With Container Patents (Class 362/154)
  • Publication number: 20080277307
    Abstract: An interactive electronic pillbox that includes a plurality of compartments for containing medications and means to electronically identify a particular compartment from which medication is to be taken at a particular time. The interactive electronic pillbox includes data entry, data display, data transmitting and data processing functions which allow for interactive healthcare management by individuals and healthcare personnel directly or remotely.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Inventor: Robert Mazur
  • Publication number: 20080239710
    Abstract: [Problem] To provide a twist-type stick container that can be decorated in various ways using light, so as to produce an aesthetically pleasing or new and original decorative effect that creates a characteristic and unique atmosphere.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2005
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventors: Yukitomo Yuhara, Takayuki Tokushita
  • Publication number: 20080218997
    Abstract: The present invention includes an apparatus for illuminating an inner portion of a container. The apparatus includes a first electroluminescent lamp for emitting light within the container. Also, the apparatus includes a holding member for stabilizing the position of the lamp within the container. The holding member includes a first lamp retaining portion secured to the first electroluminescent lamp. Additionally, the holding member includes an extending portion continuous with the first lamp retaining portion. The extending portion has a width and a length defining a surface for engaging an inner portion of the container. Further, at least a portion of the length of the extending portion is remote from the retaining portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2007
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Inventor: Curtiss M. Venn
  • Patent number: 7422352
    Abstract: A console device for a vehicle includes a housing body fixed by a side face to the ceiling part of the vehicle. The device has a recessed part formed by an opening in another side face, and a cover body that pivots on the housing body. The recessed part can be closed by moving the cover body into place over the recessed part of the housing body. A storage portion formed on the surface of the cover body opposite the recessed part allows small articles to be stored inside it and removed from it only when the recessed part is opened. An illumination portion that radiates light to the inside of the vehicle cabin is formed on another surface of the cover body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Imasen Denki Seisakusho
    Inventor: Yoshihiro Sakakibara
  • Publication number: 20080180944
    Abstract: A low-profile light source is coupled to the underside of a toolbox such that the light source is not directly visible and light is emitted from underneath the toolbox. Most preferably, the low-profile light source is a colored neon light and produces a “ground effect” similar to that of underbody neon lighting in tuner cars.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2007
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventors: Matthew J. Galvez, James M. Galvez
  • Publication number: 20080174988
    Abstract: A lighting device. The lighting device includes a base portion, a diffuser portion having a wall defining an inner cavity, wherein the wall includes a plurality of colors, the plurality of colors defining a color pattern, and a light source for illuminating the diffuser portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Publication date: July 24, 2008
    Inventors: Yan X. Lin, Yao Z. Tan, Thomas M. Spain
  • Patent number: 7401935
    Abstract: Various embodiments relate to beverage accessory devices for use within beverage receptacles. In one exemplary embodiment, a beverage accessory device generally includes a housing having sidewalls defining a cavity therein. A substantially fluid-tight container is within the cavity of the housing. The container includes sidewalls defining a chamber. At least one of the container's sidewalls is spaced apart from at least one of the housing's sidewalls such that a portion of the housing's cavity remains separating the at least one container sidewall from the at least one housing sidewall. At least one electric light source is substantially entirely within the container's chamber. The chamber can also be configured for receiving at least one power source. The at least one electric light source is operable for illuminating at least a portion of a liquid within the beverage receptacle when the beverage accessory device is within the beverage receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Inventor: Carl R. VanderSchuit
  • Patent number: 7393116
    Abstract: A system for plant illumination that may be installed in or made as part of a planting pot. The system employs a string of illuminable fixtures each having an illumination source. The fixtures may be operated on low voltage that steps down through a transformer and may employ an ambient light sensor. The system may incorporate light globes that protect the illumination sources and may incorporate a transparent color to provide colored light. Light shields may be employed to direct the light from each illumination source. A splashguard may be employed and placed between the illumination source and its respective socket to prevent water from entering the socket. The container may be formed with two walls to protect the wiring being disposed there between.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Inventor: Steve Donald Holmes
  • Patent number: 7390103
    Abstract: A vibrating and twinkling device which may mounted upon an appearance member for stationery or textile products includes a circuit element, light emitting diodes, power supplies, a vibrating switch, and a transparent encapsulation body. The circuit element includes a circuit board and a circuit control element. The light emitting diodes are mounted on and electrically connected to the circuit board. The power supplies electrically connect with the circuit element for supplying power. The vibrating switch electrically connects to the circuit board. The transparent encapsulation body covers the circuit element, the light emitting diodes, the power supplies, and the vibrating switch. Thereby, the vibrating and twinkling device is waterproof. When the vibrating switch is vibrated, the light emitting diodes can be driven to glow and twinkle, which offers splendid effects when the stationery or textile product is used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Inventor: Hung-Hua Chang
  • Patent number: 7382252
    Abstract: An emergency signal apparatus for alerting police, medical service, neighbors and people passing by to emergency situations that may arise in or at a residence. The apparatus is designed for mounting on an upright post or column such as is commonly used for supporting rural mailboxes and includes a flashing strobe light and a siren which can be activated by operation of a manual switch in the residence or by operating a remote switch by a radio frequency emitter. The signal apparatus preferably includes illuminated house numbers, chimes within the residence and automatic dialing of the 911 emergency telephone number with a prerecorded message giving name, telephone number and address.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Inventor: Chet J. Brannon
  • Patent number: 7367145
    Abstract: A novelty item has a base and a display extending upwardly from the base. The display comprises at least a first segment and at least a second segment each having an outer cylindrical wall and an inner cylindrical wall, the inner and outer walls separated from one another thereby defining a first interior space, and the inner cylindrical wall defining a second interior space. A divider is located between the first and second segments, the divider supporting the second segment over the first segment in generally vertical alignment, the display having a generally open top leading to an interior of the display defined by the second interior space of said first and second segment. The novelty item may have the appearance of a gaming machine “top” light and may be also be configured for utilitarian use, such as a writing utensil holder or mug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Inventor: Oliver C. Mou
  • Patent number: 7364318
    Abstract: An illumination chamber for activating a photoluminous object includes a chamber assembly defining an interior, substantially fully enclosable chamber defined by a chamber assembly inner margin, the chamber assembly including an illuminator port opening into the chamber and a substantially sealable object port opening into the chamber, the object port having a hingedly shiftable lid, the lid presenting an inner margin defining in part the chamber when in a closed disposition, and the chamber assembly inner margin, including the lid inner margin, presenting a substantially contiguous reflective surface to the chamber, the reflective surface defining substantially the full chamber, exclusive of the illuminator port. A method of illumination of a photoluminous object is further included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Inventor: Tony Cruze
  • Patent number: 7347235
    Abstract: The invention is the unique construction of a bag, such as a tote, purse, pocketbook, or duffel, encasing a battery powered light which is unseen unless illuminated. The lining, constructed in two sections, is separated by material sheer enough for the light to shine through. If needed, the light is held in place in the light section in a space cut from a piece of foam the same height of the light, cut to fit the width and depth of the bag. The light is accessed from the bag's exterior by an opening to facilitate changing the batteries or light which is then secured closed. In a separate compartment, the light does not mingle with items in the main chamber of the bag. A light within a fashionable bag, self contained, aids the location of items within the bag and provides beneficial lighting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Inventor: Carrington Trice Beverly
  • Patent number: 7322715
    Abstract: A self-light-up decorating lamp, comprises a decoration body; and an illumination device installed to the decoration body; the illumination device including a solar plate, a battery, an LED lamp set, a light-sensitive resistor, a switch and a LED lamp set; the solar plate being installed at an outer side of the decoration body for receiving solar or other light energy to convert the energy into electric energy; one end of the battery being connected to the light-sensitive resistor and the switch; one end of the switch being connected to the LED lamp set and the LED lamp set is installed on the decoration body. The decoration body has a form selected from an advertise board, an indication board, an announcement board, and a display board. The solar plate receives electric energy which is converted from solar or light energy. The light-sensitive resistor serves to actuate the LED lamp set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Inventor: Tung-Chang Liu
  • Patent number: 7318656
    Abstract: An illuminating bottle closure is removably couplable to a mouth or opening of a bottle. The illuminating bottle closure has a stopper portion that is insertable into the opening of the bottle and a flange portion radiating outwardly from the stopper portion for resting upon a lip of the bottle. A light emitting source and a power source are disposed in the illuminating bottle closure for emitting light into an interior of the bottle. An actuating assembly is also disposed to the illuminating bottle closure for selectively controlling power to the light emitting source. By illuminating a bottle from its interior, the illuminating bottle closure creates an enjoyable visual experience by creating the appearance that the bottle is glowing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Inventor: Frantz Merine
  • Patent number: 7316922
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for preserving tissue such as harvested organs for transplant are described. A preferred method includes delivering to a harvested organ an effective amount of electromagnetic energy, the electromagnetic energy having a wavelength in the visible to near-infrared wavelength range, wherein delivering the effective amount of electromagnetic energy includes selecting a predetermined power density (mW/cm2) of electromagnetic energy to deliver to the organ while in hypothermic or normothermic storage. A preferred apparatus includes a container having a cooling chamber to receive the harvested organ and at least one light source mounted on the container to illuminate the interior cooling chamber, said light source emiting light which produces a biostimulative effect on tissue placed in the cooling chamber thereby preventing or retarding damage to the tissue during storage or transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignee: Photothera Inc.
    Inventor: Jackson Streeter
  • Publication number: 20080002394
    Abstract: A portable, lighted clipboard includes an elongated, substantially rigid and flat writing tablet, which forms the top of a chamber having a front and a back wall and 2 side walls. The chamber is closed when the writing tablet, which is hingedly mounted at the top thereof on the front wall of the chamber, is allowed to swing to a position contacting the side and back walls of the chamber. An open chamber is presented when the writing tablet is allowed to swing free of contact with the side and back walls of the chamber. A housing, located on the exterior surface of the writing tablet near the top thereof, houses a device, such as a battery-operated fluorescent lamp, to provide illumination, which illumination is directed by the housing along the entire length of the exterior surface of the writing tablet. A hinged clip or the like is attached to the exterior surface of the writing tablet below the housing for holding documents in place on the writing tablet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2006
    Publication date: January 3, 2008
    Inventor: Roger G. Jones
  • Patent number: 7311416
    Abstract: A make-up case configured to hold a variety of cosmetic items is disclosed. The make-up case comprises a plurality of internal compartments for the storage of various predetermined cosmetic items such as for example a full size lipstick, an eye liner pencil, a lip liner pencil, a pencil sharpener, etc. In addition, a pair of cosmetic cover assemblies are provided which accept a replaceable tray of cosmetic material such as face powder, blush and eyeliner make-up.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Inventor: Chris Kudma
  • Patent number: 7311415
    Abstract: Provide is an improved, lower cost, illuminated carrier which is more economical to transport and warehouse. An illuminated carrier for articles, said carrier having a container a attachment for said container, said attachment having illuminating means mounted thereon; and a handle means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Inventor: Lane E. Burnidge
  • Patent number: 7309136
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a cup or a drinking container and in particular, to a drinking cup a spouting-water and lighting effect during drinking. The cup comprises a liquid container, a liquid output pipe, a spray pipe, a lighting circuit, etc, characterized in that the spray pipe inserts between the top of the liquid container and the bottom of a liquid storage, a water ion switch is supplied inside the spray pipe and just at the middle part of it, a liquid output pipe is led out from the liquid storage. The present invention has a simple configuration and a spouting water and lighting effect compared with the prior art.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2007
    Inventor: Pingfai Lei
  • Patent number: 7300171
    Abstract: A multifunction hydration container accessory system having a hydration container of generally cylindrical shape having a planar bottom surface with bottom edges and having a top for filling and dispensing hydration liquids and comprising an accessory system having a plurality molded cavities for holding a plurality of accessories such as a compass, safety signal reflective material, thermometer, barometer and a container storage module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Inventor: Brian Sutton
  • Patent number: 7287885
    Abstract: An automotive storage compartment includes a compartment body defining a cavity and having an opening for accessing the cavity. The compartment body includes a first connecting member integrally formed therein. The storage compartment further includes a cover having a second connecting member integrally formed therein, the first connecting member cooperating with the second connecting member to moveably couple the cover to the compartment body. An electroluminescent lamp is molded to the compartment body to illuminate the cavity. A two-shot molding process may be used to form the storage compartment, with the compartment body and the first connecting member being formed in the first shot. The electroluminescent lamp is molded to the compartment body in the first shot. The cover and the second connecting member are then formed in the second shot so that the cover is pivotally coupled to the compartment body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: International Automotive Components Group, LLC
    Inventors: Bogdan Radu, Alan G. Dry
  • Patent number: 7277241
    Abstract: A machine for magnifying a check with a freshnel lens, a front cover and back cover hingably connected, to hold a credit card bill or restaurant check, to hold a credit card, to hold a writing utensil, and to illuminate the credit card bill or restaurant check.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Inventor: Robert Lyman Fulton
  • Patent number: 7275837
    Abstract: This is a shroud for a cake in which a cake can be covered and then uncovered to add panache to any banquet or wedding. A means to illuminate the area around the device will also be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Inventor: Eartha Pusha
  • Patent number: 7252404
    Abstract: This is a toolbox, which combines many features and which will allow the worker to simply carry one toolbox into an area and effectuate all repairs. It will provide a means to provide illumination for any areas, which are poorly or dimly lit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Inventor: Douglas J. Messamore
  • Patent number: 7246914
    Abstract: A device comprising a housing in the shape of a fashion accessory, the housing having a hollow interior, a top portion, and a bottom portion, wherein the hollow interior extends from the bottom portion to the top portion of the housing. A light source module is removeably attached to the top portion of the housing and extends substantially downward within the hollow interior toward the bottom portion. A handle is attached to the top portion of the housing, wherein the handle secures the device to a member within an article having substantially the same shape as the housing, wherein the device illuminates the article interior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Inventor: Teresa Amorin
  • Patent number: 7232237
    Abstract: The present invention is an illuminated container holder for displaying messages and having an upper retainer, a lower retainer, a base, and a handle. The upper and lower retainers are configured to hold a container and the base is configured to receive a container bottom. The handle includes a power source and switch for powering a first and second light source. A container gripper is coupled to the lower retainer for gripping the container. The upper and lower retainers are designed to serve as sleeves for receiving and displaying messages or designs printed or inscribed on transparent material, wherein the messages may be electronically displayed or controlled. The first light source emits a light into a container receiving area and the second light source may emit a light upwardly into the container receiving area, or downwardly toward the ground, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Inventor: George S. Bigger
  • Patent number: 7204614
    Abstract: A portable, automated illumination device is provided that is capable of illuminating an item stored on or near the device, such items may include eyeglasses, drinking cups, or other household articles. In one embodiment, the device includes a top section platform that has a sloped, nearly vertical edge to retain items and a sensor that instantly illuminates a light in response to motion adjacent to the device. In certain embodiments, the light provides illumination of the surrounding area to allow a user to find an item stored in or near the device, or to locate a more significant light source. Preferably, the light is illuminated for a certain period of time, after which the device resets to be triggered by subsequent motion, heat, or other stimuli detectable by the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: Beacons, LLC
    Inventors: Kerri E. Hanis, Lawrence R. Happ, Mark Hanis
  • Patent number: 7178927
    Abstract: A light emitting device includes a container cut off from the atmosphere; an electroluminescence element in the container; and a drying agent in the container, wherein the drying agent chemically absorbs moisture, and maintains a solid state after the moisture absorption, and wherein the drying agent is separated from the electroluminescence element via a permeable seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Assignee: Semiconductor Energy Laboratory Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Satoshi Seo
  • Patent number: 7175294
    Abstract: An insulated and luminescent drinking vessel for use as a safety device by walkers, joggers and bikers having a transparent tubular outer vessel having a top side and a bottom side. A lamp is connectable to the outer vessel bottom side. A conical inner vessel is connected to the outer vessel top side, the lamp is for illuminating the inner vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Inventors: Raymond M. Estrada, Sa'd Ball
  • Patent number: 7175326
    Abstract: A fiber optic panel illuminated mailbox having a solar energy collection system and a control circuit which illuminates a light emitting diode which feeds a fiber optic panel. The fiber optic panel is placed behind cutouts which represent address numbers in order to provide mailbox address location during nighttime hours. The control circuitry turns on the light emitting diode during nighttime hours and charges batteries during daytime hours. The fiber optic panel illuminated mailbox is a self contained illuminated mailbox address number identification system which does not require external wiring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Inventor: Robert J. Bossomo
  • Patent number: 7165861
    Abstract: One or more panels of an apparatus in one example comprise a plurality of receptacles for a plurality of pegs. One or more ultraviolet lights illuminate the plurality of pegs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: DuPage Children's Museum
    Inventor: Mark Wickart
  • Patent number: 7163311
    Abstract: Active foodware comprises at least a plate unit that provides visual stimuli by having a power source and a visual sensory stimulating component to provide light emanating from the plate. Other devices can provide auditory and haptic stimuli. The plate unit can be a single component where the device and circuitry are all contained in the unit and protected from water or can be two components an upper translucent plate and an underplate comprising the devices and circuitry for directing light through the upper plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Inventor: James F. Kramer
  • Patent number: 7163313
    Abstract: An illumination device is disclosed generally comprising a translucent housing with a plurality of light sources and a power source disposed therein. The light sources emit very high intensity light and are arranged such that light emanates from the housing omnidirectionally in order illuminate the entire surrounding area. In some embodiments, light emitting diodes of at least 3000 MCD and wide viewing angles are employed. In certain embodiments, a housing specifically adapted for easy power source replacement and disconnection of the power source is utilized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Inventor: Maury Rosenberg
  • Patent number: 7150550
    Abstract: An automotive interior trim assembly having a map pocket with an electroluminescent lamp. The trim assembly comprises a trim panel and a housing that forms at least a portion of the map pocket. The housing is coupled to the trim panel to define a cavity having an opening for accessing the cavity. An electroluminescent lamp is integrally molded to the housing to illuminate the cavity. An injection molding process may be used to form the housing with the electroluminescent lamp as an insert in the mold cavity. The housing is then coupled to the trim panel to form a map pocket in the trim assembly. The housing may be configured as a map pocket closeout or a map pocket insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Radu Bogdan, Alan G Dry
  • Patent number: 7131745
    Abstract: A mountable illuminable display. An illuminable device housing is mounted within an aperture in a mounting surface. Mounting is accomplished by a groove or protrusion in the housing engaging the mounting surface or by a retaining element fastened to the housing to contact the mounting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Inventor: Gary M. Sibbett
  • Patent number: 7128433
    Abstract: A guest check presenter has a top cover and bottom cover hinged together along a common binding to define a booklet. A holder is provided on the inside of the booklet for placement of a check for delivery to a patron, such as at the end of a meal in a restaurant. A magnifying sheet movable in overlying relation to the check and a light-emitting device are provided to enhance viewing information printed on the check, particularly in poor lighting conditions. A calculator for totaling items on the check includes tip calculating buttons of graduated values for selecting the tip amount according to the quality of service and/or the generosity of the patron paying the check. A mirror is provided on the inside of the guest check presenter booklet for the convenience of the guests at the table. Signaling lights on the light-emitting device alert the waiter to pick up the check when the patron is ready to pay.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Inventor: Marc Schlosser
  • Patent number: 7124991
    Abstract: A lighting and transport system includes a cabinet having an interior with an access panel that can be opened and closed for enabling a user to access the interior when the panel is open. The interior has a plurality of receptacles that include at least one vertically extending tall receptacle that is about as tall as the cabinet. A larger receptacle is provided that is shorter than the vertically extending tall receptacle and a plurality of smaller receptacles are provided that are each smaller in volume than the larger receptacle. At least one tripod is provided that is sized and shaped to be stored inside the cabinet within the tall receptacle. A plurality of electric lighting units are sized and shaped to be contained with the smaller receptacles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventor: John P. Williamson
  • Patent number: 7097326
    Abstract: A lamp and storage combination assembly includes a housing that has a bottom wall, a top wall and peripheral wall that is attached to and extends between the top and bottom walls. The peripheral wall has a cavity extending therein that is bounded by a lower wall, an upper wall and a perimeter wall extending between the upper and lower walls. A door is hingedly coupled to the peripheral wall and is selectively positionable in a closed position closing the cavity or in an open position opening the cavity. A light socket is attached to the top wall of the housing. A power supply is electrically coupled to the light socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Inventor: Marco Pipolo
  • Patent number: 7086751
    Abstract: A product package intended to hold a product for sale. The product package includes one or more light sources disposed therein and configured to direct light through one or more openings in the exterior of the product package, in order to entice customers to purchase the product. Various techniques are used such as diffusing light before letting it exit the product package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: MasonWare Partners, LLC
    Inventor: Brett G. Clark
  • Patent number: 7066620
    Abstract: A novelty item for cooperating with a cap of a bottle subsequent to cooperation of the cap with a bottle opener, but prior to cooperation of the cap with a cap catcher. The novelty item includes a body, electrical circuitry, and a plurality of lights. The electrical circuitry electrically communicates with the plurality of lights. The plurality of lights are disposed along the body. The electrical circuitry causes a light to flash. The novelty item also works with any item similar to the cap, i.e., a disk, e.g., a 25¢ piece. The cap catcher is placed on a bar with the novelty item resting thereon and thereabove. A patron throws 25¢ pieces into the novelty item as a tip and watches the 25¢ pieces cause the novelty item to operate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventor: Warren Millet
  • Patent number: 7055983
    Abstract: A lighted storage box assembly is especially suited for use as a fishing tackle box, but can also be employed for storing may other articles. The asssembly includes a box with a rotatable lamp assembly mounted on the box's lid. Major portions of the box can be fabricated from a translucent material so that the light can shine through the box and the contents of the box can be seen even when closed. The lamp assembly includes an LED and rotation of a cylindrical lens turns the LED on and off. The position of the lamp is changed by rotation the battery compartment on which the lamp or LED is mounted. The lamp assembly is small and does not significantly reduce available storage space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Brooks & Baker LLC
    Inventors: Todd C. Baker, Penny Brooks
  • Patent number: 7040776
    Abstract: A self-contained illumination device for illuminating medicine container labels in low-light level conditions is provided. The illumination means includes a light source component for illumination, an electrical switch component to control the light source, supporting circuitry components to energize the light source, and a housing structure for supporting and enclosing the components, directing the illumination to the label, and coupling the illumination device to a medicine container receptacle or a conventional medicine container cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Inventors: William T Harrell, Roy E Williams, Brian M Callies
  • Patent number: 7036257
    Abstract: A decorative holiday picture frame cover, for use in conjunction with an existing picture frame having a front, sides, a rear, and a border defining a window at the front. The picture frame cover has a front panel, and a stretchable rear edging. The picture frame cover is fitted onto the frame by extending the rear edging behind the rear of the frame and engaging the sides of the frame with the edging, thereby causing the front panel to extend over the front of the picture frame, and to cover the window of the picture frame. The front panel has the appearance of gift wrap paper and has an attractive bow thereon so that the picture frame is given the appearance of a wrapped gift.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Inventor: Louis Sardo
  • Patent number: 7033039
    Abstract: A trash storage apparatus includes a can, an illuminating element and a driver. The can is used for receiving garbage. The illuminating element is mounted on the can. The driver is used for driving the illuminating element to shine in the dark. The trash storage apparatus may include a lid for covering the can and a pedal connected with the lid. The illuminating element is attached to the pedal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Inventor: Tsong-Yow Lin
  • Patent number: 7018690
    Abstract: Multipurpose fancy goods having a plurality of sheets connected to each other to form a polyhedron. The multipurpose fancy goods including a first regular square-shaped sheet, a second regular square-shaped sheet, a first regular triangle-shaped sheet, and a second regular triangle-shaped sheet each being made of a polypropylene foam sheet. Each of the first and second regular square-shaped sheets has four regular square-shaped sheet coupling parts each protruded outwardly from one side of each edge. Each of the first and second regular square-shaped sheets has four regular square-shaped sheet coupling through holes each formed around each corner. Each of the first and second regular triangle-shaped sheets has three regular triangle-shaped sheet coupling through holes each formed around each corner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Inventor: So Young Lee
  • Patent number: 6981780
    Abstract: A container, such as a tool box, has an interior storage compartment and a cover with a light opening therein. A light is mounted within the compartment and is selectively positionable to shine through the light opening or to illuminate the interior of the storage compartment. Preferably, the light is mounted on an articulated hinge allowing movement between a plurality of discrete positions and locks in place in a stored position. The light may be battery operated and may be removable if desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Assignee: Zag Industries Ltd.
    Inventor: Yehuda Einav
  • Patent number: 6971759
    Abstract: A multifunction hydration container accessory system having (comprising) a hydration container of generally cylindrical shape having a planar bottom surface with bottom edges and having a top for filling and dispensing hydration liquids and having (comprising) an accessory system housing of generally cylindrical shape having a first end for attaching to the hydration container planar bottom and having a second end for holding a plurality container accessories such as a compass, safety signal reflective material and container storage module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Inventor: Brian Sutton
  • Patent number: 6971761
    Abstract: A protective flashlight case includes left and right pieces with front and rear ends. The rear ends of the two case pieces are formed in a closed loop shape so as to enclose a key ring clip of a flashlight. A hollow space defined by the walls of the loop permits the case, with the flashlight enclosed, to be attached to a key chain, article of clothing, or other support. The case protects flashlights from harsh, rugged conditions as well as from water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: Armament Systems and Procedures, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin L. Parsons
  • Patent number: 6964130
    Abstract: A combination planter and step-light has a portable, open topped receptacle having a base and a plurality of sidewalls upstanding therefrom. The sidewalls are a minor rear end wall and major outer wall forming a corner seating adjacent a corner of a step and an outer end of the step, and joined at free ends by an inner facing wall which converges toward the major end wall as it extends outward and forwards toward a front of the step. A compartment in the receptacle receives a light detecting and illuminating module inserted into the compartment from below, is molded in the receptacle aligned with an aperture in the inner wall. The module has a lamp, a control circuit and a photosensitive device for detecting the ambient light level to switch the lamp on and off at dusk and dawn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Inventor: Mark E. Hartelius