Patent Application
20160009431
This invention relates to providing a system for improved sorting of small items from a storage container of miscellaneous items and returning them back to the storage container once the desired item has been located. More particularly, this invention relates to providing a system for pouring small items out of a storage container, sorting through them to find the desired item, and returning them back into the storage container easily and efficiently. In many instances when a person is trying to find one small item from a large group of small items, which are contained within a storage container, they must pour out the contents of the container onto a surface, sort through them, and then return the unwanted items back to the storage container. This can be messy and time consuming. Therefore, there is a need for a method or apparatus specifically designed to simply and efficiently allow a person to sort through the contents of a storage container to find the specific one that is needed, and then return the contents back into the storage container.
A primary object and feature of the present invention is to provide a system overcoming the above-mentioned problem.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system that is not only efficient but has the capability for the user to both sort the contents of the storage container and to return the contents to the storage container without spillage or wasted time.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide a single device that can be used both for the sorting and returning steps.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide such device that is simple, flexible, and durable.
A further primary object and feature of the present invention is to provide such a system that is efficient, inexpensive, and handy. Other objects and features of this invention will become apparent with reference to the following descriptions.
In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a system, relating to receiving a collection of objects from a storage container and distributing the collection of objects across a large surface area while maintaining containment within the large surface area, permitting user-search of the collection of objects, then gathering the collection of objects into a confined stream to return the collection of objects to the storage container, such system comprising: a tray structured and arranged to contain the collection of objects; wherein such tray comprises a bottom and at least one side; wherein such tray is open on the top; wherein such bottom is planar defining a bottom plane; wherein such at least one side rises above such bottom plane; wherein such at least one side comprises at least one transforming side; wherein such tray comprises a distributive-area permitting distribution of the collection of objects across an area in a thin layer; and wherein the collection of objects, when distributed, are readily visible and manipulatable by at least one user; and at least one transformer structured and arranged to transform such tray between at least one tray state and at least one pouring state; wherein such at least one pouring state comprises at least one object-collector structured and arranged to collect the collection of objects into a non-distributed state, wherein such at least one object-collector is non-planar, and at least one funnel structured and arranged to pour a stream of the collection of objects into the storage container; and wherein such at least one transformer comprises at least one user-alterable component structured and arranged to effect transformation between such at least one tray state and such at least one pouring state; wherein such at least one transformer transforms such bottom into such at least one object-collector, and such at least one transforming side into at least one funnel side; and wherein such at least one transformer creates such at least one funnel; wherein such at least one funnel comprises such at least one funnel side; wherein the collection of objects are received, distributed and searched in such tray state; and wherein the collection of objects are collected and poured in such pouring state.
Moreover, it provides such a system wherein such tray further comprises at least one handle structured and arranged to permit single-hand carrying of such tray. Additionally, it provides such a system wherein such at least one handle comprises at least one transforming-handle structured and arranged to assist such transformation. Also, it provides such a system wherein such at least one transforming-handle further comprises at least one cutout structured and arranged to transform between at least one hand portal, while in such at least one tray state, and at least one funnel-spout of such at least one funnel, while in such at least one pouring state. In addition, it provides such a system wherein such at least one transforming handle further comprises at least one transformation-actuator structured and arranged to permit user-actuation of such transformation.
And, it provides such a system wherein such at least one transformation-actuator comprises at least one transforming living-hinge structured and arranged to collapse when at least one user actuates such transformation. And, it provides such a system wherein such at least one transformation-actuator comprises at least one collapse-permitter structured and arranged to collapse when at least one user actuates such transformation. Further, it provides such a system wherein such collapse of such at least one collapse-permitter reduces the area of such at least one cutout and conically-curves such at least one transforming handle. Further, it provides such a system wherein such collapse of such at least one collapse-permitter reduces the area of such at least one cutout and conically-curves such at least one transforming handle. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such collapse of such at least one collapse-permitter additionally reduces the straight-line distance between corners of such at least one transforming side.
Moreover, it provides such a system wherein such at least one collapse-permitter comprises at least one accordion hinge. Additionally, it provides such a system wherein such at least one accordion hinge comprises at least three living-hinge locations. Also, it provides such a system wherein such transformation-actuator further comprises: at least one first digit-acceptor structured and arranged to accept insertion of at least one first user-digit; and at least one second digit-acceptor structured and arranged to accept insertion of at least one second user-digit; wherein such user actuation comprises reducing the distance between such at least one first digit-acceptor and such at least one second digit-acceptor.
In addition, it provides such a system wherein such at least one transforming side comprises at least one transforming angle, between such bottom and such at least one transforming side, structured and arranged to assist in transformation between such tray state and such pouring state. And, it provides such a system wherein: such at least one transforming angle comprises an obtuse angle, while in such tray state, and such at least one transforming angle collapses outward during such transformation. Further, it provides such a system wherein such obtuse angle comprises an angle between about 90 and about 140 degrees. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such obtuse angle comprises an angle of about 135 degrees.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a system, relating to receiving a collection of objects from a storage container and distributing the collection of objects across a large surface area while maintaining containment within the large surface area, permitting user-search of the collection of objects, then gathering the collection of objects into a confined stream to return the collection of objects to the storage container, such system comprising: a tray structured and arranged to contain the collection of objects; wherein such tray comprises a bottom and at least one side; wherein such tray is open on the top; wherein such bottom is planar defining a bottom plane; wherein such at least one side rises above such bottom plane; wherein such at least one side comprises at least one transforming side; wherein such tray further comprises at least one handle structured and arranged to permit single-hand carrying of such tray; wherein such tray comprises a distributive-area permitting distribution of the collection of objects across an area in a thin layer; and wherein the collection of objects, when distributed, are readily visible and manipulatable by at least one user; and at least one transformer structured and arranged to transform such tray between at least one tray state and at least one pouring state; wherein such at least one pouring state comprises at least one object-collector structured and arranged to collect the collection of objects into a non-distributed state, wherein such at least one object-collector is non-planar, and at least one funnel structured and arranged to pour a stream of the collection of objects into the storage container; and wherein such at least one transformer comprises at least one user-alterable component structured and arranged to effect transformation between such at least one tray state and such at least one pouring state; wherein such at least one transformer transforms such bottom into such at least one object-collector, and such at least one transforming side into at least one funnel side; and wherein such at least one transformer creates such at least one funnel; wherein such at least one funnel comprises such at least one funnel side; wherein the collection of objects are received, distributed and searched in such tray state; and wherein the collection of objects are collected and poured in such pouring state; wherein such at least one handle comprises at least one transforming-handle structured and arranged to assist such transformation; and wherein such at least one transforming-handle further comprises at least one gripper structured and arranged to transform between at least one hand portal, while in such at least one tray state, and at least one funnel-spout of such at least one funnel, while in such at least one pouring state; and wherein such at least one transforming handle further comprises at least one transformation-actuator structured and arranged to permit user-actuation of such transformation; wherein such at least one transformation-actuator comprises at least one collapse-permitter structured and arranged to collapse when at least one user actuates such transformation; wherein such collapse of such at least one collapse-permitter reduces the area of such at least one cutout and conically-curves such at least one transforming handle; wherein such transformation-actuator further comprises: at least one first digit-acceptor structured and arranged to accept insertion of at least one first user-digit; and at least one second digit-acceptor structured and arranged to accept insertion of at least one second user-digit; wherein such user actuation comprises reducing the distance between such at least one first digit-acceptor and such at least one second digit-acceptor; wherein such at least one transforming side comprises at least one transforming angle, between such bottom and such at least one transforming side, structured and arranged to assist in transformation between such tray state and such pouring state; wherein such at least one transforming angle comprises an obtuse angle, while in such tray state; and wherein such at least one transforming angle collapses outward during such transformation.
Even further, it provides such a system wherein such collapse of such at least one transforming living-hinge additionally reduces the straight-line distance between corners of such at least one transforming side. Moreover, it provides such a system wherein such at least one transforming living-hinge comprises at least one accordion hinge. Additionally, it provides such a system wherein such at least one accordion hinge comprises at least three living hinge locations.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a system, relating to receiving a collection of objects from a storage container and distributing the collection of objects across a large surface area while maintaining containment within the large surface area, permitting user-search of the collection of objects, then gathering the collection of objects into a confined stream to return the collection of objects to the storage container, such system comprising: a tray means for containing the collection of objects; wherein such tray means comprises a bottom and at least one side; wherein such tray means is open on the top; wherein such bottom is planar defining a bottom plane; wherein such at least one side rises above such bottom plane; wherein such at least one side comprises at least one transforming side; wherein such tray means comprises a distributive-area means for permitting distribution of the collection of objects across an area in a thin layer; wherein the collection of objects, when distributed, are readily visible and manipulatable by at least one user; wherein such tray means further comprises at least one transformer means for transforming such tray between at least one tray state and at least one pouring state; wherein such at least one pouring state comprises at least one object-collector means for collecting the collection of objects into a non-distributed state, wherein such at least one object-collector means is non-planar, and at least one funnel means for pouring a stream of the collection of objects into the storage container; wherein such at least one transformer means comprises at least one user-alterable component means for effecting transformation between such at least one tray state and such at least one pouring state; wherein such at least one transformer means transforms such bottom into such at least one object-collector means, and such at least one transforming side into at least one funnel side; wherein such at least one transformer means creates such at least one funnel means, wherein such at least one funnel means comprises such at least one funnel side wherein the collection of objects are received, distributed and searched in such tray state; and wherein the collection of objects are collected and poured in such pouring state.
Even further, it provides such a system wherein such tray means further comprises at least one handle means for permitting single-hand carrying of such tray means. In addition, it provides such a system wherein such at least one handle means comprises at least one transforming-handle means for assisting such transformation. Moreover, it provides such a system wherein such at least one transforming-handle means further comprises at least one gripper means for transforming between at least one hand portal means, while in such at least one tray state, and at least one funnel-spout of such at least one funnel means, while in such at least one pouring state.
Additionally, it provides such a system wherein such at least one transforming handle means further comprises at least one transformation-actuator means for permitting user-actuation of such transformation. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such at least one transformation-actuator means comprises at least one collapse-permitter means for collapsing when at least one user actuates such transformation. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such collapse of such at least one collapse-permitter means reduces the area of such at least one cutout means and conically-curves such at least one transforming handle means. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such collapse of such at least one collapse-permitter means additionally reduces the straight-line distance between corners of such at least one transforming side.
Moreover, it provides such a system wherein such transformation-actuator means further comprises: at least one first digit-acceptor means for accepting insertion of at least one first user-digit; and at least one second digit-acceptor means for accepting insertion of at least one second user-digit; wherein such user actuation comprises reducing the distance between such at least one first digit-acceptor means and such at least one second digit-acceptor means.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a system, relating to receiving a collection of objects from a storage container and distributing the collection of objects across a large surface area while maintaining containment within the large surface area, permitting user-search of the collection of objects, then gathering the collection of objects into a confined stream to return the collection of objects to the storage container, such system comprising: a tray structured and arranged to contain the collection of objects; wherein such tray comprises a bottom and at least one side; wherein such tray is open on the top; wherein such bottom is planar defining a bottom plane; wherein such at least one side rises above such bottom plane; wherein such at least one side comprises at least one transforming side; wherein such tray comprises a distributive-area permitting distribution of the collection of objects across an area in a thin layer; and wherein the collection of objects, when distributed, are readily visible and manipulatable by at least one user; and at least one transformer structured and arranged to transform such tray between at least one tray state and at least one pouring state; wherein such at least one pouring state comprises at least one object-collector structured and arranged to collect the collection of objects into a non-distributed state, wherein such at least one object-collector is non-planar, and at least one funnel structured and arranged to pour a stream of the collection of objects into the storage container; and wherein such at least one transformer comprises at least one user-alterable component structured and arranged to effect transformation between such at least one tray state and such at least one pouring state; wherein such at least one transformer transforms such bottom into such at least one object-collector, and such at least one transforming side into at least one funnel side; and wherein such at least one transformer creates such at least one funnel; wherein such at least one funnel comprises such at least one funnel side; wherein the collection of objects are received, distributed and searched in such tray state; and wherein the collection of objects are collected and poured in such pouring state.
Moreover, it provides such a system wherein such tray further comprises at least one handle structured and arranged to permit single-hand carrying of such tray. Additionally, it provides such a system wherein such at least one handle comprises at least one transforming-handle structured and arranged to assist such transformation. Also, it provides such a system wherein such at least one transforming-handle further comprises at least one cutout structured and arranged to transform between at least one hand portal, while in such at least one tray state, and at least one funnel-spout of such at least one funnel, while in such at least one pouring state. In addition, it provides such a system wherein such at least one transforming handle further comprises at least one transformation-actuator structured and arranged to permit user-actuation of such transformation.
And, it provides such a system wherein such at least one transformation-actuator comprises at least one transforming living-hinge structured and arranged to collapse when at least one user actuates such transformation. Further, it provides such a system wherein such collapse of such at least one transforming living-hinge reduces the area of such at least one cutout and conically-curves such at least one transforming handle. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such collapse of such at least one transforming living-hinge additionally reduces the straight-line distance between corners of such at least one transforming side.
Moreover, it provides such a system wherein such at least one transforming living-hinge comprises at least one accordion hinge. Additionally, it provides such a system wherein such at least one accordion hinge comprises at least three living-hinge locations. Also, it provides such a system wherein such transformation-actuator further comprises: at least one first digit-cutout structured and arranged to allow insertion of at least one first user-digit; and at least one second digit-cutout structured and arranged to allow insertion of at least one second user-digit; wherein such user actuation comprises reducing the distance such at least one first digit-cutout and such at least one second digit-cutout.
In addition, it provides such a system wherein such at least one transforming side comprises at least one transforming angle, between such bottom and such at least one transforming side, structured and arranged to assist in transformation between such tray state and such pouring state. And, it provides such a system wherein: such at least one transforming angle comprises an obtuse angle, while in such tray state, and such at least one transforming angle collapses outward during such transformation. Further, it provides such a system wherein such obtuse angle comprises an angle between about 90 and about 140 degrees. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such obtuse angle comprises an angle of about 135 degrees.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a system, relating to receiving a collection of objects from a storage container and distributing the collection of objects across a large surface area while maintaining containment within the large surface area, permitting user-search of the collection of objects, then gathering the collection of objects into a confined stream to return the collection of objects to the storage container, such system comprising: a tray structured and arranged to contain the collection of objects; wherein such tray comprises a bottom and at least one side; wherein such tray is open on the top; wherein such bottom is planar defining a bottom plane; wherein such at least one side rises above such bottom plane; wherein such at least one side comprises at least one transforming side; wherein such tray further comprises at least one handle structured and arranged to permit single-hand carrying of such tray; wherein such tray comprises a distributive-area permitting distribution of the collection of objects across an area in a thin layer; and wherein the collection of objects, when distributed, are readily visible and manipulatable by at least one user; and at least one transformer structured and arranged to transform such tray between at least one tray state and at least one pouring state; wherein such at least one pouring state comprises at least one object-collector structured and arranged to collect the collection of objects into a non-distributed state, wherein such at least one object-collector is non-planar, and at least one funnel structured and arranged to pour a stream of the collection of objects into the storage container; and wherein such at least one transformer comprises at least one user-alterable component structured and arranged to effect transformation between such at least one tray state and such at least one pouring state; wherein such at least one transformer transforms such bottom into such at least one object-collector, and such at least one transforming side into at least one funnel side; and wherein such at least one transformer creates such at least one funnel; wherein such at least one funnel comprises such at least one funnel side; wherein the collection of objects are received, distributed and searched in such tray state; and wherein the collection of objects are collected and poured in such pouring state; wherein such at least one handle comprises at least one transforming-handle structured and arranged to assist such transformation; and wherein such at least one transforming-handle further comprises at least one cutout structured and arranged to transform between at least one hand portal, while in such at least one tray state, and at least one funnel-spout of such at least one funnel, while in such at least one pouring state; and wherein such at least one transforming handle further comprises at least one transformation-actuator structured and arranged to permit user-actuation of such transformation; wherein such at least one transformation-actuator comprises at least one transforming living-hinge structured and arranged to collapse when at least one user actuates such transformation; wherein such collapse of such at least one transforming living-hinge reduces the area of such at least one cutout and conically-curves such at least one transforming handle; wherein such transformation-actuator further comprises: at least one first digit-cutout structured and arranged to allow insertion of at least one first user-digit; and at least one second digit-cutout structured and arranged to allow insertion of at least one second user-digit; wherein such user actuation comprises reducing the distance such at least one first digit-cutout and such at least one second digit-cutout; wherein such at least one transforming side comprises at least one transforming angle, between such bottom and such at least one transforming side, structured and arranged to assist in transformation between such tray state and such pouring state; wherein such at least one transforming angle comprises an obtuse angle, while in such tray state; and wherein such at least one transforming angle collapses outward during such transformation.
Even further, it provides such a system wherein such collapse of such at least one transforming living-hinge additionally reduces the straight-line distance between corners of such at least one transforming side. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such at least one transforming living-hinge comprises at least one accordion hinge. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such at least one accordion hinge comprises at least three living hinge locations.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a system, relating to receiving a collection of objects from a storage container and distributing the collection of objects across a large surface area while maintaining containment within the large surface area, permitting user-search of the collection of objects, then gathering the collection of objects into a confined stream to return the collection of objects to the storage container, such system comprising: a tray means for containing the collection of objects; wherein such tray means comprises a bottom and at least one side; wherein such tray means is open on the top; wherein such bottom is planar defining a bottom plane; wherein such at least one side rises above such bottom plane; wherein such at least one side comprises at least one transforming side; wherein such tray means comprises a distributive-area means for permitting distribution of the collection of objects across an area in a thin layer; wherein the collection of objects, when distributed, are readily visible and manipulatable by at least one user; wherein such tray means further comprises at least one transformer means for transforming such tray between at least one tray state and at least one pouring state; wherein such at least one pouring state comprises at least one object-collector means for collecting the collection of objects into a non-distributed state, wherein such at least one object-collector means is non-planar, and at least one funnel means for pouring a stream of the collection of objects into the storage container; wherein such at least one transformer means comprises at least one user-alterable component means for effecting transformation between such at least one tray state and such at least one pouring state; wherein such at least one transformer means transforms such bottom into such at least one object-collector means, and such at least one transforming side into at least one funnel side; wherein such at least one transformer means creates such at least one funnel means, wherein such at least one funnel means comprises such at least one funnel side wherein the collection of objects are received, distributed and searched in such tray state; and wherein the collection of objects are collected and poured in such pouring state.
Even further, it provides such a system wherein such tray means further comprises at least one handle means for permitting single-hand carrying of such tray means. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such at least one handle means comprises at least one transforming-handle means for assisting such transformation. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such at least one transforming-handle means further comprises at least one cutout means for transforming between at least one hand portal means, while in such at least one tray state, and at least one funnel-spout of such at least one funnel means, while in such at least one pouring state.
Even further, it provides such a system wherein such at least one transforming handle means further comprises at least one transformation-actuator means for permitting user-actuation of such transformation. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such at least one transformation-actuator means comprises at least one transforming living-hinge means for collapsing when at least one user actuates such transformation. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such collapse of such at least one transforming living-hinge means reduces the area of such at least one cutout means and conically-curves such at least one transforming handle means. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such collapse of such at least one transforming living-hinge means additionally reduces the straight-line distance between corners of such at least one transforming side. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such transformation-actuator means further comprises: at least one first digit-cutout means for allowing insertion of at least one first user-digit; and at least one second digit-cutout means for allowing insertion of at least one second user-digit; wherein such user actuation comprises reducing the distance between such at least one first digit-cutout means and such at least one second digit-cutout means. Moreover, it provides such a system comprises each and every novel feature, element, combination, step and/or method disclosed or suggested by this patent application.
Many people store assorted small items in storage containers such as jars (glass and plastic), “coffee” cans, plastic bowls, buckets, etc. There are often times when a person may have a need for one or two small items which are stored in any of these various types of storage containers, and generally has to pour nearly the entire contents of the container out onto a table, workbench or other surface in order to find the one or two items that is/are needed. This often creates a large mess, especially when the person then has to move the items around on the surface, and sift through them until he or she finds the one (or more) items needed. Once the desired items are located, it is necessary to then return the rest of the contents back into the storage container. This requires “scooping” them up in handfuls or in a spoon, scoop, or other implement, and carefully pouring them back into the storage container. This can take time if there were a large number of items in the container. It can be messy as a person tries to pour the items out of their fisted hand or implement through the relatively narrow opening of the container; quite frequently many of the items are dropped in the pouring process and have to again be scooped up and poured from the fisted hand or implement.
Therefore, there is a need for a system, as disclosed herein, specifically designed for receiving a collection of objects, distributing the collection of objects across a relatively large surface area while maintaining containment within the large surface area, permitting a user-search of the collection of objects, and then gathering the collection of objects into a confined stream to return the collection of objects to a storage container.
Tray-container 110 preferably further comprises at least one surface appearance. Surface appearance preferably comprises a high contrast to objects with which it is used. Surface appearance preferably comprises black color, alternately preferably white color. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as user preference, user's intended use, manufacturing, etc., other tray appearances, such as, for example, other contrasting colors, translucent, opaque, clear, etc., may suffice.
Tray-container 110 preferably comprises at least one tray-container-base 120 and preferably at least one tray-container-wall 130 (at least herein embodying wherein such tray comprises a bottom and at least one side), as shown. Tray-container-base 120 preferably is open on the top (at least herein embodying wherein such tray is open on top), as shown. Tray-container-base 120 preferably lies flat, preferably defining a plane, as shown (at least herein embodying wherein such bottom is planar defining a bottom plane). Tray-container-wall 130 preferably projects up from such plane defined by tray-container-base 120 (at least herein embodying wherein such at least one side rises above such bottom plane), as shown (see also
Tray-container-wall 130 preferably maintains containment of at least one collection of objects 135 while the collection of objects 135 is in a distributed state 105 across the tray-container-base 120, as shown. Tray-container-base 120 preferably comprises at least one distributive-area 140 to permit distributing collection of objects 135 across an area in a thin layer. Distributive-area 140 (at least herein embodying wherein such tray comprises a distributive-area permitting distribution of the collection of objects across an area in a thin layer; and at least herein embodying wherein such tray means comprises distributive-area means for permitting distribution of the collection of objects across an area in a thin layer) is preferably bounded by tray-container-wall 130, as shown. A thin layer preferably comprises no more than one or two objects deep, as shown. Individual objects 132 of collection of objects 135, when distributed across distributive-area 140, are thereby readily visible and manipulatable by at least one user (at least herein embodying wherein the collection of objects, when distributed, are readily visible and manipulatable by at least one user), as shown.
Tray-container 110 preferably further comprises at least one handle 150, preferably to permit single-hand carrying of tray-container 110, as shown. Handle 150 (at least herein embodying wherein such tray further comprises at least one handle structured and arranged to permit single-hand carrying of such tray; and at least herein embodying wherein such tray means further comprises at least one handle means for permitting single-hand carrying of such tray means) preferably comprises at least one hand-portal 160 to permit a single hand, or a portion of the hand, to be inserted to facilitate carrying of tray-container 110, as shown.
Tray-container 110 preferably comprises length C of about 12 inches (see
Sort and pour system 100 is preferably made using vacuum forming manufacturing. Vacuum forming preferably comprises a simplified version of thermoforming, whereby a sheet of plastic is preferably heated to a forming temperature, preferably stretched onto a single-surface mold, and preferably forced against the mold by a vacuum (suction of air).
Sort and pour system 100 alternately preferably comprises injection molding. Injection molding preferably comprises a process for producing parts by injecting material into a mold. Material for the part is preferably fed into a heated barrel, preferably mixed, and preferably forced into a mold cavity, where it cools and hardens to the configuration of the cavity. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as, future manufacturing methods, cost, structural requirements, available materials etc., other methods of manufacturing, such as, for example, blow molding, thermoforming, transfer molding, reaction injection molding, compression molding, extrusion, stamping, etc., may suffice.
Sort and pour system 100 preferably comprises at least one flexible material, preferably plastic, preferably thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), preferably thermoforming plastic. Alternately preferably, the thermoplastic elastomer comprises injection-molding material. The at least one flexible material preferably comprises polypropylene, alternately preferably polyethylene, alternately preferably Synprene™, preferably Synprene™ RT-5180 (commercially available from PolyOne, Global Corporate Headquarters, 33587 Walker Rd., Avon Lake, Ohio 44012 or at www.polyone.com). Synprene™ thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) are compounds based on styrenic block copolymer (SBC) technology, and can be formulated to deliver extremely low hardness values not found in other elastomers. Synprene™ RT-5180 preferably comprises decabromodiphenyl oxide (10-30 weight percent), antimony trioxide (5-10 weight percent) and talc (5-10 weight percent). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as design preference, cost, structural requirements, available materials, etc., other flexible materials, such as, for example, low density polyethylene, thermoplastic polyolefins, polyethylene terephthalate glycol, fabrics, rubbers, metals, silicons, polyolefin blends, elastomeric alloys, thermoplastic polyurethanes, thermoplastic copolyester, thermoplastic polyamids etc., may suffice.
Once collected in non-distributed state 205, collection of objects 135 pour through funnel-pourer 370 (at least embodying herein at least one funnel structured and arranged to pour a stream of the collection of objects into the storage container; and at least embodying herein at least one funnel means for pouring a stream of the collection of objects into the storage container) back into the storage container 220, as shown.
Sort and pour system 100 preferably further comprises at least one transformer 115 structured to effect transformation of sort and pour system 100 between tray-container 110 and object-collector-pourer 210. Transformer 115 preferably comprises at least one transformation-axis 230 which allows for transformation of tray-container 110 into object-collector-pourer 210 along such axis, as shown. This arrangement at least embodies herein at least one transformer structured and arranged to transform such tray between at least one tray state and at least one pouring state; and this arrangement at least herein embodies wherein such tray means further comprises at least one transformer means for transforming such tray between at least one tray state and at least one pouring state.
When in tray state 103, transforming-handle 305 preferably comprises handle 150. When in pouring state 107, transforming-handle 305 preferably comprises funnel-pourer 370. Transforming-handle 305 preferably further comprises at least one handle-funnel transformer 310 (at least herein embodying wherein such at least one handle comprises at least one transforming-handle structured and arranged to assist such transformation; and at least herein embodying wherein such at least one handle means comprises at least one transforming-handle means for assisting such transformation) to transform transforming-handle 305 between handle 150 and funnel-pourer 370, as shown.
Handle-funnel transformer 310 preferably further comprises at least one attachment 330 between handle-funnel transformer 310 and transformer wall 810, preferably comprising at least one living hinge, as shown. Attachment 330 is preferably along length C at the edge of tray-container 110, as shown, alternately preferably along width B at the edge of tray-container 110 (not shown).
Handle-funnel transformer 310 preferably further comprises “half-moon” shape and a length that is approximately equal to the length of transformer wall 810, as shown. Handle-funnel transformer 310 preferably further comprises a width A which preferably is approximately equal to half of width B of tray-container 110, as shown. Width A preferably comprises between about 4 inches and about 5 inches, as shown.
Handle-funnel transformer 310 preferably further comprises at least one funnel-ovular cutout 350 (at least herein embodying wherein such at least one transforming-handle further comprises at least one cutout structured and arranged to transform between at least one hand portal, while in such at least one tray state, and at least one funnel-spout of such at least one funnel, while in such at least one pouring state; at least herein embodying wherein such at least one transforming-handle means further comprises at least one cutout means for transforming between at least one hand portal, while in such at least one tray state, and at least one funnel-spout of such at least one funnel means, while in such at least one pouring state), as shown. Funnel-ovular cutout 350 is preferably centered along length C of transformer wall 810, as shown. Funnel-ovular cutout 350 is preferably located about ¼ inch to about ½ inch from attachment 330 between transformer wall 810 and handle-funnel transformer 310, as shown.
Between funnel-ovular cutout 350 and the outer edge of handle-funnel transformer 310, transforming-handle 305 preferably further comprises a collapse-permitter 360, preferably a transforming-living-hinge 395, as shown. Collapse-permitter 360 further comprises a collapsible material, preferably between about two and about three inches in width, as shown. Funnel-ovular cutout 350 preferably comprises a width E, preferably comprising enough room for at least one user to place all of the fingers of user's hand through funnel-ovular cutout 350 in order to grip transforming-handle 305, preferably comprising about 3 inches, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as cost, available materials, etc., other cutout sizes, such as, for example, two-finger widths, three finger widths, etc., may suffice.
Transforming-handle 305 preferably further comprises at least one user-actuated transformer 390 (at least herein embodying wherein such at least one transformer comprises at least one user-alterable component structured and arranged to effect transformation between such at least one tray state and such at least one pouring state; and at least herein embodying wherein such at least one transformer means comprises at least one user-alterable means for effecting transformation between such at least one tray state and such at least one pouring state), as shown. User-actuated transformer 390 preferably comprises at least one user-gripper 380 (at least herein embodying wherein such at least one transforming handle further comprises at least one transformation-actuator structured and arranged to permit user-actuation of such transformation; and at least herein embodying wherein such at least one transforming handle means further comprises at least one transformation-actuator means for permitting user-actuation of such transformation) for allowing at least one user to grip transforming-handle 305 in such a manner as to actuate transformation of tray-container 110 into object-collector-pourer 210, as shown.
User-gripper 380 preferably comprises at least one first digit-acceptor 382 and at least one second digit-acceptor 384, preferably at least one first digit-cutout 383 and at least one second digit-cutout 385 (at least herein embodying wherein such transformation-actuator further comprises at least one first digit-cutout structured and arranged to accept insertion of at least one first user digit; and at least one second digit-cutout structured and arranged to accept insertion of at least one second user digit; and wherein such user activation comprises reducing the distance between such at least one first digit-cutout and such at least one second digit-cutout; and at least herein embodying wherein such transformation-actuator means further comprises at least one first digit-cutout means for accepting insertion of at least one first user digit; and at least one second digit-cutout means for accepting insertion of at least one second user digit; and wherein such user activation comprises reducing the distance between such at least one first digit-cutout means and such at least one second digit-cutout means) as shown. First digit-cutout 383 and second digit-cutout 385 preferably comprise a circular cutout, as shown. First digit-cutout 383 and second digit-cutout 385 are preferably spaced between about three and about four inches apart, as shown. First digit-cutout 383 is preferably at least ¾ inch in diameter. Second digit-cutout 385 is preferably at least ¾ inch in diameter. First digit-cutout 383 and second digit-cutout 385 preferably allow at least one user to grip transforming-handle 305 and pinch first digit-cutout 383 and second digit-cutout 385 together to effect transformation of tray-container 110 into object-collector-pourer 210.
Transforming-handle 305 preferably further comprises at least one transforming-living-hinge 395 (at least herein embodying wherein such at least one transformation-actuator comprises at least one transforming living-hinge structured and arranged to collapse when at least one user actuates transformation; and at least herein embodying wherein such at least one transformation-actuator means comprises at least one transforming living-hinge means for collapsing when at least one user actuates transformation). Transforming-living-hinge 395 preferably comprises at least one accordion hinge, preferably comprising at least three living-hinge locations (at least herein embodying wherein such at least one transforming living-hinge comprises at least one accordion hinge; and at least herein embodying wherein such at least one accordion hinge comprises at least three living-hinge locations), as shown. Transforming-living-hinge 395 is preferably located centered between first digit-cutout 383 and second digit-cutout 385, as shown.
The collapsing of transforming-handle 305 effectively shortens the length of transforming-handle 305, which in turn preferably causes the shortening of the corner-to-corner distance (length C) (approximately 12 inches) of transformer wall 810 (at least herein embodying wherein such collapse of such at least one transforming living-hinge additionally reduces the straight line distance between corners of such at least one transforming side; and at least herein embodying wherein such collapse of such at least one transforming living-hinge means additionally reduces the straight line distance between corners of such at least one transforming side), as shown. This corner-to-corner distance shortening of transformer wall 810 preferably causes transformer wall 810 to collapse downward along transformation-axis 230 preferably in V-type configuration 420 (at least herein embodying wherein such collapse of such at least one transforming living-hinge reduces the area of such at least one cutout and conically curves such at least one transforming side; and at least herein embodying wherein such collapse of such at least one transforming living-hinge means reduces the area of such at least one cutout and conically curves such at least one transforming side), as shown.
In turn, such collapsing of transformer wall 810 preferably causes tray-container-base 120 to collapse in a similar V-type configuration (See
Further, when user effects the transformation by pinching first digit-cutout 383 and second digit-cutout 385 together, the edge of funnel ovular-cutout 350 and transformer wall 810 preferably collapse downward in V-type configuration 420 and preferably becomes more “funnel” shaped, as shown. This transformation preferably creates the funnel-pourer 370, as shown.
This arrangement herein embodies wherein such at least one transformer transforms such bottom into such at least one object-collector, and such at least one transforming side into at least one funnel side; and this arrangement herein embodies wherein such at least one transformer means transforms such bottom into such at least one object-collector means, and such at least one transforming side into at least one funnel side; and this arrangement herein embodies wherein such at least one transformer creates such at least one funnel; and this arrangement herein embodies wherein such at least one transformer means creates such at least one funnel means; and this arrangement herein embodies wherein such at least one funnel comprises such at least one funnel side; and this arrangement herein embodies wherein such at least one funnel means comprises such at least one funnel side.
While preferably maintaining the transformed condition of tray-container 110 into object-collector-pourer 210, user can then preferably hold object-collector-pourer 210 over storage container 220, and tip object-collector-pourer 210 preferably downward toward the mouth of storage container 220 (See
Transformer 115 preferably comprises handle 911 which replaces handle 150, and transforming-handle 905, which replaces transforming-handle 305. Transformer 115 preferably comprises transformer wall 810 for aiding in transformation between tray-container 910 and object-collector-pourer 210. Transforming-handle 905 preferably further comprises at least one handle-funnel transformer 920 to transform transforming handle 905 between handle 911 and funnel-pourer 370, as shown. Transformer wall 810 preferably comprises a curve similar to that of the “half-moon” curve of transforming-handle 905, as shown.
Tray-container 910 preferably comprises funnel-ovular cutout 350. Funnel-ovular cutout 350 is preferably located about ¼ inch to about ½ inch up from tray-container base 120 on transformer wall 810. Funnel-ovular cutout 350 preferably transects attachment 330 between transformer wall 810 and handle-funnel transformer 920, as shown. Preferably between funnel-ovular cutout 350 and the outer edge of handle-funnel transformer 920, transforming-handle 905 preferably further comprises at least one collapse-permitter 360, preferably at least one material-gap 960.
This arrangement herein embodies wherein such at least one transformation-actuator comprises at least one collapse-permitter structured and arranged to collapse when at least one user actuates such transformation; and this arrangement herein embodies wherein such collapse of such at least one collapse-permitter reduces the area of such at least one cutout and conically-curves such at least one transforming handle; and this arrangement herein embodies wherein such collapse of such at least one collapse-permitter additionally reduces the straight-line distance between corners of such at least one transforming side; and this arrangement herein embodies wherein such at least one transformation-actuator means comprises at least one collapse-permitter means for collapsing when at least one user actuates such transformation; and this arrangement herein embodies wherein such collapse of such at least one collapse-permitter means reduces the area of such at least one cutout means and conically-curves such at least one transforming handle means; and this arrangement herein embodies wherein such collapse of such at least one collapse-permitter means additionally reduces the straight-line distance between corners of such at least one transforming side.
Material-gap 960 preferably comprises a gap in material, preferably between about three and four inches in width, as shown. Material-gap 960 preferably comprises at least one user-gripper 980 for allowing at least one user to grip transforming-handle 905 in such a manner as to actuate transformation of tray-container 910 into object-collector-pourer 210, as shown.
User-gripper 980 preferably comprises at least one first digit-acceptor 382, preferably at least one first gripper-pocket 982 and at least one second digit-acceptor 384, preferably at least one second gripper-pocket 984, as shown. First gripper-pocket 982 and second gripper-pocket 984 preferably comprise a “wing-shaped” pocket and preferably further comprise a gripper-wall 988, as shown.
This arrangement herein embodies wherein such transformation-actuator further comprises: at least one first digit-acceptor structured and arranged to accept insertion of at least one first user-digit; and at least one second digit-acceptor structured and arranged to accept insertion of at least one second user-digit; wherein such user actuation comprises reducing the distance between such at least one first digit-acceptor and such at least one second digit-acceptor; and this arrangement herein embodies wherein such transformation-actuator means further comprises: at least one first digit-acceptor means for accepting insertion of at least one first user-digit; and at least one second digit-acceptor means for accepting insertion of at least one second user-digit; wherein such user actuation comprises reducing the distance between such at least one first digit-acceptor means and such at least one second digit-acceptor means.
First gripper-pocket 982 and second gripper-pocket 984 preferably further comprise a gripper-friction strip 986, located along the length of gripper-wall 988, structured and arranged to prevent a user's fingers from slipping out of first gripper-pocket 982 or second gripper-pocket 984 by friction, as shown. First gripper-pocket 982 and second gripper-pocket 984 are preferably spaced between about three and four inches apart, as shown. First gripper-pocket 982 and second gripper-pocket 984 preferably allow at least one user to grip transforming-handle 905 and pinch first gripper-pocket 982 and second gripper-pocket 984 together to effect transformation of tray container 910 into object-collector-pourer 210.
Transforming handle 705 preferably further comprises first gripper-pocket 782 and second gripper-pocket 784. First gripper-pocket 782 and second gripper-pocket 784 preferably comprise a shape that is trapezoidal in nature with at least two parallel sides and one side comprises an obtuse angle so as to follow the curve of the outer edge of handle 711, as shown. The smaller size of first gripper-pocket 782 and second gripper-pocket 784 preferably creates increased surface area of flexible material 709 of handle 711.
Transformation into pouring state 107 is preferably effected by user when user places one thumb or forefinger in first gripper-pocket 782 and one thumb or forefinger in second gripper-pocket 784, as shown. User preferably then pinches first gripper-pocket 782 and second gripper-pocket 784 together resulting in a shortening of the material-gap 760. Further, when user effects the transformation by pinching first gripper-pocket 782 and second gripper-pocket 784 together, the edge of funnel ovular-cutout 350 and transformer wall 810 preferably collapse downward in V-type configuration 420 and preferably becomes more “funnel” shaped, as shown. This transformation preferably creates the funnel-pourer 370, as shown.
The shortening of material-gap 760 preferably effectively shortens the length of transforming-handle 705, which in turn preferably causes the shortening of length C of transformer wall 810 (See
This invention has applications in a wide variety of places which include but are not limited to a machine shop, garage, craft room, kitchen, garden, school or pre-school, and assembly line. This invention can be used with a wide variety of different kinds of items which include but are not limited to small hardware items (i.e. nuts, bolts, screws, nails, etc.), craft items (i.e. beads, glitter, thread, needles, pins, etc.), kitchen items (i.e. chopped and diced vegetables, etc.), gardening/potting plants (dirt, soil, water, seeds, etc.), shop projects for disassembly of oily components (master cylinder, carburetor, small gearbox, etc.), sub-component holding trays for manufacturing assembly, and ammunition reloading (i.e. primers, shells, gun powder, etc.).
Although applicant has described applicant's preferred embodiments of this invention, it will be understood that the broadest scope of this invention includes modifications such as diverse shapes, sizes, and materials. Additionally, it will be understood that the broadest scope of this invention includes combinations of the various features presented in any embodiment, so long as, the inclusion of a feature from one embodiment in another embodiment does not functionally or structurally conflict with the other features included therein. Such scope is limited only by the below claims as read in connection with the above specification. Further, many other advantages of applicant's invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the above descriptions and the below claims.
The present application is related to and claims priority from prior provisional application Ser. No. 62/024,448, filed Jul. 14, 2014, entitled “SORT AND POUR SYSTEMS”; and, this application is related to and claims priority from prior provisional application Ser. No. 62/090,582, filed Dec. 11, 2014, entitled “SORT AND POUR SYSTEMS”; and, this application is related to and claims priority from prior provisional application Ser. No. 62/173,258, filed Jun. 9, 2015, entitled “SORT AND POUR SYSTEMS”, the contents of all of which are incorporated herein by this reference and are not admitted to be prior art with respect to the present invention by the mention in this cross-reference section.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62024448 | Jul 2014 | US | |
| 62090582 | Dec 2014 | US | |
| 62173258 | Jun 2015 | US |
