US20140319191A1

US20140319191A1 - Systems, Devices, and/or Methods for Managing Pastes

Info

Publication number: US20140319191A1
Application number: US14/253,788
Authority: US
Inventors: Michael Wood
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2012-05-10
Filing date: 2014-04-15
Publication date: 2014-10-30

Abstract

Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a reservoir, such as a mud pan, operatively coupled to a light source. The light source can be adapted to illuminate a surface when operatively held by a user. Imperfections of the surface can be more visible to a user of the reservoir as a result of said illumination. The user can remove spackling compound from the reservoir to repair the imperfections.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to, and incorporates by reference herein in its entirety, pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/484,501 (Attorney Docket No. 1024-001), filed 10 May 2011 and is a continuation-in-part of pending U.S. Provisional patent application Ser. No. 13/468,900 (Attorney Docket No. 1024-002), filed 10 May 2012.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A wide variety of potential practical and useful embodiments will be more readily understood through the following detailed description of certain exemplary embodiments, with reference to the accompanying exemplary drawings in which:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 1000;
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 2000;
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 3000;
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 4000;
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 5000;
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 6000;
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 7000;
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 8000;
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 9000;
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 10000;
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 11000;
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 12000;
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 13000;
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 14000;
FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 15000;
FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 16000;
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 17000;
FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 18000;
FIG. 19 is a flowchart of an exemplary embodiment of a method 19000;
FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 20000;
FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 21000;
FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 22000;
FIG. 23 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 23000;
FIG. 24 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 24000; and
FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 25000.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a reservoir, such as a mud pan, operatively coupled to a light source. The light source can be adapted to illuminate a surface when operatively held by a user. Imperfections of the surface can be more visible to a user of the reservoir as a result of the illumination. The user can remove spackling compound from the reservoir to repair the imperfections.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 1000, which can comprise a water-tight reservoir 1100, such as a mud pan. Reservoir 1100 can be adapted to retain a paste, such as a spackling compound. While holding reservoir 1100, a user can withdraw the paste therefrom to spackle and/or repair a defective and/or damaged surface. In certain exemplary embodiments, reservoir 1100 can have a light source 1200 fixedly or releasably coupled thereto. Light source 1200 can be electrically coupled to an electrical energy supply 1700 (e.g., via a cord 1300). In certain exemplary embodiments, electrical energy supply 1700 can be coupled to light source 1200 via an electrical outlet.
Light source 1200 can comprise an encasement 1800, a bulb 1500 and/or a plurality of light emitting diodes 1400. Encasement 1800 can be adapted to shield light emitting diodes 1400 and/or bulb 1500 from spillage of substances in reservoir 1100. An inner cover 1600 can direct photons from light emitting diodes 1400 and/or bulb 1500 to a surface in front of system 1000. Encasement 1800 can comprise a substantially opaque tube and posterior portion. Encasement 1800 can comprise a substantially transparent or translucent anterior portion. The substantially transparent or translucent anterior portion can comprise glass, poly(methyl methacrylate), and/or any other suitable material. The substantially transparent or translucent anterior portion can define a plurality of apertures 1450. Plurality of apertures 1450 can be adapted to transfer heat via convection from light emitting diodes 1400 to an environment outside of the encasement of the lights source, such as to the spackling compound. The transfer of heat from light source 1200 can enhance the life of light emitting diodes 1400 and/or light bulb 1500 and/or avoid hazards to the user associated with hot surfaces.
Light source 1200 can be used by the user to illuminate a surface, such as a wall, to allow the user to see defects, imperfections, and/or locations where repairs might be desired. For example, the user can hold system 1000 with one hand while using the other hand to hold a device, such as a putty knife, to apply the spackling compound to the surface in order to improve the appearance thereof. Using system 1000 can allow a single user to perform tasks that might otherwise be performed by more than one person.
Illuminating the wall with light rays from light source 1200 impinging upon a wall at an obtuse angle can allow the user to easily see defects and/or imperfections in the wall. The appearance of defects and/or imperfections in the wall can often be improved via spackling a paste material held in reservoir 1100 via a tool, such as a putty knife. Using system 1000, the user can find and/or repair defects and/or imperfections in the wall without assistance from an additional person.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 2000, which can comprise a light source 2200 operatively coupled to a reservoir 2100. Light source 2200 can be electrically coupled to an electrical energy source via a cord 2600. Light source 2200 can be coupled to reservoir 2100 via a hook and loop fastening system 2400. A two plate system can comprise a first plate 2300 and a second plate 2400. First plate 2300 can be adapted to by fixedly coupled to reservoir 2100. First plate 2300 and second plate 2400 can comprise hook and loop fasteners, wherein first plate 2300 is coupleable to second plate 2400 via hook and loop fastening system 2400.
Each of first plate 2300 and second plate 2400 can comprise a substantially planar surface with an adhesive thereon. Via the adhesive, first plate 2300 can be coupled to the reservoir. Via the adhesive, second plate 2400 can be coupled to the light source or a clip coupleable to the light source. In embodiments utilizing a clip, the clip can be used to slidably couple of a bracket to operatively attach the light source to the reservoir.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 3000, which can comprise a reservoir 3100 and a light source 3600. System 3000 can comprise a two plate system 3200, which can comprise hook and loop fasteners. Each of the two plates of two plate system 3200 can comprise a substantially planar surface with an adhesive thereon. The adhesive can couple a first pad of the two pad system to the reservoir. The adhesive on the second pad can be used to couple the second pad to a second portion of a clip 3300. A first portion of a clip 3900 can be fastened to light source 3600. First portion of the clip 3900 can be adapted to slidably engage second portion of the clip 3300 in a manner to releasably and/or operatively couple light source 3600 to reservoir 3100. Light source 3600 can be mounted in an encasement 3650. Encasement 3650 can be made of a relatively lightweight material, such as plastic, polypropylene, polyester, polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, rubber, polyoxybenzylmethylenglycolanhydride, nylon, and/or poly(methyl methacrylate), etc. After being coupled to reservoir 3100, encasement 3650 can be adapted to transfer heat conductively through first portion of the clip 3900 and second portion of the clip 3300 via two plate hook and loop fastening system 3200 to reservoir 3100 and/or a paste held within reservoir 3100.
Wherever hook and loop fasteners are referenced herein, other fasteners can be used instead of or in addition to, such hook and loop fasteners. For example, threaded fasteners, adhesive strips, clamps, clasps, clips, flanges, grommets, nails, pins, rivets, snaps, straps, and/or tacks, etc. can be used.
In certain exemplary embodiments, Encasement 3650 can define a plurality of apertures 3700, such as those illustrated in system 3000. Plurality of apertures 3700 can be adapted to transfer heat from light source 3600 via conduction and/or convection to a surrounding environment. Plurality of apertures 3700 can be substantially uniform is size and distribution, as illustrated, or can be of different sizes and/or irregularly distributed on or about encasement 3650. In certain exemplary embodiments, the brightness and/or intensity of illumination from light source 3600 can be adjustable. For example, a variable amount of electrical current can be provided to the illumination sources such as via a user adjustable electrical resistance.
System 3000 can comprise a first set of threaded fasteners 3800 adapted to releasably couple first portion of the clip 3900 to light source 3600. System 3000 can comprise a second set of threaded fasteners 3400 adapted to releasably couple second portion of the clip 3300 to reservoir 3100.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 4000, which can comprise a reservoir 4100 with a handle 4600 operatively coupled thereto. Handle 4600 can be held by the user to better hold and/or more easily support reservoir 4100 to prevent substances held in reservoir 4100 from spillage.
A light source 4800 of system 4000 can be operatively coupled to a bracket 4300. After being coupled to the reservoir 4100, light source 4800 can be substantially non-destructively uncoupled from the reservoir. The electrical energy supply for light source 4800 can be a battery 4200. Battery 4200 can be electrically coupled to light source 4800 via a cord. In certain exemplary embodiments, battery 4200 can be a lithium ion battery. In certain exemplary embodiments, battery 4200 can be replaceable and can plug into system 4000 via a provided socket operatively coupled to system 4000. In certain exemplary embodiments, battery 4200 can be encased in a portion of reservoir 4100. For example, battery 4200 can be encased and/or housed adjacent to a base of reservoir 4100 in a substantially enclosed compartment. The substantially enclosed compartment can comprise a similar material to that of reservoir 4100 and appear to have a substantially unitary construction with reservoir 4100. In other embodiments, battery 4200 can be housed and/or encased adjacent to other portions of reservoir 4100. In certain exemplary embodiments, a plate, which can be plastic, can be coupled to a base of reservoir 4100. The plastic base can be slotted and the slot can be used to, in conjunction with reservoir 4100 substantially surround a length of a cord running between battery 4200 and light source 4800. The plastic plate can provide for an improved grip of system 4000 by a user.
System 4000 can comprise a pad 4700 adapted to be operatively coupled to a flexible band 4500. Pad 4700 can be adapted to provide a soft surface adapted to be in contact with the hand of the user when the user holds reservoir 4100 via the handle 4600. Handle 4600 can be operatively coupled to a flexible band 4500 via a band clip 4400.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 5000, which can comprise a reservoir 5100, such as a mud pan, with a handle 5500 operatively coupled thereto. Reservoir 5100 can be operatively coupled to a battery 5300, which can be adapted to provide electrical energy to a light source via a cord 5900.
System 5000 can comprise a shield 5200 adapted to at least partially cover the light source. Shield 5200 can be adapted to prevent materials from the water-tight reservoir 5100 (e.g., mud pan) from dropping directly on the light source.
System 5000 can comprise a handle assembly 5350, which can comprise:

- a channel 5500 adapted to be fixedly or releasably coupled to water-tight reservoir 5100, the channel can be used to hold and substantially surround cord 5900 along a length of reservoir 5100;
- a switch 5400 adapted to be fixedly coupled to channel 5500, switch 5400 adapted to be electrically coupled to the light source and cause the light source to turn on and off; and/or
- a flexible band 5600 adapted to be operatively coupled to channel 5500 via a first band clip 5700 and a second band clip 5800. First band clip 5700 and second band clip 5800 can comprise loops adapted to receive and secure flexible band 5600 via wrapping the flexible band around the loops such that an end 5750 of flexible band 5700 slightly overlaps and is substantially parallel to a major portion of flexible band 5600. Flexible band 5600 can be adapted to restrain motion of reservoir 5100 relative to a hand of a user.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 6000, which can comprise a pocket clip 6100. Pocket clip 6100 can be adapted to be operatively coupled to a reservoir such as reservoir 10100 of FIG. 10 via a lip 6200 engaging with hanging lip 10700 of FIG. 10. Pocket clip 6100 can define a cavity 6700, which can be adapted to slidably receive a portion of a reservoir. When cavity 6100 is engaged with the portion of the reservoir, pocket clip 6100 can be adapted to support and restrain motion of the reservoir coupled thereto relative to a user (not illustrated). The user can use the reservoir coupled to system 6000 without suffering fatigue or strain from having to support the entire weight of the reservoir with the user's body. System 6000 can comprise an appendage 6300, which can be placed in an article of clothing such as a pocket in a pair of pants. When engaged with the pocket, appendage 6300 can restrain motion of system 6000 and the reservoir relative to the user and can utilize the pants pocket and/or a waistband or belt to support the reservoir. System 6000 can comprise a curved brace 6400, which can be adapted to ride adjacent to a body part, such as an upper leg, of the user. Curved brace 6400 can be adapted to restrain motion of system 6000 and the reservoir relative to the user when appendage 6300 is placed in the article of clothing. In certain exemplary embodiments, system 6000 can be fabricated from any combination of wood and/or plastic. In one particular embodiment, lip 6200, a spine 6500, and appendage 6300 can be fabricated from wood and a spacer 6600 and curved brace 6400 can be fabricated from a plastic material (e.g., polyvinylchloride, thermoplastic, polystyrene, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyester, and/or polyethylene, etc.).
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 7000, which is an end view of system 6000 of FIG. 6. System 7000 can comprise a pocket clip 7100. Pocket clip 7100 can comprise a spine 7500, a spacer 7300, a lip 6200, and a curved brace 7400. Although shown as separate components in FIG. 7, the components of system 7000 can be combined and fabricated in one or more parts, e.g., via a plastic mold.
FIG. 8 is a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 8000, which can comprise a pocket clip 8100 similar to pocket clip 7100 of FIG. 7. Pocket clip 8100 can comprise a retaining clip 8200, an appendage 8300, a support 8400, fasteners 8500, a spine 8600, and a curved brace 8700. Retaining clip 8200 can be adapted to releasably couple system 8000 to a waistband or belt worn by a user. Support 8400 can be adapted to couple curved brace 8700 to system 8000. Fasteners 8500 can be adapted to couple support 8400 to spine 8600. In certain exemplary embodiments, retaining clip 8200 can be coupled to system 8000 via one or more fasteners (not illustrated).
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 9000, which can comprise a reservoir 9100, such as a mud pan. In certain exemplary embodiments, reservoir 9100 can comprise a textured portion 9200. An opposing side of reservoir 9100 can also have a textured portion substantially similar to illustrated textured portion 9200. Textured portion 9200 can be created via grinding a surface of reservoir 9100 to provide a surface that is more easily grippable by a user. System 9000 can comprise a handle 9300, which can be grasped by a user between and thumb and forefinger to facilitate use of system 9000 in, for example, applying plaster added to reservoir 9100 to a wall surface. Handle 9300 can be releasably coupled to a base 9500 of system 9000 via a fastener 9350. Base 9500 can be coupled to system 9000 via a pair of clips 9400. One clip of pair of clips 9400 is fixedly coupled to each end of reservoir 9100. Base 9500 can comprise and be releasably coupled to a light source 9600. Base 9500 can comprise a cushioned portion 9550, which is adapted to provide a comfortable grip for the hand of a user holding system 9000. In certain exemplary embodiments, plaster or grouting can be added to reservoir 9100 and the weight of system 9000 can be otherwise uncomfortable for the user to hold over a long period of time. By having features such as handle 9300, textured portion 9200, and cushion 9550, the user can use system 9000 with relative comfort and ease. Textured portion 9200 can be on each opposing side of reservoir 9100. Textured portion 9200 can be adapted to provide a surface that is more easily grippable by a user.
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 10000, which can comprise a reservoir 10100 (e.g., a mud pan), a battery 10200, a first clip 10250, a second clip 10300, a light source support 10400, a light source 10500, a drip guard 10600, and a hanging lip 10700. Battery 10200 can be electrically coupled to, and provide energy to, light source 10500. Battery 10200 and base bracket 10300 can be releasably coupled to system 10000 such as via first clip 10250 and second clip 10300 (clips such as first clip 10250 and second clip 10300 are illustrated in three dimensions in FIG. 16). First clip 10250 and second clip 10300 can engage with a base (not illustrated in FIG. 10) comprised by system 10000 to releasably couple light source 10500 to system 10000. Drip guard 10600 can be adapted to shield light source 10500 from spilled or dripped materials placed in reservoir 10100. Hanging lip 10700 can be coupled to a pocket clip such as system 8000 of FIG. 8. Battery 10200 and light source support 10400 raise system 10000 to keep a cushion (i.e., cushion 9550 of FIG. 9) of system 10000 clean and allow hand space for relatively easy pickup of system 10000.
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 11000, which can comprise a base bracket 11100 adapted to be operatively coupled to a reservoir, such as reservoir 10100 of FIG. 10. Bracket 11100 can comprise a first retainer 11200 and a second retainer 11300, which can be adapted to restrain motion of system 11000 relative to the reservoir when operatively coupled to the reservoir. System 11000 can comprise a posterior portion 11500, which can be coupled to a battery or energy source. System 11000 can comprise an intermediate portion 11700, which can be coupled to a cushion and/or be in contact with a hand of a user holding a reservoir coupled to system 11000. System 11000 can comprise an anterior portion 11600, which can be adapted to be coupled to a light source. System 1100 can be clipably coupled to the reservoir via side clips. System 11000 can comprise a handle 11400 adapted to be gripped between a thumb and forefinger of a user of system 11000. System 11000 can be coupled to a reservoir via a set of clips such as clips 16200, 16300, 16400, and 16500 of FIG. 16, which slide over and clip to posterior portion 11500 and anterior portion 11600. Handle 11400 can be substantially cylindrical and adapted to interact with a thumb joint of a holding user holding system 11000.
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 12000, which can comprise a base bracket 12100 adapted to be operatively coupled to a reservoir, such as reservoir 10100 of FIG. 10. Base bracket 12100 can comprise a posterior flange 12200, which can be adapted to be releasably coupled to a mating flange of the reservoir. System 12000 can comprise a posterior portion 12300, which can be adapted to be coupled to a battery or energy source. The battery or energy source can be adapted to cause illumination of light source 12400. System 12000 can comprise a wire cover 12500, which can be adapted to shield an electrical wire coupled to light source 12400 from damage. System 12000 can comprise a handle 12800, which can be adapted to be gripped between a thumb and forefinger of a user. A drip guard 12700 can be adapted to shield light source 12400 from spilled or dripped materials placed in the reservoir. System 11000 can be coupled to a reservoir via a set of clips such as clips 16200, 16300, 16400, and 16500 of FIG. 16, which slide over and clip to base bracket 12100.
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 13000, which can comprise an energy source and switch assembly 13100. Energy source and switch assembly 13100 can be adapted to be coupled to a reservoir, such as reservoir 10100 of FIG. 10 via a base bracket such as base bracket 10300 of FIG. 10. An electrical switch button 13200 can be adapted to turn on and off energy source and switch assembly 13100. Energy source and switch assembly 13100 can be adapted to provide energy to a light source such as light source 10500 of FIG. 10.
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 14000 of an energy source 14100. System 14000 can comprise a clip 14200. Clip 14200 can be adapted to be coupled to a waistband or a belt of a user. Energy source 14100 can be adapted to be coupled to a system such as system 9000 of FIG. 9. In embodiments wherein system 14000 is used, system 14000 provides energy to a light source such as light source 9600 of FIG. 9. System 14000 can comprise a cord 14300, which can be adapted to be electrically coupled to the light source. In certain exemplary embodiments, system 14100 can comprise a battery 14400, which can be a rechargeable battery. In embodiments comprising a rechargeable battery, system 1400 can comprise a recharging plug, which can be used to supply energy to recharge the battery. System 14000 can comprise a switch 14400, which can be adapted to turn a flow of electrical energy to the light source on and off. In certain exemplary embodiments, switch 14400 can be a push button switch. In other embodiments, switch 14400 can be a sliding switch and/or a toggle switch, etc.
FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 15000, which can comprise an energy source 15100. Energy source 15100 can comprise a switch 15200, a cord 15300, and a rechargeable battery 15400. System 15000 can comprise a coupling portal 15600, which can be adapted to be releasably attached to energy source 15100. System 15000 can comprise an electrical connector 15500, which can be electrically coupled to battery 15400 to improve usability of a reservoir system such as system 10000 of FIG. 10. System 15000 can allow a user to clip an energy source for a system such as system 10000 to a belt or waistband, thereby reducing a weight of system 10000 to be held by the user. Rechargeable battery 15400 can be plugged in to coupling portal 15600 and transfer electrical energy via electrical connector 15500 through cord 15300 to a light on, for example, system 10000 of FIG. 10.
FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 16000, which can comprise a reservoir 16100, a first clip 16200, a second clip 16300, a third clip 16400, a fourth clip 16500, a hanging lip 16600, and a lip divider 16700. First clip 16200, second clip 16300, third clip 16400, fourth clip 16500 can be used to releasably couple a systems such as system 11000 of FIG. 11 and system 12000 of FIG. 12 to system 16000. The width of system 11000 of FIG. 11 and system 12000 of FIG. 12 is slightly less than a gap between first clip 16200 and second clip 16300 and a corresponding gap between third clip 16400 and fourth clip 16500 such that system 11000 or system 12000 can snap in place when pressed into the referenced gaps. In embodiments where system 11000 of FIG. 11 is coupled to system 16000, a light is not coupled to system 16000 and system 11000 is used to improve the grip and handling of system 16000. In embodiments where system 12000 of FIG. 12 is coupled to system 16000, light source 12400 can provide illumination to surfaces in proximity to system 16000.
Hanging lip 16600 can be operatively coupled to a clip system such as system 6000 of FIG. 6. Via engaging with lip 6200, system 6000 can be coupled to hanging lip 16600. Lip divider 16700 can engage with the illustrated split portion of lip 6200 so as to restrain transverse motion of system 6000 relative to system 16000.
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 17000, which can comprise a base bracket 17100 adapted to be operatively coupled to a reservoir, such as reservoir 16100 of FIG. 16. Bracket 17100 can comprise a first foot 17200 and a second foot 17300. When operatively coupled to reservoir 16100 of FIG. 16, first foot 17200 and second foot 17300 can act to support system 16000 when system 16000 is placed on a surface.
FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 18000, which can comprise a reservoir 18100, a light source 18200, an energy course 18300 (e.g., a battery), a switch 18400, and a switch retainer 18500. Light source 18200 receives electrical energy from battery 18300 so as to cause illumination in front of system 18000. Switch 18400 is used to turn light source 18200 on and off. Switch retainer 18500 can be adapted to restrain battery 18300 from transverse motion relative to reservoir 18100.
A base bracket 18600 can be adapted to be releasably coupled to reservoir (e.g., mud pan) 18100. Base bracket 18600 can comprise a cushion 18700, which can be adapted to provide a hand grip for a user. Handle 18800 can be adapted to be grasped between a thumb and forefinger by a user to facilitate use of reservoir 18100. Base bracket 18600 can be adapted to be releasably coupled to reservoir 18100. Handle 18800 can be coupled to base bracket 18600. Handle 18800 can be adapted to be grasped by the user between a thumb and forefinger to facilitate use of reservoir 18100. Base bracket 18600 can be adapted to be releasably coupled to reservoir 18100. Base bracket 18600 can be coupled to light source 18200 and energy source 18300. Energy source 18300 can be adapted to provide energy to illuminate light source 18200. Base bracket 18600 can be adapted to be releasably coupled to reservoir 18100. Base bracket 18600 can be coupled to light source 18200. Energy course 18300 can be adapted to provide energy to light source 18200. Energy source 18300 can be adapted to be releasably coupled to a belt of the user. Base bracket 18600 can be adapted to be releasably coupled to reservoir 18100. Base bracket 18600 can be coupled to light source 18200. Energy course 18300 can be adapted to provide energy to light source 18200. Energy source 18300 can be adapted to be releasably coupled to a belt of the user. Energy source 18300 can be rechargeable.
FIG. 19 is a flowchart of an exemplary embodiment of a method 19000. At activity 19100, a handle assembly can be fixedly or releasably coupled to a water-tight reservoir. The handle can be placed on either side of a base assembly and can thereby be used by a right handed user or a left handed user. The reservoir can be made of plastic and can be a mud pan adapted to hold a paste, such as a spackling material, adapted for use when installing and/or maintaining wallboard on the interior of a building. The handle assembly can comprise:

- a channel fixedly or releasably coupled to the water-tight reservoir;
- a switch fixedly or releasably coupled to the channel, the switch electrically coupled to the light source and adapted to cause the light source to turn on and off; and
- a flexible band operatively coupled to the channel, the flexible band adapted to be held by a hand of a user; the flexible band can be slidably coupled to the channel via a band clip.

At activity 19200, a clip can be coupled to the water-tight reservoir, such as via one or more threaded fasteners. In certain exemplary embodiments, the clip can comprise a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of the clip can be adapted to be slidably and/or releasably coupled to the second portion of the clip.
At activity 19300, a base assembly can be releasably or fixedly attached to the light source, such as via one or more fasteners. The light source can be coupled to an electrical energy source. The light source can comprise a light bulb and/or a plurality of light emitting diodes. The electrical energy source can be a battery coupled to the water-tight reservoir and/or an electrical outlet.
At activity 19400, the light source can be coupled to the reservoir via clipably coupling the base assembly to clips attached to the reservoir. The light source can be non-destructively removed from the water-tight reservoir.
At activity 19500, a spackling compound can be caused to be placed in the water-tight reservoir, wherein the water-tight reservoir is adapted to retain the spackling compound. The water-tight reservoir can be releasably coupled to the light source. The light source can be electrically coupled to an electrical energy supply. The water-tight reservoir can be directly coupled to a shield; the shield partially covering the light source. The shield can be adapted to prevent materials from the water-tight reservoir from dropping directly on the light source.
At activity 19600, a user can turn on the light source to illuminate one or more surfaces. At activity 19700, the one or more surfaces can be illuminated to view defects and/or imperfections in the surface. Illumination via the light source can aid a user in locating and/or repairing defects and/or imperfections in the surface. At activity 19700, heat generated by the light source can be transferred to the spackling compound via the reservoir.
FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 20000, which can comprise a tool holder 20300 adapted to hold a flat bladed tool such as a putty knife 20100. Tool holder 20300 can comprise a blade pocket 20200, a holding clip 20400, and pegs 20600. Putty knife 20100 can be slideably and releasably placed in tool holder 20300 by a user. Blade pocket 20200 can be adapted to shield a wearing user from a sharp edge of blade 20500 of putty knife 20100. Pegs 20600 can be adapted to restrain motion of putty knife 20100 relative to tool holder 20300. System 20000 can further comprise a magnet, which is hidden from view in a stock 20700 of tool holder 2300. The magnet can substantially hold putty knife 20100 in a fixed position relative to tool holder 20300 unless the user forcibly withdraws putty knife 20100. System 20000 can be worn by the user and can make work with a putty knife easier and/or more convenient.
FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 21000, which can comprise a tool holder 21100 adapted to hold a flat bladed tool such as a putty knife 21400. Tool holder 21100 can comprise a belt clip 21200 and a pocket tine 21300. Putty knife 21400 can be slideably and releasably placed in tool holder 21100 by a user. Pocket tine 21300 can be adapted to be placed in a trousers pocket of a user to hold system 21000 in place when worn by the user. Belt clip 21200 can be adapted to support system 21000 when releasably coupled to a belt or trouser waistband of the user. System 20000 can be worn by the user and can make work with a putty knife easier and/or more convenient. As illustrated, pocket tine 21300 can be turned at an angle relative to a clip base 21500 of system 21000.
FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 22000, which can comprise a tool holder 22100. Tool holder 22100 can comprise a blade pocket 22200, pegs 22300, a tool handle pocket 22400, and a clip base 22100. Tool handle pocket 22400 can be adapted to restrain motion of a handle of a tool relative to system 22000 when a tool is releasably coupled to system 22000.
FIG. 23 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 23000, which can comprise a tool holder 23400. Tool holder 23400 can comprise a blade pocket 23100, pegs 23200, a tool handle pocket 23500, and a clip base 23300. Tool handle pocket 23500 can be adapted to restrain motion of a handle of a tool relative to system 23000 when a tool is releasably coupled to system 23000.
FIG. 24 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 24000, which can comprise a reservoir 24100. Reservoir 24200 can be supported in part via a hanging lip 24200, which can be operatively coupled to a clip system such as system 6000 of FIG. 6. The clip system can be coupled to a trouser waistband or belt of a user. System 24000 can comprise a light source 24300, a drip guard 24400, a battery holder 24500, a cable port 24600, a cushion 24700, a handle 24800, a base bracket 24900, and a clip 24950. In the illustrated embodiment, battery holder 24500 can be substantially empty and lack an installed battery. In such embodiments, electrical energy for light source 24300 can be provided via a battery held via a waistband or belt of the user such as system 15000 of FIG. 15.
FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system 25000, which comprises a reservoir 25100, a handle bracket 25300, a handle retainer 25200, an adjusting assembly 25600, a handle cable 25700, and a handle 25800. Adjusting assembly 25600 can comprise a release button 25400 and a cable retainer 25500. A user can grasp system 25000 via a cushion 25900 and handle 25800 can provide a thumb hold for stabilizing system 25000 relative to the user. A position of handle 25800 can be adjusted relative to the user by extending or contracting handle cable 25700. Handle cable 25700 can be extended or contracted via depressing release button 25400 of adjusting assembly 25600. Handle cable 25700 is coupled to adjusting assembly 25600 via cable retainer 25500. Using handle 25800 can result in more comfortable use of system 25000 by a user as compared to other embodiments.

DEFINITIONS

When the following terms are used substantively herein, the accompanying definitions apply. These terms and definitions are presented without prejudice, and, consistent with the application, the right to redefine these terms during the prosecution of this application or any application claiming priority hereto is reserved. For the purpose of interpreting a claim of any patent that claims priority hereto, each definition (or redefined term if an original definition was amended during the prosecution of that patent), functions as a clear and unambiguous disavowal of the subject matter outside of that definition.

- a—at least one.
- activity—an action, act, step, and/or process or portion thereof
- adapted to—made suitable or fit for a specific use or situation.
- adapter—a device used to effect operative compatibility between different parts of one or more pieces of an apparatus or system.
- and/or—either in conjunction with or in alternative to.
- apparatus—an appliance or device for a particular purpose.
- appendage—an extension to a main part of a pocket clip that is adapted to be inserted in an article of clothing of a wearing user.
- article of clothing—a garment.
- assembly—a group of components that are put together.
- associate—to join, connect together, and/or relate.
- band—a substantially flat strip of material.
- base—a bottom support.
- battery—a container comprising one or more cells carrying an electric charge and used as a source of electrical energy.
- bracket—a weight bearing and/or motion restraining structural component. A bracket can be made of plastic material, aluminum, stainless steel, and/or painted carbon steel, etc.
- building—a structure with a roof and walls.
- can—is capable of in at least some embodiments.
- cause—to bring about.
- cavity—a hollow space.
- channel—a device and/or system that comprises a tubular or trough-shaped passage.
- clip—a clasp (e.g., metal or plastic) adapted to hold two or more components together.
- comprising—including but not limited to.
- configure—to make suitable or fit for a specific use or situation.
- connect—to join or fasten together.
- contact—the act or state of touching.
- convert—to transform, adapt, and/or change.
- cord—a flexible cable comprising an insulated electrical conductor.
- couple—to join, connect, and/or link together.
- coupling—linking in some fashion.
- curved brace—an arc shaped component that is adapted to indirectly contact with and substantially conform to a portion of a leg of a user.
- define—to establish the outline, form, or structure of
- device—a machine, manufacture, and/or collection thereof
- direction—a distance independent relationship between two points in space that specifies the position of either with respect to the other; the relationship by which the alignment or orientation of any position with respect to any other position is established.
- directly—substantially without intervening space.
- drop—to fall.
- electrical—associated with electrons moving via a conductor.
- energy supply—a source of a capacity to do work.
- engage—to interlock.
- fasten—to attach to something else and/or to hold something in place.
- fastener—one (or more) restraint that attaches to, extends through, penetrates, and/or holds something. For example, a fastener can be one (or more) bolt and nut assembly, rivet, weldment, nail, screw, peg, staple, clip, buckle, clasp, clamp, hook and loop assembly, adhesive, and/or plastic push rivet, etc.
- fixedly—fastened, attached, or placed so as to be firm and not readily removable.
- flange—a protruding rim, edge, rib, or collar.
- flexible—capable of being bent, usually without breaking.
- grasp—to hold with a human hand.
- handle—a part of a device or system adapted to be grasped or held by a human hand.
- hinge—a movable joint used to fasten two things together and to allow at least one of them to pivot relative to the other.
- hold—to keep or maintain a grasp on something.
- hook and loop fastener—a two sided fastener; the first side comprising tiny hooks; the second side comprising loops; when the two sides are pressed together, the hooks catch in the loops and the two pieces fasten or bind in a releasable coupling.
- install—to connect or set in position and prepare for use.
- length—a measurement of a greatest dimension of an object.
- light bulb—an orb (e.g., glass) comprising a gas, such as argon or nitrogen, at low pressure and enclosing a thin metal filament that emits light when an electric current is passed through the filament.
- light emitting diode—a semiconductor adapted to emit light when forward-biased.
- light source—a device and/or system adapted to provide illumination.
- longitudinal axis—a straight line defined parallel to an object's length and passing through a centroid of the object.
- may—is allowed and/or permitted to, in at least some embodiments.
- method—a process, procedure, and/or collection of related activities for accomplishing something.
- motion—the action or process of changing a location from a first position to a second position.
- mud pan—an open vessel adapted to hold a spackling compound and be held in the hand of a user. The vessel typically has a rectangular cross section and comprises relatively light weight materials for ease of carrying. The vessel comprises relatively smooth internal surfaces and is substantially watertight.
- non-destructively—of, relating to, or being a process that does not result in damage to the subject material and/or product and/or results in such minimal damage that the subject material and/or product can be re-used for its intended purpose.
- operative—in a manner that produces a desired effect.
- opposing—substantially opposite to and/or pointing or facing away from each other.
- outlet—a receptacle designed to facilitate connections to a wiring system.
- pad—a cushionlike mass of soft material used for comfort, protection, or stuffing.
- partially cover—to place something over a surface of a device and/or system in a manner that provides incomplete shielding of the device and/or system.
- perpendicular—substantially at a right angle with respect to an axis.
- plastic—any of a group of synthetic or natural organic materials that may be shaped when soft and then hardened, comprising many types of resins, resinoids, polymers, cellulose derivatives, casein materials, and/or proteins, etc.
- plate—a substantially flat sheet of material.
- pocket—a part of an article of clothing defining a pouch.
- portion—apart of a whole.
- plurality—the state of being plural and/or more than one.
- predetermined—established in advance.
- prevent—to hinder or stop from doing something.
- provide—to furnish, supply, give, and/or make available.
- receive—to get as a signal, take, acquire, and/or obtain.
- Recharge—to cause a battery to take up and retain electrical energy.
- relative—standing in relation to something else.
- release—to free from a restraint.
- reservoir—a receptacle adapted to hold a fluid or paste.
- restrain—to limit and/or restrict.
- retaining clip—a clip adapted to fasten to a waistband or belt worn by a user.
- rotational—about and/or around an axis.
- secure—to fasten.
- set—a related plurality.
- shield—a device and/or system adapted to partially cover something.
- slide—to move along in substantially continuous contact with a surface.
- soft surface—an outer face of an object that yields readily to touch or pressure; is easily penetrated, divided, or changed in shape; and is not hard or stiff to touch.
- spackling compound—a paste adapted for repairing plasterwork.
- support—to bear a weight of
- switch—a device adapted to turn an electrical device on or off.
- substantially—to a great extent or degree.
- support—to bear the weight of especially from below.
- system—a collection of mechanisms, devices, machines, articles of manufacture, processes, data, and/or instructions, the collection designed to perform one or more specific functions.
- turn off—to cease a flow of electrical energy to.
- turn on—to cause a flow of electrical energy to.
- via—by way of and/or utilizing.
- wall—any of various relatively permanent upright constructions having a length much greater than the thickness and presenting a continuous surface except where pierced by doors, windows, etc.
- water-tight—substantially impervious to liquid flow.

NOTE

Still other substantially and specifically practical and useful embodiments will become readily apparent to those skilled in this art from reading the above-recited and/or herein-included detailed description and/or drawings of certain exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that numerous variations, modifications, and additional embodiments are possible, and accordingly, all such variations, modifications, and embodiments are to be regarded as being within the scope of this application.
Thus, regardless of the content of any portion (e.g., title, field, background, summary, description, abstract, drawing figure, etc.) of this application, unless clearly specified to the contrary, such as via explicit definition, assertion, or argument, with respect to any claim, whether of this application and/or any claim of any application claiming priority hereto, and whether originally presented or otherwise:

- there is no requirement for the inclusion of any particular described or illustrated characteristic, function, activity, or element, any particular sequence of activities, or any particular interrelationship of elements;
- no characteristic, function, activity, or element is “essential”;
- any elements can be integrated, segregated, and/or duplicated;
- any activity can be repeated, any activity can be performed by multiple entities, and/or any activity can be performed in multiple jurisdictions; and
- any activity or element can be specifically excluded, the sequence of activities can vary, and/or the interrelationship of elements can vary.

Moreover, when any number or range is described herein, unless clearly stated otherwise, that number or range is approximate. When any range is described herein, unless clearly stated otherwise, that range includes all values therein and all subranges therein. For example, if a range of 1 to 10 is described, that range includes all values therebetween, such as for example, 1.1, 2.5, 3.335, 5, 6.179, 8.9999, etc., and includes all subranges therebetween, such as for example, 1 to 3.65, 2.8 to 8.14, 1.93 to 9, etc.
When any claim element is followed by a drawing element number, that drawing element number is exemplary and non-limiting on claim scope. No claim of this application is intended to invoke paragraph six of 35 USC 112 unless the precise phrase “means for” is followed by a gerund.
Any information in any material (e.g., a United States patent, United States patent application, book, article, etc.) that has been incorporated by reference herein, is only incorporated by reference to the extent that no conflict exists between such information and the other statements and drawings set forth herein. In the event of such conflict, including a conflict that would render invalid any claim herein or seeking priority hereto, then any such conflicting information in such material is specifically not incorporated by reference herein.
Accordingly, every portion (e.g., title, field, background, summary, description, abstract, drawing figure, etc.) of this application, other than the claims themselves, is to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive, and the scope of subject matter protected by any patent that issues based on this application is defined only by the claims of that patent.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A system comprising:

a mud pan, said mud pan adapted to retain a spackling compound; and

a pocket clip coupled to said mud pan, said pocket clip defining a cavity adapted to slidably receive a portion of said mud pan, when said cavity is engaged with said portion of said mud pan, said pocket clip adapted to support and restrain motion of said mud pan coupled thereto relative to a user, said pocket clip comprising an appendage adapted to be placed in an article of clothing of said user, when engaged with said article of clothing, said appendage adapted to restrain motion of said mud pan relative to said user.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein:

said pocket clip comprises a curved brace adapted to ride adjacent to a body part, such as an upper leg, of said user, said curved brace adapted to restrain motion of said mud pan relative to said user when said appendage is placed in said article of clothing.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein:

said pocket clip comprises a retaining clip adapted to releasably couple said pocket clip to a waistband or belt worn by said user.

4. The system of claim 1, further comprising:

a light source adapted to be releasably coupled to said mud pan, said light source adapted to be electrically coupled to an electrical energy supply.

5. The system of claim 1, further comprising:

a light source adapted to be releasably coupled to said mud pan, said light source adapted to be electrically coupled to an electrical energy supply; and

a shield, said shield adapted to at least partially cover said light source, said shield adapted to prevent materials from said mud pan from dropping directly on said light source.

6. The system of claim 1, further comprising:

a clip comprising a first portion and a second portion, said first portion of said clip adapted to be releasably coupled to said light source, said second portion of said clip adapted to be releasably coupled to said mud pan, said first portion of said clip adapted to slidably engage with said second portion of said clip to operatively couple said light source to said mud pan.

7. The system of claim 1, further comprising:

a light source adapted to be releasably coupled to said mud pan, said light source adapted to be electrically coupled to an electrical energy supply, wherein said electrical energy supply is a battery, said battery electrically coupled to said light source via a cord.

8. The system of claim 1, further comprising:

a light source adapted to be releasably coupled to said mud pan, said light source adapted to be electrically coupled to an electrical energy supply, wherein said electrical energy supply is via an electrical outlet.

9. The system of claim 1, further comprising:

a base bracket adapted to be coupled to said mud pan, said base bracket comprising a handle and a cushioned portion, said cushioned portion adapted to be in contact with a hand of said user when said user holds said mud pan via said base bracket, said handle substantially cylindrical and adapted to interact with a thumb joint of a holding user holding said system.

10. The system of claim 1, further comprising:

a base bracket adapted to be releasably coupled to said mud pan, said base bracket comprising a cushion, said cushion adapted to provide a hand grip for said user.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein:

said mud pan comprises a textured portion on each opposing side of said mud pan, said textured portion adapted to provide a surface that is more easily grippable by said user.

12. The system of claim 1, further comprising:

a handle adapted to be grasped by said user between a thumb and forefinger to facilitate use of said mud pan.

13. The system of claim 1, further comprising:

a base bracket adapted to be releasably coupled to said mud pan; and

a handle coupled to said base bracket, said handle adapted to be grasped by said user between and thumb and forefinger to facilitate use of said mud pan.

14. The system of claim 1, further comprising:

a base bracket adapted to be releasably coupled to said mud pan, said base bracket coupled to a light source and an energy source, said energy source adapted to provide energy to illuminate said light source.

15. The system of claim 1, further comprising:

a base bracket adapted to be releasably coupled to said mud pan, said base bracket coupled to a light source; and

an energy source adapted to provide energy to said light source, said energy source adapted to be releasably coupled to a belt of said user.

16. The system of claim 1, further comprising:

an energy source adapted to provide energy to said light source, said energy source adapted to be releasably coupled to a belt of said user, wherein said energy source is rechargeable.