Removal Facilitating Magazine Type Patents (Class 312/35)
  • Patent number: 11558183
    Abstract: A system is provided for exchanging symmetric cryptographic keys using computer network port knocking. The system may receive, from a networked computing device, a first series of packets on a first series of ports which may signify a request to open a secure network connection. Once the secure network connection has been opened, the system may receive a second series of packets on a second series of ports which may be used as seed values to generate a symmetric cryptographic key. Finally, the system may then receive a third series of packets on a third series of ports which may signify the end of the second series of packets (e.g., the seed values). In this way, the system may exchange symmetric key values with the networked computing device which may then be used to open secure communication channels between the system and the computing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2023
    Assignee: BANK OF AMERICA CORPORATION
    Inventor: Brandon Sloane
  • Patent number: 11222499
    Abstract: An ADA compliant vending machine that raises vended product to a desired height, and specifically to a new and improved vended product delivery mechanism that moves between lowered and raised positions within a delivery bin within a vending machine, in a coordinated manner with the opening and closing of a delivery door, that raises the vended product for delivery to a customer at the desired height, and where front and rear delivery bin walls can be shaped to interlock with conforming shaped front and rear edges of the delivery mechanism to prevent vended product from becoming wedged or stuck there between.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2022
    Assignee: Automated Merchandising Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Mason
  • Patent number: 11132858
    Abstract: An improved closing structure of a banknote machine includes: a banknote machine; a banknote machine gate, and characterized in that: a lower portion of the banknote machine gate is disposed with a bottom plate, one side of the bottom plate is extended with a protruding extension part and a fastening column, the lateral plate is disposed with a fastening column, at least one tension spring connected to the fastening column of the lateral plate and the fastening column of the protruding extension part; and a front portion of the banknote machine is formed with an accommodation space, so that the banknote machine gate is prevented from folding back after being opened via a pulling force provided by the tension spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2021
    Assignee: iBASE Gaming Inc.
    Inventors: Po-Wen Lu, Yun-Ping Chen
  • Patent number: 10951013
    Abstract: A multiple input power distribution shelf and a bus bar assembly thereof are provided. The power distribution shelf is installed in the server rack and comprises plural power supply units. The bus bar assembly comprises a first linking bus bar, a second linking bus bar, an insulation member and plural power connectors. The first linking bus bar comprises a first main bar, plural first bending parts and at least one first output part. The second linking bus bar comprises a second main bar, plural second bending parts and at least one second output part. The insulation member is disposed between the first main bar and the second main bar for insulation. The power connectors are mounted on the bending parts and connect with the power supply units. The first output part and the second output part are electrically connected with a rack bus bar of the server rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: DELTA ELECTRONICS, INC.
    Inventor: Yu-Hung Huang
  • Patent number: 10947037
    Abstract: A hollow container or box formed from a roof, a first side (i.e., or first upper and lower sides), a second side (i.e., for second upper and lower sides), a rear side (i.e., or rear upper and lower sides), a door (i.e., or upper and lower door), and a base placing the container or box in a fully assembled position. Unique side and end access doors are provided. Each of the sides are releaseably coupled or hingedly connected to one another and the adjacent sides are hingedly coupled to the base. Upon releasing the sides from one another and rotating each relative to one another in a particular order along various axis rotation, the container or box is transitioned from a fully assembled position into a flat, parallel orientation, fully collapsed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: Havener Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher Havener
  • Patent number: 10867524
    Abstract: Embodiments of a several types of teaching or presentation stations are disclosed. Such disclosures may include a portable presentation station, the presentation station including: a touch screen display, a computer controller in communication with the touch screen display, a first human interface input device in communication with the computer controller, a second human interface input device in communication with the computer controller, a third human interface input device in communication with the computer controller, a document camera in communication with the computer controller, at least one light source operatively coupled to the document camera, a tray for the first human interface device and the second human interface device, a shelf to hold at least the third human interface device, a radio in communication with the computer controller, a document camera positioned to generally opposed the touch screen display, and in communication with the computer controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: M&A Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Magdy Elwany
  • Patent number: 10045459
    Abstract: A server platform with integrated power supply including a cubby chassis having one or more partitions defining a plurality of sled positions each configured to receive a server sled. A power supply unit is positioned in the cubby chassis and transversely oriented with respect to the one or more partitions. A power supply harness extends between the power supply unit and each of the plurality of sled positions. Therefore, the server platform can be easily connected to a power source without being mounted in a rack, thereby facilitating bench top testing of a server or servers mounted in the cubby chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: Facebook, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon Brian Ehlen, Yan Zhao, Jason Taylor
  • Patent number: 9865980
    Abstract: A multi-node server platform including a cubby chassis and at least one multi-server sled. The cubby chassis includes partitions defining a plurality of sled positions. The multi-server sled includes a chassis having a vertical sidewall and a horizontal bottom wall with an open top and an open side. A side-plane PCB is mounted to the vertical sidewall and a plurality of dividers are attached to the bottom wall and oriented perpendicular to the side-plane PCB. One or more server cards are connected to the side-plane PCB and are supported the plurality of dividers. The server cards include a server PCB having a first side facing the bottom wall and an outward facing second side enclosing the open top of the sled chassis. A cover is coupled to the horizontal bottom wall to enclose the open side of the sled chassis and help direct airflow across the server cards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Assignee: Facebook, Inc.
    Inventors: Hu Li, Yan Zhao, Renee Chu
  • Patent number: 9519318
    Abstract: Storage systems, carriers, enclosures and support PCBs connecting to a first storage device of a first form factor such as a hard disc drive (HDD), a dongle within a storage carrier coupled to the first storage device, and a second storage device such as a solid-state drive (SSD) coupled to the dongle having a second form factor different than or smaller than the first form factor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2016
    Assignee: Xyratex Technology Limited
    Inventors: David M. Davis, Alexander C. Worrall, Christopher J. Girard
  • Patent number: 9495823
    Abstract: A vending apparatus and method of vending a product. Embodiments of a vending apparatus include a dispense mechanism configured to dispense a product, the dispense mechanism including a chamber that is rotatable relative to an opening of the dispense mechanism for aligning the product with the opening and dispensing the product therethrough. Further embodiments of a vending apparatus include a coin mechanism for receiving at least one coin before the vending apparatus dispenses a product, the coin mechanism including a delay mechanism configured to slow movement of an actuating device for avoiding jamming of the at least one coin in the coin mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2016
    Assignee: Bobrick Washroom Equipment, Inc.
    Inventors: Nancy LaCroix-Toyne, Raffi Mekhitarian, Dikran Babikian, Jacobus Marcus Berkhout, Robert Riccomini, William Conway, Peter Hues
  • Publication number: 20150061474
    Abstract: The present invention generally pertains to an enclosure constructed from homopolymer and/or copolymer thermal plastic, preferably polypropylene members and a method of construction therefore. Particularly, such enclosures are utilized in the construction of vending machines, product dispensing machines and the like. The polypropylene members used for the enclosure material are at least partially formed from homopolymer polypropylene, or copolymer polypropylene, or a combination of homopolymer and copolymer polypropylene.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2013
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventors: Fernando A. Ubidia, Aaron Stein
  • Publication number: 20150002003
    Abstract: A vending machine enclosure includes a chassis, a bottom frame, a door, and a support member. The bottom frame is secured to the chassis. A first end of the door is rotatably mounted to the chassis for opening or closing the chassis. The support member is secured to the bottom frame. A part of the supporting member extends out of the bottom frame. A gap is defined between a bottom wall of the door and the support member. A resisting portion extends from the bottom wall towards the support member. The resisting portion is located in the gap. The resisting portion abuts the support member when a second end of the door is dropped down.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2014
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: YUN-LUNG CHEN
  • Patent number: 8894929
    Abstract: An example rack accommodation device includes a base capable of supporting supporters on a plurality of stages in a first direction and in a plurality of rows in a second direction across the first direction. The supporters are each configured to hold a rack capable of holding a plurality of upright sample holders each accommodating a sample. A first movement mechanism is configured to move the supporters in the first direction, and a second movement mechanism is configured to move the supporters in the second direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Aoi Seiki Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Teruaki Itoh
  • Publication number: 20140312747
    Abstract: The present invention generally pertains to an enclosure constructed from homopolymer and/or copolymer thermal plastic, preferably polypropylene members and a method of construction therefore. Particularly, such enclosures are utilized in the construction of vending machines, product dispensing machines and the like. The polymer members used for the enclosure material are at least partially formed from homopolymer material, or copolymer material, or a combination of homopolymer and copolymer materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Applicant: Fastcorp 2, LLC
    Inventors: Fernando A. Ubidia, Aaron Stein
  • Publication number: 20140217860
    Abstract: A bracket supporting apparatus includes a cabinet body, a number of first supporting brackets, a number of second supporting brackets, a product channel, a first mounting bracket, a second mounting bracket, and a product output unit. The cabinet body includes a first side plate, a second side plate, a top plate, a bottom plate, and a back plate. The number of first supporting brackets and the second mounting bracket are fixed to the first and the second side plates. The number of second supporting brackets and the product channel are mounted on the top plate. The first mounting bracket is mounted on the back plate. The product output unit is fixed to the first and the second mounting brackets. The product output unit receives a sale item dropped from the product channel and facilitates the sale item to slide towards a product output opening above the bottom plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (WuHan) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: YUN-LUNG CHEN, ZHI-WU XIA
  • Publication number: 20140184036
    Abstract: A goods storage apparatus for a vending machine includes a controlling cabinet and a rack. The controlling cabinet includes a number of controlling devices and a pair of pillars. The pair of pillars defines a number of engaging holes facing each other. The rack accommodates items therein. The rack includes a pair of side walls. The pair of side walls includes a pair of clasps. The pair of clasps engages in the engaging holes to mount the rack between the pair of pillars.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2013
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (WUHAN) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: YUN-LUNG CHEN, CHUNG CHAI, DA-LONG SUN, YU-GUI CHEN, QIANG LIU
  • Publication number: 20140175958
    Abstract: A vending machine includes a rack and a door. The rack includes a supporting board. The door is pivotably attached to the rack. The door includes a door panel, a bracket, and a supporting member. The bracket is located on the door panel. The supporting member is mounted to the bracket. The supporting member protrudes from a bottom surface of the door panel. The bottom surface is substantially parallel to the supporting board. When the door is closed relative to the rack, the supporting member abuts the supporting board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (WUHAN) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: YUN-LUNG CHEN, CHUNG CHAI, DA-LONG SUN, LI TONG, GANG CHENG
  • Patent number: 8727179
    Abstract: A box structure has a plurality of walls positioned and configured to prevent access to an interior space housing merchandise in a secure manner. A first movable wall permits manual access to a frontal portion of the interior space while at the same time moving a barrier strip to prevent manual access to other than said frontal portion of the interior space. A roll-out shelf mounts merchandise supporting modules with pushers to move merchandise toward the front of the structure where ejection mechanisms in each of the modules are able to direct selected items to the front of the structure where they can be accessed by consumers. The ejection process creates a characteristic noise to alert store personnel that products are being dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: RTC Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert P. Colelli, Eric E. Oberg, Johnnie Cruz, Keith Cleland
  • Publication number: 20140091684
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for storing one or more items and dispensing the stored items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive a plurality of items and an access assembly configured to prevent unauthorized user access to the interior portion of the dispenser while providing selective access to certain items in response to input received from an authorized user. According to various embodiments, the access assembly comprises a pair of flexible barriers coupled to a sliding door assembly, which includes one or more lockable access doors. Together, the door assembly and flexible barriers prevent access to the interior of the dispenser when in a locked configuration and permit access to certain items when in an unlocked configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2013
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Applicant: Innovative Product Achievements, LLC
    Inventors: Robert Fitzgerald, Kyle Joiner, Joel Eisler, Ward Broom, Keith Stallings, Jason Farah
  • Publication number: 20130307381
    Abstract: According to an embodiment, a rack accommodation device includes, a base capable of supporting supporters on a plurality of stages in a first direction and in a plurality of rows in a second direction across the first direction, the supporters each being configured to hold a rack capable of holding a plurality of upright sample holders each accommodating a sample, a first movement mechanism configured to move the supporters in the first direction, and a second movement mechanism configured to move the supporters in the second direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: ADI SEIKI CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Teruaki ITOH
  • Patent number: 8579100
    Abstract: A method of retro-fitting a coin-operated vending machine includes first removing the base and coin retainer and then connecting an improved base unit to a lower end of the center rod. The improved base unit has a bottom for collecting coins and an opened section for access to the bottom. When the improved base unit is connected to the center rod, the improved base unit is movable into at least two configurations. The first configuration is defined such that the opened section is hidden within the body preventing access to the bottom, while the second configuration is defined such that at least a portion of the opened section is exposed whereby access to the bottom, and any coins, is granted through the exposed opened section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignees: Parsal Vending Supply, LLC, Oak Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank Parisi, James Henry Hinton
  • Patent number: 8567640
    Abstract: A portable carousel assembly for storing and facilitating access to medicine containers, such as plastic bottles commonly used for prescription or over-the-counter medications. Each medicine bottle is housed in a station that includes an aperture formed in a top plate of a rotatable receptacle. The rotatable receptacle is coupled to a stationary base. An ejection mechanism, such as a lever, cam track or ramp is operable to partially eject a selected medicine bottle from the receptacle so that it can be viewed or removed from the receptacle. The medicine bottle is maintained in the partially ejected condition by grasping means, such as flaps, gaskets, or webbing, or by operation of the cam track or ramp, so that the user need only use one hand to operate the carousel assembly and remove the medicine bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: LJC Therapy Services. Inc.
    Inventor: Connie Johnson-Lofton
  • Patent number: 8485391
    Abstract: Systems for deterring theft of retail products. Systems of this invention provide theft deterrent dispensing modules for dispensing products and may incorporate theft deterrent measures including mechanical deterrents, time delays and sound. The dispensing modules may include one or more pusher assemblies for dispensing product. Certain systems of this invention may also include a lockout feature, so that only one pusher assembly may be activated to dispense a product at one time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Rock-Tenn Shared Services, LLC
    Inventors: Kirk A. Vlastakis, Roger K. Miller, Thomas A. Lockwood
  • Publication number: 20130106259
    Abstract: A system for controlled advancement of product. Systems of this invention includes a pushing system having a track, a pusher, and an optional resistance mechanism. The resistance mechanism couples to the track and the pusher, controlling forward movement of the pusher along the track and thereby controlling the speed at which product is advanced for access by the consumer. Certain embodiments of the invention include additional mechanisms to further limit the forward progression of the pusher along the track, such as a stop mechanism or an indexing mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2012
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Applicant: ROCK-TENN SHARED SERVICES LLC
    Inventor: ROCK-TENN SHARED SERVICES LLC
  • Publication number: 20130038184
    Abstract: A spice rack (10) comprising a housing (14) and a plurality of receptacles (12) for holding spices. A plurality of receptacle holders (16) are provided within the housing (14) each for receiving one of the receptacles (12). A selector is provided such that selecting one of the receptacle holders (16) from the selector moves a moveable access opening (56) to be adjacent the selected receptacle holder (16) such that the receptacle (12) in the selected receptacle holder (16) can be removed from the housing (14).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Applicant: DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT SYSTEMS PTY LTD
    Inventors: Julian Nesci, Suzanne Nesci, Edward Joseph Khoury
  • Patent number: 8317273
    Abstract: A merchandising display and dispensing system for displaying and dispensing articles, including cylindrical shaped articles or rolls of disk-shaped articles. In particular, the invention relates to a modular display and dispensing system having a plurality of modules fitted with one another. Each module comprises a left side panel and a right side panel which are fitted together and form a serpentine chute which feeds articles by gravity to an access tray where an article can be removed by hand, thus permitting another article to enter the tray. The front of the module receives a front cover for covering the chute and provides a surface for indicia of contents inside the module. The front cover is preferably hinged at the bottom to permit reloading product in the top of the chute. Various connecting structures can be formed on the side panels and adapted to join the module to a front cover, to another adjacent module, to a module base, and/or to a module header to form a modular display and dispensing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Applied Merchandising Concepts, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey Alexander
  • Patent number: 7641072
    Abstract: Systems for deterring theft of retail products. Systems of this invention provide theft deterrent cabinets for dispensing products and may incorporate theft deterrent measures including mechanical deterrents, time delays and sound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Rock-Tenn Shared Services, LLC
    Inventors: Kirk Vlastakis, Roger K. Miller, Thomas A. Lockwood
  • Publication number: 20090066201
    Abstract: A storage and dispensing arrangement is provided to maintain moistened wipes wet. The moistened wipes are rolled around a core tube and placed inside a first housing. The first housing is then placed inside a second housing having a closing door to isolate the first housing from external environment. The unit is then hanged into a stand, a rack or a wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2008
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Inventors: Ana Colon, Julissa Santiago
  • Publication number: 20080272137
    Abstract: A method of loading a cart into an enclosure, according to various embodiments of the invention, comprises the steps of: (A) providing a cart having a first end and a second end, the cart comprising at least one swiveled wheel adjacent the first end, and at least two non-swiveled wheels adjacent the second end, the swiveled and non-swiveled wheels being adapted to facilitate the rolling movement of the cart over a surface; (B) positioning the at least two non-swiveled wheels on a wheeled platform so that the non-swiveled wheels are supported by the wheeled platform; and (C) while the non-swiveled wheels are supported by the wheeled platform, and while the at least one swiveled wheel is disposed on a support surface adjacent an interior portion of the enclosure, using the wheeled platform and the at least one swiveled wheel to roll the cart into the interior portion of the enclosure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2007
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Inventors: Robert M. Fitzgerald, Kyle Joiner, Ward P. Broom
  • Publication number: 20080211358
    Abstract: A very high density storage system comprising a storage grid having a number of storage cells and individual cargo carriers where a cargo carrier is stored in a storage cell. The storage system uses a unique set of individually actuatable gear drives on both the top and bottom of each storage cell, but installed at 90 degrees to each other, to move the cargo carrier to a specific storage cell. Software controls and manages the location of each cargo carrier such that when a specific cargo carrier is desired, software instructions cause the cargo carriers to be shuffled within the storage grid until the desired cargo carrier is located at the desired position, such as an unloading position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Inventors: Dennis W. Borgwarth, Adam Marsh, David W. Sullivan
  • Publication number: 20080106173
    Abstract: A mobile classroom presentation cart ergonomically assembles data, audio, video and interactive presentation equipment; provides security and storage for the equipment and related supplies, transports and provides a fully integrated platform for providing audio-visual presentations. An externally adjustable projector shelf provides for convenient adjustment of a projected image while an enlarged projector door provides an expanded light opening extending into a top of the equipment cabinet. A collapsible side shelf is supported by and retains open a front door of the cabinet. Other features support fabrication and/or modification of carts to provide a desired height including sets of cold shear lines and associated mounting holes associated with a selectable lower edge of the cabinet body. A cart of a desired height can be fabricated by cutting along a cold shear line and attaching the body to a base portion using the associated attachment holes and suitable fasteners.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2006
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Inventor: Miles Anthony Konopka
  • Patent number: 6994230
    Abstract: A vending machine comprising a housing and a service chassis. The housing has an interior, a front face and a rear door pivotally connected to the housing. The front face of the housing includes at least one front opening for allowing a vended product to be removed from the housing. The service chassis is at least partially located within the housing and includes at least one money collecting container. The service chassis can be slid into and out of the interior of the housing for allowing access to the at least one money collecting container. A method of loading the vending machine is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignee: Industrial Vacuum Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary L. Sams
  • Patent number: 6857710
    Abstract: A bulk merchandise-vending machine with a base supporting a merchandise storage member, a mechanism plate positioned to form a closure member for the base and removable therefrom by a forward pivotal movement about its bottommost edge while the storage member is tilted slightly upwardly about its rearmost edge, wherein the front of the storage member is provided with a locking element cooperative with a lock carried by the mechanism plate and operable positively to prevent the storage member from tilting about its rear lower edge and separate from the mechanism plate, whereby unauthorized access to the mechanism carried by the mechanism plate and/or a coin receptacle there behind is positively prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: The Northwestern Corporation
    Inventor: Richard K. Bolen
  • Publication number: 20030090176
    Abstract: A system for cosmetics point of sale display, including a station at which cosmetics may be displayed, dispensed, packaged or applied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Applicant: IMX LABS, INC.
    Inventors: Julie R. Bartholomew, Amy Green Deines
  • Publication number: 20030030352
    Abstract: A Christmas De-Lights Caddy that provides easy storage and retrieval of strings of lights and decorations such as Christmas ornaments. A small chest with drawers on two opposite sides is provided. The drawers of the chest are lined with cushioning material to provide protection of delicate decorations during storage. A spool is supported above the chest by two support arms. The arms extend upward from two opposite sides of the chest. The user attaches an end of the string of lights to a clip provided in the core of the spool and uses a hand crank to turn the spool and wind strings of lights around the spool. A terminal end of the last string of lights is attached to a clip provided on the carrying handle located above the spool. The carrying handle connects the tops of the support arms and is used for moving the caddy to and from storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2001
    Publication date: February 13, 2003
    Inventor: Jeanne M. Nickolai
  • Patent number: 6459571
    Abstract: A mass memory storage unit includes a cabinet and one or more drawers incorporated into the cabinet. Each drawer is movable between closed and open positions to permit access to the interior for service. Inside each drawer, there is a connector plane disposed generally to one side of the drawer interior and parallel to the direction of travel between the closed and open positions. The connector plane incorporates connectors for receiving storage devices (for example, hard disk drives), each incorporating a connector which detachably mates with one of the connectors on the connector plane. Support and interface devices are coupled to the connector plane by suitable complementary connectors. It is useful to provide a cable, which itself may be detachable from the connector plane, to establish a redundant connection such that the devices in a drawer remain in-circuit when that drawer is opened for access to the enclosed components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Assignee: Bull HN Information Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Carteau
  • Patent number: 6293635
    Abstract: An exchangeable magazine (1) for a storage shelf (54) comprises two side walls (3, 4) interconnected via webs (5), superimposed items (2) being stacked therebetween, the side walls (3, 4) including lower, inwardly angled end portions (17) for supporting the item stack. To adapt the magazine to different dimensions of the items (2), the mutual distance of the side walls (3, 4) is adaptable to the width (B) of the items (2) by aid of the webs (5) wherein on at least one side wall (3, 4), at least one guide rail (18) extending in parallel to the side walls (3, 4) and capable of engaging the item stack over the height thereof is mounted to be displaceable in the direction of the depth (T) of the items (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Assignee: Knapp Logistik Automation Gesellschaft m.b.H.
    Inventor: Karl Freudelsperger
  • Patent number: 6213574
    Abstract: A baseball dispenser for storing and dispensing a balls, comprising a cylindrical container which has an interior sized to hold a large supply of baseballs, softballs, and the like, and an opening at its top for receiving balls into the interior thereof. The baseball dispenser has a pair of handles secured to the upper end of the container and a pair of wheels rotatably mounted to the lower end thereof for facilitating easy transportation across the surface of the ground. One or more support columns extend vertically from the bottom of the container, wherein a compression spring is disposed about each of the support columns. A circular platform is vertically slidably disposed within the container and is engaged with the support columns such that the compression springs are constrained axially between the bottom of the container and the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Inventor: Dan Pierce
  • Patent number: 6139122
    Abstract: A dispensing apparatus which is used for conveniently storing and retrieving warning cones. The apparatus includes a housing having a storage chamber with at least one sleeve for storing a warning cone and a structure for mounting the housing to a support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Barbara Johnson
    Inventor: Mike Johnson
  • Patent number: 6056377
    Abstract: A dual-slant file holder for angularly directing file folders in two directions. The dual-slant file holder has a front face, a base for carrying a slanted support surface and a pair of parallel side panels, wherein the angle between the slanted support surface and the base is between 5.degree. and 40.degree., and wherein the angle between the pair of parallel side panels and the front face is between 5.degree. and 40.degree.. By holding a file folder within the dual-slant file holder any marking indicia disposed on the file folder is easily visualized by a clerk and can be easily removed and reinserted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: Jeter Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Jack W. Jeter
  • Patent number: 6024425
    Abstract: A storage apparatus that includes a storage shelf having a plurality of horizontally and vertically arranged storage sections for storage of articles and a moving body for taking articles in and out of the storage shelf. Conventionally, since an article carrying in and out section for taking articles in and out of such storage apparatus is divided into working sections having substantially the same width as that of storage sections, a space for work is small and a work is made difficult and inefficient when the moving body is used to take articles out of the storage sections or articles are placed on the working sections. Therefore, a working space, which protrudes beyond the article carrying in and out section and is free of partitions is provided. With such arrangement, however, there is a problem that a storage apparatus is extended in a lengthwise direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignee: Daifuku Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masao Imai, Makoto Tanaka
  • Patent number: 5884499
    Abstract: A self-serve chilled condiment dispenser dispenses individual containers of one or more different types of condiments from a compact space generally on a first in, first out basis. The chilled condiment dispenser comprises a cabinet having a narrow side compartment for housing one or more removable cooling devices, and a plurality of removable chutes stacked one above the other. The cooling devices may be removed from the dispensers without having to remove condiment containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: Kraft Foods, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael R. Samborn, William Randolph Dudley, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5860714
    Abstract: A vandal-proof vending machine includes a rigid frame housed within an opening of a building with a cabinet of the dispensing machine being housed entirely within the building and thereby being rendered inaccessible from the exterior. A front opening of the frame to which products housed in an interior of the cabinet can be viewed is protected by a laminate of tough transparent material and tough metal mesh. The cabinet has rollers at a bottom thereof and one corner is secured by pivots to a side of the frame. The cabinet can thereby be rolled between a closed dispensing position and an opened servicing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1999
    Inventor: Charles Robert Skord, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5836661
    Abstract: A dispenser for storing and dispensing small packages such as individual packages containing, for example, a single dose of a non-prescription medication. The dispenser is designed to hold and dispense a plurality of different packaged products, each of which is visibly stacked in a vertically disposed magazine where each package can be easily removed with the next package dropping by gravity to the dispensing position. The individual packages are initially contained in a disposable tray, each of which slides into one of the magazines of the dispenser with the empty tray being removed from the magazine and discarded once all of the packages have been dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: Lil' Drug Store Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis L. Oldorf
  • Patent number: 5716113
    Abstract: A beverage vending machine having a sliding shelf for supporting thereon one or more beverage containers. Folding legs are provided under the shelf for supporting the weight of the shelf when the shelf is in an extended position. The deployment and retraction of the legs is effected by a pair of pantograph actuators, coincidently with a movement of the shelf when the shelf is within a minimal distance from the extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Inventor: Donald G. Plourde
  • Patent number: 5597219
    Abstract: A box-shaped container for temporary storage of filled or empty cigarette trays defines a plurality of compartments for temporary storage of a set of trays. The compartments have open front sides for introduction or extraction of trays and at least partially open undersides to permit evacuation of tobacco particles and/or other solid particulate matter. The container is provided with pairs of tracks at the lower portions of upright or sloping partitions which flank the compartments, which extend to an upright rear wall of the container, and which are overlapped by a horizontal top wall of the container. The latter is or can be designed in such a way that the contents of filled trays in the compartments are at least substantially sealed from the surrounding atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Assignee: Hauni Maschinenbau AG
    Inventors: Matthias Horn, Peter Kageler, Christian Kreusch
  • Patent number: 5562328
    Abstract: A novelty dispenser for solid objects, such as condoms. The novel features are specifically based on a spring loaded movement of a dispensing element, which element moves an object such as a packaged condom from inside a compartment out through an opening. The dispenser is an everyday entertainment device that conceals a condom therein. It uses a spring, such as a coil spring, which feeds the condom from a magazine compartment and through a shutter to be released for use. The spring is returned to its original position once it has been used. Pulling a tab of the dispenser causes the spring to release within the magazine, forcing the condom through the shutter, such as miniature doors. The spring opens the magazine and doors, allowing the spring to advance the condom into the dispensed position for delivery to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Inventor: Barbara Schottenfeld
  • Patent number: 5213400
    Abstract: A dispenser system for dispensing a plurality of twist-ties like closure devices 52 arranged in side-by-side alignment and attached at a second end 61 in sheets 50. The attached second ends 61 are crimped about a rod 51 which is inserted in slots 107 defined in side edges 102 of dispenser 100. A plurality of sheets 50 may selectively be inserted in dispenser 100. The dispenser also includes a cover 103 and a tie alignment block 106. The individual ties have a series of transverse perforations 53, 54 through the wire 55 and proximate the wire 55 to ensure ease of removal and ensure reference of the steel rule die 250 utilized in fabricating the tie 52. Fabrication of the sheets 50 includes taking a stock of uncut twist-tie material 201, advancing it into a cutting station 203 utilizing a steel rule die 250. Advancing the material repeating the cutting step which forms the second end 61 of the advanced sheet and then advancing the cut sheet 50 to a crimping station 205.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1993
    Assignee: Twist-Ease, Inc.
    Inventor: James R. Helseth
  • Patent number: 5072997
    Abstract: Dispensers for dispensing condiment packages and other articles. Such dispensers feature a front surface that contains a vertical succession of openings. Each opening dispenses a particular type of article, and is fed with articles that are supported by a curved floor that extends from adjacent the bottom of the opening upward and backward to the top area of the dispenser. The top surface of the dispensers may be positioned to open easily and thus allow easy access for loading and cleaning. The resulting dispensers economize on counter space, maintenance costs, and cleaning costs, and present condiment packages and other articles in an attractive, functional fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1991
    Assignee: The Meyer Company
    Inventor: John T. Mayfield, III
  • Patent number: 4948202
    Abstract: A dispenser system for dispensing a plurality of twist-ties like closure devices 52 arranged in side-by-side alignment and attached at a second end 61 in sheets 50. The attached second ends 61 are crimped about a rod 51 which is inserted in slots 107 defined in side edges 102 of dispenser 100. A plurality of sheets 50 may selectively be inserted in dispenser 100. The dispenser also includes a cover 103 and a tie alignment block 106. The individual ties have a series of transverse perforations 53, 54 through the wire 55 and proximate the wire 55 to ensure ease of removal and ensure reference of the steel rule die 250 utilized in fabricating the tie 52. Fabrication of the sheets 50 includes taking a stock of uncut twist-tie material 201, advancing it into a cutting station 203 utilizing a steel rule die 250. Advancing the material repeating the cutting step which forms the second end 61 of the advanced sheet and then advancing the cut sheet 50 to a crimping staton 205.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 14, 1990
    Assignee: Twist-Ease, Inc.
    Inventor: James R. Helseth