Auxiliary, Cooperating Patents (Class 232/29)
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Patent number: 10743696Abstract: A parcel box includes at least one sidewall having a first compartment and a second compartment that together form a room; a separator moveably attached to the at least one sidewall between the first compartment and the second compartment for separating the room into a first chamber and a second chamber; and a first door and a second door pivotally attached to the at least one sidewall and corresponding to the first chamber and the second chamber, respectively, wherein the first chamber and the second chamber are configured to receive two articles through the first door and the second door, respectively, and the separator is configured to moveably adjust the volume of the first chamber and the volume of the second chamber based on the weights and/or the sizes of the two articles.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2018Date of Patent: August 18, 2020Assignee: Micro World Corp.Inventors: Johnson Yang, H. G. Robert Fong
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Patent number: 8875987Abstract: An extension mailbox which includes a main mailbox housing mounted onto a vertical support extending from the ground. A plurality of auxiliary mailbox housings, are nested concentrically within the main mailbox housing. A rail system allows the auxiliary mailbox housings to project outwardly away from the main mailbox housing in a telescopic horizontal manner.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2012Date of Patent: November 4, 2014Inventors: Stanley Supulski, Sarah Wesko
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Patent number: 8789803Abstract: Disclosed is a mailbox slider device that provides mailboxes of various widths to be slideably mounted along the horizontal portion of an existing mailbox support post. The device comprises a first base member and a second slideable member being attached using complimentary tongue and groove sliders, wherein the members include a recessed channel having a first and second channel stop that prevents separation of the two members at the base member distal end, while allowing separation and engagement of the members along the inward proximal end of the base member. A mailbox is secured to a support block, which then attaches to the upper surface of the second sliding member. The sliding member engages the base member from its proximal end, whereafter the base member is secured to the horizontal portion of a mailbox post to provide a readily extendable and retractable assembly for improved access for postal service workers.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2012Date of Patent: July 29, 2014Inventors: James Richard Van Wingerden, Mary Ellen Van Wingerden
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Patent number: 8757476Abstract: Herein disclosed is a receptacle repair insert, which may have an insert body with at least an outer surface. The outer surface may have a first shape and be effective to attach to a receptacle body having at least an inner surface with a second shape. The inner surface may define at least one orifice and the insert body may be effective to fit into the at least one orifice. The receptacle repair insert may also have at least one extension movably connected to the insert body wherein the extension is effective to create a door. The extension may block at least a portion of the at least one orifice. Further disclosed is a method for replacing at least one mailbox door using at least one embodiment of the receptacle repair insert.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2011Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Inventor: Douglas Todd Childress
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Patent number: 8657185Abstract: A moveable mailbox tray for mounting in a new or existing mailbox wherein said mailbox tray is attached to the door of the mailbox and is repositioned, along with the contents of the mailbox, both horizontally and vertically in the direction of the user when the mailbox door is opened.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2012Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Inventor: Diane Corey
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Patent number: 8616435Abstract: A mailbox accessory device for insertion within the cavity of a mailbox for more easily accessing mail located towards the rear portion of the mailbox including a first member extending along at least a portion of the length of the mailbox cavity, the second member being coupled to the first member. The mailbox device is movable within the mailbox cavity from a position wherein the second member lies in the vicinity of the rear wall of the mailbox to a position wherein the second member lies in the vicinity of the access opening of the mailbox. The second member extends above the first member and engages mail located in the mailbox cavity so as to move such mail to the access opening of the mailbox.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2011Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Inventors: Larry Crabtree, Jan Jansco
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Patent number: 8616436Abstract: A mailbox system includes a mailbox housing having an interior chamber. The interior chamber has a surface area and a depth. A lockbox is securely coupled to the mailbox housing, and the lockbox is disposed in the interior chamber of the mailbox housing. A security door is hingeably attached to a wall of the lockbox. The security door has a size smaller than that of the surface area of the interior chamber of the mailbox housing. A lock assembly is coupled to the security door, and the lock assembly is configured to alternatively maintain the security door in a closed position or an opened position.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2013Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Inventor: Tafforest Brewer
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Patent number: 8388168Abstract: A mailbox with a slidable tray to withdraw the contents therein and a solar powered illuminable, configurable display to enhance visibility of the dwelling number after nightfall.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2010Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Inventor: Stephen Li
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Patent number: 8042729Abstract: A mailbox tray mountable to a standard mailbox, the mailbox tray having a bracket arm and a substantially thin generally rectangular slideable tray. The tray has a mail-facing surface disposed substantially parallel to the top surface of the bottom panel of the mailbox. The slideable tray portion has a depression to facilitate mail gripping and removal. A mail-facing surface has one or more drain holes and at least one ridge. The first end of the bracket arm is pivotably connected to the front door and the second end of the bracket arm is pivotably connected to the slideable tray such that when the front door is opened, at least a portion of the slideable tray is extended outside of the cavity and when said front door is closed, the slideable tray is returned in its entirety inside of the cavity. In a second embodiment, the slideable tray further comprises a first segment and a second segment which are pivotably connected.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2010Date of Patent: October 25, 2011Inventor: Tuan Quoc Dinh
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Patent number: 7938314Abstract: A wireless outdoor mailbox actuating system preferable includes a lockable outdoor mailbox having a housing, a plurality of operating components dynamically attached to the housing and a mechanism for synchronously toggling the operating components between first and second associated positions respectively. The front door of the mailbox has an elongated slot that is large enough to receive for example, a DVD and a collection of mail. A remote controller is communicatively linked to a receiver and to a main controller to remotely activate the front door actuating mechanism, tray displacing mechanism and flag raising mechanism, respectively. Selected ones of such mechanisms may be synchronously linked together to allow a user to retrieve mailbox contents without the need to reach into the mailbox. The system additionally provides an effective and secure means of preventing unauthorized access to private mail inside the mailbox.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2009Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Inventor: Helen Benesh
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Patent number: 7451912Abstract: A tray adapted to fit within a conventional mailbox. The tray includes a flat elongated center body and two side members, each having perpendicular short and tall walls. The tray is adjustable to accommodate a variety of mailbox interior sizes, such that the side walls of the tray are both proximate to the interior side walls of the mailbox. Adjustment slots in the center body allow the side members to slide laterally to fit the width of the mailbox. Either the short walls or the tall walls of the side members can coupled to the body to increase the range of widths of the tray.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2008Date of Patent: November 18, 2008Inventor: Frank A. Taube, II
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Patent number: 7261234Abstract: The present invention is directed to a stop device for a mailbox. The stop device includes a body having a front surface, a back surface and an orifice for hanging the device from a mailbox. The stop device is able to restrict the movement of items hanging from a mailbox when the device is suspended from the mailbox.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2006Date of Patent: August 28, 2007Inventor: Shekhar G. Mahajan
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Patent number: 7252220Abstract: A mailbox comprising side and back walls, a top and a bottom secured together to form an enclosure, a front access door mounted to the front wall, a rear access door connected to the rear access door, and a tray accessible through the front access door and vertically adjustable.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2004Date of Patent: August 7, 2007Inventor: Don C. Shreve
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Patent number: 7246738Abstract: A package receptacle system including a container having an interior storage compartment, a lower floor within the container for supporting a package placed in the compartment, and sidewalls extending upward from the floor to define an access to the compartment. An upper lid is pivotally attached to the container for closing the access when in a closed position. A feature hangs from the lid for inhibiting rain from entering the compartment when the lid is in a non-closed position. Raised features are present on the floor of the container for supporting a package placed within the compartment above any moisture that might be present on the floor. A feature is included for indicating a recipient's address, and/or a package within the compartment ready for pickup, and/or receipt of a package within the compartment from a delivery service.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2006Date of Patent: July 24, 2007Inventor: Wiliam Phillip Jonas
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Patent number: 7234634Abstract: A unit is located inside a mailbox which prevents access to the mailbox through the door of the mailbox when the unit is in place. The unit includes a fence-like portion that is attached to the mailbox body by an arm that is locked to the mailbox in the rear of the mailbox. The fence-like portion is locked to the arm and is attached to the mailbox by a hinge. When unlocked, the fence can be pivoted out of the way to allow access to inside of the mailbox.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2006Date of Patent: June 26, 2007Inventors: Calvin Payne, Linda Payne
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Patent number: 7210616Abstract: This patent discloses a curbside mailbox assembly having a mailbox adapted to be attached to a post. The mailbox may include a base and a cover attached to the base to form a compartment. The mailbox additionally may include a platform attached to the mailbox base, a door attached to the platform, and a basket assembly. The basket assembly may include a basket, a first slide rail assembly, and a second slide rail assembly. The basket may be an openwork container having tabs.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2006Date of Patent: May 1, 2007Inventor: Dan Van Watermulen
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Patent number: 7182245Abstract: A mailbox which has a plate along which mail slides before it falls into a rear compartment, which is not easily accessible from the front of the mailbox. A rear door can optionally be locked in its closed position, and only by successfully opening this door can a person obtain mail deposited within the mailbox of the present invention. All of this is achieved while maintaining a relatively small mailbox size.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2005Date of Patent: February 27, 2007Inventor: Arthur Nieto
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Patent number: 7004380Abstract: An extendable and retractable mailbox tray, which is a sliding, guided tray that is mountable within into a standard, rural mailbox. The tray extends from the mailbox when the mailbox door is opened, and retracts back within the mailbox when the mailbox door is closed. The guided mailbox tray assembly includes a tray, which may be referred to as a “sled.” Preferably, the tray is cut out and bent into the form of a rectangular box from a single sheet of galvanized metal. The tray has a side panel and a runner slot cut within the side panel. A runner with a slot fastener end, and a bracket fastener end that is slidingly mountable into the runner slot. A bracket is mountable to the openable door of the mailbox. The bracket includes a runner fastener that is hingably attachable to the bracket fastener of the runner. The tray extends from the mailbox upon opening the door and the tray retracts back into the mailbox when the door is closed.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2004Date of Patent: February 28, 2006Inventor: Gaylord M. Gunvaldson
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Patent number: 7000826Abstract: A Mailbox Caddie for reception and containment of pieces of mail, fully insertable into an individual standard Post Office mailbox. The tray consists of an economic, one piece molded plastic part, integrating all functional and aesthetically features, to match the Mailbox Caddie having four sides, which form an almost hollow parallelepiped, except for its front end, which is open, with both sides left and right tapered towards the front. The front edge base has a round lip and a sponge rubber adhesive pad to ease its handling. The base has three central ribs, raised from the bottom, to brace the length of the tray and raise the pieces of mail from the bottom of the base around the three up right sides, with an outer extended perpendicular edge also reinforcing the tray. When the tray is pulled out so far that it pivots on the front of the box, the outer back corners of the perpendicular upper edge limit the pivoting angle of the Mailbox Caddie as it is removed.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2003Date of Patent: February 21, 2006Inventor: James O. Billings
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Patent number: 6997373Abstract: The mailbox with sliding tray is a mailbox housing with a tray guided on a pair of tracks to dispose the tray completely outside the housing. Each track has a plurality of slides. One pair of slides is attached to the mailbox housing and another pair is attached to the tray. The tracks are preferably telescopic, ball bearing tracks that glide along each other to dispose the tray completely outside the housing. A door is attached to a front edge of the tray by a hinge. The door serves as a handle to either pull down the door and view the inside of the mailbox or pull down the door and slide the tray forward, away from the mailbox housing, to view the entire length of the tray.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Inventor: Cesar Flores
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Patent number: 6974073Abstract: The present invention is directed to a durable mailbox which has an aerodynamic design that protects the mailbox from destructive elements such as weather and flying projectiles. The present mailbox has an aerodynamic design that slopes down from the left to the right. The descending slope design reduces the surface impact caused by projectile matter.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2004Date of Patent: December 13, 2005Inventor: Harry Snyder
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Patent number: 6974074Abstract: An anti-theft mailbox insert installed inside of a petestal mail box for limiting access to delieverd mail. The insert has a horizontal shelf located just below the mailbox mail slot. When mail is inserted into the mailbox slot it falls to the bottom of the mailbox and the anti-theft mailbox insert prevents a person's hand from reaching in through the mailbox slot and stealing the mail. The mail can be retrieved using the locking rear door of the mailbox.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2004Date of Patent: December 13, 2005Inventor: Keith Peter Watts
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Patent number: 6923367Abstract: A safety mailbox system including a mailbox container integrated with at least one decontaminating mechanism is disclosed. Contaminants may include chemical and biological agents.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2002Date of Patent: August 2, 2005Inventors: David Grossman, Robert Schumann
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Patent number: 6827255Abstract: The present invention relates to a security mailbox. The mailbox includes an inner and an outer sleeve which are slidably engaged with one another. Each sleeve has an alternating pattern of an opaque portion and a transparent portion. When the transparent portions are aligned with one another, the user is able to view the contents of the mailbox. The mailbox additionally includes a remote control for activating the power source, which slides the inner sleeve underlying the outer sleeve. In combination with a latch mechanism, this remote control also enables the user to open the mailbox door from a considerable distance away.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2003Date of Patent: December 7, 2004Inventors: Mary E. Jenkins, Robert J. Jenkins, III
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Publication number: 20040238615Abstract: A device is created for placement within a rural style mail box to provide a secure repository for items of mail delivered. A forward positioned, secure chamber for the storage of delivered items is defined by a first insert having a top surface, and two supporting side surfaces. A separate assembly placed rear of the first insert includes an opposing slide assembly defined by a smooth surface with an inclination against the rear of the mail box and sloped downwardly toward the secure storage area. Coming into contact with the slide assembly, mail is thus redirected to the secure area. In an alternative embodiment, a unitary mailbox is described which includes an inclined compression delivery channel for delivery of mail to a secure chamber beneath, the compression channel at the same time presenting an obstacle to unauthorized access.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 20, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventor: James Douglas Offenbacher
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Patent number: 6808108Abstract: An improved mailbox is provided which includes a security subassembly. The security subassembly includes an elongated sleeve which is fixed into position relative to a mailbox. It further includes a security door which is locked into position relative to the elongated sleeve. A mail slot is provided in the security door which allows for a mail carrier to deposit mail within the central cavity of the mailbox. A locking mechanism is provided to allow the security door to be moved between a normally closed condition and an open condition to allow the authorized user to remove mail from the central cavity of the mailbox.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2002Date of Patent: October 26, 2004Inventors: Steven A. Turnbow, Kristy M. Turnbow
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Patent number: 6698651Abstract: A tray and track assembly for a typical rural mailbox has a track frame attached to the mailbox bottom with longitudinal rails for receiving and guiding a pair of track members on the bottom of a tray. Two extension arms are pivotally attached to the sidewalls of the tray, and attached to the inside of the hinged mailbox front door. When the front door is opened the extension arms pull the tray forward on the track frame until stop members on the track frame and tray halt the forward movement of the tray. A part of the tray is then beyond the interior of the mailbox. The extension arms push the tray back into the mailbox when the front door is closed. Ridges elevate the mail above condensation that forms on the tray bottom, and drain holes in the tray allow such liquids to drain.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2002Date of Patent: March 2, 2004Inventor: Jack R Green
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Patent number: 6662997Abstract: An improved mail receptacle that expands to accommodate a large volume of mail, which volume could include a parcel. To attain this, the mail receptacle has an expandable pouch. In an embodiment, the pouch is configured to be stored in a pouch box, which box is affixed to or integral with the mail compartment. In an embodiment, the mail receptacle has a flexible post. In an embodiment, the mail receptacle has a mounting plate incorporated into the mail compartment; such mounting plate couples the mail receptacle to the post such that the mail compartment can rotate about the post.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2002Date of Patent: December 16, 2003Inventors: Diane Smith, Patricia L. New
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Publication number: 20030113922Abstract: A method and system for detecting chemical or biological hazards in items is provided. A plurality of incoming mail mailboxes each include a sampler to sample air from a letter that is tested using a first sensor. Source information corresponding to hazard flagged mail pieces is utilized to block mail from that source at other mailboxes.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 19, 2001Publication date: June 19, 2003Applicant: Pitney Bowes Inc.Inventors: Robert A. Cordery, Karin A. Russo, Ronald P. Sansone
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Publication number: 20020109005Abstract: A Mail Box Caddie tray, for reception and containment of pieces of mail, fully insertable in an individual, standard United States Post Office mailbox. The tray consists of an inexpensive, one piece, molded plastic, integrating all functional and aesthetic features, having four sides, forming an almost hollow parallelepiped volume, that is cut on an angle and open in front. The tray, limited at the bottom by a rectangular base, extends in the front by a semi-tubular handle. Three sides; the right, the left, and the rear limiting its contour, and equipped with a continuous flange running the perimeter of the three sides. The fourth side, the base, has a specific, unique profile, consisting of three equally spaced, semi-circular ribs, parallel to the length of the sides, providing rigidity.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2001Publication date: August 15, 2002Inventor: James O. Billings
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Patent number: 6347736Abstract: A nestable mailbox (10) having a tapered body (12) with an open first end (24) and a second end (30). The tapering of the body (12) is such that the first end (24) circumscribes a greater surface area than that circumscribed by the second end (30). A door (26) for the mailbox (10) is connected to the body (12) at the first end (24). The mailbox can then be nested with other like mailboxes by inserting the second end (30) of one mailbox into the first end (24) of another mailbox. The door of each mailbox in the nested arrangement can point downwardly frontwardly or downwardly rearwardly. The nestable mailbox may additionally, if desired, carry another door (76) at the second end (30).Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2000Date of Patent: February 19, 2002Assignee: R.W.L. CorporationInventors: Robert W. Lackey, Robert C. Beckman, Gregory A. Harris
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Patent number: 6234387Abstract: A mail box insert that includes a decorative facade plate and that is insertable into an existing mail receiving compartment of an existing mail box housing and secured in place to refurbish the appearance of the existing mail box. The mail box insert is held in place with opposed securing screw assemblies that generate a compressional force against the inner surfaces of the existing mail box sidewalls.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 1999Date of Patent: May 22, 2001Inventors: Julius Cuthbert, Gilda V. Cuthbert
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Patent number: 5988495Abstract: A nestable mailbox (10) having a tapered body (12) with an open first end (24) and a second end (30). The tapering of the body (12) is such that the first end (24) circumscribes a greater surface area than that circumscribed by the second end (30). A door (26) for the mailbox (10) is connected to the body (12) at the first end (24). The mailbox can then be nested with other like mailboxes by inserting the second end (30) of one mailbox into the first end (24) of another mailbox. The door of each mailbox in the nested arrangement can point downwardly frontwardly or downwardly rearwardly. The nestable mailbox may additionally, if desired, carry another door (76) at the second end (30).Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 1997Date of Patent: November 23, 1999Assignee: R.W.L. CorporationInventors: Robert W. Lackey, Robert C. Beckman, Gregory A. Harris
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Patent number: 5915618Abstract: An anti-theft mailbox insert secured in a conventional mailbox for limiting access to delivered mail. The security box has an inclined front door that pivots open horizontally for retrieving delivered mail. When the door is closed, a gap between the door and the top panel of the insert allows mail to be delivered into the security box. The bottom portion of the door possesses a safety clasp that may be locked for securing the door closed. Outgoing mail is placed within the mailbox, resting above the top panel of the security box, for outgoing mail pickup.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 1998Date of Patent: June 29, 1999Assignee: Gaudet Sheet Metal, Inc.Inventor: Alan P. Gaudet
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Patent number: 5624071Abstract: A method and apparatus for receiving packages in absentia using a receptacle which is temporarily attached to the door of an apartment or house. A second embodiment uses a bracket for securing a sack or chain to a door, which in combination with a lock can be used to receive packages. Both the receptacle and the bracket can only be removed from the door when it is first unlocked and opened. A combination lock permits the mail carrier to open and deposit packages in the receptacle or attach them to the bracket. The combination is provided to the mail carrier on the address label of the package, and is provided to the sender of the package by telephone or written correspondence. A sack or chain can also be used with the receptacle to receive packages which are larger than the receptacle. The method provides equal access to both U.S. mail carriers and private carriers.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 1994Date of Patent: April 29, 1997Inventor: Folarin O. Sosan
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Patent number: 5366147Abstract: A delivery tube includes a body portion defining an interior space or cavity for receiving a first delivered item; a hanger having at least one position and being integrally molded in one piece with the body for receiving a second delivered item other than in the interior cavity or space; and a mount integrally formed in one piece with the body whereby the receptacle is mounted to a support.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 1993Date of Patent: November 22, 1994Assignee: Flashes Publishers, Inc.Inventors: John P. Morgan, Jack E. Hendricks, Kurt Post
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Patent number: 5323959Abstract: This invention is a combination mailbox indicia display and depository that is adapted to be mounted on the top, curved dome portion of a mailbox. The depository has two inwardly and upwardly disposed sides that are made from a material having a memory so that the upper edges of such side portions can be spread apart to insert informational material and to hold the same securely in place. Indicia display is in the form of elongated panels and are preferably removably mounted on the depository so that seasonal symbols and other message indicia can be displayed as desired.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 1993Date of Patent: June 28, 1994Inventor: William M. Draper
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Patent number: 5271555Abstract: A new and improved movable mailbox tray is provided for a mailbox. The movable mailbox tray is in the form of a trolley that rides on a plurality of rollers for providing a rolling contact between the movable tray and the mailbox. The rollers permit the movable trolley to move easily into and out of a mailbox. The movable trolley can also include a fence for retaining mail on the tray. A kit for converting a conventional mailbox into one with a movable tray includes a movable trolley, a first spring for connecting the movable trolley to a hinged mailbox door, and an opposing second spring for connecting the opposite end of the trolley to a fixed wall of the mailbox. When the mailbox door is opened, the first spring will pull the trolley partially out from the interior of the mailbox. The opposing second spring will pull the trolley back into the interior of the mailbox when the door is closed.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 1992Date of Patent: December 21, 1993Inventor: Ellen N. Mayer