Plural And/or Single For Plural Openings Patents (Class 222/482)
  • Patent number: 6193114
    Abstract: A hygienic toothpaste dispenser comprises a main body member having a plurality of tubular spouts (27, 28, and 29), from which an individual can dispense toothpaste from his or her own personally assigned tubular spout permanently marked by indicia (30), thereby providing a sanitary delivery system. This dispenser has a main body with a base (23) for connection to a toothpaste container (20), either directly or via an adapter (FIG. 10), and tubular spouts with caps (31) for delivery of the paste. Additional dispenser embodiments (FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 9) are shown. Also additional adapter embodiments (FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, and 17) show various means of connection between various types of toothpaste container tubular spouts and the various types of bases of the main body of the dispenser. Several dispensers may be connected together (FIG. 4), providing almost an unlimited number of assignable tubular spouts, limited only by a reasonable length and a reasonable width.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Inventor: Michael J. Hopkins
  • Patent number: 6192945
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for an automated biological reaction system is provided. In the processing of a biological reaction system, there is a need for consistently placing an amount of fluid on a slide. In order to accomplish this, several methods are used including a consistency pulse and a volume adjust means. Moreover, in order to reliably operate an automated biological reaction system, the dispenser must be reliable, easy to assemble and accurate. Among other things, in order to accomplish this, the dispense chamber is substantially in line with the reservoir chamber, the reservoir chamber piston is removed, and the flow of fluid through the dispenser is simplified. Further, in order to operate the automated biological reaction system more reliably, the system is designed in modular pieces with higher functions performed by a host device and the execution of the staining operations performed by remote devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Assignee: Ventana Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony Ford, Darin McDaniel, Stephen Mead, William Richards, Wayne Showalter, Bobbi Druyor-Sanchez, Bronwen Heilman, Brian McGraw
  • Patent number: 6189738
    Abstract: Disclosed is a dispenser for flowable agents, comprising a main body (1) to which at least two stores can be secured for receiving said agents. The main body (1) has a first channel (16) and at least one second channel for releasing said agents out of the stores and is fitted with a first closing device (21) which can be actuated to sealingly close at least one of the channels. In order to enable said agents to be released out of the various stores, it is suggested that the main body (1) be provided with at least one additional closing device (22) desgined to selaingly close at least the second channel, independantly of the others.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Innocos Innovative Verpackungen fur die Kosmetische Industrie GmbH
    Inventor: Karl-Heinz Rosenthal
  • Patent number: 6138853
    Abstract: A portable container for fuel is provided which has a sealable opening sufficiently large to permit access to the interior for a swab or cleaning device to wipe or vacuum the interior of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Inventor: Ronald J. Frechette
  • Patent number: 6126318
    Abstract: A bag construction for use to distribute flowable material is provided. The bag construction generally includes first and second panels or panel sections oriented juxtaposed to one another. In one end of the bag construction, a base gusset is provided between the panels. The base gusset includes apertures therein, for distribution of flowable materials. In preferred embodiments, a rib-and-trough closure arrangement is provided so that the pouch construction can be selectively closed to inhibit distribution of material, when desired. Methods of preparing such arrangements and methods of use are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Assignee: Kapak Corporation
    Inventor: Gary M. Bell
  • Patent number: 6123225
    Abstract: A liquid pourer for pouring liquid from a bottle, most likely liquor, has a new sealing cork enabling much easier insertion and extraction of the pourer into and out of a bottle, a new cork and collar combination enabling similar easier insertion and extraction, and a new dump cap for portion control pouring wherein a new assembly and sealing method and structure is provided, and numerous new improvements making the pourer provide higher quality pouring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Inventor: Arganious E. Peckels
  • Patent number: 6109486
    Abstract: Dry sand is "rained" or pluviated into a receptor container used in the sy of soil mechanics. A supply vessel in the shape of an open-top rectangular box has four vertical side walls, a perforated bottom tray, and a slidable perforated tray in contact therewith, whereby sand flows by gravity from the supply vessel through perforations in the stationary and slidable trays and "rains" or pluviates into the receptor container when the slidable tray is in the "open" position, and sand is blocked from flowing from the supply vessel with the slidable tray in the "closed" position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Landris Thomas Lee, Jr., Levi Rodgers Coffing, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6062436
    Abstract: A squeeze-type container package that comprises a flexible resilient container body and a self-sealing closure assembly mounted to the mouth of the container body. The self-sealing closure assembly includes a dispensing valve of one-piece integrally molded elastic construction having an annular base, an internal wall portion that extends radially inwardly and axially from the base, and a mouth portion that includes a slit opening oriented diametrically of the annular base. Internal stresses within the wall portion bias the slit to the closed position. An annular lip that extends radially outwardly from the valve cooperates with an annular internal rib on the closure for venting the interior of the container body to atmosphere when the container body is released following dispensing of product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: Owens-Illinois Closure Inc.
    Inventor: Timothy J. Fuchs
  • Patent number: 6050445
    Abstract: A drinking cup assembly including a cup having an open end; a cap adapted to enclose the open end, the cap including a drinking spout and an air vent and mating surfaces adjacent or incorporated into the drinking spout and the air vent; and a flow control valve including two stacks adapted to engage the mating surfaces, each of the two stacks having a concave valve face at a top portion thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Playtex Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Francis X Manganiello
  • Patent number: 6047866
    Abstract: A portable liquid dispenser apparatus has an insulated liquid container having a plurality of flexible dispensing tubes extending from the container. Each of the plurality of flexible dispensing tubes has a nozzle and valve on the end thereof for selectively dispensing liquid from the container. A wheeled container cart has two container supports thereon and has the liquid container removably mounted in a raised position for gravity dispensing of the liquid from the container to one or more individuals through each of the flexible tubes. The wheeled container cart can include a pair supporting surfaces for supporting two liquid containers. The insulated liquid container can have a generally rigid manifold attached to the outside of the container and connected to the inside of the container for receiving the liquid from the inside of the container and dispensing the liquid from the plurality of flexible tubes connected to the manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Inventor: Jack C. Brown
  • Patent number: 6036061
    Abstract: A device for retaining the blank or sealing lid of a split cap used to cap a fluid container having an invertible spout. The device includes various means for ensuring that the blank will be retained in close proximity to the user so that it will not be lost. This is achieved by modifying the blank either to enable affixing it directly to the container, or to configure it to be easily attached to a site close to the container. The retaining device includes a threaded section affixed to the blank for coupling the blank to the standard vent port of a container. Optionally, the retaining device includes a tethering hole located in the gripping flange of the blank to enable tethering of the blank to the container or to a shop hanger. Alternative designs of the retaining device include placing attachment devices on the underside of the blank and on the container, such as hook-and-loop couplings, male/female nipple sets, and magnetized components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Inventor: Thomas F. O'Donnell
  • Patent number: 6029864
    Abstract: A container (1) for petrochemical products comprises a pour adapter (19), provided with a pour spout (20) and is parallelepiped-shaped, the pour adapter (19) being disposed within an upper corner area (recess 28). In order to control and facilitate respectively a tilting of the container always in a direction towards the pour adapter (19) partly a diagonally disposed handle (9) in the top side (2) of the container is provided and partly on the bottom side (3) of the container a depression (13). Provided one hand seizes the handle and the other hand holds the depression, an automatically controlling outflow moment diagonally through the container towards the pour adapter (19) is simultaneously attained. The pour spout (20) can be swung out from an entirely recessed position into a diagonally outwardly bent position. Also, particular means (11) for filing and/or ventilation are provided, possibly via means mounted in the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Nillson, Hugo
    Inventors: Hugo Nilsson, Karl-Eric Johnsson
  • Patent number: 5996824
    Abstract: There is described a container for storing and/or dispensing a substance, the container (10) defining a dispensing orifice (13) and a filling orifice (14) spaced from said dispensing orifice (13), the filling orifice (14) being recessed into the container (10) and permanently sealed following the introduction into the container (10) of the substance to be stored and/or dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Inventors: Chris J. Grant, Gary Dean Meyer
  • Patent number: 5971225
    Abstract: A new method fills a dispenser with cyanoacrylate adhesive from the rear. The container is sealed by a pressed-in base section (4). The latter has a vent opening which can be sealed, preferably by a plug (68) pre-mounted on it. Preferably the contacting surfaces of the container and this base have an oval shape. In this novel method, the container is first filled, while the end is still open. The base is then pressed in, sealing it onto the container. In so doing, the air displaced, is released through the base vent. During the final phase of pressing-in, the vent is plugged, irreversibly sealing it. Also claimed is an adhesive dispenser, essentially as described, with further preferred detail of the seals, the pipette construction of the container and a slot valve in the plug unit. USE--A dispenser filling method and dispenser, especially suitable e.g. for a super glue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: UHU GmbH
    Inventor: Hans-Martin Kapsa
  • Patent number: 5944224
    Abstract: A dispensing lid assembly for use with a container assembly and a container assembly including the lid assembly. The lid assembly can be attached to a container liner of the container assembly. The lid assembly includes a spigot housing through which liquids are dispensed. The spigot housing is configured with a grip portion which facilitates tipping of the container assembly with the lid assembly attached thereto. A dispensing conduit is provided in the lid assembly which communicates with a cavity in the container liner. A spring loaded valve assembly is retained in the spigot housing to controllably dispense liquids from the container liner through the dispensing conduit. A check valve assembly is included in the lid assembly. The check valve assembly provides controlled introduction of air into the container to equalize the pressure in the cavity during dispensing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Assignee: Outer Circle Products, Ltd.
    Inventors: Andrew Bert Hodge, John W. Lai, Rodney Hal Monson, Peter C. Simpson, Thomas J. Melk
  • Patent number: 5911345
    Abstract: The fill-thru lid of the present invention threadedly engages the opening of a thermally insulated beverage server, such as a coffee pot. The opening provides a mouth for filling or emptying a liquid storage area in the beverage server. The upper surface of the lid provides a funnel opening for adding fluids to the storage area of the beverage server. The funnel opening accesses an interior chamber with a floating ball that rises to permit flow into the storage area for the fluid entering the funnel opening. When pouring from the storage area of the beverage server, the floating ball rises to block access to the passage to the funnel opening, forcing the fluid through an alternate passage leading to the integral spout opening. Further, a vent is provided that also accesses the inner chamber of the lid, resulting in the venting of air through the spout opening when fluids are being added to the storage area through the funnel opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1999
    Assignee: Service Ideas, Inc.
    Inventor: Billy J. Castleberry
  • Patent number: 5906288
    Abstract: A cover for plastic pails having a dispensing closure adjacent the cover periphery which allows unimpeded flow of liquid from the pail. An anti-glug vent device is integrally molded in the cover diametrically opposite from the dispensing closure to permit surge free, controlled pouring. A vent panel is disposed in the central top wall of the cover bounded by a cutting zone of reduced cross section and a hinge connection to the cover. An axially disposed actuating lever extends upwardly from the central area of the vent panel. To activate the vent for smooth pouring, the cutting zone is cut with a knife or punctured with a screw driver allowing the vent to open by pushing the actuating lever away from the cutting zone causing the vent panel to pivot about the hinge connection. To reclose the vent, the pivoting action on the actuating lever is reversed causing the cutting zone on the vent panel to become frictionally engaged within the resulting opening in the pail cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Assignee: Royal Packaging Industries Van Leer N.V.
    Inventor: Davis B. Dwinell
  • Patent number: 5897036
    Abstract: A closure base mountable to a container presents two ports individually and selectively sealed and opened by overlying lids. The ports having unobstructed pouring zones, and the lids having coplanar upper surfaces and integral positioning ears for resiliently retaining each lid in both an open and closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Assignee: Dart Industries Inc.
    Inventors: Pieter K. J. DeCoster, Robert H. C. M. Daenen
  • Patent number: 5893489
    Abstract: The cover of the present invention includes a base member and a lid which can be fastened to a container such as a paint can to provide an air-tight and fluid-tight arrangement. The base snaps on to a top of a container and includes a central portion, one-half of which is open and the other half of which is closed to provide a shelf. A lid is pivotally attached to the base and includes a spout which is disposed above the opening in the base when the base and the lid are interconnected but arranged so that the lid can be pivoted away from and above the base. The lid also includes a vent which permits the contents of the container to be poured through the opening in the base and the spout in the lid when the lid and the base are tightly interconnected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1999
    Inventor: Gary C. Giarrante
  • Patent number: 5888018
    Abstract: A glue dispenser is mountable on a vehicle as part of apparatus for installing raised road markers on a roadway. Preferably, the apparatus is used in a system for automated installation of road markers. The dispenser includes a manifold having an inlet for glue fed downwardly into the manifold from a glue reservoir mounted on the vehicle. First and second glue outlets communicate with the inlet. First and second valves control opening and closing of the first and second outlets, respectively. The valves are operable both simultaneously and independently of each other to permit glue to be dispensed from only of the outlets or from both of the outlets simultaneously, as needed. The outlets are spaced apart a distance equal to a desired distance between lines of markers in a double line installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1999
    Assignee: Accrued, Inc.
    Inventor: John L. Green
  • Patent number: 5873478
    Abstract: A spill-proof cap or lid for a standard beverage container, such as a soft drink, water and other liquid bottle, includes a housing which is configured to fit over the container opening. The housing includes top and bottom, each of which includes a recess. A spout is mounted in the top recess and is pivotable between open and closed positions. A flow control section extends generally vertically in the bottom recess for receiving a flow control member. The flow control member is removably positioned in the flow control section and includes a flow control valve and an air intake valve. The spout includes at least one passageway which is in fluid communication with the bottom recess through a passageway extending between the top and bottom of the housing. In use, the cap is substituted for the conventional cap or lid that the typical soft drink, water or other liquid bottle is equipped with.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1999
    Inventors: Michael J. Sullivan, Lynn A. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 5850940
    Abstract: Hand-holdable containers for various, liquid, powder and solid products can be made suitable for a "second use" by provided such containers with an animal simulating configuration, a head (cap) which is attached to the animal's neck region, a first opening in the animal's neck region for dispensing the original product stored in the container and a sealed second opening that can be readily unsealed when the original product stored in the container is used up so that said container can be used to store or display other items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1998
    Inventors: Mark A. Sloan, Jack C. Sloan, Deanna J. Nervig
  • Patent number: 5833123
    Abstract: A device for packaging and dispensing a substance in liquid, gel, or paste form, the device being of the type comprising a receptacle for containing said substance and a dispensing head provided with an orifice for dispensing the substance and with a shutter that is suitable for closing said orifice when the substance is not being dispensed, and suitable for opening under the effect of pressure in the substance upstream, wherein the dispensing head includes at least two portions which are made as a single piece by being molded with a third portion and each of which is connected thereto by a respective hinge-forming bridge of material, one of the two portions connected to the third portion also carrying said shutter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Assignee: L'Oreal
    Inventor: Jean-Louis Gueret
  • Patent number: 5799838
    Abstract: A dual opening dispensing closure for use with an associated container includes a closure cap having a circular top wall portion and a depending annular skirt portion depending from the top wall portion. The top wall portion defines a pair of open dispensing regions. The cap includes a pair of flap-like cover portions. Each cover portion is adapted to cover a respective one of the dispensing regions. Each cover portion is connected to the top wall portion by a respective hinge region. Each hinge region defines a hinge line. The hinge lines are in spaced relation to one another and are separated from one another by a secant line extending across the cap. The hinge lines can be parallel to one another and formed generally perpendicular to the secant line. The cover portions are pivotable between an open position and a closed position independent of one another, and can be configured to pivot between the open and closed positions without interfering with pivoting of the other cover portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1998
    Assignee: Phoenix Closures, Inc.
    Inventor: Albert R. Miller
  • Patent number: 5791527
    Abstract: The vaporizer comprises a casing (1A) of moulded plastics, an atomizing pump non-removably mounted in the upper part of the casing, and a plug (29A) mounted in the lower part of the casing. The plug (29A) is provided with channels (30A) through which the liquid product is loaded when the plug is in a first position (FIG. 1); when the plug (29A) is urged into a second position (FIG. 2) the channels (30A) are blocked to trap the loaded liquid product in the casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Assignee: Coster Technologie Speciali S.p.A.
    Inventor: Giancarlo Giuffredi
  • Patent number: 5788125
    Abstract: A new Sip and Spray Fluid Container Assembly for a fluid container suitable for spray mist cooling and for serving drinking water.The inventive device includes a fluid container having a handle, a mist spray nozzle with a pump and a pump trigger, a drinking spout, and a fill spout. In use, the Sip and Spray Fluid Container Assembly is filled with drinking water or any fluid of desire and can be taken any where by the user. In the hot sun light, when children's hard play causes them to feel uncomfortable due to the feeling of over heat, the Sip and Spray Fluid Container Assembly can be used to spray a mist of water on oneself, also a drink can be conveniently taken. The Sip and Spray Fluid Container Assembly can be completely closed off to keep the drinking water clean.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Inventors: Edward H. Steiner, Eric P. Umberger
  • Patent number: 5782373
    Abstract: A disposable, metal beverage can having a easy-opening tab on the top of the can. A second easy-opening tab is disposed on the can generally opposite the first easy-opening tab. The second tab is located on the bottom of the can or on the side of the can near the bottom. The first tab is opened to pour out the beverage by raising the bottom above the top. The second tab is then opened so that air enters the can above the beverage for rapid and regular emptying of the can while avoiding splashing of the beverage during pouring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Inventor: Luca Bianchi
  • Patent number: 5746359
    Abstract: A water bottle for use in a humidifier is disclosed. The water bottle includes a bottom wall, a top wall and a circumferentially extending side wall extending between the bottom wall and top wall. A selective water dispenser, generally in the form of a water bottle dispensing cap, is mounted over a water dispensing opening formed in one of the walls of the water bottle. An air seal is provided for a water filling opening that is formed in one of the walls of the water bottle. The air seal, independent of a water seal, utilizes negative pressure differential in the water bottle that is generated during the dispensing of the water through the water dispensing opening to provide a vacuum air seal for the water filling opening independent of the pressure that may be required to complete the water seal for the water filling opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventors: Terrence L. Stanek, Mark J. Tomasiak
  • Patent number: 5743294
    Abstract: The invention relates to a combination fluid flow, open - closed valve, adapted to be fitted to a container holding a liquid, whereby a desired quantity of the liquid can be dispensed from the container into a second, smaller container. The first container is inverted and held in place by any suitable support such as a mounting bracket and an air supply is provided to the top of the liquid level so that the liquid will flow from the larger to the smaller container when the fluid flow valve is opened. A suitable adapter is provided for receiving and holding the valve wherein the adapter has internal threads for attachment to the container dispensing the liquid and an "O" ring for sealing the liquid from the adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Inventor: John G. Donzella
  • Patent number: 5734400
    Abstract: As applied to printer ink cartridges having a collapsible container therein, ink refilling is accomplished through the use of a clamp and filler cartridge assembly wherein a slideable cartridge sealing plug initiates and terminates the refill process, depressurizing the cartridge at refill completion, whereby upon removal of the filling apparatus, the ink jet unit automatically obtains negative pressure. Leakage is thus precluded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1998
    Inventors: Bruce W. Brunetti, Wolfgang Witz, Walter Barry Wexler
  • Patent number: 5711355
    Abstract: A non-movable part portable liquid transfer container with dispensing nozzle includes a fillpipe sealing device and internal conduit positioned in such a manner as to enable free-flow of liquid and recovery of vapors displaced during the gravity transfer of liquids to other containers as well as automatic shutoff of liquid transfer when the receiving container is full to prevent overfill and spillage of liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 27, 1998
    Inventor: John Francis Kowalczyk
  • Patent number: 5706973
    Abstract: A drinking cup having a body portion and a removably attached cover including an offset drinking spout and an offset vent aperture. The drinking spout and the vent aperture are each surrounded by wall members which depend generally away from an interior surface of the cover. An air inlet flow control valve is coupled to the wall member surrounding the vent aperture while a liquid outlet flow control valve is coupled to the wall member surrounding the spout. Each flow control valve includes a domed elastomeric member containing a slit allowing for passage of a selected fluid therethrough. The domed portions are each surrounded by a generally circular isolating channel, and outside of each isolating channel is a perimetral portion for connecting the flow control valve to the depending wall portion of the cover. Fluids passing through the slits achieve substantially only a one-way passage as the domed curvature substantially prevents any backflow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 13, 1998
    Assignee: E. S. Robbins Corporation
    Inventors: Edward S. Robbins, III, Gregory S. Burcham
  • Patent number: 5667113
    Abstract: A wheeled fuel tank includes an elongated container having a hollow interior enclosed by a bottom wall, two side walls, a front wall, a back wall and a top wall. A fill spout is disposed on the container for filling the container with a fuel. A first opening is located in the container for allowing an outflow of the fuel. A reinforcing chamber extends through the container from the front wall to the back wall for restricting an expansion of the container and increasing its strength. An axle is rotatably mounted on the back wall of the container and a respective one of a pair of wheels is mounted on a respective end of the axle for enabling the container to be wheeled to a desired location. Preferably the container also includes a handle which is integrally mounted thereon. The handle can include first and second rearwardly extending ears, which are defined by the rear wall and a respective one of the side walls of the container, and a crossbar extending between the ears and being of one piece therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 16, 1997
    Assignee: Tempo Products Company
    Inventors: John F. Clarke, Ronald R. Eureka
  • Patent number: 5651471
    Abstract: A removable top for use with drinking bottles has a first opening with a pop-up valve and a second opening for receiving a straw. This allows the user to either drink directly through the pop-up valve, or through a straw inserted through the straw opening with the pop-up valve serving as a vent. A removable cap can be used to seal the straw opening when it is not in use. The cap is tethered by a flexible strap to a ring around the base of the pop-up valve. The cap can be secured to a detent in the top for temporary storage when it is not being used to cover the straw opening. In one embodiment, the top is domed with the pop-up valve located at the top of the dome. The straw opening passes through a second raised collar extending upward to an elevation substantially in line with the base of the collar around the central opening. The detent is formed in the top surface of a third raised collar that also extends upward to an elevation substantially in line with the base of the collar around the central opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1997
    Inventor: Dennis E. Green
  • Patent number: 5649648
    Abstract: A package for free-flowing products comprising a product container and a closable applicator point fitted on its outlet aperture provides precise metering of the quantity of product expelled regardless of the level in the package, and while ensuring easy handling. The product container consists of an extruded receptacle of aluminum having externally depressible walls which spring back when the pressure is released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 22, 1997
    Assignee: Henkel Kommanditgesellschaft auf Aktien
    Inventors: Rolf Lier, Herbert Densky
  • Patent number: 5620117
    Abstract: An exchangeable closing and pouring cap for a container for liquids having an opening for pouring, in particular a soft drink bottle, is provided with suitable connecting threads for placing the cap on the pouring opening, an outlet in the cap for the liquid connection between the container and a pouring lip on the cap, a sealing device which is movable between a closing position and an opening position thereby closing and opening the outlet respectively. The sealing device encloses a plunger element which can be moved to and from in the outlet. The cap is also provided with an air inlet which synchronically with the outlet is also closed and opened respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 15, 1997
    Assignees: On-Top Products B.V., Johannes Broersen
    Inventors: Jan W. H. Bieze, Gerardus Legue
  • Patent number: 5603922
    Abstract: The present invention relates to remineralization, without demineralization, by applying to the teeth a composition which is present in either one or in two phases and which does not react to any large extent until introduced into the oral cavity and upon such introduction does not rapidly precipitate. One phase systems contain at least one water-soluble calcium compound, at least one other water-soluble, non-toxic compound containing a divalent metal different from calcium, and at least one water-soluble inorganic phosphate compound. If desired at least one water-soluble fluorine compound may be added to the system. In two phase systems one phase contains the calcium and the divalent metal compounds and the other the phosphate and optionally, the fluoride compound. In this way the ions which effect remineralization can be absorbed by the dental enamel and their subsequent, but controlled, reaction causes rehardening of demineralized areas in the dental enamel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1997
    Assignee: Enamelon Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony E. Winston, Norman Usen
  • Patent number: 5601217
    Abstract: A removable leakproof stopper for use with liquid containing bottles which enables the user to quickly and easily dispense desired quantities of liquid and the method of use of the stopper. The stopper is a hollow chamber with a pour spout located at the top. A horizontal partition containing an exit port divides the chamber into two sections. The exit port is closed with a plug activated by a trigger which is located outside the chamber. Beneath the partition is a delivery tube attached about the interior circumference of the chamber. The delivery tube tapers downward to a constant bore portion which extends into the neck of the bottle. A compressible collar surrounding the constant bore portion provides a tight seal within necks of bottles of varying interior diameters. An opening in the wall of the chamber communicates with a pressure equalizing tube. A second trigger is used to close this opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1997
    Inventor: William Wagner
  • Patent number: 5588550
    Abstract: A container of the present invention comprises a body portion including a bottom wall and a side wall defining a cavity and a shoulder portion extending from the body portion and further defining the cavity. A plurality of compartments separated by a partitioning member positioned in the cavity are provided, wherein the compartments and partitioning member extend through the cavity. Each of the compartments are adapted to hold a content. A neck portion extends from the shoulder portion and has an outer wall and an inner wall. A fitment is positioned within the neck portion and engaged with the inner wall. The fitment includes at least a portion thereof in sealed relationship and freely rotatable relative to the neck portion, the portion including a cover substantially traversing the inner wall and having an opening therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1996
    Assignee: Pepsico, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert C. Meyer
  • Patent number: 5566869
    Abstract: A container for supporting a quantity of fluid relative to a limb of an individual. The inventive device includes a container having an arcuate inner side wall positionable along an exterior of a human limb. A plurality of securing straps extend from opposed sides of the container for securing about the limb to mount the container thereto. A dispensing valve is mounted relative to the container to permit dispensing of fluid therefrom during a physical activity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1996
    Inventor: Adam J. Katz
  • Patent number: 5558257
    Abstract: A compressible, resilient, manually-energized pump functioning also as a container or reservoir for fluid products to be dispensed. The container is of a unitary construction in which a product discharge conduit is integrally formed with the reservoir with which it communicates, the conduit being joined at an upper extremity thereof to a generally horizontal discharge pipe section terminating in a constricted delivery port. An elongate web integrally formed with the container and the delivery conduit extends between and joins the conduit to the container wall along a height expanse of the container to establish a strong and stable, composite structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1996
    Assignee: W. Braun Company
    Inventor: Morris Braun
  • Patent number: 5542581
    Abstract: Trigger actuated pump sprayers for application of a great variety of household and industrial liquids are improved for dual service use by inclusion of a spout, which can be operated in a closed mode or an opened mode, mounted to the pump housing and a tubular conduit extending internally of the housing and the cap from the spout to at least the cap for flow of liquid directly from the container on which the sprayer is mounted to the spout whereby liquid may be dispensed from the container through the spout when the user of the sprayer needs larger quantities of the liquid than can conveniently be obtained via the spray pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1996
    Inventors: Barbara M. Habora, Rebecca V. Hall
  • Patent number: 5542670
    Abstract: A drinking cup has a cover which is formed with a drinking spout at one side and a vent at the other. Elements extend down from under the spout and the vent. A flow control element is provided and made of elastomeric material having a pair of spaced cavities on one side, each cavity having a floor at the bottom thereof. The cavities receive in frictional engagement respectively the lower ends of the elements. This engagement supports the flow control element with the floor of each cavity in sealed relation to its element. Each floor has a passage which is normally closed but opens on the occurrence of a pressure differential on opposite sides of the floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1996
    Assignee: Playtex Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Emanuel P. Morano
  • Patent number: 5538165
    Abstract: A container produced of plastic material by blow-molding in a blow-molding device has an upper wall and a bottom connected to one another by a sidewall. A filling/pouring spout is located at the sidewall. The filling/pouring spout has an outer thread and a continuous circular sealing surface. A venting channel for providing a uniform, continuous outflow of a liquid contained in the container is provided. The venting channel is separated by a stay from the upper wall of the container. The stay is produced by squeezing edges of the blow-molding device. The venting channel has an inlet located within the filling/pouring spout. The upper end of the inlet is positioned at a level of the uppermost, continuous thread winding of the outer thread.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1996
    Inventor: Walter Frohn
  • Patent number: 5505337
    Abstract: A hygienic toothpaste dispenser for selectively distributing toothpaste onto a toothbrush from one of a plurality tubes oriented so as to form a stand for a toothpaste container shaped as a cylinder, the tubes being capped with snap type covers. The tubes have indicia thereon to identify with a specific user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1996
    Inventors: Carrie W. Littman, Kenneth C. Wenzer
  • Patent number: 5499743
    Abstract: A flexible tank for liquids constructed from an inner layer of waterproof, thin-walled flexible polypropylene foil and an outer layer of flexible, highly compressed, tear-resistant polypropylene cloth. The construction provides a light weight tank which may be rolled up and easily transported. The tank is provided with an inlet and one or more large diameter (5 cm) outlet valves from which liquid in the tank may be dispensed without the use of a pump although a water or air pump may be used as an aid in dispensing the liquid. An insulating layer may be located above and/or below the tank or between the inner and outer layers. A heat absorbing layer may be placed above the tank and may be used in combination with an insulating layer under the tank. The tank may be provide with flow lines, valves and connectors for connection to other tanks to form a multiple arrangement of tanks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1996
    Inventor: Jorge L. Blumenkron
  • Patent number: 5497917
    Abstract: The present invention provides a cap having a plurality of readily assembled parts that provide a passage for a beverage or liquid through the cap from the pitcher to the exterior thereof. The cap has a cap body made up of top and bottom portions that are formed so as to snap fit together. The cap body defines an interior cavity or passage from an entry defined by the bottom portion to an exit cooperatively defined by the top and bottom portions. The entry is selectively opened and closed to allow fluid or liquid passage through the cap by a valve that is biased into a closed position. In a preferred embodiment the valve is attached to a plunger having a cylindrical configuration and including a plurality of upwardly and outwardly extending shape memory retentive legs that are confined within a receiving collar attached to the bottom portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1996
    Assignee: Service Ideas, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary W. Krimmel, James L. Miller, George E. McNamara
  • Patent number: 5490616
    Abstract: A kettle has a hollow body defining a reservoir chamber and having a convex upper portion with a rim defining a circular filling opening into the chamber. A spout projects from the upper portion and communicates with the chamber. A handle is fixed to the body and spans the filling opening, terminating in the forward end adjacent to the spout. A concave arcuate guard extends upwardly from the body around the entire perimeter of the opening, the guard being fixed to the forward end of the handle for protecting the user's hand from steam. A concave lid removably closes the opening and has an arcuate handle which follows the contour of the body dome shape when in its closed position. A hinged spout cover has an actuator extending through a slot in the guard for manual actuation by the user's finger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 13, 1996
    Assignee: General Housewares Corp.
    Inventors: Davin B. Stowell, Mari H. Ando, Vanessa D. Sica
  • Patent number: 5472120
    Abstract: A cap for a container has three distinct positions, including a closed position, an intermediate spray position and a fully open pour position. The cap provides a fluid tight seal when in the closed position and provides a fluid tight seal from pouring when in the spray position. The cap includes a shell defining a fluid passage to the container and a tip with pouring and spraying apertures axially movably secured to the shell. The tip is pulled up to select a dispensing position, which causes a stem disposed in the shell to engage or disengage with an aperture in the tip, depending on the selected dispensing option.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1995
    Assignee: Erie Plastics
    Inventors: Matthew E. Stebick, Robert J. Smith
  • Patent number: 5465875
    Abstract: A supply cap 1 is provided for attachment to the outlet 2 of a container 3 to permit supply of a quantity of substance from within the container 3 to a supply conduit 15 in a sealed manner when the container 3 is inverted so that the outlet 2 is at its bottom. The cap 1 has a connector body 8 which is sealingly engageable with the outlet 2, an outlet duct 13 extending through the connector body 8 for supply of a quantity of substance from within the container 3 when the container is inverted, and an inlet duct 14 extending through the connector body 8 for the passage of air and/or rinsing liquid into the container 3.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1995
    Assignee: Wisdom Agricultural Investment Limited
    Inventor: Richard H. Garnett