With Transparent Inspecting Or Viewing Means Patents (Class 221/155)
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Patent number: 11488238Abstract: An arrangement system of a vehicle that permits a user to perform a trial use or a trial fitting of a product in a vehicle interior includes a display unit configured to display products that are candidates for purchase, an operation unit configured to be operated by the user to select a desired product from the products displayed on the display unit, and a vehicle arrangement unit configured to arrange the vehicle on which the product selected through an operation performed on the operation unit is loaded.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2018Date of Patent: November 1, 2022Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Tomohito Matsuoka, Seiichi Tsunoda, Jiro Goto, Masayuki Yamada, Yasutaka Eto, Keima Fukunaga, Kinya Tagawa, Yasuhiro Sasaki, Sho Tanaka, Yuki Shinohara
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Patent number: 11401084Abstract: A chemical dispensing system can include a docking stating that receives a reservoir containing chemical to be dispensed. The reservoir may have one or more retention tabs which are movable from a first position in which each tab extends radially across at least a portion of the bore to a second position in which each tab is offset relative to the bore. A user can engage the reservoir with the docking station, causing the one or more retention tabs on the reservoir to engage with one or more corresponding retention tab receiving regions. This can cause each retention tab to move from the first position to the second position, thereby dispensing chemical from the bore through a discharge aperture of the docking station. In this way, the contents of the reservoir may be dispensed without the user coming into physical content with the chemical in the reservoir.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2020Date of Patent: August 2, 2022Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.Inventors: Amy Louise Lee, Kenneth Thomas Dobizl
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Patent number: 11254539Abstract: A dispenser for holding a spool of coiled material utilizes a spindle having shoulder members at its ends respectively, and an elastic or resilient line extending between the shoulder members. The line traverses the outermost convolution of the coiled material, to resist free unwinding movement thereof. One of shoulder members is removable, to allow for insertion of a filled spool onto the spindle, for controlled dispensing of the coiled material. Simplicity in construction is realizable, along with compensation for gradual depletion of the coiled material as it is used up.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2019Date of Patent: February 22, 2022Inventor: Leo Brereton
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Patent number: 11173849Abstract: A control system is operable within a host vehicle to control the operation of signaling apparatus indicative of a driver intent to present a tissue box. The current invention permits the activation of an electro-mechanical system located proximally to said driver to permit access to a tissue. The control system includes a voice recognition circuit for activating a panel signal devices within the vehicle. In some embodiments, a wireless link facilitates aftermarket applications while in other embodiments original equipment manufacturer is accommodated. In some embodiments the tissue panel is opened manually.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2017Date of Patent: November 16, 2021Inventors: Akiva Walzman, Daniel Ezra Walzman
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Patent number: 10987766Abstract: A fastener delivery system including a feed tube coupled to a delivery location at a second end of the feed tube. The fastener delivery system includes a fastener feed mechanism comprised of a coil wound around a coupler. The coupler is coupled to the feed tube at a first end of the feed tube. The fastener delivery system includes a fastener positioning device configured to receive a fastener. The fastener positioning device is connected to the coupler and operates to inject the fastener into the coupler. A current is applied through the coil to generate a magnetic field. The magnetic field interacts with the fastener and thereby projects the fastener through the feed tube towards the delivery location.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2019Date of Patent: April 27, 2021Assignee: Newfrey LLCInventors: Jonathan MacDougall, Pradeep Reddy Are, Vijit Dubey, Benjamin Haymore, Kevin Kassab
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Patent number: 10922909Abstract: A secure lockable enclosure having a compartment therein, includes an electronically-actuated latching mechanism coupled to a door; a network interface; a sensor for sensing a characteristic related to a user attempting to gain access to the compartment; an environmental controller for heating and/or cooling the compartment; and a processor. The processor being adapted to (i) cause the network interface to transmit information indicative of a sensed characteristic of a user attempting to gain access to the compartment and capable of processing an unlock signal, and (ii) control the environmental controller based on a characteristic of an item placed in the compartment.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2018Date of Patent: February 16, 2021Inventors: Alberto Romero, Michael Watroba
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Patent number: 10647500Abstract: A pet sanitation bag and accessory caddy for storing a plurality of pet sanitation bags and one or more pet care accessories, comprising a housing having an interior cavity and an upper and a lower dispensing aperture. The interior cavity is adapted to store the sanitation bags, while the upper and lower dispensing apertures provide access to the entire interior cavity and the sanitation bags stored therein. The housing further has a pet accessory hook adapted to allow the pet care accessory to be detachably secured, allowing a user to retrieve both the sanitation bags and the pet care accessory prior to conducting a pet related activity. The housing is further adapted to be secured to a vertical mounting surface.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2019Date of Patent: May 12, 2020Inventor: Anthony Madden
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Patent number: 10455952Abstract: A lockable skewer for loading stacks of plastic cutlery into dispensers is described. The skewer comprises a vertical shaft that passes through holes in the cutlery. The vertical shaft includes a flange located below the bottom of the stack. The vertical shaft is configured to rotate between an unlocked position in which the flange is configured to pass through the holes in the cutlery pieces and a locked position in which the flange is not configured to pass through the holes in the cutlery pieces.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2017Date of Patent: October 29, 2019Inventor: Patrick J. Smith
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Patent number: 10388555Abstract: A bonding apparatus, which includes: an intermediate stage; a transfer unit configured to transfer a semiconductor chip and to place the semiconductor chip on the intermediate stage; and a first bonding unit and a second bonding unit each configured to pick up the semiconductor chip from the intermediate stage, and to bond the semiconductor chip to a circuit substrate. The intermediate stage moves between a first position and a second position. The first position is a position at which the first bonding unit is allowed to pick up the semiconductor chip, and the second position is a position at which the second bonding unit is allowed to pick up the semiconductor chip. With this, it is possible to provide a bonding apparatus capable of reducing processing time per circuit substrate and suppressing an increase of a space, as well as such a bonding method.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2016Date of Patent: August 20, 2019Assignee: SHINKAWA LTD.Inventors: Osamu Kakutani, Taito Kobayashi, Yasushi Sato
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Patent number: 10195611Abstract: A pipette tip orienting apparatus includes a hopper adapted for receiving one or more pipette tips. A first alignment comb is inserted thorugh the hopper for orienting pipette tips inside the hopper. A second alignment comb is inserted through the hopper for orienting the pipette tips for delivery to a pipette tip rack. The first and second alignment combs are positioned perpendicular to one another through the hopper. Pipette tips are delivered to wells in a pipette tip rack by removing the alignment combs sequentially from the hopper.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2016Date of Patent: February 5, 2019Inventors: Chris Bostick, Emily Despeaux, Tyler Davis, Alice Han, William Mandler, Kelly Pisane
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Patent number: 10145742Abstract: The instant disclosure provides a probe cover dispensing device including a base and an elastic element. The base includes a housing unit, a probe cover dispensing unit and a connection unit disposed between the housing unit and the probe cover dispensing unit. The probe cover dispenser unit can rotate between a first predetermined position and a second predetermined position relative to the housing unit through the connection unit. The elastic element is disposed in the housing unit to apply a pressure on a probe cover which is disposed in the housing unit. The probe cover is abutted by the elastic element and limited in the housing unit. When the probe cover dispensing unit rotates from the first predetermined position to the second predetermined position, a sliding groove may be formed between the housing unit and the probe cover dispenser unit for the probe cover to slide therein.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2017Date of Patent: December 4, 2018Assignee: RADIANT INNOVATION INC.Inventors: Tseng-Lung Lin, Chin-Hui Ku
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Patent number: 10115945Abstract: A battery package includes a card, a cover attached to the card, and a tray positioned between the card and the cover. The cover includes an opening and a door. The door is movable between an open position and a closed position. The tray includes multiple receptacles. The battery package further includes multiple batteries and multiple tabs. Each battery is positioned within one of the receptacles. Each tab is removably attached to one of the batteries. The tray is rotatable relative to the card and the cover to selectively align one of the receptacles with the opening in a battery removal position. With the door in the open position, the tab attached to the battery in the receptacle in the battery removal position is accessible through the opening which provides an arc of access of at least 90 degrees.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2018Date of Patent: October 30, 2018Assignee: SPECTRUM BRANDS, INC.Inventors: William R. Dorr, Christopher A. Harris, Dave Young, Tom Anderson, Jason Lahaye, Marek Kokoszka, Dan R. Teteak
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Patent number: 10106318Abstract: A bag dispenser having a housing adapted to receive plastic bags. The housing has a front end, a back end that is spaced apart from the front end, a top side, a bottom side that is spaced apart from the top side, a left side, a right side that is spaced apart from the left side, a front opening that is disposed at the front end, and a pair of back openings that are disposed at the back end. The housing defines an interior space adapted to removably hold the plastic bags. The bag dispenser also comprises a means for attaching the housing to another object. A method for removably holding plastic bags in a bag dispenser.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2017Date of Patent: October 23, 2018Inventor: Bob Needham
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Patent number: 10093469Abstract: A battery package includes a card, a cover attached to the card, a tray positioned between the card and the cover, batteries, and tabs. The cover includes an opening and a door. The door is movable between an open position to provide access to the opening and a closed position. The tray includes a plurality of receptacles in which are positioned the batteries. Each tab is removably attached to one of the batteries and is positioned between the cover and the battery. The tray is rotatable relative to the card and the cover about an axis of rotation to selectively align one of the receptacles with the opening in a battery removal position. With the door in the open position, the tab attached to the battery in the receptacle in the battery removal position is accessible through the opening from the front of the cover and the peripheral edge of the cover.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2016Date of Patent: October 9, 2018Assignee: SPECTRUM BRANDS, INC.Inventors: William R. Dorr, Christopher A. Harris, Dave Young, Tom Anderson, Jason Lahaye, Marek Kokoszka, Dan R. Teteak
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Patent number: 9956813Abstract: A dispenser for opening a tape like packaging comprising first and second films releasably connected to each other, forming envelopes sealed around an object, and disposed sequentially with a predetermined pitch. The dispenser comprises a space for holding a container of the packaging, a separator through which the packaging can be passed, for spreading apart and separating the films at an outlet thereof when a pulling force is acting on said first and second films, thereby opening envelopes and releasing the objects contained therein, and means for winding up separated first and second films of the tape like packaging. The separator further comprises a cover member that is articulated to the dispenser to be movable between a closed position and an open position.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2013Date of Patent: May 1, 2018Assignee: Merck Patent GmbHInventors: Gerard Muller, Mathieu Arrault, Jean-Jacques Richert
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Patent number: 9954208Abstract: A battery package includes a card, a cover attached to the card, and a tray positioned between the card and the cover. The cover includes a body having an opening and a door with the door movable between an open position to provide access to the opening and a closed position in which the door closes the opening. The tray includes multiple receptacles arranged symmetrically about a central post. The front surface of the central post is spaced apart from the interior surface of the front portion of the cover by a distance. The battery package also includes multiple batteries and multiple tabs. The tray is rotatable to selectively align one of the receptacles with the opening in a battery removal position. With the door in the open position, the tab attached to the battery in the receptacle in the battery removal position is accessible through the opening.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2017Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: SPECTRUM BRANDS, INC.Inventors: William R. Dorr, Christopher A. Harris, Dave Young, Tom Anderson, Jason Lahaye, Marek Kokoszka, Dan R. Teteak
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Patent number: 9908767Abstract: In many aspects, a system for a beverage dispenser can include a detector, a touch screen, and a control unit electrically coupled to the touch screen and detector. The control unit is configured to implement a method. In the method, a first graphical configuration is sent to the touch screen for display during an operational mode. A sleep mode is entered after detecting no motion events from the detector after a predetermined amount of time. A second graphical configuration is sent to the touch screen for display or the touch screen is turned off as a result of entering the sleep mode. A motion event is then detected in proximity to the detector, and as a result, the sleep mode is discontinued, and the operational mode is activated, and the first graphical configuration is sent to the touch screen for redisplay.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2014Date of Patent: March 6, 2018Assignee: Automatic Bar Controls, Inc.Inventors: Richard A. Martindale, Thomas R. Hecht
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Patent number: 9695005Abstract: A paper-sheet counting machine (10) includes: a recognition and counting unit (24) configured to count paper sheets; a stacking unit (26) configured to stack therein the paper sheets that have been counted by the recognition and counting unit (24), an opening being provided in a front face of the stacking unit (26); a rotary guide unit (28) provided to the stacking unit (26) and configured to allow the paper sheets that have been counted by the recognition and counting unit (24) to be stacked in the stacking unit (26); a shutter (40) configured to close the opening provided in the front face of the stacking unit (26); a shutter drive unit (50) configured to drive the shutter (40) to open and close the opening provided in the front face of the stacking unit (26); and a control unit (70) configured to control the shutter drive unit (50).Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2014Date of Patent: July 4, 2017Assignee: GLORY LTD.Inventors: Manabu Hirano, Fumiaki Koga, Tomoyasu Sato
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Patent number: 9593811Abstract: A retrofit LED lamp assembly and retrofitting method for use in a vending machine. The retrofit LED assembly having a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) and a power connector adapted to connect to a source of power within a vending machine. A power regulating circuit adjustably controls the amount of power provided to the LEDs in response to control signals received by a communication circuit in the lamp assembly.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2015Date of Patent: March 14, 2017Assignee: ELLENBY TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Bob M. Dobbins, Louis J. Frontino, Philip R. Reger, Paul L. Mason
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Patent number: 9390577Abstract: A system and method for optimizing the utilization of inventory space for articles dispensable from an article dispensing machine is provided. A subset of articles in the article dispensing machine may be targeted for removal for various purposes. Based on a list of the subset of articles, the article dispensing machine may move the subset of articles from a storage unit to a predetermined area, such as a merchandising zone of the storage unit or a separate article removal bin. The subset of articles may be removed from the predetermined area, followed by loading of new articles to the predetermined area.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2014Date of Patent: July 12, 2016Assignee: REDBOX AUTOMATED RETAIL, LLCInventors: Thomas Franklin Smith, William Martinka, Jim Polubinski
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Patent number: 9226598Abstract: A single-serve, sanitary, gravity-feed cutlery dispensing system without moving parts that holds 4-to-5 times the cutlery in prior art dispensers. Its base unit holds multiple refillable dispensing modules each having a valley at the bottom of a vertically-extending storage channel with a length dimension shorter than the cutlery housed therein, thus stored utensils have angled stacking while moving downwardly toward the valley. When one end of the bottommost utensil engages the valley, it becomes locked into a horizontally-extending dispensing position with opposing end user accessible. The utensil in the dispensing position blocks removal of stacked utensils remaining in the channel. Only withdrawal of the bottommost utensil causes a next utensil to drop down into the locked dispensing position. This arrangement also prevents reinsertion of dispensed utensils. Cutlery of any design is usable with the dispensing system, and dispensing occurs equally well with the handle or opposite end engaging the valley.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2013Date of Patent: January 5, 2016Inventors: William J Knope, Frank L Lenge
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Patent number: 9016516Abstract: Pharmaceutical product dispensers (e.g., in the shape of a common ink pen) are operable to indicate information regarding a dosing schedule of a pharmaceutical product dispensable from the dispenser. Embodiments of the dispensers may include a plurality of dosing segments, each corresponding to a different dose of the pharmaceutical product. Actuation of an actuator may result in interaction between the actuator and the pharmaceutical product storage area such that a dose of pharmaceutical product contained in the pharmaceutical product storage area is dispensed, along with a corresponding advancement of the plurality of dosing segments. The dispenser may also include one or more locks to prevent unauthorized access to the pharmaceutical product (e.g., by a child or the like). Furthermore, the pharmaceutical product dispenser may include a disabling mechanism to permanently disable actuation of the actuator of the dispenser.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2011Date of Patent: April 28, 2015Assignee: Mallinckrodt LLCInventors: Vernon D. Ortenzi, Robert J. Ziemba, Frank M. Lewis, Geoffrey S. Strobl
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Patent number: 8978925Abstract: A paper towel cabinet includes a first side wall and a second side wall, a pivotally mounted front wall defining a door, a back wall extending between the side walls, and a paper towel tray having an opening to provide access to paper towels. The paper towel cabinet also includes a module assembly comprising a first module having a front surface extending transversely relative to the first side wall and toward the second side wall. When the door is in an open position, the front surface prevents paper towels leaning toward the door from falling out of the cabinet. The cabinet also includes a bar mounted proximate to the opening and having a length extending between the side walls. The bar is positioned between a stack of paper towels and the opening when the stack of paper towels is placed on the paper towel tray.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2009Date of Patent: March 17, 2015Assignee: Bobrick Washroom Equipment, Inc.Inventor: Dikran Babikian
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Patent number: 8955714Abstract: An apparatus for containing, transporting, dispensing and keeping an inventory of a plurality of same size cleco type fasteners has a tubular housing with an interior bore dimensioned to receive the plurality of cleco type fasteners through a proximal opening on the housing that is closed by a removable closure device. The distal end of the housing has a retention device that retains the forward most cleco type fastener inserted into the housing interior bore with a sufficient force that prevents the forward most cleco type fastener from being unintentionally removed from the housing distal end, but allows the forward most cleco type fastener to be manually grasped and pulled from the housing distal end.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2012Date of Patent: February 17, 2015Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Mark Brzon, Brian Louis Trimmell
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Patent number: 8820575Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure include a vending machine retrofitted with digital signage. According to an embodiment, a display panel is affixed to the window; a media player is coupled to the display panel; a cellular wide area network (WAN) radio is coupled to the media player; and a cellular antenna is coupled to the cellular WAN radio and affixed to the top surface of the vending machine.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2012Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Assignee: Convergent Media Systems CorporationInventor: Robert Nicholson
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Patent number: 8770436Abstract: A vending machine integrated table with a game function attached to automatically dispense product, or to sell product by causing the product to be acquired through manual operations by the user. The vending machine integrated table is provided with at least a top plate, and a vending machine beneath the top plate. The top plate is provided with one of either a displaying and accepting mechanism for displaying products that can be sold by the vending machine, and accepting instructions from users, or a window portion through which a product housing section that houses products can be visually confirmed. A product conveyor conveys product contained in the product housing section to a product dispensing slot provided at the product housing section.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2010Date of Patent: July 8, 2014Assignee: BLD Oriental, Ltd.Inventor: Yasushi Ochi
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Patent number: 8727178Abstract: A condiment packet dispenser that includes a cylindrical shaped housing containing an open top with a plurality of radially partitioned chambers. Each chamber contains a cylindrical shaped container that stores individual condiment packets in a radial manner. The dispenser is operated by pushing a button which sends a signal to a motor control board. The motor control board powers a motor having a spur gear which turns the selected condiment container until the condiment packet is aligned with a drop chute. The packet then falls thru the drop chute and is available for picking up by the customer. There is also a cylindrical shaped top lid which is removable when new condiments need to be loaded to replenish the dispenser. The condiment dispenser sits on top of a base stand that may either be rigidly mounted or may be rotated to choose a condiment.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2011Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Inventors: Irene Carter, Roger Henry Gagnon
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Publication number: 20140131377Abstract: The concept of “POOP-UP” is a pet leash retractor with a reflective leash. This device would be similar in construction to a standard retractable leash, with spring-loaded retracting unit. The unit would measure approximately 9 to 10 inches long, 3 inches wide, and 6 inches high, with a rear handle and release trigger. However the leash itself would feature a reflective or glowing design. In addition the unit would feature a button storage chamber that could store a battery-operated waste bag dispenser. The dispenser with feature a window to allow the user to see when the bags need refilled, and would have a top activation that would allow user to easily dispense a single bag. To use the POOP-UP the owner would simply attach the leash to the Pets collar as normal. The owner could then take the pet for a walk at night while secure knowledge that he/she and the pet could be easily be seen by motorist, bicyclists, and other. pedestrians.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2013Publication date: May 15, 2014Inventor: Selma Rogers
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Publication number: 20140124527Abstract: An automated produce department has a housing at least partially enclosing a display area and a window for viewing the display area. A plurality of produce supports each support a plurality of packages of produce in a vertical stack. The produce supports are disposed in a horizontal array such that the supports cooperate to display produce as a horizontal display viewable through the viewing window. Each of the produce supports have a vertically adjustable platform such that the platforms may be adjusted to position an uppermost package of produce in each of the vertical stacks at a display level generally in a display plane, and the uppermost packages are viewable through the viewing window. A retrieval system retrieves a package of produce from any of the produce supports and delivers the package to an output area.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 11, 2013Publication date: May 8, 2014Applicant: South Essex Fabricating Inc.Inventors: Peter Quiring, David Knelsen Dyck
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Patent number: 8712833Abstract: The subject application is directed to a system and method for selective control of advertising messages on distributed document processing devices. Device identification data is first received corresponding to the identity of networked document processing devices available for display of selected advertising content. Device selection data representing a selected subset of the networked document processing devices is then received, with the selection made in accordance with the received identification data. Next, customization data is received corresponding to a selected display parameter associated with the selected advertising content. The selected advertising content and the received customization data are then communicated to each of the networked document processing devices in the selected subset. Each of the document processing devices then commences the display of the selected advertising content in accordance with the customization data.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2008Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Tec Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Tony T. Quach, Peter Tran
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Patent number: 8646650Abstract: Dispensing systems and methods are disclosed that provide controlled advancement of product and provide controlled access to product stored within the system. Embodiments include a product pushing device having a track and a pusher that urges product stored on the track forward. Certain embodiments include mechanisms to limit the forward progression of the pusher along the track, such as a brake mechanism, and certain embodiments include mechanisms to block access to product located on the track. Some embodiments include mechanisms for providing a time delay in between the vending of products.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2011Date of Patent: February 11, 2014Assignee: Rock-Tenn Shared Services, LLCInventors: Thomas A. Lockwood, Roger K. Miller
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Patent number: 8640915Abstract: A gumball machine has a gumball container that holds a plurality of gumballs, a neck portion coupled to the gumball container and having an actuator and a gumball dispensing assembly that is coupled to the actuator for simultaneously releasing a plurality of gumballs from the gumball container when the actuator is actuated. The gumball machine also has a plurality of cylindrical supports, each having an upper end coupled to the neck portion, and a lower end having a side opening. A base is coupled to the lower end of each cylindrical support and has a bottom portion that is seated on a surface. Each side opening of each cylindrical support is positioned adjacent a ramp such that a gumball travelling through the cylindrical support is dispensed via the side opening to the ramp.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2012Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Assignee: Sweet N Fun, Ltd.Inventor: Francis M Arcega
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Publication number: 20140014675Abstract: A hygienic container having a transport configuration and a service configuration. The hygienic container is made up of multiple individual parts (2,3,4,5,6,7) and the packing volume of the hygienic container in the transport configuration is less than or equal to 50% of the packing volume of the hygienic container in the service configuration.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 29, 2012Publication date: January 16, 2014Applicant: SCA Hygiene Products ABInventors: Fabian Ingvarsson, Viktor Andersson
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Patent number: 8527089Abstract: A dispensing machine for dispensing items to customers comprising a cabinet having at least one window, a plurality of supports for supporting a plurality of different items to be dispensed to customers, a pointing device for selecting a desired item from the plurality of items, an indicator associated with the pointing device and operable to provide an indication, visible through the window, of which item is being selected by the pointing device without dispensing said selected item, and a dispensing mechanism for dispensing the selected item in response to a dispensing instruction.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2009Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Mars, Inc.Inventors: David Meacock, Neil Harrington
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Publication number: 20130213994Abstract: A gumball machine has a gumball container that holds a plurality of gumballs, a neck portion coupled to the gumball container and having an actuator and a gumball dispensing assembly that is coupled to the actuator for simultaneously releasing a plurality of gumballs from the gumball container when the actuator is actuated. The gumball machine also has a plurality of cylindrical supports, each having an upper end coupled to the neck portion, and a lower end having a side opening. A base is coupled to the lower end of each cylindrical support and has a bottom portion that is seated on a surface. Each side opening of each cylindrical support is positioned adjacent a ramp such that a gumball travelling through the cylindrical support is dispensed via the side opening to the ramp.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 16, 2012Publication date: August 22, 2013Applicant: SWEEN N FUN LTD.Inventor: Francis M. Arcega
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Patent number: 8443854Abstract: Two components slide with respect to one another, and hold a stack of cards. A first component includes three members extending into a chamber formed by its C-shaped cross-section. When the components are slid apart, the first card in the stack is partially exposed. The card is pushed back past the outer members providing resistance to prevent the cards from moving while allowing only the top card to be pushed past the outer appendages to expose the next card. When the components are pushed together, a bump on an L-shaped component assures that the cards are aligned in a stack. The two outer members include tangs at their terminations that retain a stack of cards within the chamber and prevent them from sliding past. Between the outer members, a central spring extends in an angled configuration into the chamber and presses against the cards and frictionally retains them in position within the chamber.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2007Date of Patent: May 21, 2013Inventor: Michael Long
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Patent number: 8417376Abstract: A method and device utilizing touch screen transparent LED means is shown for viewing a number of products, selecting one or more for investigation by displaying information concerning the selected items, choosing one for removal from the display of items and delivering the chosen item to a user.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2011Date of Patent: April 9, 2013Inventor: Christopher M. Smolen
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Publication number: 20120298687Abstract: A gumball machine includes a gumball container that holds a plurality of gumballs, a neck portion coupled to the gumball container, the neck portion having a coin slot for receiving a coin, and a gumball dispensing assembly that releases a gumball from the gumball container when a coin is inserted into the coin slot. The gumball machine further includes an elongated housing having an upper end coupled to the neck portion, the housing holding coins that have been inserted through the coin slot. A base is coupled to the lower end of the housing and has a bottom portion that is seated on a surface. A spiral ramp has a mouth coupled to the neck portion, the spiral ramp connected around the housing for allowing a dispensed gumball to roll downwardly.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 23, 2011Publication date: November 29, 2012Inventor: Chi Yin Yeung
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Publication number: 20120298688Abstract: A robotic retail wall is presented allowing for the dispensing of merchandise within a retail location. The robotic wall includes commodity products and robotics that pick and deliver products to consumers in response to input at a kiosk. The robotics and products are separated from a retail space by a transparent barrier, allowing consumers in the retail space to view the actions of the robotics in retrieving a product. Behind the robotic wall is a product stocking area, where commodity products can be added to the robotic wall with assistance from the robotics.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 31, 2012Publication date: November 29, 2012Applicant: BBY SOLUTIONS, INC.Inventor: Chad Stiernagle
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Publication number: 20120286038Abstract: A sanitary dispensing device for dispensing and storing products is disclosed. The sanitary dispensing device comprises a product display area for displaying products or pictures of products, product selection switches for selecting a product for purchase, a payment exchange area for receiving payment, and a product retrieval area for retrieving purchased products. The sanitary dispensing device further comprises a removable display for displaying information such as product information, instructional information, or dynamic advertising. The sanitary dispensing device further comprises an ultraviolet light module for performing sterilization procedures on the products, product packages, and currency. The sanitary dispensing device further comprises a hands sterilization module for sterilizing a user's hands.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 12, 2011Publication date: November 15, 2012Inventor: Ming-Yuan WU
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Publication number: 20120255968Abstract: A carton for dispensing consumable wrapped products, such as cereal bars, power bars, granola bars or other snacks. The carton may include a front panel, a back panel, opposing side panels, a top panel and a bottom panel. The carton may include a perforated opening portion that is removable from the carton and defines an opening through which one or more products may be dispensed. The carton may also include an inventory window that allows visual access to one or more products within the carton.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 5, 2012Publication date: October 11, 2012Applicant: THE QUAKER OATS COMPANYInventors: ALLISON NICOLE KARAY, JULIE ALLYSON SALIBA, LINDSAY MARIE DELANEY, RACHEL LEVIN FIELY
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Publication number: 20120199601Abstract: A container device for storing, singulating and dispensing rigid and semi-rigid strips such as diagnostic test strips. A plurality of strips is contained and protected within a transparent container having an internal capture element for capturing and positioning a single strip adjacent a narrow normally-closed dispensing aperture. The aperture is exposed by rotating a spring-loaded container top cap to an open position. A detachable container base cap contains a desiccant and is replaceable. An optional stand stores the device in an upright position, and incorporates a tool to facilitate removal of the base cap for replenishing the container's contents or replacing the desiccant. A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag can be incorporated for electronic inventory control. The device can also be used as an integrated test strip container/single strip dispensing means for an automated analyte meter module.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2011Publication date: August 9, 2012Inventor: Kevin G. Sawa
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Publication number: 20120193372Abstract: A medical dispenser for storing and dispensing electrodes includes a housing having a front member and a back member, at least one electrode strip disposed between the front member and the back member of the housing and an actuator mounted to the front member of the housing and adapted to engage the at least one electrode strip. The electrode strip includes a strip member and a plurality of electrodes mounted to the strip member. The actuator is movable relative to the front member such that movement of the actuator results in corresponding movement of the at least one electrode strip to dispense an electrode from the housing. The actuator may be adapted to engage an electrode of the at least one electrode strip. In one embodiment, the actuator is adapted to engage a male terminal of the electrode.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 29, 2011Publication date: August 2, 2012Applicant: Tyco Healthcare Group LPInventors: Scott Coggins, Rachel Starr, Scott Holmes, Steve T. Wilson, David R. Swisher, David T. Middleton, JR., Michael W. Konieczny, Robert L. Naas, Paul Eric Carlson
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Patent number: 8170713Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for selection of vendible products provides designated product reference areas at a refrigerated double glass front vending machine for making viewable product selections thereon by applying a light tap at its outer glass pane and sensing the tap location by three or more spaced apart resilient members each having its first portion attached at the inner glass pane. The resilient member's second portion suspends an inertia mass that reciprocates at a predetermined rate due to the inertia mass weight and the resiliency of the suspending member. A sensor senses the reciprocating movement in response to the light tap. The location of the tap is determined by measuring the arrival time of each predetermined signal produced by the first resonating alternation of its attached resiliently suspended inertia mass during the first rearward movement of the inner glass pane.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2009Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: Coin Acceptors, Inc.Inventors: Joseph Levasseur, Mark Leibu
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Publication number: 20120067917Abstract: A merchandise dispensing apparatus for providing theft deterrence includes a housing defining an interior space adapted to hold a plurality of associated products. A vending door is mounted to the housing for selectively allowing access to the interior space. A bar is provided on which the associated products are supported, the bar extending in the interior space of the housing. An advancing assembly is disposed in the housing for urging product supported on the bar in a direction towards the vending door.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 15, 2011Publication date: March 22, 2012Inventors: Shane Obitts, Gregory M. Bird, Gerald Szpak
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Publication number: 20120048878Abstract: The invention relates to a modular automated tool dispenser comprising at least one tool delivery module with at least one tool compartment containing a plurality of tools that are combined to form tool classes and with a plurality of tool conveying devices, each device being associated with one of the tool classes and conveying tools of one class to a tool delivery point. Each tool class is defined by the tool type, tool size and/or the tool weight as a tool parameter. The dispenser also comprises a tool selection device for selecting the desired tool class and the number of tools to be delivered and for activating the tool conveying device that is associated with the selected tool class.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2011Publication date: March 1, 2012Applicant: Guehring OHGInventors: Hans Bürger, Steffen Klaus Lang
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Publication number: 20120012607Abstract: A product dispenser particularly suited for relatively thin products such as packs of gum incorporates a housing with a front wall that pivots downwardly to allow the interior to be stocked with the product. The front wall includes a slot opening and a tray extends through the slot opening to dispense product. The handle of the tray is pulled away from the unit causing the tray to push the lowest most product through the slot pushed by a raised rear portion of the tray. The raised rear portion also prevents the next lowest product from falling on the tray when it is in extended position. The tray is then retracted by a spring, and the next lower product drops on the tray and is ready for dispensing.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2011Publication date: January 19, 2012Inventors: James J. Kopco, Joseph L. Walton
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Publication number: 20110315706Abstract: A system for controlling advancement of and access to product housed within a device. Systems and devices include a pushing assembly having a track, a pusher, and a stop for restricting forward movement of the pusher when the stop is engaged. The device also includes a door assembly that has an open position and a closed position, an engaging mechanism that engages the stop when the door assembly is in the open position, and a blocker mechanism that restricts consumer access to product located behind the door assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 19, 2011Publication date: December 29, 2011Inventors: Thomas A. Lockwood, Roger K. Miller
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Publication number: 20110315707Abstract: A dispenser for dispensing tissue paper, in particular kitchen paper, kitchen towels, facial tissues, toilet paper and/or napkins. The dispenser includes an inner core for receiving the tissue paper to be dispensed. The inner core has a dispensing opening for dispensing the tissue paper. The dispenser includes an outer shell arranged to receive the inner core. The outer shell has a dispensing opening which is aligned with the dispensing opening of the inner core when received in the outer shell. The outer shell has at least one long side and at least one short side. The outer shell has at least one open side situated perpendicular to the wall carrying the dispensing opening of the outer shell and is situated in the long side. The inner core is insertable into the outer shell in a direction perpendicular to the long side.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2009Publication date: December 29, 2011Applicant: SCA HYGIENE PRODUCTS ABInventor: Stina Kleinhuber
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Patent number: 8061557Abstract: A golf ball dispenser which attaches to the exterior surface of a golf bag that is upright, rectangular, and capable of holding a plurality of golf balls, is herein disclosed. The dispenser is made of a durable yet flexible plastic material. Stored balls are added through the top of the dispenser through an upper opening. The balls can either be inserted one (1) at a time or in “as-purchased” quantities. In use, to remove a golf ball, the lowest ball is forced upward through a flexible retaining tab, thus releasing the ball through a bottom aperture. The dispenser is attachable to a golf bag with a fastening means.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2009Date of Patent: November 22, 2011Inventor: Joshua Torrance