insert bin is held in place within the interior of a waste cart without the use of separate mechanical components or a press fit. The insert bin instead takes advantage of the lift bar, which already exists on a waste cart providing a bin that is strong and easily attached to a waste container or cart.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Applicant: SCHAEFER SYSTEMS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Clinton McDade, Morris Marlow
  • Publication number: 20040060939
    Abstract: A rectangular shaped two sided storage container comprised of the storage areas (18) and (19), the primary lid (2) of which contains the uniquely functional rigid acrylic plastic refuse door (9) and the rigid acrylic plastic dispenser chute (5) both of which lead to their respective storage areas. The entire container is made of rigid and semirigid plastics both materials safely intended for use in contact with food in accordance with the Food and Drug Administration. The secondary lid (20) is composed of the same above mentioned plastic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventor: Madinah Hasan Barrett
  • Patent number: 6702135
    Abstract: The invention is a universal dumpster adapted for use with both conventional front loading and roll-off refuse collection trucks. A universal dumpster according to this invention includes a floor, a pair of side walls, and a pair of 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. At least one of the end walls includes a door that is movable between a first fully closed position and a second fully opened position for depositing solid waste into the dumpster and discharging the solid waste from the dumpster. The rotatable sleeves reduce the forces exerted on the lifting arms of the front loading truck. Accordingly, the capacity of the dumpster may be increased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Inventor: Nathan L. Pickler
  • Publication number: 20040020928
    Abstract: A garbage storage device includes a base with a flat back, an external bin mounted on the base and formed with a flat back in flush with that of the base, a internal bin received in the external bin and formed with a recessed back defining a space together with the flat back of the external bin, a pedal pivotally mounted on the base or the internal bin, a hinge mounted on the internal bin and formed with a flat back in flush with that of the base, a lid pivotally connected with the hinge and a lever connected between the pedal and the lid and received in the space defined between the flat back of the external bin and the recessed back of the internal bin. In an aspect, the pedal is mounted on the base. The pedal is an elongated element including a first end and a second end, and is substantially within the base except for its first end extending through an aperture defined in a front portion of the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2002
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventor: Tsong-Yow Lin
  • Patent number: 6685044
    Abstract: Refuse bin with tiltable lid comprises a support member (1) to be secured at a fixed point spaced from the ground, and an upperly open refuse container (2) of virtually vertical longitudinal axis removably coupled to said support member on a transverse horizontal swing axis (333) such as to enable the container to automatically occupy a predetermined substantially erect non-use position in which it is closed by a respective lid, the lid being hinged to said support member on a horizontal axis (222) parallel to the preceding and being linked to the container in such a manner as to be opened and closed when said container swings about its swing axis in the direction in which it moves away from said substantially erect position, and in the opposite direction, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Stil Casa S.N.C. di Marcheselli Angelo & C.
    Inventors: Giuseppe Marcheselli, Maurizio Marcheselli
  • Publication number: 20040016756
    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 spring connected between the base and the linkage. The buffer further includes a first cylinder including a closed end connected with the base and an open end through which the 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. One of the first and second cylinders is partially inserted in the other one of the first and second cylinders. The first cylinder is partially inserted in the second cylinder. The buffer includes a ring mounted on the first cylinder. The buffer includes a groove defined around one of the first cylinder for receiving the ring. The base includes two ears formed thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Tsong-Yow Lin
  • Publication number: 20030230576
    Abstract: A storage device includes a bin, a cover mounted on the bin, a pedal assembly mounted on the bin and a linkage connected between the cover and the pedal assembly. The pedal assembly can be trod so as to pivot the cover via the linkage. The pedal assembly includes a frame mounted on the bin and a pedal pivotally mounted on the frame. The frame includes two side plates each defining a cutout. The pedal includes two shafts formed thereon and inserted in the cutouts. Each of the shafts includes a head formed thereon for avoiding axial escape thereof from one of the side plates. The frame includes a flange formed thereon. In an aspect, a portion of the bin is restrained between the flange and the heads. In another aspect, a latch may be used to lock the frame to the bin and the pedal to the frame. The latch includes two fins formed thereon. Each of the side plates defines a slot for receiving one of the fins or alternatively the frame includes an upper plate defining a slot for receiving the latch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Publication date: December 18, 2003
    Inventor: Tsong-You Lin
  • Publication number: 20030218022
    Abstract: A malodor transmission-resistant plastic finding employment in cassettes housing flexible tubular material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2003
    Publication date: November 27, 2003
    Inventors: Richard S. Chomik, Rosemary Knuth, Caryl Yeager, Mark Yoho
  • Publication number: 20030213808
    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: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2003
    Publication date: November 20, 2003
    Inventor: John R. Berger
  • Publication number: 20030209557
    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: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2002
    Publication date: November 13, 2003
    Inventor: Craig V. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6644493
    Abstract: The weighted garbage can with legs has a receptacle with a rounded weighted base such that the empty garbage can will tend to remain upright and will upright itself if tipped. The weighted garbage can with legs also has retractable legs that function in conjunction with a spring suspended inner platform to retract when the garbage can is empty and extend as the receptacle is filled. The legs extend as the receptacle is filled to stabilize the can as the self-uprighting tendency is overcome when the filled receptacle becomes top-heavy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Inventors: Sandra T. Walton, Rasheed S. Walton
  • Publication number: 20030201265
    Abstract: A cover assembly includes a ring mounted on a garbage bin, a cover mounted on the ring and a slot 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 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. The external tube includes a clip formed on an internal side thereof for clipping an opposite end of the spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: Tsong-Yow Lin
  • Publication number: 20030201267
    Abstract: A trash can assembly has a shell, a lid fitted over the top end of the shell, a pedal positioned adjacent the bottom end of the shell, a link assembly coupling the pedal and the lid, and a motion damper coupled to the link assembly for slowing the closing motion of the lid. The assembly also includes an inner liner that is retained inside the shell, with a support frame secured to the top end of the shell and having a ridge on which a peripheral lip of the inner liner rests.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventors: Frank Yang, Joseph Sandor, Alex Grande Fermin, Myk Wayne Lum, Adam Courtney Wade
  • Publication number: 20030192900
    Abstract: A container with side and end walls, a top and a bottom, has a closure with a panel movable outwardly perpendicular to a plane of the closure, from a closed and substantially sealed position to a closed and substantially unsealed position to disengage the seal before undertaking a more gross opening movement in which the panel is moved clear of the opening. In one embodiment, a container is provided with a rear or end wall that in its gross movement hinges open and closed to clear or close an opening between container side walls. At least two hinges are mounted between the movable rear wall and a support plate on a sidewall adjacent to the movable rear wall. The support plate is constrained to move perpendicular to the plane of the door opening, shifting the rear wall between a closed and substantially sealed position and a closed and substantially unsealed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2003
    Publication date: October 16, 2003
    Inventors: Anthony D. Petzitillo, Todd A. Fowler
  • Patent number: 6632064
    Abstract: The invention is directed to methods, apparatus and systems for retrofitting existing containers for use with vehicles having lifting forks for elevating and maneuvering such containers, and retrofitting the vehicle forks, as well as constructing new equipment to include the invention. An apparatus according to the invention includes a liner formed from a vibration absorbing material for insertion into a pocket associated with a container. Alternatively to or in conjunction with the liner, either a glove formed from a vibration absorbing material can be inserted over a lifting fork on a fork bearing, lifting apparatus, or a rail formed from a vibration absorbing material can be fitted to at least a portion of a lifting fork on the fork bearing, lifting apparatus. The invention is also directed to methods relating to the use and incorporation of the apparatus, and systems incorporating more than one component thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Assignee: American Container and Recycling, Incorporated
    Inventors: Steve Walker, John d'Arc Lorenz
  • Publication number: 20030183633
    Abstract: A device for lifting a lid of a container is disclosed. The device includes a first strap, having a first and second end; a pulley, in communication with the first strap, positioned between the first and second end; a connector, attached to the first end of the first strap, that connects the first strap to the lid; a weight, attached to the second end of the first strap; a weight support piece, that holds the weight in a first position; and an actuator, coupled to the weight support piece, that displaces the weight support piece and allows the weight to move substantially downward to a second position; wherein the weight's movement causes the strap, in communication with the pulley, to exert a substantially upward pulling force on the connector, and consequently on the lid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2002
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventor: Arnold Pope
  • Patent number: 6626317
    Abstract: A garbage can has a first lid segment hingedly attached to a first wall and a second lid segment hingedly attached to a second side wall. An actuator raises the lid segment from a closed position to an opened position. The actuator includes vertical rods attached to a foot pedal. Depression of the foot pedal causes the vertical rods to move upwardly and move the lid segments into the opened position. The first and second side walls meet a corner and a third arcuate side wall connects the first and second side wall to give the garbage can a sector shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: Hailo-Werk Rudolf Loh GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Rudolf Pfiefer, Gerhard Muller, Ernst Friedrich Weller
  • Patent number: 6626316
    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: December 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Inventor: Frank Yang
  • Patent number: 6626318
    Abstract: The present invention refers to a trash dump which solves and satisfy the current requirements. The new trash dump is embedded to a wall or gate or to any other place where can be used. This new trash dump has the peculiarity that the user can deposit the trash inside the dump without going out from the building and the personnel of the trash collection service, can pick the trash disposed in the collector up through an opening in the wall, which has a collector with a safety system of rotatory doors. Said safety system allows, at the same time, the easy operation of the trash dump and avoids any intrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Inventor: Ignacio Ramirez Salcedo
  • Publication number: 20030168466
    Abstract: An apparatus for automatically latching and unlatching the lid of a container is disclosed which includes a weight pivotally mounted on the side of the container for movement between first and second positions. The weight is positively connected to a latch by a connecting rod, and as the weight pivots between first and second positions, it move the latch between latching and unlatching positions. Tipping the container causes the weight to shift thus the container is unlatched only when it is being dumped. A method for operating the latch is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2002
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Inventors: Kent Spiers, Bobby Sandlin
  • Patent number: 6616008
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a refuse container lid and hinge assembly, which comprises two angled members, two lid members, and two hinge rods. The angled members are attached to a refuse container and further comprise an attachment portion, a stop portion, and a plurality of knuckles. The lid members each comprise a crumple region and a support region. The crumple regions and support regions cooperatively allow the lid members to withstand planar and nonplanar compressive forces. The support regions each further comprise a plurality of U-shaped support ribs, which effect a patterned series of sloped superior surfaces and a patterned series of sloped inferior surfaces. The hinge rods hingedly connect the lids to the angled members. The ranges of pivotal motion are limited between a closed position and an open position wherein stop structures of the lid members contact the angled members thus restricting the lid members from pivoting more than a preferred number of degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Inventor: Scott W. Lemajeur
  • Publication number: 20030155366
    Abstract: A container is provided including a bin, a lid pivotally coupled to the bin for movement between an open position providing access to an interior of the bin and a closed position inhibiting access to the interior and, a detent mechanism acting between the bin and the lid for maintaining the lid in the open position until a minimum threshold force is applied to the lid toward the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Publication date: August 21, 2003
    Inventor: Narayan Raghunathan
  • Publication number: 20030146230
    Abstract: A lid (10) for covering at least a portion of a top opening (90) of a refuse bin (81) generally comprises a rectangular panel (20) including an upper side (30); a lower side (40); a mid-section (77); a hinge end (50) including hinge bearings (54); and an opening end (60). Panel (20) is defined by a plurality of upwardly arched longitudinal corrugations (21), sinusoidal in lateral section, spanning substantially between opening end (60) and hinge end (50). An exemplary embodiment includes a bend section (13) at a predetermined lateral cross-section such that a longitudinal compressive force on opening end (60) at failure buckles panel (20) convex upward at bend section (13). The mid-section of panel (20) is upwardly laterally arched. Lid (10) includes a plurality of protrusions (45) such that a plurality of lids (10) may be stacked in a parallel relationship. The area of bearings (54) is large and preferably exceeds 10% of the area of hinge rod (94).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2002
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Inventors: Edward Eaton, E. Grant Swick, Richard J. Tracy
  • Publication number: 20030141312
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a refuse container lid and hinge assembly, which comprises two angled members, two lid members, and two hinge rods. The angled members are attached to a refuse container and further comprise an attachment portion, a stop portion, and a plurality of knuckles. The lid members each comprise a crumple region and a support region. The crumple regions and support regions cooperatively allow the lid members to withstand planar and nonplanar compressive forces. The support regions each further comprise a plurality of U-shaped support ribs, which effect a patterned series of sloped superior surfaces and a patterned series of sloped inferior surfaces. The hinge rods hingedly connect the lids to the angled members. The ranges of pivotal motion are limited between a closed position and an open position wherein stop structures of the lid members contact the angled members thus restricting the lid members from pivoting more than a preferred number of degrees.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Inventor: Scott W. Lemajeur
  • Patent number: 6596983
    Abstract: Systems and elements are disclosed for creating a continuous, collimated detection zone for an automatically-actuated device or container, such as an automatic waste container, wherein the detection zone can be made to match the opening periphery of the container, is height adjustable, immune from ambient light fluctuations and relatively simple and inexpensive to produce.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Inventor: Mark R. Brent
  • Patent number: 6585304
    Abstract: A yard-leaf caddy has a container floor (1) that is rectangular. Hinged to an aft edge is an aft wall (2) that pivots down forwardly to a storage mode and up rearwardly to a containment mode. Hinged to the front edge is a ramp wall (4) that pivots down forwardly to a ramp mode, that pivots up rearwardly to the containment mode, and that pivots down rearwardly to the storage mode. Hinged to the first-side edge (6) is a first side wall that pivots down second-sidewardly to the storage mode, and that pivots up first-sidewardly to the containment mode. Hinged to the second-side edge is a second-side wall (8) that pivots down first-sidewardly to the storage mode, and that pivots up second-sidewardly to the containment mode. Wheels (10, 11) are positioned to rotate proximate opposite sides of the aft edge. Included in the container floor is an outlet valve (14) for bottom emptying. Handle apertures (21) are included in the ramp wall, the first side wall, the second side wall and the aft wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Inventors: John D. Boozer, Carolyn B. Boozer
  • Patent number: 6585114
    Abstract: A lid for a medical waste container which receives sharps waste such as hypodermic needles. The lid has a closure hinged to the lid by a flexible strap and movable between first and second recesses in the lid. The first recess is closed and simply receives and retains the closure when the lid is open for depositing waste. The second recess has an opening through which waste can be deposited into the container. A temporary locking mechanism retains the closure in the second recess by a snap fit but allows the closure to be lifted from the second recess to open the container. A permanent locking mechanism, when actuated, locks the closure in the second recess permanently so that the container is sealed for autoclaving and cannot be reopened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignees: Medical Waste Management Inc., VIF Mould and Plastic Industries Ltd.
    Inventors: Daniel Kennedy, Istvan Vaskuthy
  • Publication number: 20030116569
    Abstract: A container for storing waste, in particular hospital waste and food industry waste, the container presents a receptacle closed by a top element in which an opening is formed. The container comprises: a cover (10) having at least one hole (24, 26); at least one stud (24a, 26a) having a free end presenting fastening means (24c, 26c), said stud (24a, 26a) being in register with said hole (24, 26), enabling it to pass through said hole (24, 26) when said cover (10) is in a closed position on said opening (12); and non-return blocking means (24b, 26b) that are fixable to said fastening means (24c, 26c) (12) of said element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2002
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Inventor: Joel Mercier
  • Publication number: 20030111854
    Abstract: A one-piece container for collecting waste materials, such as dirt, debris and trash, includes a bottom wall and a side wall which together define an interior cavity for holding the waste materials and a filling aid for facilitating the process of inserting the waste materials within the interior cavity. The container is constructed of a rigid and durable material. The sidewall includes a free end which defines a top opening which provides access to the interior cavity. The container can be disposed on a support surface in either a vertical position or an angled position. The filling aid is integrally formed onto the free end of the sidewall and includes a panel having an outer edge which is straight. The filling aid extends out from the free end of the sidewall at an acute angle of approximately 45 degrees and enables the container to be also disposed on a support surface at an angled position so that waste materials can be easily inserted into the interior cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2003
    Publication date: June 19, 2003
    Inventor: Robert J. Washek
  • Publication number: 20030106898
    Abstract: A refuse container contains at least one door which may be easily pushed toward an open position in which the door rotates into an interior of the container. The door returns to a closed position under the force of a closing mechanism which may be a spring. However, the closing of the door is slowed by a damping mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2001
    Publication date: June 12, 2003
    Applicant: Rubbermaid Commercial Products LLC
    Inventors: Patricia Kennedy, Craig K. Rogers, Robert J. Tokash
  • Patent number: 6571975
    Abstract: A container has a lid which is supportable on the container in a first position covering the top opening of the container, and in a second position substantially perpendicular to the first position. The container lid features a centrally located undercut recess having an inclined recess positioned to rest on a rim of the container. The lid includes a raised ridge portion positioned in spaced relation between the undercut recess and an outer edge of the container lid. The raised ridge portion aids in supporting the container lid approximately perpendicular to the upper rim of portion the container. A handle may be secured to the undercut recess to aid in grasping the container lid. When the undercut recess extends from the outer surface of the container lid, the undercut recess may serve as the handle. The handle is grasped and the lid raised from the container, and the inclined recess is placed atop the upper rim portion of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Inventor: Gary J Fay
  • Publication number: 20030098305
    Abstract: A handle assembly for use with a trash receptacle having a vertically oriented door in a vertical plane, and a receptacle interior on one side of the vertically oriented door. The handle assembly is made up of a handle body with a center of mass; a first end attached to said vertically oriented door and a second end. The handle body is configured so that said center of mass is located approximately within the vertical plane of the vertically oriented door, so that said vertically oriented door with said attached handle assembly hangs in said vertical plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2001
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Inventor: Scott R. Feely
  • Patent number: 6508377
    Abstract: A multiple-sectional garbage container for providing a safer and less strenuous manner of removing a trash bag from the garbage container. The multiple-sectional garbage container includes a base member including a bottom wall, a side wall, and an open top; and also includes an elongate tubular member including a side wall, an open bottom, an open top, and an opening therethrough and being removably fastened upon the base member with the opening being adapted to receive a garbage bag; and further includes a lid member being removably disposed upon the open top of the elongate tubular member; and also includes a plurality of handle/latch members being pivotally attached to the elongate tubular member and being fastenable to the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Inventors: Susan K. Griswold, Brian K. Casperson
  • Publication number: 20030006237
    Abstract: A trash container that allows for the removal of filled trash container liners without the lifting of the said liners is provided consisting of a trash container equipped with a hinge system and associated latch that allows for the opening of at least one vertical surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2001
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Inventors: Vito Passantino, Tinamarie Passantino
  • Patent number: 6471221
    Abstract: A trash can system has a container. The container has a large upper periphery with a front and a rear. The container also has a small lower periphery with a front and a rear. Between the upper and lower peripheries, the container also has a side wall. The container also has a recess. The recess has a generally rectilinear configuration formed at the bottom of the side wall at the rear of the lower periphery. Within the recess is a lower tubular handle. The handle is in a horizontal orientation with a central extent of the handle being spaced from the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Inventor: Kevin McGarry
  • Patent number: 6454111
    Abstract: A receptacle for containing compost is provided which can be easily assembled and disassembled as needed. The receptacle is formed of durable materials creating an attractive appearance to the yard or garden. Metal brackets form the corners and define angularly positioned slots for receiving wooden slats which provide the side walls. The slats can later be removed when compost is needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Two One One Partners
    Inventor: Robert A. Berryhill
  • Patent number: 6450356
    Abstract: A method for encapsulating waste material and a waste encapsulation system are disclosed. The system includes a transportable, rigid container with a rigid liner that is then sealed to, encapsulate the waste material within the sealed liner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Chemical Waste Management, Inc.
    Inventors: Loren D. Alexander, Lloyd L. Piper, II, Thaddeus S. Dzierzbicki, Cem M. Gokcen