Mausoleum Type Patents (Class 52/134)
  • Patent number: 11636561
    Abstract: A system and process for selecting, reserving, and purchasing mausoleum cemetery property and services via cloud application service is disclosed. The system and process for selecting, reserving, and purchasing mausoleum cemetery property and services via cloud application service provides an online e-commerce solution for selecting, reserving and purchasing mausoleum cemetery property and services.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2023
    Inventors: George Joseph Owens, Barry Oren Rappaport
  • Patent number: 11208826
    Abstract: A funerary structure for containing funerary objects, which comprises a base framework provided with a plurality of profiled elements which are arranged along at least two directions and can be fixed to a supporting wall. The profiled elements delimit laterally at least one containment recess for funerary objects. There is at least one slab for closing the recess, which can be fixed, by virtue of fixing elements, to the base framework on the opposite side with respect to the supporting wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2021
    Assignee: BIONDAN NORTH AMERICA INC.
    Inventor: Filippo Rossi
  • Patent number: 11047148
    Abstract: A storage facility for objects of paying of respects includes a partition wall provided to partition off a support location from a respects-paying location, and a respects-paying window configured to allow a person visiting to pay respects to view an object of paying of respects being at the support location. Each object of paying of respects has at least one viewing surface which is a surface selectable to be viewed through the respects-paying window. A plurality of kinds of viewing surfaces are provided. The respects-paying window is provided with an altering device configured to change the size of a visually unobstructed area depending on the size of the viewing surface, of an object of paying of respects located at the support location, that is selected to be viewed, the visually unobstructed area being an area through which a person visiting to pay respects can view the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2021
    Assignee: Daifuku Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hidenobu Shinnaka, Kazuya Arima
  • Patent number: 10982461
    Abstract: A storage facility for objects of paying of respects includes a plurality of storage locations each configured to store an object of paying of respects including a container and one or more items held in the container, a respects-paying area, and a transport system configured to transport an object of paying of respects between the storage location and a support location provided in the respects-paying area. The container is provided with a container window configured to allow a person, visiting to pay respects, to view inside the container. A work area is provided at a location separate from the respects-paying area. Provided in the work area is a work-purpose support location where a container is supported when performing replacement work on one or more items. The transport system is further configured to also transport an object of paying of respects between the storage location and the work-purpose support location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2021
    Assignee: Daifuku Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hidenobu Shinnaka, Kazuya Arima
  • Patent number: 10890009
    Abstract: A modular crypt structure comprising a frame, a module insert defining a chamber and a closure panel and methods of constructing the same are disclosed. The chamber functions as a crypt module and receives bodily remains or portions thereof. The chamber is closed by attaching a closure panel, such as a stone crypt front to the frame. The modular crypt frame may comprise a plurality of horizontal bars and a plurality of vertical bars. A method of constructing a modular crypt structure comprises erecting a frame, providing at least one module insert, configuring the insert to define a chamber adapted to receive bodily remains, and closing the crypt module. A modular crypt system including a niche side wall is also disclosed having a niche side wall frame, a niche insert defining a plurality of niches positioned within the frame, and a closure panel positioned on the niche side wall frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2021
    Assignee: Matthews International Corporation
    Inventors: Charles T. Young, Kenneth B. Bridgeman
  • Patent number: 10487529
    Abstract: A columbarium includes a concrete base and defines an inner core surrounded by niches mounted around the periphery of the inner core. An inner wall separates the niches from an open volume in the inner core. A lightweight core includes at least three spaced apart steel posts attached to the inner wall and the base and supports a capstone covering the open core and the plurality of niches. Base trim elements are adjustably mounted to the base. The columbarium may be preassembled at a remote location and transported for installation at the selected site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2019
    Assignee: Eickhof Columbaria, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Tollefson, Thomas DeBoer
  • Patent number: 10125514
    Abstract: A columbarium includes a plurality of storage niches having a first shape and size and disposed about an outer surface of the columbarium. The storage niches form a center chamber having a larger capacity than the storage niches. One or more access niches provide access from an exterior of the columbarium to the center chamber. The access niche has a removable exterior element and an inner portion openable to the center chamber. A delivery system conveys remains from the access niche to the common center chamber. The columbarium has an inscribable designation section separate from the niches to memorialize those interred in the common center chamber. The designation section has a different, shape, size, finish, color or other characteristics to distinguish from the niches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2018
    Assignee: Eickhof Columbaria, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul M Eickhof, Stephen Noyes, Peter Tollefson, Blair Hines, Thomas DeBoer
  • Publication number: 20150052830
    Abstract: A niche-assist inurement system for simplifying the insertion of a cremation urn into a niche in a columbarium including a bracket, for temporary attachment to the frontal surface of the open niche, the bracket having an elongated body and a load supporting upper surface that slidingly supports a sled on which the cremation urn is placed and which is adapted to carry the urn into the niche and be retracted from the niche leaving the urn inside the niche.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2013
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Inventor: Terry School
  • Patent number: 8875449
    Abstract: A closure system for a memorial product, such as a columbarium, is disclosed. In one embodiment, the closure system is configured to be mounted to a niche compartment such that an opening of the niche compartment is covered. In one embodiment, the closure system includes a face plate hanger and a face plate. The face plate hanger may include first and second rails that are generally directed towards each other. The face plate may be provided with a first channel constructed to receive the first rail and a second channel constructed to receive the second rail. The face plate hanger may also include a cover panel that is configured to cover the niche opening. A columbarium is also disclosed in which a cabinet structure is provided that defines a plurality of niche compartments wherein each of the compartments has an opening that is covered by the above described closure system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Cold Spring Granite Company
    Inventors: James Daniel Calgaro, Daniel A. Holthaus
  • Patent number: 8800122
    Abstract: A containment device for holding the remains of a cremated individual. The containment device may include a receptacle with a rim section and a containment section. A cap may be sealed on the receptacle once the remains of the cremated individual are within the containment section. The outside of the receptacle may include an attachment component. Therefore, the receptacle may be displayed in one's home for a time and then may be permanently mounted in a memorial site. An anchor may attach to the attachment component to prevent theft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Inventor: David William Pato
  • Patent number: 8782969
    Abstract: A columbarium having a framework of a plurality of horizontally spaced vertical risers and a plurality of vertically spaced horizontal members defining a plurality of niches arranged in substantially horizontal rows and substantially vertical columns. Each of the horizontal members comprises a front rail connected to a bent plate shelf. A plurality of shutters is removably mounted over the plurality of niches by a concealed mounting system. The concealed mounting system permits the shutters to be movable about three axes of rotation as well as vertically and horizontally with respect to the horizontal members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Eickhof Columbaria Inc.
    Inventors: Paul M. Eickhof, John K. Eickhof, Ken Bettger
  • Patent number: 8578574
    Abstract: A hermetically sealed casket enclosure comprising a tray; a bottom cover adapted to be housed within the tray and having an open perimeter equipped with a first half of a zipper; a top cover adapted to fit over a casket and proportioned to mate with the bottom cover wherein the top cover has an open perimeter equipped with a second half of a zipper which corresponds with and engages the first half of the zipper so as to join the top cover to the bottom cover; and a clasp for sealing a start end and a finish end of the zipper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Heritage Packaging
    Inventor: William S. Smith
  • Publication number: 20130199111
    Abstract: A columbarium having a framework of a plurality of horizontally spaced vertical risers and a plurality of vertically spaced horizontal members defining a plurality of niches arranged in substantially horizontal rows and substantially vertical columns. Each of the horizontal members comprises a front rail connected to a bent plate shelf. A plurality of shutters is removably mounted over the plurality of niches by a concealed mounting system. The concealed mounting system permits the shutters to be movable about three axes of rotation as well as vertically and horizontally with respect to the horizontal members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2012
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: EICKHOF COLUMBARIA, INC.
    Inventors: Paul M. Eickhof, John K. Eickhof
  • Patent number: 8438794
    Abstract: A columbarium having a framework of a plurality of horizontally spaced vertical risers and a plurality of vertically spaced horizontal members defining a plurality of niches arranged in substantially horizontal rows and substantially vertical columns. Each of the horizontal members has a substantially planar web extending between a front rail and a back flange. A plurality of shutters is removably mounted over the plurality of niches by a concealed mounting system. The concealed mounting system permits the shutters to be movable about three axes of rotation as well as vertically and horizontally with respect to the horizontal members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Eickhof Columbaria, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Eickhof
  • Publication number: 20130019544
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a public cemetery complex, which comprises at least one main burial unit comprising an underground portion and an overground portion, wherein the underground portion is a vertical structure of multiple layers, and each two adjacent layers are separated by a barrier compartment; while each layer contains a number of burial subunits for placement of coffins, the burial subunit is filled up to a predetermined height with a burial material; and the overground portion is a cover portion of the main burial unit for forming an identification sign of the main burial unit; wherein a ground floor for use as a working area and several upper floors for storage of niches and materials are included in interior of the overground portion, while a management area and a worship area are arranged peripherally around the overground portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2012
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Inventors: See Ying Betty NG, Chun Kwan Lam
  • Patent number: 8245457
    Abstract: A concealed mounting system for columbarium shutters and the like. The mounting system includes a top clip and bottom hangers secured to a back side of the shutter. Vertically spaced upper and lower tracks are disposed behind the shutter at its upper end and a lower end. Each track includes a forwardly extending channel and a downwardly extending channel. A locking screw is received within apertures disposed substantially perpendicular to the forwardly extending channel. A nut threadably receives the locking screw and is disposed in the forwardly extending channel, whereby upon rotation of the nut, the locking screw is caused to move vertically with respect to a bottom edge of the upper track for engagement and disengagement with the top clip. The bottom hangers are operably supported by the lower track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Eickhof Columbaria, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul M. Eickhof
  • Patent number: 8161694
    Abstract: An improved burial crypt for cremains designed to be placed below grade within a standard cemetery burial plot, suitable for containing a plurality of burial urns; the crypt comprised of a container, an access means, and a support means, with the container being sealable, substantially water tight, and fabricated of precast concrete walls, the access means being located within the interior of the container and suitably adapted to allow a human to descend into and ascend out of the container, and the support means being located within the interior of the container and suitably adapted to support a plurality of burial urns; and a method of fabrication of same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventor: Lawrence E. Frost
  • Patent number: 8156011
    Abstract: A cenotaph memorial facility comprising a plurality of walls containing crypts is dedicated to an honoree who is not interred within the facility. The facility may comprise a large external memorial structure to protect the walls and individual crypts. The cenotaph memorial facility includes a plurality of video cameras to permit remote viewing of various portions of the facility. The video cameras are controlled by a computer system that allows remote access via a network, such as the internet. An individual enters authorization data and, upon authorization, can remotely view one or more portions of the facility. An on-line auction processor can automatically conduct auctions of selected articles using a timed auction over a prolonged bidding period or a real-time auction. In another aspect, a virtual reality (VR) image capture system captures images that may be remotely viewed using VR technology. This may include 3-D imaging, holographic imaging, or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Legend Memorial Cenotaphs, Inc.
    Inventors: Cameron Adair, Thomas T. Prousalis
  • Patent number: 8122650
    Abstract: A concealed mounting system for columbarium shutters and the like. The mounting system includes a top clip and bottom hangers secured to a back side of the shutter. Vertically spaced upper and lower tracks are disposed behind the shutter at its upper end and a lower end. Each track includes a forwardly extending channel and a downwardly extending channel. A locking screw is received within apertures disposed substantially perpendicular to the forwardly extending channel. A nut threadably receives the locking screw and is disposed in the forwardly extending channel, whereby upon rotation of the nut, the locking screw is caused to move vertically with respect to a bottom edge of the upper track for engagement and disengagement with the top clip. The bottom hangers are operably supported by the lower track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Eickhof Columbaria, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul M. Eickhof
  • Publication number: 20110161254
    Abstract: A multi-use park for the living and the dead, which typically includes a bounded green space; asymmetric columbaria in the form of art objects, such as mosaics or sculptures; and a building for wedding ceremonies or celebrations, baptisms, graduation celebrations, retirement parties, picnics, and other events along the continuum of life. In other words the multi-use park, in one location, melds ongoing activities of the living, with remembering the dead. A method of use typically includes the step of a receiving payment to deploy the ashes of a deceased entity within the bounded green space of the multi-use park, wherein the ashes are deployed in an asymmetric columbarium having the appearance of an art object such as a sculpture or mosaic; and receiving payment to conduct a milestone life-continuum event, such as a graduation celebration, within the bounded green space of the multi-use park.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2010
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Inventor: Thomas William Van Den Bogart
  • Patent number: 7937814
    Abstract: Provided herewith is an apparatus and means for interning a plurality of cremated remains and their accompanying urns in a single columbarium such that the ashes and urns are inaccessible once they are interned. The apparatus comprises a plurality of vertically stacked slanted trays for retaining the urns and a telescoping cylinder with built in ramps. The telescoping cylinder is raised in the columbarium, the urn placed in a ramp in the cylinder and the cylinder lowered back into the columbarium. The cylinder is then rotated and the urn rolls by gravitational force onto the tray for permanent storage. A storage container is available to store DNA or other memorabilia of the deceased that is accessible at a future date. There is a ring binder type structure on the top of the columbarium to inscribe or attached the deceased individual's particulars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Inventor: Troy D. Voit
  • Publication number: 20110030289
    Abstract: A columbarium, particularly for accommodating cinerary urns, comprising: a frame in which containment niches for the cinerary urns are formed in a honeycomb arrangement, a panel for covering at least one portion of a face of the columbarium, onto which a plurality of openings for accessing the niches opens. Elements for moving the panel are also provided which can be actuated for passing: from a first configuration, in which the panel covers the portion of the face, concealing the access openings, to a second configuration, in which the panel is spaced from the portion of the face, to expose the access openings, and vice versa.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2009
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Inventor: Oscar Rossi
  • Publication number: 20100275529
    Abstract: A modular crypt structure comprising a frame, a module insert defining a chamber and a closure panel and methods of constructing the same are disclosed. The chamber functions as a crypt module and is adapted to receive bodily remains or portions thereof. The chamber is closed by attaching a closure panel, such as a stone crypt front to the frame, thereby encapsulating bodily remains. The modular crypt structure may comprise a plurality of chambers, thereby providing a plurality of crypt modules, and the frame may comprise a plurality of horizontal bars and a plurality of vertical bars. A method of constructing a modular crypt structure comprises erecting a frame, providing at least one module insert, configuring the insert to define a chamber adapted to receive bodily remains, and closing the crypt module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2010
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Applicant: MATTHEWS RESOURCES, INC.
    Inventors: Kenneth B. Bridgemen, Charles T. Young
  • Publication number: 20100180521
    Abstract: Provided herewith is an apparatus and means for interning a plurality of cremated remains and their accompanying urns in a single columbarium such that the ashes and urns are inaccessible once they are interned. The apparatus comprises a plurality of vertically stacked slanted trays for retaining the urns and a telescoping cylinder with built in ramps. The telescoping cylinder is raised in the columbarium, the urn placed in a ramp in the cylinder and the cylinder lowered back into the columbarium. The cylinder is then rotated and the urn rolls by gravitational force onto the tray for permanent storage. A storage container is available to store DNA or other memorabilia of the deceased that is accessible at a future date. There is a ring binder type structure on the top of the columbarium to inscribe or attached the deceased individual's particulars.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Applicant: GREEN SPACE TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventor: Troy D. Voit
  • Publication number: 20100162639
    Abstract: A cenotaph memorial facility comprising a plurality of walls containing crypts is dedicated to an honoree who is not interred within the facility. The facility may comprise a large external memorial structure to protect the walls and individual crypts. The cenotaph memorial facility includes a plurality of video cameras to permit remote viewing of various portions of the facility. The video cameras are controlled by a computer system that allows remote access via a network, such as the internet. An individual enters authorization data and, upon authorization, can remotely view one or more portions of the facility. An on-line auction processor can automatically conduct auctions of selected articles using a timed auction over a prolonged bidding period or a real-time auction. In another aspect, a virtual reality (VR) image capture system captures images that may be remotely viewed using VR technology. This may include 3-D imaging, holographic imaging, or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2009
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Applicant: Legend Memorial Cenotaphs, Inc.
    Inventors: Cameron Adair, Thomas T. Prousalis, JR.
  • Patent number: 7739776
    Abstract: A modular columbarium system comprised of modular niche units each having a plurality of urn niches defined therein, wherein adjacent modular niche units are secured to one utilizing an interlocking system that provides alignment and stabilization of the units. The columbarium system is a modular design which facilitates the easy relocation of the modular niche units and the redesign of the columbarium system. The interlocking system connects the modules of the columbarium system to one another to enable easy expansion of the system without diminishing its stability. The modular niche units can also be used with existing columbarium systems. Memorial plates of various sizes are provided to cover the niche openings such that couples or family members can be grouped together under one memorial plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Inventor: James M. Hume
  • Patent number: 7591053
    Abstract: The invention refers to a modular structure for cemetery constructions comprising at least one module of substantially parallelepiped form comprising four panels, each forming one wall of the module; at least one cover forming one end of the module; and four joints, each of them being engaged with two of the four panels forming two consecutive walls of the module. An advantage associated with the modular structure for cemetery constructions of the present invention consists of the possibility to set up on site the structure elements, panels, joints and covers, to be able to assemble a certain number of modules, whenever needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Giuseppe Bosisio S.r.L.
    Inventors: Riccardo Bosisio, Barbara Bosisio
  • Patent number: 7356891
    Abstract: A concealed panel locking mechanism is provided which may be used to secure the contents of a container in a manner that is not discernable to an uninformed individual viewing the container. In one exemplary embodiment, the locking mechanism includes one or more channels formed into a central area of a panel of material. A locking member within the one or more channels is movable along the channel to either engage or disengage the locking member from a recess formed in a side wall of the container. In one embodiment, the locking member is not physically accessible from outside the channel by a human being but is formed from a ferromagnetic material that is moved within the channel by a magnetic force generated by a suitable strength magnetic key placed on the outside surface of the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Inventor: William D. Freeman
  • Patent number: 7287306
    Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments comprise a device comprising: a first wooden portion comprising a substantially rectangular and substantially planar face interlocked to an opposing pair of substantially rectangular and substantially planar sides and to an opposing pair of substantially rectangular and substantially planar ends, said sides interlocked to said ends, said first wooden portion defining a cremains cavity; and a substantially planar wooden lid adapted to be attached to said first wooden portion and to permanently close said cremains cavity to form an airtight cremains space, said wooden lid comprising a plurality of vents adapted to vent the cremains cavity upon attachment of said wooden lid to said first wooden portion and to be sealed upon permanently closing of said cremains cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Inventor: James Patrick Haffey Green
  • Publication number: 20070175110
    Abstract: The invention refers to a modular structure for cemetery constructions comprising at least one module of substantially parallelepiped form comprising four panels, each forming one wall of the module; at least one cover forming one end of the module; and four joints, each of them being engaged with two of said four panels forming two consecutive walls of said module. An advantage associated with the modular structure for cemetery constructions of the present invention consists of the possibility to set up on site the structure elements, panels, j joints and covers, to be able to assemble a certain number of modules, whenever needed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2007
    Publication date: August 2, 2007
    Applicant: GIUSEPPE BOSISIO S.R.L.
    Inventors: Riccardo Bosisio, Barbara Bosisio
  • Patent number: 7243405
    Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments comprise a device comprising: a first wooden portion comprising a substantially rectangular and substantially planar face interlocked to an opposing pair of substantially rectangular and substantially planar sides and to an opposing pair of substantially rectangular and substantially planar ends, the sides interlocked to said ends, said first wooden portion defining a cremains cavity; and a substantially planar wooden lid adapted to be attached to the first wooden portion and to permanently close said cremains cavity to form an airtight cremains space, the wooden lid comprising a plurality of vents adapted to vent the cremains cavity upon attachment of the wooden lid to the first wooden portion and to be sealed upon permanently closing of the cremains cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Inventor: James Patrick Haffey Green
  • Patent number: 7171733
    Abstract: A chest of cinerary urns which has a simple structure capable of allowing convenient placing of cinerary urns therein, while minimizing decay and degradation of cremated remains stored in the placed cinerary urns. The chest of cinerary urns includes a chest body having a plurality of urn receiving spaces, a plurality of cover plates detachably attached to the chest body to cover the urn receiving spaces, seal members each interposed between a portion of the chest body around the associated urn receiving space and the associated cover plate, hollow inlet members each protruded from an associated rear wall portion of the chest body, each of the inlet members communicating with the associated urn receiving space, valve mounting members each coupled to the associated inlet member, and injection valves each fitted in the associated valve mounting member, and centrally provided with an injection hole to allow gas to be injected through the injection hole into the associated inlet member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: Arumdaun Dong San Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Taek-Ki Min
  • Patent number: 7024735
    Abstract: An artificial underwater memorializing catacomb and reef system and evocative environment for a visitor is made from one or more urns containing cremated remains imbedded at least partway within a plurality of concrete forms, whereby the concrete forms are interlocked and/or stacked to form the catacomb. One or more urns containing cremated remains is then interposed at least partway within the molds before the mixture sets, thereby forming one or more concrete forms when the mixture sets. A single module reducing beach erosion and providing a marine habitat includes a base portion, a middle portion having a flange, and an upper portion having an interior void and holes in the sloping sides. One or more urns are placed within reinforcing bars in the base and middle portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Inventor: Morris Huggins
  • Publication number: 20040211129
    Abstract: A lawn crypt system and method in which at least one lawn crypt is buried at a burial site and covered with a covering layer of artificial material such as artificial turf. In a cemetery, an array of crypts are buried in a single hole and an artificial turf layer extends over all of the crypts, and is bonded to the array at least around its periphery. At each interment, a cut is made in the artificial turf around the lid of the lawn crypt at the burial site, the lid and cut section of turf is lifted off the crypt, the casket is placed into the crypt, and the lid and cut section of turf are replaced over the crypt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2003
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventors: Alfred L. Sannipoli, Gary M. Bobbitt, Wayne Peter Sannipoli
  • Patent number: 6681534
    Abstract: A system and method for memorializing life is disclosed. In one embodiment of the invention, a method includes storing human or other animal remains in a structure, such as an outer pyramid-shaped structure, wherein the remains are stored in vaults and urns. The embodiment also may include other structures, such as one or more inner pyramid-shaped structures housed by the outer pyramid-shaped structure. The embodiment also preferably includes computer resources employable to display holographic images and memorial records concerning the deceased, such as video and photographic images, medical records, such as DNA, as well as artifacts and personal belongings. The invention may also include a structure positioned underneath the outer pyramid-shaped structure, housing a world religions museum offering various displays, exhibitions, and services.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Pyramid Development Group LLC
    Inventors: Friedland David, Colette Golightly
  • Patent number: 6662416
    Abstract: An artificial underwater memorializing catacomb and reef system and evocative environment for a visitor is made from one or more urns containing cremated remains imbedded at least partway within a plurality of concrete forms, whereby the concrete forms are interlocked and/or stacked to form the catacomb. The catacomb includes tunnels and underwater enclosed spaces accessible to visitors. The tunnels and the enclosed spaces may be accessed by intermediate openings or through tunnel entrances. The catacomb is formed by mixing a concrete mixture, placing one or more molds for the forms on a vessel and pouring the mixture into the molds. One or more urns containing cremated remains is then interposed at least partway within the molds before the mixture sets, thereby forming one or more concrete forms when the mixture sets. The mixture is allowed to set, and the concrete forms are placed underwater in a stacked and interlocking orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Inventor: Morris Huggins
  • Patent number: 6578323
    Abstract: A columbarium suitable for indoor or outdoor placement includes a plurality of niche units carried by a supporting framework, the niche units being independently assembleable and disassembleable from the supporting framework as often as desired prior to activation but, upon activation, being permanently connected to the framework, each niche unit having means for creating a non-air atmosphere within the niche unit upon activation of the niche unit, each niche unit having four seals protecting the niche unit interior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Inventors: Ronald Richard Zartman, Donald F. Morgan, Russell O Blanchard
  • Patent number: 6553727
    Abstract: A columbarium for cremation remains constructed of at least one unit which includes a generally planar bottom surface and at least five vertical outer sides with each side having a corner. A cover supported by a plurality of walls which, along with said outer sides and said bottom, form compartments. An opening in each outer side providing access to a compartment for receiving cremation remains.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Inventors: Marion Erskine Thomas, Ron Scarcella, Harry Lee Jordan
  • Patent number: 6493911
    Abstract: A cinerary urn receptacle made of stone comprising a cylindrical block hollowed from one first end to a second end and a cover having a sealing portion and an assembling portion, the sealing portion closing the block first end, the assembling portion projecting from the first end, and the second end comprising an internal countersinking for receiving an inner seal to be fitted on an assembling portion projecting from the cover of another identical receptacle to form a funerary column. The method for making such receptacles from a column turned in natural stone consists in carrying out a double coaxial coring of the column in one single operation to form the block that has a cylindrical recess passing through from a first end to a second end and countersinking of an internal portion of the recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Societe des Fontaites
    Inventors: Robert Troin, Stephane Troin
  • Patent number: 6474026
    Abstract: A mausoleum, formed of stone pieces having a plurality of crypts. The mausoleum is formed of a plurality of vertical walls each formed of a stone piece engaged at selected ends to form vertically extending seams. A roof, comprising a plurality of elongated stone pieces arranged in pyramid fashion longitudinally of the mausoleum, is supported by upper edges of certain of the vertical walls. A header extends transversely of the front of the mausoleum. The header is supported by the upper edges of other of the vertical walls and the forward end of the roof pieces. This arrangement provides that the roof and the header cover upper portions of all vertically extending seams while the header provides a homogeneous, pleasing face to the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Inventor: Allan E. McGarity
  • Patent number: 6414663
    Abstract: An electronic memorial comprising a programmable memory for storing data regarding a selected individual; a control unit for receiving and processing the data from the programmable memory; an electronic display configured to receive and visually display the processed data; a power source for providing power to the programmable memory, the control unit, and the display; and, a memorial unit corresponding to the selected person and configured to hold the programmable memory, the control unit, the electronic display, and the power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Inventor: Delbert N. Manross, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6401409
    Abstract: An underground storm shelter comprising a bottom section, expander section and a top section bolted together to form the shelter. The base section has a closed bottom while the top section has an access hatch formed in the upper end thereof. The base section, expander section and top section are bolted together at the installation site. The walls of the base section and the top section are tapered to enable the base section and the top section to be nested during shipment. The expander section may be slipped over the top section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Inventor: Michael C. Martin
  • Patent number: 6347439
    Abstract: A self-mountable niche for remain ashes has a substantially closed box, a receptacle for accommodating ashes and insertable in the box, a supporting element connected with the box and supporting the latter, and a fastening and locking element connected with the supporting element for placing the niche at a corresponding location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Inventor: Santiago Bach Lahor
  • Patent number: 6253503
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for hermetically sealing a casket in an enclosure to be entombed in a mausoleum crypt. The casket enclosure comprises a tray and a flexible cover. An adhesive material is used to affix the cover to the tray. The enclosure includes a check valve to vent any gases that may build up over time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: VKM International, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter M. Flood
  • Patent number: 6161268
    Abstract: A modular storage system for the internment of cremated human remains including interengaging construction blocks having a plurality of pre-formed recesses therein. Storage tubes each having a closure registerable within the recesses forms a self-supporting wall of multiple blocks with multiple niches. Each of the construction blocks has lifting engagement fixtures for positioning and alignment of the blocks defining structural interior walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Inventor: Charles Joseph
  • Patent number: 6105315
    Abstract: A mausoleum and method of constructing a mausoleum. The mausoleum may include plurality of vertically extending walls supportable on a surface, wherein at least one vertically extending wall has a plurality of cells integrally formed therein. At least one cell is substantially filled with a filler material. A roof is supported on the vertically extending walls and cooperates with those walls to define at least one crypt niche having at least one open end. A closure panel corresponding to each open end of each crypt niche is provided. One or more cells within the walls may be unfilled to serve as drain and/or vent passages for each niche. Shelf assemblies may be supported within each niche to form chambers for receiving caskets therein. Each shelf may have open cells formed therein which can communicate with open cells within the walls. A lawn crypt manufactured from similar materials is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Inventors: Walter J. Stoecklein, John C. Campbell, II
  • Patent number: 6098349
    Abstract: Collapsible structure are provided having a first base panel and a second panel, each having a foldable frame member that has a folded and an unfolded orientation, and a material partially covering the frame member when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation, with the material assuming the unfolded orientation of its associated frame member. The second panel is flexed so that the first and second panels define an interior space, with the second panel having opposing first and second end edges that are coupled to the outer periphery of the first panel. The second panel can have two or more supporting frame members to allow the collapsible structures to be provided in different configurations and sizes. In addition, the first base panel can be replaced by a fabric or similar piece of material that is coupled to the first and second end edges of the second panel. The second panels can be coupled within, or outside, the outer periphery of the first base panel or fabric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 6098350
    Abstract: A thin-walled, light weight crypt form/liner is provided for use in making monolithic mausoleums. The crypt form/liner includes a first side, a second side, and a top defining an open-ended chamber having a front edge. The top, first side, and second side of the form/liner can be pleated. A two tier frame is formed on the front edge to facilitate interconnection of adjacent form/liners. The second tier of one form/liner overlies the first tier of an adjacent form/liner. The two tiers include bolt holes which are aligned when the form/liners are positioned adjacent each other. A connecting rod is mounted to one of the form/liners, and is sized to extend through the bolt holes of both adjacent form/liners to extend beyond the front edges thereof. The front frames define a shoulder which surrounds the opening to the crypts. A sealer plate is mounted in the shoulder. A memorialization plaque is mounted on the connecting bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Inventor: John Kochtitzky
  • Patent number: 6088973
    Abstract: In a first aspect of the disclosure, a monument is shown having a movable element mounted in an opening therein for displaying information. The movable element may be partially or fully recessed in the opening but is constructed so as to be accessible for manual movement to change the information displayed. In a second aspect of the dislosure, a columbarium niche structure is shown having a movable element positioned behind an opening in a door. The movable element is preferably recessed so that no portion thereof extends beyond the front face of the door, but is constructed so as to be accessible for manual movement to change the information displayed. An adjustment system is provided for aligning the movable element with the door opening, and a bearing system is used to facillitate movement of the movable element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Inventor: Hali Weiss
  • Patent number: RE44749
    Abstract: A cenotaph memorial facility comprising a plurality of walls containing crypts is dedicated to an honoree who is not interred within the facility. The facility may comprise a large external memorial structure to protect the walls and individual crypts. The cenotaph memorial facility includes a plurality of video cameras to permit remote viewing of various portions of the facility. The video cameras are controlled by a computer system that allows remote access via a network, such as the internet. An individual enters authorization data and, upon authorization, can remotely view one or more portions of the facility. An on-line auction processor can automatically conduct auctions of selected articles using a timed auction over a prolonged bidding period or a real-time auction. In another aspect, a virtual reality (VR) image capture system captures images that may be remotely viewed using VR technology. This may include 3-D imaging, holographic imaging, or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Legend Memorial Cenotaphs, Inc.
    Inventors: Cameron Adair, Thomas T. Prousalis