Mailbox Receptacle Patents (Class 40/566)
  • Patent number: 11363900
    Abstract: A reconfigurable lighted post (e.g., mailbox), including a post, and first and second dual channel members attached to the post. The dual channel members include dual channels, where the first channel of each houses a strip of LEDs, and the second channel defines a channel into which an insert to be back or trans-illuminated can be inserted. Both dual channel members are attached to the post so that the first channels housing the strips of LEDs are positioned towards the post, while the second channels are positioned away from the post. The insert to be illuminated is receivable between the second channels (i.e., that face one another). The insert may include a house address number, or other characters cut-out or otherwise formed into the insert, so that light from the LED strips back or trans-illuminates the insert when received between the facing second channels. Deck rail lighting is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2022
    Inventor: Brody M. O'Connor
  • Patent number: 10593238
    Abstract: An illuminated address number assembly. The illuminated address number assembly includes a housing having a light source therein and fasteners disposed on an outer surface thereof, wherein the fastener secures the housing to an object, such as a mailbox or fence post. The housing further includes one or more cutouts disposed on opposing lateral sides of the housing wherein the cutouts take the shape of letters and/or numbers. The cutouts allow the light source to shine through, such that the cutouts are illuminated. The light source is operably connected to a power source, such as a solar panel or a battery, or hardwired electrical circuit. A wireless transceiver is disposed within the housing and operably connected to the light source, such that the light source can be selectively actuated via wireless communication. The device may further include a wall mounted switch, such that a user can manually actuate the lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2020
    Inventors: Michael Schnell, James E. Carpenter
  • Patent number: 10457421
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a system and device for a drone docking station for deposit of items delivered by drone. Items may include but not be limited to food items, groceries and parcels. A secure porch, roof, window or otherwise building mounted box may be secured through to an existing edifice or may be configured to mount to an existing mailbox post and actually take the place of the mailbox. The basic elements making of components of the box enable it to carry out one efficient and secure delivery of goods to a container box located at a specific address, and to securely hold those good until they are picked up regardless of duration, weather, or otherwise. The drone dock may employ many different technological devices in order to provide for communication between the drone dock and a drone, security, and preservation of the delivered goods before during and after delivery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2019
    Inventor: Daniel S O'Toole
  • Patent number: 8631998
    Abstract: A solar powered, illuminated mailbox post assembly includes a support post structure for supporting a mailbox operatively thereon. The support post structure includes a vertical post section for mounting in the ground and extending upwardly therefrom. The vertical post section has an interior chamber. A light unit is disposed in the chamber and includes a light source and a rechargeable power supply operatively connected to the light source for energizing the light source and causing the light source to illuminate. There is at least one solar collector operably connected to the rechargeable power supply for collecting solar energy and converting such energy to electric power that is directed to the power supply for recharging thereof. At least one window is formed in the vertical post section adjacent the chamber. The window bears indicia that are highlighted for display upon the window when the light is illuminated and light is transmitted through the window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Brightlight Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Rowan Connelly, Tara Lee Golub, Kevin James Maley
  • Patent number: 8490859
    Abstract: The rotating mailbox device is provided in varying degrees of complexity, with each embodiment thereof focused on as basic a design as is possible while still retaining the important features of the device. Even the most basic design provides illuminated address, illumination strips within the mailbox assembly, and exterior indicators for indicating mail received via sensing of door opening. Of importance is that the basic design of the device dictates that the dished tray is rotateably affixed directly atop the post and may also be affixed off-center regarding the tray. The direct post-to-tray attachment negates the need for further attachment devices such as horizontal arms, for example. Lateral attachment of the mailbox assembly to the platform elevated section provides for easiest disassembly of part of the device and also for the elevated section to be a floor for the mailbox assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Inventors: Brett A. Master, Donald A. Bland, Theresa K. Master
  • Patent number: 8388168
    Abstract: A mailbox with a slidable tray to withdraw the contents therein and a solar powered illuminable, configurable display to enhance visibility of the dwelling number after nightfall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Inventor: Stephen Li
  • Patent number: 7748149
    Abstract: An illuminated dispenser and display apparatus for advertisements provides a solar powered display box for real estate flyers or brochures. The box includes a back panel, two side panels, a transparent front panel, a bottom, and a hinged lid or top panel so that a person can lift the lid open and remove a brochure. An internal bright white LED illuminates the front panel and the contents of the box. Power is supplied by an internal rechargeable battery, recharged by a solar panel mounted on the top of the hinged lid. A photo sensor activates the LED during low light conditions. An optional feature provides the inside wall of the back panel with one or a plurality of shelves or detents to accommodate information-bearing cards, such as business cards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Inventor: Jeff Reavis
  • Patent number: 7685753
    Abstract: An illuminated, shallow weatherproof signage character has individual three dimensional back-lighted/front/side and/or silhouette-lighting, with frosted areas of plastic, with virtually no limitation on the size or number of individual characters, which may be moulded or machined from solid plastic, which is U/V protected. Miniature, preferably LED lamps are concealed in the character. The life of the LED lamps is extended by limiting the applied voltage and the “on” time. The signage characters are usually elevated from their supporting surface, to effect back-lighting. Colored LED's or a RBG LED, can be used selectively to color the plastic signage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Inventor: Darrel R. Slowski
  • Publication number: 20080257947
    Abstract: A mailbox including a box having a box door, a first box door, a photocell circuit, and a cartridge. The box door is pivotally connected to a first wall of the box. The cartridge includes a light source and an electric power source. The light source illuminates an interior surface of the box. The photocell circuit includes a photocell panel. The photocell circuit charges the electric power source using energy acquired by the photocell panel. The electric power source powers the light source. The cartridge is removably mounted to a second wall of the box to electrically connect and disconnect the cartridge to the photocell circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2007
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Inventors: Wenkwei Guo, Chieh-Yu Chen
  • 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: 7328835
    Abstract: A mailbox accessory structure used to decorate a freestanding mailbox is disclosed. The structure includes left and right surfaces with substantially connected front and back sides that substantially enclose the mailbox. The surfaces permit the display of indicia, such as holiday images, logos, slogans, and initials, and allow the mailbox to be decorated with a selected shape, such as a shape appropriate for a holiday or event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Inventor: Carol Menghini
  • Patent number: 7299577
    Abstract: An illuminated identification system comprises a light chamber, a lighting means, an opaque identification stencil, a flashing means, a power on/off switch for the lighting means, and an on/off switch for the flashing means. The light chamber is environmentally sealed, and has one surface which is non-opaque. The lighting means is in series with a power source, and is located in the light chamber. The opaque identification stencil is placed over the non-opaque light chamber surface. When the power switch and the flashing means are both on, the flashing means causes the lighting means to flash on and off. Further, the power switch, and/or the on/off switch for the flashing means, may be operated by remote control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Inventors: David Bisson, David Hanson
  • Patent number: 7293696
    Abstract: A mailbox has a housing having a plurality of walls, and a light source arranged so as to emit light into an interior of the housing, wherein the housing has at least one transparent wall through which the light emitted by the light source into the interior of the housing passes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Inventor: Carpenter Laborde
  • Patent number: 7261233
    Abstract: A mailbox accessory structure used to decorate a freestanding mailbox is made of left and right surfaces with substantially connected front and back sides forming a top opening and is connected to the mailbox at the front end of a horizontal beam of the mailbox post and near the top end of the vertical beam of the mailbox post and permits decorative objects to be displayed around the box. The two surfaces permit the display of indicia such as holiday images, logos, and initials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Inventor: Carol Menghini
  • Patent number: 7178715
    Abstract: A mailbox includes a body having an interior cavity and an opening, a lid connected to the body and covering the opening, a first viewing window in one of the body and the lid and a light dispersion element for dispersing light through the interior cavity of the body so as to allow one to see the contents of the mailbox without opening the lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Inventor: George Kevin Dean
  • 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: 6964366
    Abstract: A mailbox with lighting decorative structure, on an upper face or side face of the mailbox is installed with a lighting fixing structure of a different shape. The lighting fixing structure of different shape is installed with a specified number of lighting boards with different letter fonts or patterns. The lighting board is a combination of plastic optical fibers with letter fonts or patterns or different structures. The lighting fixing structure is connected with a circuit board, a solar energy board and a battery, producing lighting effects to the letter fonts or patterns on the mailbox at nighttime or on cloudy days.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Assignee: Baycom-Electronics Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chi-Tsung Peng, Sheng-Te Liu
  • Patent number: 6953258
    Abstract: A mailbox light assembly for illuminating an inside of a standard mailbox upon opening of the mailbox's door. The mailbox light assembly includes housing, a light source, a power source and a normally closed pushbutton door switch. The housing has an upper surface that is designed to abut a top inside surface of a standard mailbox. A pair of clips is used to couple the housing to the top inside surface of the mailbox. The light source provides illumination to an inside of the mailbox and is positioned in the housing. The power source provides power to the light source and is also positioned in the housing. The door switch is electrically coupled between the light source and the power source and is activated when a door of the mailbox is not covering an opening to the mailbox.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Inventor: John W. Goins
  • Patent number: 6766605
    Abstract: A normal four sided drop box 10 is provided with with new panels 12 which are made from translucent material replacing the standard solid metal or aluminum side, front and rear panels currently employed. The panels are placed on the sides, rear and front of the drop box or receptacle. At least one internal light source 20 (LED, Incandescent, etc.) is placed inside the box to be visible through the translucent material applied in place of the solid metal covering. A consumer thus sees the illuminated panels from the outside of the drop box or receptacle. But the internal components 30 are unseen and hidden from view. In one embodiment the companies or individuals message, logo, script, 22 is backlit by the internal light source 20 makes the message visible at night. A power source battery 50 is preferably powered by solar panel 40.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Inventor: David Scot Emert
  • Publication number: 20040083634
    Abstract: An illuminated identification system comprises a light chamber, a lighting means, an opaque identification stencil, a flashing means, a power on/off switch for the lighting means, and an on/off switch for the flashing means. The light chamber is environmentally sealed, and has one surface which is non-opaque. The lighting means is in series with a power source, and is located in the light chamber. The opaque identification stencil is placed over the non-opaque light chamber surface. When the power switch and the flashing means are both on, the flashing means causes the lighting means to flash on and off. Further, the power switch, and/or the on/off switch for the flashing means, may be operated by remote control.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: David Blsson, David Hanson
  • Patent number: 6719193
    Abstract: A mailbox includes a box having a box wall with a panel opening, the panel opening being fitted with a translucent panel marked with indicia; an electric power source; a light source secured relative to the box and positioned to radiate light from within the box through the translucent panel to enhance visibility of the indicia; and a light source circuit electrically interconnecting the power source and the light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Inventor: Michael A. Katulka
  • Patent number: 6708876
    Abstract: A solar powered lighted mailbox for identifying more easily the addresses of houses or homes. The solar powered lighted mailbox includes a mail-receiving assembly including a box having walls and an open front end, and also including a door being hingedly attached to the box and being closable over the open front end; and also includes an address display assembly being mounted to the box and including racks being attached to the box; and further includes a light-emitting assembly being mounted to the box for emitting light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventor: Joseph C. Shirah
  • Patent number: 6666372
    Abstract: A device is provided, for automatically illuminating a mailbox upon opening. A small box illuminating assembly is secured to the inside of a mailbox door and changes position as the door is opening and closed. The box illuminating assembly includes a light source, such as an LED, a power source, preferably a battery, and a tilt-actuated switch, all housed within a small container. When the mailbox door is opened, the tilt-actuated switch closes to activate the light source and illuminate the inside of the mailbox. Preferably, the light source is disposed at an acute angle to the door, so as to direct its light into the mailbox when the door is opened sufficiently to allow the inside of the box to be examined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Inventor: Matthew T. Nagel
  • Patent number: 6629766
    Abstract: An illuminating mailbox address indication device includes a generally rectangular shaped housing mounted on a top portion of a mailbox wherein at least one longitudinal wall is removable. Enclosed within the housing is a light means powered by at least one rechargeable battery energized by a solar cell mounted upon the housing top wall in a recess formed therein. A photosensitive cell operates a switch to permit the light means to illuminate when a pre-determined threshold has been exceeded relevant to the amount of ambient light present around the mailbox (i.e., at night). At least one of the longitudinal housing side walls is translucent and further supports indica stenciled thereupon which represents the address of the property associated with the mailbox.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2003
    Inventor: Wayne Cathel
  • Patent number: 6299325
    Abstract: An illuminating mailbox address indication device includes a generally rectangular shaped housing mounted on a top portion of a mailbox. Enclosed within the housing is a light means powered by a set of batteries which are rechargeably energized by a solar cell mounted upon the housing. A photosensitive cell operates a switch to permit the light means to illuminate when a pre-determined threshold has been exceeded relevant to the amount of ambient light present around the mailbox. The housing walls are translucent and further include indica stenciled thereupon which represent the address of the property associated with the mailbox.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Inventor: Wayne Cathel
  • Patent number: 5522540
    Abstract: A solar powered illuminated address number and mailbox structure comprising a tray structure, a mailbox, a solar energy collector structure exteriorly mounted on the mailbox, a circuit operatively connected to the solar energy collector structure mounted in the tray structure including a battery, and an address number light display mounted on an exterior surface of the mailbox, the solar energy collector providing a power source and connected through the circuit to charge the battery, the address number light display comprising a lighting means, an address display frame, a transparent display device, and reflective address numerals, the lighting means being attached to an exterior surface of the mailbox and being electrically connected with the circuit means and powered by the battery, the address display frame having a fastening means for securing the address display frame to an exterior surface of the mailbox, the reflective address numerals being attached to a back side of the transparent display device ad
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1996
    Inventor: Robert L. Surman
  • Patent number: 5460325
    Abstract: This invention concerns a solar lit illuminated address number and mailbox structure comprising an open topped tray structure, a mailbox, a pivot pivotally connecting the mailbox to the open topped tray structure, solar energy collector structure exteriorly mounted on the mailbox, a circuit operatively connected to the solar energy collector structure mounted in the tray structure including a battery, and an address number light display mounted on an exterior surface of the mailbox electrically connected with the circuit and powered by the battery, the solar energy collector providing a power source and connected through the circuit to charge the battery, the mailbox structure being pivotal on the pivot to expose the circuit stored in the open topped tray structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Inventor: Robert L. Surman
  • Patent number: 5143285
    Abstract: A mailbox post is arranged for enhanced illumination visibility, including a central cavity housing an elongate bulb member longitudinally aligned relative to the housing positioned rearwardly of spaced transparent windows configured to direct a message. A photo-cell is mounted exteriorly of the post to effect actuation of the bulb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1992
    Inventor: Brian E. Wise