Vertical Patents (Class 242/597.7)
  • Patent number: 12121186
    Abstract: A toilet paper covering device, including a base removably connected to at least a portion of an external surface, a roll rod angularly disposed away from the base with respect to a first direction to receive a roll of toilet paper thereon, a front wall angularly disposed away from the base with respect to the first direction to prevent access to the roll of toilet paper, and a rear wall angularly disposed away from the base with respect to the first direction to prevent access to the roll of toilet paper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2024
    Inventors: Kelly Alishouse, Scott Alishouse
  • Patent number: 12011121
    Abstract: Embodiments provide for a consolidated towel holder or rack. An example consolidated towel holder includes a base, a first support member extending upward from the base, a second support member extending upward from the base and configured for supporting a paper towel roll, a cap in slidable contact with the first support member via an extension member such that the cap gravitationally rests atop the paper towel roll, and a third support member extending perpendicularly from the first support member and configured for supporting a fabric towel or cleaning apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2023
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2024
    Inventor: Laura Madden
  • Patent number: 11596276
    Abstract: The Bathroom Space Saver and Organizer is a modular unit consisting in part of a prefabricated box frame manufactured from wood, plastic, marble, stone, or other suitable material which can be easily installed in existing homes or new homes to enhance aesthetics and the usefulness of storage in a bathroom. Various storage media, such as toilet paper roll holders, shelving, hooks, sliding drawers and cabinetry may be configured within the box frame to provide an array of storage options for the user. The invention may be preconfigured and manufactured in a variety of dimensions and shapes, including rectangular, square, oval and arched among other possible shape configurations. Decorative trims and other ornamental features may be provided to enhance the design aesthetic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2023
    Assignee: Custom Environmental Consulting LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey R. Palutis
  • Patent number: 11495196
    Abstract: A guitar armrest designed to relieve the arm stress that a guitarist experiences in the Palmaris Longus muscle caused by the arm resting against the acoustic guitar's lower bout and soundboard side edge. It is made of a one piece injection-molded flexible rubber solid body, with a durometer so as to hold the weight of a guitarist's arm off of the front soundboard so as to prevent scratching and deadening of the sound projected therefrom. Replaceable suction cups extend through the body of the armrest such that their attachment buttons protrude from the armrest's top face and their suction disks protrude from the bottom face. The armrest is temporarily affixed to the lower bout of the guitar by suction means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2022
    Inventor: Edward Warmac
  • Patent number: 9796556
    Abstract: A cable dispensing system for unwinding a spool of cable not having a central core, the system comprising a tub having a base and a side wall with a side wall opening partially forming an inner space sized to fit the spool, the system further including an inner assembly having a base plate and a bearing assembly between the plate and the tub base, the bearing assembly supporting both the axial load and providing free rotation of the plate relative to the tub base about an inner space axis and unrestricted rotation of the associated spool about the system axis, the opening in the side wall allowing passage of the associated cable out of the inner space wherein pulling the cable out of the inner space rotates the associated spool about the inner space axis and unwinds the cable from the spool with low resistance and without kinking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2017
    Assignee: Time Saver Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas C. Hill, Ronald James Hill
  • Patent number: 9730560
    Abstract: A paper towel dispenser including a base; a center shaft vertically mounted on the base; a spool mount tube rotatably disposed around the center shaft; a biasing element engaging the spool mount tube and placing it at an angle in relation to the center shaft, and brake elements disposed between the center shaft and the spool mount tube. When a user pulls a free end of a paper towel roll outwardly ion a defined direction, the spool mount tube tilts and the brake elements disengage, allowing the spool mount tube to rotate and also allowing paper towel sheets to pay out. If the user pulls at an angle relative to the center shaft on the free end of the paper towel roll, the brake elements engage and prevent rotation of the spool mount tube, thus allowing the user to tear off and separate the dispensed paper towel sheets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Inventor: Andrew Flocchini
  • Patent number: 8973859
    Abstract: A thread guide device for use with sewing and embroidering machines is adjustable to accommodate a variety of differently dimensioned thread spools or cones and is adapted for use with machines having a horizontally disposed thread spool support rod. The thread guide device includes a base having a support rod for supporting a spool or cone of thread on a rotor journalled for rotation on the support rod and dimensioned for insertion into the core of a spool or cone of thread. The rotor has a tapered end portion for accommodating spools or cones of different sizes. A wire loop thread guide secured to the base and mounted for selective lateral adjustment relative to the support rod has a first portion disposed within a slot of a slotted arm and a second portion provided with a coil wrapped around the slotted arm. A set screw secures a tapered retaining cap having a central axial aperture receiving the support rod to the support rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Inventors: Eva G. Troncoso, Freddie Troncoso
  • Publication number: 20140160714
    Abstract: Provided is a method of managing a component mounting substrate that can be used in a roll-to-roll process, without breaking or deteriorating electronic components mounted thereon. In the method of winding, around a core, a flexible component mounting substrate on which a plurality of electronic components are mounted and managing the component mounting substrate as a roll, the roll is held such that the core of the roll is parallel to a vertical direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2013
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: NICHIA CORPORATION
    Inventor: Shingo OMURA
  • Patent number: 8746606
    Abstract: The electrical cord organization box includes a lid that secures atop said box. The box includes an array of helical cones that have a curvature ideal for winding and unwinding cables or wires thereon, which prevents unwanted tangling or slipping. The box includes along the front surface and the rear surface a plurality of slots that are aligned adjacent each helical cone, and which have a curvature that secures the respective wire or cable to the surface of the box. The box is placed adjacent a plurality of electrical devices so as to provide a means to organize and store excess cable or wire lengths associated with the electrical devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Inventor: Secreen Murray
  • Patent number: 8702030
    Abstract: An above-ground pool wall installation apparatus comprises a base and a turntable. The base, made of a resilient material comprises a spherical platform which supports the turntable. A bifurcated rope provided with a handle allows a user to manually pull the apparatus along a pre-determined perimeter, thereby creating the wall of the pool by progressively dispensing the material from a coil mounted onto the rotating turntable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Inventor: William A. Gilham, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8602345
    Abstract: A holder and dispenser of paper towels or the like that includes a base, a first post attached to the base for receiving a roll of paper towels or the like, a second post attached to the base in substantially parallel spaced relationship to the first post, a clamping rod for contacting the outer surface of a roll of paper, a plurality of pivot arms pivotally attached at respective first ends thereof to the second post and at respective second ends thereof to the clamping rod whereby said clamping rod is pivotable with respect to the second post for contacting an outer surface of a roll of paper disposed on the first post. This invention solves the problem Contamination or waste of the paper roll is avoided by providing a self adjusting vertical clamp bar to restrain the roll of paper in order to remove a towel segment from the roll.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Inventor: Billy W. Tuttle
  • Patent number: 8567708
    Abstract: Disclosed is a portable device for winding thread around a bobbin from a spool of thread. The device includes a height adjustable thread holder configured to receive the spool of thread, a thread guide bar pivotable between a stored position and an operative position, and an adjustable tension feed device for applying tension to the thread during winding. The device also includes a spindle slot configured to receive one of a plurality of rotatable spindles that are interchangeable within the spindle slot so that different corresponding spindles can be used with the device. Also, a speed control knob for adjusting a speed at which the spindle rotates and thus at which thread is wound around the bobbin from the spool of thread, a fill knob for adjusting the amount of thread to be wound on the bobbin, and an automatic shut off mechanism are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Simplicity Pattern Co. Inc.
    Inventors: Rosemary Shimp, Kenneth Hatcher, David Sasur
  • Publication number: 20130248645
    Abstract: A paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface is an apparatus designed to reduce the transmission of communicable disease from indirect physical contact routes of transmission by providing a disinfecting surface that is most frequently engaged by users. The present invention accomplishes through the use of an upright paper towel dispenser that incorporates an absorbent pad in fluid communication with a reservoir containing an antimicrobial solution. The paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface is additionally able to adjust to variety of paper towel sizes through the incorporation of a height adjustment mechanism. The present invention comprises a stationary base, a pedestal assembly, a reservoir assembly, a retaining plate assembly, and a platform assembly. The reservoir would be filled with an antimicrobial solution capable of eliminating germs upon contact. The platform assembly would provide a non-interfering elevated shelf for storing a plurality of secondary items.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Inventor: Edward J. MILLER
  • Patent number: 8282034
    Abstract: Disclosed is a device and method for storing and dispensing multiple rolls of toilet paper. The present invention comprises a weighted base with an elongated vertical body, onto which several rolls of toilet paper can be placed. The top portion of the elongated body pivots, and can lock in a vertical position, allowing for storage of additional rolls of toilet paper. The top portion can also lock into a horizontal position for use of a toilet paper roll mounted thereon. Once a roll of toilet paper is depleted, a user slides a replacement roll up the vertical body, and over the pivot, where it rests on the top portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Inventors: Roy Channel, Betty Channel
  • Patent number: 8128018
    Abstract: The automatic sensing and outputting device of the present invention includes a base, a shell, a cover and a roller unit. The base has a longitudinal rod extending from an upper side thereof which the shell parallels. The cover pivoted at one ends on the shell and is swayable. The roller unit is rotatably disposed in the shell and is driven by a rotating means. Thereby, the cover and the roller unit are adapted to clamp a sheet-like object therebetween and to output the sheet-like object when the roller unit rotates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Inventor: Michael Shek
  • Publication number: 20110198430
    Abstract: A collapsible reel-type apparatus provides a plurality of adjoining arm component axially joined to a plurality of adjoining leg component. The component so adjoined may be swiveled into a collapsed parallel condition for storage and an open perpendicular position for dispensing. Spring loaded elements automatically lock the components in the open position. Bearings located on the axial member above and below the sum arm component allow the free rotation of the arm component in the open position. Post guide members are adjustably secured to at least one arm component. An axially joined tubing guide extends outward and upward terminating in a looped enclosure. An upper retaining bar is detachably connected upon a coil with a tensioned retainer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Inventor: Ronald Glenn Rothell
  • Patent number: 7997523
    Abstract: A dispenser for spools, reels or coils of electrical wire or cable, or other linear products, such as rope, twine, string, fishing line, etc. It comprises a turntable, a central inner spindle, and various attachments. The attachments can be placed on the floor, and then selected attachments can be fitted to the inner spindle. Attachments are selected based on the size of the spool, reel or coil of wire or cable. The attachments include a small pipe spindle for use with smaller spools, a large pipe spindle for use with larger spools or reels, and a coil clamp assembly use with for coils. The wire or cable can pay out in all horizontal directions from the invention. If more wire or cable is pulled out than is needed, the excess can be rewound and will return to the dispenser with the aid of a sloped outer edge of the turntable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Inventor: John Charles Taugner
  • Patent number: 7918414
    Abstract: An apparatus for the storing and management of a plurality of wire rope slings is presented, such slings being those typically comprised of a length of wire rope having at least one end loop. The apparatus has a base frame upon which is rotatably mounted a sling storage bin. The storage bin has a plurality of arm members that extend from the storage bin for engaging and holding an end loop of a selected wire rope sling. Rotation of the storage bin causes the selected wire rope sling to be coiled around said projecting arms within the storage bin. The apparatus may be provided with pad eyes and forklift tine guides to facilitate its transportation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Inventors: Edward W. Davis, Thomas E. Leblanc, William H. Hidalgo
  • Publication number: 20100072343
    Abstract: A base (10) with multiple compartments has a hole (22) at its center. The base is made of a sturdy material. The hole accepts a rod (32) which supports a roll of towels (36). The hole also accepts an attachment (48). The compartments are capable of holding common household dispensers. A groove (24) accepts a cover (38).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2009
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Inventors: André Lydell Glover, James Henry Johnson, JR.
  • Publication number: 20100006694
    Abstract: A Special Functional and Decorative Paper Towel Dispenser provides a decorative yet elegant and simple means to securely hold paper towels. The device is comprised of a container including a bottom, sides and a center arbor; a lid; a means to hold a paper towel roll; and, a means to dispense a paper towel from the roll as a single sheet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2009
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Inventor: Theresa Bond
  • Patent number: 7604195
    Abstract: A strapping head assembly has a central axle, a braking tube, a lower securing plate, a braking pad, an adjusting base, a biasing member, an adjusting nut, a strap-holding collar and an upper holding base. The braking tube is mounted rotatably around the central axle. The lower securing plate is mounted on the bottom of the braking tube. The braking pad is attached to the top of the braking tube. The adjusting base is adjustably mounted on the central axle and abuts with the braking pad. The biasing member is mounted around the central axle and abuts against the adjusting base. The adjusting nut is screwed with the central axle and abuts with the biasing member. The strap-holding collar is mounted around the central axle. The upper holding base is mounted around the central axle and has an abutting flange mounted over the strap-holding collar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Inventor: Chien-Fa Lai
  • Patent number: 7559504
    Abstract: A thin-ply roll holder, for example, a paper towel holder facilitates tearing of paper towels from a continuous roll supported on the holder, and prevents excessive unraveling of the roll. A pressure bar pivots at a hinge on the base, and is spring biased towards the pole that supports the roll, such that leverage of the bias about a hinge increases as the pressure bar pivots towards the pole, but the bias decreases at a lower rate than the increase in the leverage. At the distal free end of the pole, a retaining tab is pivoted to flip from a first orientation in which the hollow core of the paper towel is permitted to be received by the pole, to a second orientation in which the paper towel is not permitted to be removed from the pole. The pole is structured as a frame structure comprising rod-shaped segments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Simplehuman LLC
    Inventors: Frank Yang, Ian Fettes
  • Patent number: 7543776
    Abstract: A reel carrier system for vertical transportation of a reel includes a base having an inner portion rotatable with respect to an outer portion. The inner portion is attached to a perpendicular post such that rotation of the post rotates the inner portion. Coupled to the post is a handle such that rotation of the handle rotates the post. At least one of the handle and the attachment section detaches from the post for disposing the reel on the inner portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Inventor: Peter Kurzyniec
  • Patent number: 7530525
    Abstract: A paper towel holder facilitates tearing of paper towels from a continuous roll of paper towels supported on the holder, and prevents excessive unraveling of the roll. A portable paper towel holder has a vertical pole and a base having an annular rim of uneven height. The uneven annular rim provides the combination of tall and short sections to balance between effectively holding the towel from excess unraveling, and facilitating ease of tearing of paper towel pieces from the roll. A releasable handle is provided at the distal end of the pole to securely retain the paper towel roll on the vertical pole. The handle is provided with recessed releasing buttons for releasing the handle from the pole. Another embodiment provides a paper towel holder that is structured for mounting to a vertical surface. A spring is provided to provide a bias in the axial direction of the roll.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Simplehuman LLC
    Inventors: Frank Yang, Joseph Sandor, Myk Wayne Lum, Adam C. Wade
  • Patent number: 7458541
    Abstract: A tissue roll holder includes a sucking member having a threaded rod connected to and extending upwardly from a central portion of a flexible disc body, an abutting plate disposed above the disc body and permitting extension of the threaded rod therethrough, and a mounting seat disposed on the abutting plate for mounting a tissue roll and having a threaded hole that engages the threaded rod. When a peripheral portion of the disc body is pressed by a peripheral abutting portion of the abutting plate and is attached sealingly to a supporting surface, the mounting seat is rotatable about the threaded rod relative to the abutting plate so as to move the threaded rod and the central portion of the disc body upwardly away from the supporting surface, thereby forming a vacant space between the central portion of the disc body and the supporting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Inventor: Tai-In Chang
  • Patent number: 7438256
    Abstract: The present invention broadly comprises an apparatus for holding and dispensing rolled products comprising a rigid linear core with a spindle attached to the exterior of the rigid linear core with at least one fin fixedly attached to the spindle. The fins are attached parallel to the spindle, are constructed of an elastomeric material, and extend outwardly and radially from the spindle. Removably attached to the rigid linear core is a head. Also, a base is fixedly attached to the rigid linear core distal to the head. Alternatively, the base can be replaced by a bracket that is capable of being attached to vertical and horizontal surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignee: Umbra LLC
    Inventors: Jason Nip, Paul Rowan
  • Patent number: 7419118
    Abstract: A rolled sheet product dispenser, including a base and a shaft oriented coaxially with the base. The shaft has a first end and a second end, with the first end being attached to the base. A bracket includes at least one mounting surface, and a base engagement element is attached to the base, the base engagement element being operable for detachable engagement with the bracket. The bracket is operable to position the shaft horizontally when the base engagement element is engaged with the bracket, and the shaft is dimensioned to allow insertion of the shaft within a roll of a rolled sheet product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: Polder, Inc.
    Inventors: Kerry John Cooper, George Calvin Scott
  • Patent number: 7401749
    Abstract: A paper towel holder facilitates tearing of paper towels from a continuous roll of paper towels supported on the holder, and prevents excessive unraveling of the roll. A portable paper towel holder has a vertical pole and a base having an annular rim of uneven height. The uneven annular rim provides the combination of tall and short sections to balance between effectively holding the towel from excess unraveling, and facilitating ease of tearing of paper towel pieces from the roll. A releasable handle is provided at the distal end of the pole to securely retain the paper towel roll on the vertical pole. The handle is provided with recessed releasing buttons for releasing the handle from the pole. A further embodiment provides a quick-release, detachable, spring-biased retractable handle for applying a braking force to restrain the towel roll from rotation about the pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Simplehuman LLC
    Inventors: Frank Yang, Myk Wayne Lum, Joseph Sandor
  • Patent number: 7350741
    Abstract: An apparatus and method by which light strings can be quickly wound up and securely stored is herein disclosed. A freely rotating base and spindle assembly has a tray disposed along the shaft of the spindle upon which a reel assembly sits. The reel assembly has a number of interspaced grooves formed on its outer surface to retain a plurality of light strings and an inverted “U”-shaped device acting as a winding mechanism on its top surface. A cover assembly is provided to protect the wound light strings from the environment and a removably detachable handle for attachment to the spindle shaft is also provided. The spindle and base assembly is mounted on a wheeled cart to provide portability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Inventor: Linda S. Rosa
  • Patent number: 7344103
    Abstract: A reel assembly is provided that rotatably couples a hub to a support, such that the hub is generally, vertically positioned. A frame is coupled with the support so that the frame may rotate about a generally vertical axis, independently of the hub and the support. A level-wind system is coupled with the frame so that the level-wind may reciprocally, vertically move a flexible line as the hub is rotated. A cover assembly may be provided to substantially enclose the hub while permitting the hub to freely rotate within the cover. A distal end of the support may be coupled with a nearly limitless number of different bases for portable and permanently mounted uses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: Eley Corporation
    Inventor: Craig Eley
  • Publication number: 20080061186
    Abstract: The invention broadly comprises a combination disposable towel and utensil holder comprising a base with a post attached to the base at one end of the post, and a receptacle attached to the base. The receptacle is positioned proximate the post and shaped to complement the base. The receptacle can have an open end and walls. A receptacle can be attached to the base. The base can also comprise a primary and a secondary base segment, and the receptacle can be attached to the secondary base and the post can be attached to the primary base. In some aspects, an arm is attached to the upper portion of the receptacle and the arm is operatively arranged to hold a disposable towel roll on the holder and cooperate with a dome on the base. A knob can be operatively arranged on the arm to cooperate with the dome on the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2006
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Applicant: Umbra Inc.
    Inventors: Jason Nip, Luciano Lorenzatti
  • Patent number: 7328869
    Abstract: A sheet product dispensing device includes a base, and a shaft connected to the base and extending upwardly therefrom. The sheet product dispensing device also includes a top removably connected to an upper portion of the shaft. The top may be longitudinally moveable between an engaged position and a disengaged position when connected to the upper portion of the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Inventor: George Philip John Zies
  • Patent number: 7293738
    Abstract: A freestanding dispenser for dual dispensing of a wet substrate and a dry substrate includes: a base for supporting the freestanding dispenser on a substantially horizontal surface; a support member connected to the base, the support member holding a roll of a dry substrate in a substantially vertical position; and a source of a wet substrate supported by the freestanding dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Loïc Grébonval, Kenneth Graham Russell, Danny Fraser Masting, Tammy Jo Balzar, William John Maskell, Jason Morenikeji, Gerard Michael O'Brien, David Eugene Salmon
  • Patent number: 7278604
    Abstract: A multiple-type paper product dispensing mobile stand with mini-table and storage is provided. The invention can be configured in various dispensing arrangements for dispensing one or more paper products comprising paper towel rolls, toilet tissue rolls, and/or a box of paper facial pop-up tissue sheets. To this extent, one or more dispensing arrangements may incorporate an open roll holder, a hanging roll holder, and/or a web tear plate, each of which is unique to this invention. Further, various configurations allow for the storage of one or more of these products. Various embodiments of the invention also provide user conveniences such as a mini-table, wheel caster leg assemblies, and lifting knobs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Inventor: Valentino John Constantino
  • Publication number: 20070210202
    Abstract: An apparatus for lifting and supporting a roll of wire fencing during installation of a wire fence. The apparatus is attachable to a standard three-point hitch mounted on a vehicle such as a tractor. The apparatus comprises a base which is pivotally connected to the hitch and a post that extends outwardly from the base and is insertable into an axial bore in the roll of fencing. The apparatus further includes a platform mounted at right angles to the post. The three-point hitch is activated to move the apparatus between a first position, where the post is oriented vertically, and a second position where the post is oriented horizontally. The apparatus is maintained in the first position when not in use. When the hitch is activated, the apparatus is moved into the second position, the vehicle is driven toward the roll of fencing to insert the post into the bore of the roll. The hitch is again activated to rotate the apparatus back into the first position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2007
    Publication date: September 13, 2007
    Inventor: Olen O. Miller
  • Patent number: 7264197
    Abstract: A paper towel holder comprising a base and a mandrel extending upwardly from the base, the base including a suction cup arranged to engage a support surface in use, an actuator mechanism adapted to raise or lower the centre of the suction cup to create or release a movement resisting suction between the cup and a support surface, the mechanism comprising an elongate member connected to the cup and extending axially of the mandrel, an actuator including a hand grip mounted for rotational movement at the top of the mandrel, one or more radially extending projections at the top of the elongate member, the actuator including a collar comprising one or more of cam surfaces, the or each cam surface being arranged to engage the or each projection to raise or lower the said projection as the actuator is rotated, a sleeve including one or more of vertical guide channels, each channel being adapted to receive a projection to prevent rotation of the projection during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: Ko Fung Products Industrial Limited
    Inventor: Kwok Leung Yu
  • Patent number: 7232090
    Abstract: The invention is a spinning roll dispenser product for dispensing items from a roll, for example a roll of paper towels. The product holds the roll on a spindle and spins around a spindle axis as the items are pulled from the roll. The product has a plurality of wheels and a tapered spindle portion for holding and dispensing the items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Inventor: James Michael Moratto
  • Patent number: 7172152
    Abstract: A paper towel holder and dispenser including a flat circular base plate having a top side and a bottom side with a first opening in the center thereof and a second opening near the outer edge thereof, a first cord extending upward from the bottom side of the base plate through the first opening and through the hollow central core of a roll of paper towels, a strip of hook and loop material connected to the upper end of the first cord, a second cord extending upward from the bottom side of the base plate through the second opening and around the outer surface of a roll of paper towels, and a loop connected to the second cord on the upper end of the second cord, the loop being adapted to receive the strip of hook and loop material connected to the upper portion of the first cord extending out of the end of the central hollow core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Inventor: Janice W. Wardell
  • Patent number: 7140573
    Abstract: A rotating article dispenser is provided for receiving and dispensing articles, such as a paper towel roll. The dispenser includes a handle which may be easily attached and removed by use of a clamping head provided in the handle which clamps around a bulb protruding from a first end of a tube. Upon depression of a button attached to the clamping head, the head may be released from the bulb so that the handle may be removed from the first end of the dispenser tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: Helen of Troy Limited
    Inventors: Goeran Jerstroem, Boris Kontrovich, Alec Drummond, Sally Bernadine Rumble, Arsenio Garcia Monsalve
  • Patent number: 7025302
    Abstract: This invention is a device for transporting, holding and feeding a plurality of spools of level-wound or cross-wound thread on a home sewing and/or embroidery machine. This device fits over the vertical spindle of the machine if so equipped, or over a spindle devised for the intended machine so as to provide the same function if not so equipped. It consists of a disk with a flat base, free to rotate about its vertical axis, with provisions for accepting spools of thread of various standard sizes. It can be made of any material suitable for the purpose and embodies a thread guide for each spool when used to feed cross-wound thread. It also embodies a knob, pin, ring, or other feature to enable it to be installed/removed from the machine manually without tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Inventor: Henry Morkovsky
  • Patent number: 6991196
    Abstract: The storage device is provided in the form of a reel for dispensing electrical wire. The reel includes a small disk at one end rotatably mounted to an eyebolt for suspension by hook from an overhead structure and a large thick circular disk at a second end. Slots are provided through the small disk adjacent the perimeter edge. The large thick disk is provided with a plurality of recessed pockets symmetrically arranged around the center of the top face of the large disk. A divider divides each pocket into a plurality of storage compartments. Each pocket includes a compartment cover closing the storage compartments. A plurality of flexible straps is provided. One end of each strap is secured to the large disk. A second end of each strap is rotatably received around the shaft of the eyebolt after passage through corresponding slots in the small disk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Inventor: David L. Wheeler
  • Patent number: 6988691
    Abstract: A floor rack is designed to hold a plurality of paper towel rolls and is formed of a base, a support post, a first holder, and one or more second holders. The support post is uprightly extended from the base. The first holder is fastened with a top end of the support post for holding a paper towel roll ready to serve. The second holders are fastened to the support post for holding a plurality of standby paper towel rolls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Inventor: Ming-Hsiao Lai
  • Patent number: 6860471
    Abstract: A fence dispensing apparatus for installing fencing wire along a line of fence posts. The fence dispensing apparatus permits easy setup along with efficient and safe operation. In addition to dispensing wire, the apparatus stretches unrolled wire using a winch and a wire interface. The fence dispensing apparatus essentially comprises a base member that sits on an axle and wheels. Moreover, the base member connects to a motor vehicle via a hitch receiver or a three-point tractor hookup. As the vehicle travels along a fence line, the apparatus dispenses wire from a vertically aligned spindle and/or from a horizontally aligned roller. The spindle disconnects from the base member, permitting it to be easily loaded with wire and set up for operation. Additionally, a spindle lock and spindle support act in concert to safely hold the loaded spindle in position. Furthermore, a wear plate between the loaded spindle and the base member protects the base member from excessive wear during operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Inventor: Samuel H. Albritton
  • Patent number: 6832739
    Abstract: A support for conventional roll of perforated paper toweling includes a base for mounting on a vertical or horizontal surface, a support rod perpendicular to said base for holding the towel roll, and a pressure member insertable into one of a plurality of insertion holes in said base for contacting a conventional roll of perforated paper to impede the unrolling of the towels when one is being torn off the roll.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Inventor: Peter B. Kraus
  • Publication number: 20040238667
    Abstract: A yarn unwinding device is disclosed that consist of a base having a central raised portion there that has an upstanding central rod embedded therein. A hollow crochet spindle is rotatably received over the upstanding rod. The crochet needle has a pointed top and has a circular flange located at the bottom. In addition, there is a wider circular washer received over the needle and rests on the bottom flange. A skein of wound yarn is received over the top of the needle and rests on the circular washer at the bottom of the needle. The yarn is withdrawn laterally from the skein with only a limited resistance while unwinding during the process of knitting, embroidering or crocheting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2003
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventor: Tom Clark
  • Publication number: 20040195429
    Abstract: A paper towel holder apparatus includes a base, a first guide piece disposed on the base, and a second guide piece disposed radially inward from the first guide piece on the base. The first and second guide pieces extend substantially perpendicularly from the surface of the base. With this configuration, a paper towel sheet from a paper towel roll is receivable between the first and second guide pieces. The spacing of the inner and outer guide pieces on the top surface of the base allows for the ready position for the next paper towel to be more consistently achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Applicant: Calphalon Corporation
    Inventors: Brian J. Demers, Paul Angelo Logiudice
  • Patent number: 6793097
    Abstract: A rotation mechanism is provided for use with dispensers for rolled products. The rotation mechanism can be utilized with dispensers configured for a number of different paper, plastic, foil or other products supplied as rolled sheets on tubes or rolls, The rotation mechanism provides mild resistance to the rotation of a roll of products such that a desired quantity can be removed from the roll without excess material unraveling from the roll.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Lifetime Hoan Corporation
    Inventor: Matthew Kamenstein
  • Publication number: 20040159738
    Abstract: A paper towel holder includes a base with a central aperture and a hollow spindle extending up from the base. A flexible disc is secured to the underside of the base and has a substantially flat bottom surface. A central aperture extends through the disc and communicates with the hollow interior of the spindle. A valve stem is slidably mounted in the spindle. The valve stem will fall gravitationally into sealing engagement with portions of the disc surrounding the central aperture so that the central aperture is sealed. In this condition, any attempt to tilt or lift the paper towel holder will create a partial vacuum beneath the disc that will resist such lifting or tilting. However, the valve stem can be lifted up relative to the remainder of the towel holder to open the aperture in the disc. No partial vacuum will exist below the disc and the paper towel holder can be moved easily.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Applicant: Creative Bath Products, Inc.
    Inventors: McKay Duncan, Kevin Williams
  • Patent number: 6776368
    Abstract: A paper towel holder includes a base with a central aperture and a hollow spindle extending up from the base. A flexible disc is secured to the underside of the base and has a substantially flat bottom surface. A central aperture extends through the disc and communicates with the hollow interior of the spindle. A valve stem is slidably mounted in the spindle. The value stem will fall gravitationally into sealing engagement with portions of the disc surrounding the central aperture so that the central aperture is sealed. In this condition, any attempt to tilt or lift the paper towel holder will create a partial vacuum beneath the disc that will resist such lifting or tilting. However, the valve stem can be lifted up relative to the remainder of the towel holder to open the aperture in the disc. No partial vacuum will exist below the disc and the paper towel holder can be moved easily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Assignee: Creative Bath Products, Inc.
    Inventors: McKay Duncan, Kevin Williams
  • Patent number: RE44506
    Abstract: The present invention broadly comprises an apparatus for holding and dispensing rolled products comprising a rigid linear core with a spindle attached to the exterior of the rigid linear core with at least one fin fixedly attached to the spindle. The fins are attached parallel to the spindle, are constructed of an elastomeric material, and extend outwardly and radially from the spindle. Removably attached to the rigid linear core is a head. Also, a base is fixedly attached to the rigid linear core distal to the head. Alternatively, the base can be replaced by a bracket that is capable of being attached to vertical and horizontal surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Umbra LLC
    Inventors: Jason Nip, Paul Rowan