Packing Or Stacking Arrangements Patents (Class 222/143)
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Patent number: 5711445Abstract: A reusable, collapsible urine container includes a bottom wall and a relatively flexible, peripheral side wall extending upwardly from the bottom wall. The peripheral side wall includes upper, intermediate and lower concentric portions and an uppermost inclined or non-concentric portion extending upwardly and angularly from the upper concentric portion. The intermediate concentric portion has a wall thickness less than the upper and lower concentric portions, such that the peripheral side wall movable between axially extended and collapsed positions, wherein, in the collapsed position, the lower concentric side wall portion is partially telescoped within the upper concentric side wall portion with the intermediate concentric portion reverse folded therebetween. The uppermost or non-concentric portion is formed with an annular rim defining an upper open end of the container, the rim adapted to receive a removable cap. A handle is integrally formed in the peripheral side wall.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 1994Date of Patent: January 27, 1998Inventor: Edward S. Robbins, III
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Patent number: 5702034Abstract: Material handling apparatus shown is a pallet made in one piece from plastic material, having a surface in the form of a ring for supporting a container (not shown), the pallet is arranged in use to provide for discharge of material from a container of flowable (particulate) material, and for stacking and nesting with another similar pallet. The ring is a clamp ring which receives a similar ring of a container which rings can be clamped together by a suitable device to provide a unitary arrangement so that the pallet, or base, and the container can be filled and transported in one location, and discharged at a discharge station. The pallet thus includes the discharge means comprising a conical discharge outlet with a cone valve which can be operated with total containment at a discharge station by use of suitable valves.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 1995Date of Patent: December 30, 1997Assignee: Matcon LimitedInventor: Ivan Semenenko
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Patent number: 5687881Abstract: An improved apparatus for conveying solid particulate material which includes a generally flexible receptacle fixedly situated within a frame. The receptacle has a top, a bottom, at least one wall defining an interior and a longitudinal axis perpendicular with the top and bottom. The improvement comprises a dump structure at the bottom comprising a dump aperture, a first flap, and a second flap. The first flap has a first connection along a first flap width with the wall and with the frame adjacent to the dump aperture, extends a first length from the first connection, and is swingable about the first connection from a first position blocking the dump aperture toward an open position. The second flap has a second connection along a second width with the wall and with the frame adjacent to the dump aperture and is swingable about the second connection from a closed position blocking the dump aperture toward an open position.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 1995Date of Patent: November 18, 1997Assignee: Bandag, IncorporatedInventors: Michael W. Rouse, Lowell C. Sundermann
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Patent number: 5680961Abstract: A system for supplying molten thermoplastic material to a dispenser has a hopper assembly which is made up of one or more hopper units each having opposite side walls being generally parallel to each other, the inlet and the outlet having generally the same cross section, so that the hopper units can be stacked on top of each other to increase the capacity of the hopper assembly. The hopper assembly might be supported on a plurality of reservoir blocks, with the hopper assembly straddling the plurality of reservoir blocks to supply melted material to all of the reservoirs. At least one isolator may be provided for thermally isolating one of the hopper units from the reservoir block and for thermally isolating the hopper units from each other, the isolator comprising a band of insulating material positioned between the flanges of the hopper unit and the reservoir block. The hopper assembly is preferably attached to the reservoir block by a plurality of clamps.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 1995Date of Patent: October 28, 1997Assignee: Nordson CorporationInventors: George E. Boccagno, Carl C. Cucuzza, Richard D. Leyva, Shahid A. Siddiqui
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Patent number: 5673817Abstract: An all-purpose dispensing unit for dispensing liquid products such as milk, cream, juices, iced tea, water, liquid eggs, fruit drinks, lemonade, wine, and other liquids, and for dispensing bulk products such as salad dressings and condiments including ketchup and mustard, comprises a cabinet having a chamber adapted to receive one or more cartridges with each cartridge containing a different selected liquid to be dispensed. Each cartridge comprises a container for holding the liquid, a front door panel on the cartridge adapted to close the front wall opening of the cabinet chamber to prevent the escape of cold air from the chamber and act as a door to the cabinet chamber, and a dispensing valve extending outwardly from the front door panel and connected to the liquid in the container.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 1995Date of Patent: October 7, 1997Assignee: Rapid Cartridge Dispensing Systems, Inc.Inventors: James T. Mullen, Joseph F. Mullen, Jr.
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Patent number: 5673820Abstract: A juice dispenser for providing a known quantity of juice at each dispensing cycle, wherein a supply of juice concentrate is transferred by a hose to a dispensing head and wherein a controller monitors a pressure transducer connected to one of the hose and a dispensing head so that the controller can determine a viscosity value of the juice concentrate based on readings of the pressure transducer and accordingly determine a count indicative of the volume of the juice concentrate dispensed in such a manner that the controller can adjust the count depending upon the viscosity value determined at each dispense cycle. The juice dispenser dispenses juice concentrate and water into cups supported by a thermally insulated tray wherein the tray has at least one cavity for receiving thermal material and which supports an insulation plate that carries the group of cups in such a manner that temperature variation is minimized so as to maintain the temperature of the juice within a desired range.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 1995Date of Patent: October 7, 1997Assignee: ABC Dispensing Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Thomas S. Green, Melvin H. Davis
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Patent number: 5671870Abstract: The invention provides a container for holding dry products. The container is a container portion mounted to a base. The container portion has sloping sides with a slope greater than the angle of repose of the dry product. The container and base form a box shape that allows maximum packing and stacking of containers. The invention minimizes hazardous waste and dust produced by conventional paper sacks used for storing pesticides.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1996Date of Patent: September 30, 1997Assignee: FMC CorporationInventors: William Francis Megargle, Wayne Michael Bruhn, Steven Lee Clements
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Patent number: 5667104Abstract: A directional dispensing package which is easily shipped, filled and assembled is disclosed. The package includes a retaining opening into which a modular pump is snap-fit by inserting the modular pump through an open end of the package. The package also includes a upstanding wall portion, which provides a dispensing actuator locking and sealing mechanism, as well as a tamper-evident tab. The package and pump are assembled at a production site, and are thereafter shipped to a filling site with a bottom portion. The package is filled through the open bottom end, and then the bottom portion is sealingly affixed to the package. The package may include an integrally-molded dip tube structure and a bottom portion with specific structure for allowing easy assembly while preventing leakage. Accordingly, the device of the present invention can be filled and finally assembled with a minimal number of steps, and is therefore particularly suited for quick-turnaround marketing.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 1994Date of Patent: September 16, 1997Inventor: Philip Meshberg
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Patent number: 5613622Abstract: A container for containing flowable material comprises a rigid tank having a top opening therein for filling the tank with flowable material. A bottom opening in the lowermost portion of the tank for evacuating the flowable material. A cap seals the top opening in the tank and a piping assembly is connected to the bottom opening. A collapsible bladder inside the tank prevents the flowable material from coming into contact with the tank. A mating top cover and bottom base assembly are shaped to receive and enclose the tank. The piping assembly includes a dispensing spout which utilizes a spout, a dry-lock or a spring valve.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 1995Date of Patent: March 25, 1997Assignee: ISK Biosciences CorporationInventors: Braden J. Surrena, Kenneth D. Peters
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Patent number: 5601211Abstract: A dispenser assembly for dispensing liquid from a container has a dispenser operable remotely from the container by way of a tube communicating the dispenser and the liquid within the container. The dispenser assembly has a hand-held dispenser and a tube connected to the dispenser for extension into the liquid within the container. The dispenser is operable to dispense liquid from the container by way of the tube. An adaptor is secured to the container with the tube operable for extending from the dispenser, through the adaptor, and into the container. With the dispenser disconnected from the adaptor and with the adaptor secured to the container, the dispenser may be operated remotely from the container to dispense the liquid from the container.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 1995Date of Patent: February 11, 1997Assignee: Contico International, Inc.Inventor: Donald D. Foster
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Patent number: 5598953Abstract: The invention provides a container for holding dry products. The container is a container portion mounted to a base. The container portion has sloping sides with a slope greater than the angle of repose of the dry product. The container and base form a box shape that allows maximum packing and stacking of containers. The invention minimizes hazardous waste and dust produced by conventional paper sacks used for storing pesticides.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 1994Date of Patent: February 4, 1997Assignee: FMC CorporationInventors: William F. Megargle, Wayne M. Bruhn, Steven L. Clements
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Patent number: 5588561Abstract: A portable food container for use in holding dry and liquid foods for consumption. The container allows an individual to consume a combination of dry cereal and cold milk in a remote location away from the kitchen without the use of a bowl and a spoon. The portable food container is inverted to allow dry cereal to flow therefrom, and squeezed to allow milk to flow therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 1995Date of Patent: December 31, 1996Inventor: Richard B. Ness
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Patent number: 5566862Abstract: In accordance with the invention, a liquid dispensing fitment for use on a container having a neck comprises a plastic body which has an inner wall defining an axial spout extending from within the neck of a container and axially beyond the end of the neck. The body has an outer annular wall spaced from the spout and connected to the spout by an integral annular connecting portion. The spout extends axially beyond the outer wall and has an upper generally C-shaped cross section defining an opening and a lower annular cross section. The annular connecting portion is inclined with respect to the axis of the spout and has its lowermost portion aligned with the opening of the C-shaped portion of said spout. The outer wall has an axial opening extending from a position aligned with the juncture of the C-shaped portion and annular portion of the spout through the annular connecting portion to define a combined drain back opening and a near empty pour out hole.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 1994Date of Patent: October 22, 1996Assignee: Owens-Illinois Closure Inc.Inventors: Eugene F. Haffner, Thomas P. Royce, John M. Shingle
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Patent number: 5535908Abstract: A receptacle device includes two or more containers for accommodating milk powder separately. The containers each includes an open upper end having an outer thread formed in the outer peripheral portion. An annular flange extends downward from the bottom plate and has an inner thread for engaging with the outer thread. A cover may engage with the open upper end for enclosing the container. A mouth is formed in each of the containers for pouring the milk powder. Two or more caps may engage with and may enclose the mouth.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 1994Date of Patent: July 16, 1996Inventor: Miin-Tsang Sheu
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Patent number: 5509577Abstract: A medium-sized portable container for holding and dispensing such fluids as aircraft engine oil is formed from durable, corrosion-resistant polymeric material such as high density polyethylene. The container, which has a generally rectangularly parallelepipedal shape, is positioned with its longest dimension parallel to the ground to enhance stability and permit stacking. The container is divided into two compartments, one holding the fluid to be dispensed and the other enclosing an electrically driven pump and other dispensing equipment. Controls are provided to shut off current flow automatically when the dispensing pump is not operating.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 1994Date of Patent: April 23, 1996Assignee: Core IncorporatedInventor: Robert D. Benson
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Patent number: 5485920Abstract: A Stackable Space Saving Container is disclosed which can be stored or transported in square cases with virtually no wasted space. This container is substantially rectangular having a diagonally slanting upper surface so as to form a rectangular cube when joined with another Stackable Space Saving Container of like size. The container is supplied with a handle and neck as well as a receptacle for each when a pair of Stackable Space Saving Containers are joined. A further embodiment uses a vent tube along the pouring edge of the container so as to allow for quick splash free pours.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 1994Date of Patent: January 23, 1996Inventor: Lawrence E. Fritz
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Patent number: 5435467Abstract: A dispenser for a container having a pouring spout being integral with a spout portion and being disposed a retaining wall. The pouring spout of the dispenser is configured to allow orientation specific stacking whereby a spout portion is stacked onto a previously formed spout portion to form a stack of spout portions being aligned in the same direction. The dispenser includes an integral flow opening formed through an underside of the floor between the retaining wall and the pouring spout. The flow opening is coplaner with a horizontal plane through a juncture of the neck and the shoulder of the container and provides a channel through which the contents of the container can flow unobstructedly between the shoulder of the container and the lower end of the spout portion, which diminishes the amount of residual contents left within the container.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 1994Date of Patent: July 25, 1995Assignee: Phoenix Closures, Inc.Inventors: Len Ekkert, Bridgett E. Zemlo
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Patent number: 5375741Abstract: A container (10) for carrying bulk materials includes a body portion (12) having an open top, a cover (11) to close the open top, and a base portion (13) holding the body portion. The base portion (13) has sidewalls (39) which cradle the sidewalls (25) of the body portion (12), which sidewalls (25) are tapered so that the container (10) can be nested within a like container. Material to be discharged from the container may pass through a valve (33) positioned in a recess (32) in a sidewall (25) of the base portion (12). A preferably flexible liner (14) may be received in body portion (12) and includes a peripheral cuff (46) for attachment to the cover (11) and base portion (12). The liner (14) also has a tube (44) which can communicate with the valve (33) for discharge of the material from the liner (14).Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 1993Date of Patent: December 27, 1994Assignee: Encon, Inc.Inventor: Jack E. Harris
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Patent number: 5353965Abstract: A bottle which may be in a straight-up position for storage and in an inverted position for dispensing of condiments, such as ketchup, mayonnaise, mustard, etc. The top has a cap which may be removed and replaced by a dispensing nozzle. The bottom has two parallel ridge members and has a hole in the flat area therebetween that is closable with a tethered plug. When the bottle is ready to be used for dispensing condiments, the cap is replaced with the dispensing nozzle and the bottle is turned upside down. At this time, the tethered plug is removed so as to release pressure in the bottle so its contents may escape through the dispensing nozzle. The bottle is of shape and weight so that when inverted and hung on a stand, it will hang properly perpendicular to the ground. The bottles are also shaped so that they will nestle against one another with very little clearance.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 1993Date of Patent: October 11, 1994Inventor: Gary K. Lee
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Patent number: 5318198Abstract: The invention relates to containers for hot melt adhesives containing isocyanate compounds and to such containers used with heated platen dispensing equipment for the hot melt. More particularly, the invention relates to containers and dispensers for isocyanate containing adhesives that can dispense the adhesive to a use locus without generating toxic concentrations of isocyanate compounds in the environment around the dispenser. The isocyanate compounds are sealed within the containers during dispensing, preventing the generation of a toxic concentration of isocyanate in the environment or the atmosphere during dispensing operations.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 1992Date of Patent: June 7, 1994Assignee: H.B. Fuller Licensing & Financing Inc.Inventors: Lawrence L. Micek, Michael J. Maksymkiw
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Patent number: 5316159Abstract: A dual bottle container has two bottles which are releasably interlocked together in side-by-side relation by a plateau on one of the bottles which engages a depression on the other bottle for transverse sliding movement. The plateau is bordered at opposite sides by rounded lip portions and the depression is bordered at opposite sides by rounded groove portions, the lip portions and the groove portions engaging each other to prevent undesired relative movement between the two bottles.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 1992Date of Patent: May 31, 1994Assignee: Plastic Processing CorporationInventors: Jerry A. Douglas, Godfried Schmidt
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Patent number: 5313393Abstract: Apparatus for controlling dissemination of garments. First and second rotatable cassettes are provided, one of which is used to store clean garments, the other of which serves as a depository for soiled garments. Each of the rotatable cassettes has an access door which permits access to a shelf segment of each cassette. A processor is provided which will generate first and second actuating signals for unlocking the doors of the cassette. An actuating signal is generated by the processor when a card reader recognizes a user access card, and determines tht the user's account status is in order. Each time a deposit is received, or a clean garment dispensed, the user's account status is brought up to date, reflecting the transaction. Thus, users who have not returned garments, and have too many account debits may not receive a new garment.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 1992Date of Patent: May 17, 1994Inventors: Clem Varley, John A. Varley, Richard P. Varley
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Patent number: 5307956Abstract: A disposable and recyclable plastic container for use in a post-mix beverage dispensing system includes first and second openings at a top end thereof. The container may be filled with syrup through the first opening and withdrawn by a pump through the second opening. The second opening is defined by an upper end of a tube, which is integrally formed with the container by blow-molding. The tube extends from the top end of the container, down the exterior of the container sidewall and through the bottom. As syrup is withdrawn, the first opening, or an associated vent, vents the container to assist in the withdrawal of syrup. The second opening and tube have a valve actuator therein for a spring-loaded valve in a conventional quick-disconnect coupling such as used in bag-in-box type systems.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 1991Date of Patent: May 3, 1994Assignee: The Coca-Cola CompanyInventors: Simon J. Richter, Frank G. Hohmann
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Patent number: 5299689Abstract: A blow-molded toothpaste tube being rectangular-oval in configuration for display without a carton, and having a bottom and top narrow, flat, parallel panels and wider front and rear panels for brand identification and indicia. The tubes are stackable horizontally on one of the narrow panels to a selected vertical height on a shelf.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 1993Date of Patent: April 5, 1994Inventor: William Ledewitz
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Patent number: 5277332Abstract: A bathroom dispenser for containing and dispensing health-related products, cups and toothpaste from a tube, including several longitudinally-extending containers each having a bottom end, an open top end for receiving the health-related product and dispensing means at the bottom end for dispensing the health related product. The dispenser also includes a longitudinally-extending cup dispenser disposed adjacent to the containers and having a bottom end, an open top end for receiving cups and flexible retaining means at the bottom end for singly dispensing the cups. The dispenser also includes a longitudinally-extending toothpaste dispenser disposed adjacent to the containers for receiving a tube of toothpaste having a flat crimped end and a threaded open end. The toothpaste dispenser has a bottom with an aperture and an open top end for receiving the tube of toothpaste so that the threaded open end extends through the aperture.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 1993Date of Patent: January 11, 1994Inventor: Isabel Rogers
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Patent number: 5226551Abstract: This invention relates to reusable and re-collapsible containers, and particularly to a one-piece container having a peripheral side wall which is arranged to include areas of differential wall thickness and diameter to thereby permit collapse of the container from an extended to a collapsed condition by reason of a telescoping relationship between the various portions of the peripheral side wall. Holders are also disclosed for optional use with the container.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1991Date of Patent: July 13, 1993Inventor: Edward S. Robbins, III
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Patent number: 5207250Abstract: A container having a contractible body for storing a liquid is provided with a nonreturn valve in a neck outlet to permit dispensing of the liquid from the container while preventing external air or liquid from flowing into the container in order to preserve the freshness of any residual liquid. The collapsibility of the container provides indication of any residual liquid volume and plural empty containers may be joined together to minimize space occupancy and facilitating recycling.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 1991Date of Patent: May 4, 1993Inventor: Ye-Ming Tsao
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Patent number: 5203836Abstract: A mixing bowl set is disclosed comprising nestable bowls (2,4), each having a radiussed sidewalls (8), and a downturned upper rim flange (14). The rim flange (14) has a lower edge 20 which is spaced apart from the sidewall (8) a distance which varies from a maximun at the rearward end (24) of the bowl to a minimum at the forward end (26). Accordingly, a channel (22) is defined below the rim flange (14) which is wider at the rearward end, sufficiently so to admit the digits of a hand, whereby making the rearward portion of the flange (14) a handle for the bowl. A pourspout (28) is provided in the forward end of the rim flange (14) and is configured to be entirely below flange (14). Accordingly, there are no projections beyond the rim flange of the bowl throughout its entire circumference which could interfere with the nesting of one bowl into a like-configured larger bowl.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 1992Date of Patent: April 20, 1993Assignee: Rubbermaid IncorporatedInventors: William E. Brazis, David L. Feer
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Patent number: 5163587Abstract: A syrup delivery system including a plurality of open-top, sturdy plastic containers and syrup bags. Each bag is positionable in a separate container with the bag spigot thereof extending accessible out through a container end opening. The open gridwork bottom of the container slopes to the container end opening so that the syrup in the bag can drain more completely out through the spigot with the container supported on a flat level surface. The containers have top locking posts, bottom stacking feet, and undulating-like sides. With the containers aligned so that their end openings face the same direction, the containers can be stacked one on top of the other with the posts of the bottom container engaging up into the feet of the top container. To unstack, the top container is tilted forward, the posts and feet thereby disengage, and the tilted top container easily slid down the sloping front lip of the lower container.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 1992Date of Patent: November 17, 1992Assignees: Rehrig-Pacific Co., Pepsi-Cola CompanyInventors: William P. Apps, Arne Lang-Ree, W. Joseph Yelder
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Patent number: 5158191Abstract: A dual container is disclosed having two bottles which are releasably interlocked together in side-by-side relation by a mortise and tenon. The bottles are held together to prevent undesired relative movement between the two bottles. A single cap covers both bottles. The cap has a separate outlet for each bottle which may be opened independently of each other.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 1991Date of Patent: October 27, 1992Assignee: Plastic Processing CorporationInventors: Jerry A. Douglas, Godfried Schmidt
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Patent number: 5158209Abstract: Described is a package for flowable media and having tube-like side walls (1, 1'), bottom and top walls (6, 6') and a closable pourer (7); all parts of the pacakage consists of synthetic plastics material. For more competitively priced production, ease of stacking and a reliable sealing-tight and yet easily opened closure, according to the invention two tub-shaped parts (I, II), each forming an entire side wall (3'), two oppositely disposed and adjacent half side wall parts (1'), a half bottom part and a half upper wall part (6') with a half pourer device (7 to 9), are in each case sealed and connected to each other individually by a synthetic plastics film which rests on and projects outwardly beyond the rim (13) in the form of a web (15), and in that the cylindrical edge (8) of the pourer device (7) extends beyond the web (15) of the synthetic plastics film (14) onto both tub-shaped parts (I, II) and in that the thickness of the synthetic plastics film is 0.01 to 0.5 times and preferably substantially 0.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 1990Date of Patent: October 27, 1992Assignee: Tetra Pak Holdings & Finance S.A.Inventors: Wilhelm Reil, Ulrich Deutschbein, Gerd Knobloch, Udo Liebram
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Patent number: 5143255Abstract: The invention relates to containers for hot melt adhesives containing isocyanate compounds and to such containers used with heated platen dispensing equipment for the hot melt. More particularly, the invention relates to containers and dispensers for isocyanate containing adhesives that can dispense the adhesive to a use locus without generating toxic concentrations of isocyanate compounds in the environment around the dispenser. The isocyanate compounds are sealed within the containers during dispensing, preventing the generation of a toxic concentration of isocyanate in the environment or the atmosphere during dispensing operations.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 1990Date of Patent: September 1, 1992Assignee: H. B. Fuller CompanyInventor: Lawrence L. Micek
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Patent number: 5131568Abstract: A modular storage and dispenser system which is expandable to any number of reversibly joined, aligned modules, includes a pump for dispensing fluids, mounted through a front wall of a module, aligned in the front wall so that a portion of the external force received by the pump for operation of the pump is vectored at an angle that is oblique to the wall in order to reduce breaking force on the wall. The pump is oriented for dispensing forward and clear of the front wall, and to permit filling of the module while the pump is being operated for emptying the module.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 1990Date of Patent: July 21, 1992Inventor: Paul G. Ringuette
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Patent number: 5125537Abstract: A dispensing device is produced which is useful for dispensing a plurality of liquids which comprises a geometrically shaped base having secured thereto a geometrically shape centrally disposed member which is hollow in the center, a plurality of containers geometrically shaped to be placed on the base with one surface of each contacting the top surface of the base and another surface of each container contacting the centrally disposed member, each container having openable and closeable orifices for dispensing the liquid contained therein.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 1991Date of Patent: June 30, 1992Inventors: Jana Slapin, Barbara Slapin
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Patent number: 5125538Abstract: A child-resistant molded container lid assembly for an open head container, wherein a closure having a pouring spout is fixedly secured to the top edge of the container. A lid having an integral cap portion is threadably connected to the container and the spout portion, wherein the cap portion closes the pouring spout. The cap portion of the lid is provided with a shock absorber to prevent damage to the cap portion and associated pouring spout during the transportation and/or stacking of the filled container.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 1990Date of Patent: June 30, 1992Inventor: Glenn H. Morris, Sr.
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Patent number: 5119972Abstract: The present invention provides a container for use in a closed application system for liquid or granular agricultural treatment agents. The agent is introduced into the container through an inlet opening on the upper surface of the container. Thereafter, a valve is removably mounted to seal the inlet opening and prevent inadvertant discharge of the liquid from the container. Hand grips are provided to manipulate the container, and the container is configured so that it nested or stacked on other similar containers having valves extending from the respective inlet openings when the containers are transported in an upright position. The handgrips are also employed to mount the containers in an inverted position in agricultural application equipment.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 1989Date of Patent: June 9, 1992Assignee: American Cyanamid CompanyInventors: David Reed, Frank D. Tenne, Patrick D. Holverson, Jeffrey A. Hoffman
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Patent number: 5105858Abstract: A stackable, lightweight water dispenser bottle and method of using a plurality of such bottles in conjunction with a conventional water cooler is disclosed. The bottle comprises a generally parallelepipedal container body with rounded edges and corners with a plurality of dimples in a top portion and complementarily shaped protuberances on a bottom portion. The top portion has a central depression therein with a round hole surrounded by a cylindrical collar sealed by a screw-on cap. A neck portion rising from a central depression in the bottom portion terminates in an opening communicating with the interior of the container body and is sealed with a plastic cap after the water bottle is filled. A first such water bottle can be inverted and sealingly inserted into the opening at the top of a water cooler to partially fill the cooler.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 1990Date of Patent: April 21, 1992Inventor: Lionel R. Levinson
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Patent number: 5104002Abstract: A portioning dispenser for dispensing food items from bulk item containers is disclosed in which the dispenser can open and empty a bulk container and dispense a portion of its contents. In one embodiment, a container can be slit open and tipped on a pivotable platform to spill its contents to a feeder for further distribution while retaining a stack of unopened boxes thereabove. In some embodiments, the dispenser can discard an emptied container and replace it with an unopened container moved from a container hopper. In other embodiments, a vibrating feeder is used to shake emptied items into a transfer tray for weighing and dispensing. Additionally, a method for dispensing portions of bulk food items from bulk containers is disclosed which employs several of the steps mentioned above.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 1990Date of Patent: April 14, 1992Assignee: Restaurant Technology, Inc.Inventors: Robert L. Cahlander, David W. Carroll, Gregory A. Lawrence, Brian R. Rudesill
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Patent number: 5085346Abstract: A kit for facilitating bulk shipment, storage and dispensing of fluids, comprising in combination: a carton having an internal cavity divided into a main chamber and a second chamber; a first deformable flap for providing a reclosable first passageway into the main chamber; a second deformable flap for providing a reclosable passageway into the second chamber; a window rendering a portion of the main chamber visible from outside the carton; a transparent collapsible container positioned inside the main chamber for storing and dispensing fluids; a retractable/extendable dispensing spigot communicating with the interior of the container; and a transparent portable dispenser removably housed in the second chamber. The dispensing spigot is extendable from a first, shipping position, wherein it is retracted to a position within the main chamber to a second, dispensing position, wherein it is extended through the first passageway and secured in the extended position by the first deformable flap.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 1990Date of Patent: February 4, 1992Inventor: Danny J. Wright
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Patent number: 5064101Abstract: A disposable and recyclable plastic container for use in a post-mix beverage dispensing system includes first and second openings at a top end thereof. The container may be filled with syrup through the first opening and withdrawn by a pump through the second opening. The second opening is defined by an upper end of a tube, which is integrally formed with the container by blow-molding. The tube extends from the top end of the container, down the exterior of the container sidewall and through the bottom. As syrup is withdrawn, the first opening, or an associated vent, vents the container to assist the withdrawl of syrup. The second opening and tube have a valve actuator therein for a spring-loaded valve in a conventional quick-disconnect coupling such as used in bag-in-box type systems. The top and bottom of the container have complementary shapes to permit vertical nesting and stacking of plural like containers.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 1989Date of Patent: November 12, 1991Assignee: The Coca-Cola CompanyInventors: Simon J. Richter, Frank G. Hohmann
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Patent number: 5064100Abstract: A system for creating liquid gradients is disclosed, comprising at least two containers that can be manufactured separately, such as by molding plastic. Each container has an outlet near the bottom and an air vent near the top, and the outlets are connected via tubing to a receiving device in which the liquids are mixed. One container has a horizontal cross-section which decreases as a function of vertical position between the top and bottom of the container; the other container has a horizontal cross-section which increases vertically in a complementary manner. The containers preferably are held together by a rack or other means. As the liquids drain from both containers simultaneously, they remain in hydrostatic balance with each other.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 1990Date of Patent: November 12, 1991Inventor: Andrew Mural
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Patent number: 5024354Abstract: A collapsible dispensing container provided with a conical-shaped head portion having a central opening and a multilaminate tubular body. One end of the tubular body is folded over and defines an annular space between the folded over part and the upstanding wall part of the tubular body. A disc-like barrier member is provided with a peripheral flange that is located in the annular space and heat sealed to adjacent parts of the tubular body. The tubular bodies are formed with a slight taper for nesting, resulting in ease of handling and shipping.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 1987Date of Patent: June 18, 1991Inventor: William Ledewitz
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Patent number: 4998647Abstract: A detachable multi-unit dispenser and hanging support has detachable containers with cone shaped filling units therein. Each unit has a normally closed, operable valve which controls an outlet in each container. A removable platform for placing soap, brushes, sponges and the like is detachably secured to the bottom of the dispenser by suction cups. Hooks are provided for hanging razors, washcloths, swimwear and the like on the platform. An adjustable strap with securing buckle is provided for attachment to a support surface. In another embodiment said strap has mating hook and loop fasteners for looping around and attachment to the support surface.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 1989Date of Patent: March 12, 1991Inventor: Peggy Sharp
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Patent number: 4984713Abstract: A receptacle in which a collapsible fluid-holding container is disposed within an outer rigid container. The collapsible container comprises a flexible bag and a mouthpiece that is joined to the mouth of the rigid container. A valve in the outer container at a region distal from the mouth vents the region between the containers to enable the collapsible container to be filled with liquid. The valve also admits air between the containers to enable the inner container to collapse as fluid is dispensed. A pair of feet protrude laterally from one side of the receptacle to raise the bottom of the receptacle when it is horizontally disposed in a fluid-dispensing position. A method is disclosed for evacuating the outer container to facilitate the expansion of a collapsed flexible container.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 1987Date of Patent: January 15, 1991Inventors: Gary C. Chambers, Ernest E. Brand, Jr.
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Patent number: 4966310Abstract: A sealable, collapsible storage module for storing and shipping matter such as grain and plastic resins is disclosed. The module includes a body having a bottom portion and a flexible, collapsible upper portion. The flexible, collapsible upper portion is sealed to the bottom portion to define a sealable storage chamber for storing matter. The body also defines at least one sealable port in communication with the storage chamber through which matter is conveyed. The module also includes a plurality of internal support lines extending across the inside of the storage chamber wherein each support line is attached at its ends to opposing sides of the upper body portion. The plurality of support lines provides internal support for the upper portion to prevent it from rupturing when it is filled with matter such as grain.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 1988Date of Patent: October 30, 1990Inventor: Gerald P. Hawkins
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Patent number: 4949872Abstract: A stackable container for holding large quantities of fluent material comprises an outer load-bearing multi-layer corrugated paperboard wall and an inner liquid-impervious bag. A plate with an opening through it is supported on a peripheral ledge slightly below the top of the container wall. The ledge is provided by the upper edge of one or more inner layers of the container wall. The mouth of the bag extends upwardly through the opening in the plate and is secured by a strap to a bag holder on the plate. A load transmitting member on the upper surface of the plate is of substantially the same thickness as the ledge, and extends to the same height as the outer layer of the wall. The bag holder is a ring, larger than portions of the opening in the plate and may be passed transversely through the opening but not when parallel to the plate.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 1989Date of Patent: August 21, 1990Assignee: Connelly Containers, Inc.Inventor: Harry D. Heaps, Jr.
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Patent number: 4932563Abstract: This invention relates to an apparatus for containing liquids and for delivering such liquids both by pouring and by spraying. The apparatus has first and second containers defining respective first and second volumes for containing liquid, a closure for the first container which defines a pouring opening for delivery of liquid contained in the first volume, the second container mounted with in the first, and a sprayer operatively communicating with the second volume for delivering liquid therefrom in a spray.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 1988Date of Patent: June 12, 1990Inventors: Lee G. Diamond, Jeffrey A. Diamond
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Patent number: 4925066Abstract: A combined sprayer container and refill container for containing a liquid concentrate for later dilution and which containers nest and interlock. A sprayer container including a sprayer head for spraying liquid contained in the sprayer container. The sprayer container also including at least one level indicia foro indicating a level to be filled to with the liquid concentrate for dilution. A refill container for containing a liquid concentrate for use in repeated refilling of the sprayer container. The sprayer container and refill container each including complementary surfaces to provide nesting of the containers one against the other. An interlock provided on both the sprayer container and refill container for interlocking the nested containers to resist separation of the nested containers.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 1988Date of Patent: May 15, 1990Assignee: Mission Kleensweep Products, Inc.Inventor: Robert S. Rosenbaum
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Patent number: 4903866Abstract: A gravity dispensing bin system includes one or more gravity dispensing bins in which bulk product supplied through an open top of the bin moves under gravity to a lower dispensing opening as product is dispensed, and a frame on which the dispensing bins are mounted. A plurality of bins may be mounted in vertically and/or horizontally aligned arrangement on the frame and the frame with the bin or bins mounted thereon may itself be mounted on any suitable structure, such as a wall, pegboard or column, or alternatively, may be free-standing. Each bin has an open top which is normally covered by the bottom of the next upper adjacent bin or an overlying frame portion in the case of the uppermost bin. The bins are hingedly mounted on the frame so that each can be tilted to provide access to the open top for filling with product.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 1988Date of Patent: February 27, 1990Assignee: Design Display Group Inc.Inventor: Jonathon Loew
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Patent number: 4893734Abstract: An improved dispensing container which includes side walls, a top wall, a dispensing spout and a closure removably securable to the spout. The closure includes a skirt portion adapted for removable securement to the spout, and with a cap hingedly secured thereto. The cap and a portion of the skirt have matable elements which in mating relationship releasably secure the cap in a closed position. The cap further includes a locking member which is matable with a member on the spout when the cap is in the closed position to preclude removal of the closure from the spout. In one embodiment, the closure further includes a top wall which defines an opening therein which serves to vent the container and at the same time permits squirt-type dispensing of the contents of the container. In such embodiment, the cap when closed closes the top wall opening. The closure is also claimed.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 1988Date of Patent: January 16, 1990Inventor: Walter K. Chlystun