WO2004000689A1

WO2004000689A1 - Multi-tool kitchen utensil kit and container

Info

Publication number: WO2004000689A1
Application number: PCT/US2003/019120
Authority: WO
Inventors: Carter W. Mcguyer; Rodney W. Robbins
Original assignee: Robbins Industries, Inc.
Priority date: 2002-06-20
Filing date: 2003-06-18
Publication date: 2003-12-31
Also published as: WO2004000689A9; US20030234205A1; TW200400805A; AU2003238268A1

Abstract

A kitchen utensil kit (50) including a multi-tool device having a single handle (88) with one or more easily attachable accessories (82, 84, 86) such as peelers, pizza cutters, cheese slicers, zesters, ice cream scoops, graters, juicers, jar openers, etc. The kit includes stationary or slidable attachable and/or stackable holders or trays (52, 54) for the compact, organized storage of the kitchen implements in drawers or on counter tops. Indicia are provided for each receptacle to identify the implement which the receptacle is designed to hold. The preferred indicia is the shape of the receptacle, which matches the shape of the article.

Description

MULTI-TOOL KITCHEN UTENSIL KIT AND CONTAINER

This invention relates to kitchen utensils, kitchen utensil kits and containers and manufacturing methods. This patent application is a continuation-in- part of Application Serial No. 10/177,699 filed June 20, 2002, and of Application Serial No. 29/164,208, filed August 19, 2002, and of Application Serial No. 10/286,691, filed November 1, 2002.

The crowding and jumble of kitchen utensils in the usual kitchen drawer is a hindrance of long standing. The jumble makes it difficult to find individual implements, and often extends the time and exasperation in obtaining a utensil from the drawer due to the fact that the drawer cannot be closed until the utensils in the drawer are rearranged.

One of the causes of the foregoing problems is the amount of space occupied by each implement.

Proposals have been made in the past to provide a partial solution to this problem by supplying a single handle with a plurality of attachments to be attached to the handle, each being an implement for a different purpose.

Such prior proposals have been considerably less than fully satisfactory. Although, in theory, those proposals result in a reduction of the volume occupied by the kitchen utensils, they are believed to do little to lessen the jumble and difficulty of finding and retrieving specific implements.

Furthermore, the means used to attach the individual accessories to the handle are relatively difficult to use and/or less than fully satisfactory in other ways.

Another problem with some kitchen implements, especially those whose handles are visible when the implements are stored, such as kitchen knives, the handles are not dishwasher-safe; that is, the handles, usually made of wood or heat- sensitive plastics, will fade, crack or otherwise deteriorate if they are washed frequently in the dishwasher.

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a kitchen utensil device which alleviates or resolves the above problems. In particular, it is an object to provide a utensil system in which the components are ordered and housed so as to minimize tangling and disorder of the components, and to minimize the use of kitchen drawer and other storage space.

It is another object of the invention to provide a multi-tool kitchen implement device with a handle and a plurality of attachments easily and securely attachable to and detachable from the handle.

It is a further object of the invention to provide such a multi-tool device which is relatively strong, durable, simple in construction and easy to use and store. Another object of the invention is to provide such a device which is ergonomically shaped so as to make it easy to grasp and comfortable to use.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a method of manufacturing the multi-tool device of the invention and the kit with economy, speed and quality. Another object of the invention is to provide an organizer tray or receptacle for organizing and compactly storing kitchen implements in the kitchen.

Still further, it is an object to provide improved kitchen implements with superior or performance and/or structural strength and cost advantages over prior comparable implements. Another object of the invention is to provide packaging for the separate sale of individual implements and trays so as to assure that the implements are properly matched to the trays in which they fit.

In accordance with the present invention, the foregoing objectives are satisfied by the provision of a multi-tool kitchen utensil kit with a container to hold and organize a plurality of components of a multi-tool device in the container.

An additional object is to provide a multi-tool kitchen device and kit in which the tools are both attractive in appearance and yet are made dishwasher-safe at a moderate to low cost.

Preferably, the container has a plurality of recesses, each shaped to hold a component of the multi-tool device. Each kit is adapted to be secured together with other containers containing different components of the multi-tool device to form a organization system to keep the tool components in an orderly fashion in a kitchen drawer or on a shelf, or in another available space.

In one embodiment, each recess is shaped to receive a specific component, and means are provided for attaching various containers together to form a unitary support structure for holding and organizing the multi-tool components neatly in a kitchen drawer. Thus, space is saved and the usual jumble of kitchen implements in the drawer is avoided.

Alternatively, the kit includes a container for storage on a counter-top or similar surface. The implements can be stored with one end up in a relatively deep container, or flat in a relatively shallow container for use in shallow drawers.

The single handle needed for use with a variety of tools, and the tools themselves, can be made both dishwasher-safe and attractive in appearance at a modest cost. In one embodiment of the kit, the handle and a plurality of accessories are stored in units suitable for display on a kitchen counter-top, shelf or other such surface. The kit also is useful for display of the product in stores, on television and in other advertising.

In another embodiment of the kit, the handle and a plurality of accessories are stored in stackable trays. The trays preferably have upstanding posts which are used to support and accurately align one tray on top of the other. Preferably, the trays have side walls which are substantially shorter in height than the attachments which fit into the trays, thus saving material for the trays and making the attachments easier to grasp and remove. The stackable trays occupy a smaller footprint than the other trays designed for use inside drawers, thus allowing for more flexibility in the use of the drawer space.

The multi-tool device includes a handle with attachment means mating with similar attachment means on each of a plurality of accessories so that each accessory can simply be inserted and snapped into place and held tightly in the handle. This holds the accessory onto the handle very securely. The accessory then can be detached by the simple act of pushing a button or lever with one finger or separated from the handle by simply tipping the handle to allow gravity to do the work.

The handle advantageously is ergonomically shaped, and is manufactured by co-molding a flexible elastomeric cover over a molded plastic handle to provide a handle which can be firmly, easily and comfortably gripped while wielding the kitchen implement attached to it.

In another aspect, the invention includes an organizer tray for kitchen implements. Preferably, the trays are assembled together, either side-by-side, or stacked on top of one another. Either upstanding posts are used to support the top of the bottom tray, or the top tray is made so as to slide on the bottom tray.

Indicia are provided to identify the implement which is to go into the receptacle. The indicia can take several forms, including shaping the receptacle like the shape of the article to go into it; marking the receptacle with a representation of the implement; and color coding or alphanumeric marking of the implements and the receptacles.

An improved reamer-type citrus fruit juicer is provided with alternating large and small recesses in the reamer body for better juice extraction.

An improved jar opener is provided with hinged clamp jaws which can be folded into a compact unit for space-saving storage in the tray and in a kitchen drawer.

A packaging system is provided in which components of the kit are sold separately with indicia, preferably color-coding, on the packages of implements and trays to indicate the tray that each implement is designed to fit into so that the purchaser buys the right tray for each implement purchased. The foregoing and other objects and advantages of the invention will be described in or apparent from the following description of the drawings.

IN THE DRAWINGS:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a multi-tool kitchen utensil kit of the present invention; Figure 2 is a cross-sectional, broken away view illustrating the attachment of the two kit modules of Fig. 1 together; Figure 3 is a top plan view of a kitchen drawer with various kit modules located in the drawer to organize and arrange the components of a multi-tool kitchen utensil or implement system;

Figure 4 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the handle of the multi-tool device of the present invention;

Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the handle shown in Figure 4;

Figure 6 is a phantom side elevation view of the handle shown in Figure 4; Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along lines 7-7 of

Figure 4;

Figures 8 and 9 are front elevation views showing the handle of Figure 4 in two different operative configurations;

Figure 10 is a perspective view of a component of the handle shown in Figure 4;

Figure 11 is a broken-away perspective view of another component of the handle of Figure 4;

Figure 12 is a perspective view of a pizza cutter accessory for the handle down in Figure 3; Figures 13 and 14 are perspective views showing the process of attachment of the pizza cutter of Figure 12 to the handle of Figure 4;

Figure 15 is a perspective view of a cheese sheer accessory; Figure 16 is a perspective view of a citrus peel scraper or "zester" accessory; Figure 17 is an exploded view of the device shown in Figure 16;

Figure 18 is a perspective view of a citrus fruit reamer accessory; Figure 19 is a perspective view of an ice cream scoop accessory; Figure 20 is a perspective view of a "horizontal: accessory" peeler accessory; Figure 21 is a perspective view of a melon bailer accessory;

Figure 22 is an exploded view of a "straight" peeler accessory; Figure 23 is a perspective assembly view of the device shown in Figure

22;

Figure 24 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention; Figure 25 is an exploded perspective view of the device shown in Figure 24;

Figure 26 is a cross-sectional, partially schematic broken-away view taken along line 26-26 of Figure 24;

Figure 27 is a top plan view, partially cross-sectional and partially schematic, of the device shown in Figures 24 through 26;

Figure 28 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention with a zester accessory;

Figure 29 is an exploded view of the device shown in Figure 28, with a straight peeler accessory; Figure 30 is an exploded perspective view of the device of Figure 28 with an ice cream scoop accessory;

Figures 31 and 32 are top plan views, partially schematic, and partially cross-sectional, of two additional embodiments of the invention;

Each of Figures 33 through 39 is a top plan view of a different accessory for use with the handle of the invention;

Figure 40 is a side elevation view of a component holder and kit provided in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 41 is a cross-sectional view of another component holder and kit provided in accordance with the invention; Figure 42 is a perspective, partially exploded view of another component holder and kit provided in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 43 is a rear elevation view of each of the modules shown in Figure 42;

Figure 44 is a perspective view of another accessory provided in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 45 is a perspective view of another kit including stacked individual kits or trays; Figures 46 and 47 are front elevation views of the separate trays of Figures 45;

Figures 48 and 49 are perspective views of the trays of Figures 46 and 47, without implements in them; Figures 50 and 51 are front and rear perspective views of another accessory provided in accordance with the present invention;

Figures 52 and 53 are front perspective and side elevation views, respectively, of another accessory provided in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 54 is a top plan view of another embodiment of the implement holder or tray of the present invention;

Figure 55 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 55-55 of Figure 54, with implements in place in the tray;

Figure 56 is a cross-sectional, partially broken away view like that of Figure 55 but of a different embodiment of the implement holder or tray of the present invention;

Figure 57 is a top plan view of another implement holder or tray constructed in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 58 is a top plan view of another embodiment of the implement holder or tray of the present invention; Figures 59 and 60 are perspective and side elevation schematic views, respectively, of a portion of another embodiment of the holder or tray of the present invention;

Figure 61 is a schematic, side elevation view of another embodiment like that shown in Figures 59 and 60; Figure 62 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the structure shown in Figure 63, taken along lines 62-62 of Figure 63;

Figure 63 is a perspective, partially schematic view of another embodiment of the holder or tray of the present invention;

Figure 64 is a perspective view of another implement holder or tray of the present invention;

Figure 65 is a perspective view of sliding tray assembly provided in accordance with the present invention; Figure 66 is an enlarged, broken away view of a detail of the structure of Figure 65;

Figure 67 is a perspective view of a garlic press implement of the present invention; Figure 68 is a side elevation view of the citrus fruit reamer shown in perspective view in Figure 18;

Figures 69, 70 and 71 are cross-sectional views taken, respectively, along lines 69-69, 70-70, and 71-71;

Figures 72 and 73 are top and bottom perspective views, respectively, of a jar opener implement of the present invention in closed position;

Figures 74 and 75 are top and bottom perspective views of the device shown in Figures 72 and 73, in an open condition;

Figure 76 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the slidable trays of the present invention; Figure 77 is a top plan view of a kitchen drawer with the assembly of

Figure 76 inside;

Figure 78 is a top plan view of the superimposed trays shown in Figure 65 in place in a kitchen drawer;

Figure 79 is a cross-sectional, broken away view taken along line 79- 79 of Figure 76;

Figures 80 and 81 are top plan views of packages, each containing a single implement (Figure 80) or a combination of implements (Figure 81) for sale as components of the kit of the present invention; and

Figure 82 is a front perspective, partially broken-away view of a package in which a tray constructed in accordance with the invention is sold.

MULTI-TOOL KITCHEN UTENSIL KIT

Figures 1-3 illustrate one embodiment of the multi-tool kitchen utensil or implement kit 50 constructed in accordance with the present invention.

The kit 50 includes at least one container 52 containing a plurality of components for interconnection to one another to form various kitchen tools. Two such containers 52 and 54 are shown in Figure 1 to illustrate the different forms that the containers and their contents can take.

The container 52 is generally rectangular in shape, and has four vertical side walls 56 and a top wall 55. The top wall 55 has a plurality of depressions 62, 64, 66 and 68, each of which is shaped to receive a specific component of a multi- tool device.

The components to be used in a particular grouping can be varied as desired. However, the grouping shown in container 52 includes a handle 88, an ice cream scoop 82, a pizza-cutting wheel 84 and a peeler 86. Container 54 also has four vertical side walls 60 and an upper wall 58.

It is smaller in size than the container 52, and contains different components of the multi-tool system. The upper wall 58 has recesses 70, 72, 74 and 76 in which are located, respectively, a handle 88, a melon bailer 90, a citrus fruit skin scraper or "zester" 92, and a citrus reamer or juicer 94. A cover 59 is shown for the container 54, which would cover the container when sold in stores. A similar cover normally will be provided for the container 52.

Each of the containers 52 and 54 is preferably molded of a thermoplastic resin such as ABS. Its walls are thick and sturdy enough to serve not only as packaging in which the product is shipped and sold, but durable storage and organizing means for the multi-tool components in the kitchen.

To this end, the container 52 is provided with an elongated upstanding tab 80 on the lower edge of at least one side wall.

Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the attachment of the two containers 52 and 54 together by use of the tab 80. The lower edge of the rear side- wall 60 of container 54 (not visible in Fig. 1) has a shallow notch , slightly longer than the tab 80. The front wall of the unit 54 is inserted into the clip formed by tab 80, so as to secure the containers together to form an enlarged container and organizer structure. The container 54 has two separate tabs 81 which can be used to join the units 52 and 54 side-by-side, with the tabs 81 fitting into notches 83 in the side walls of the unit 52. The notches in the lower edges of the rear and side walls are provided in order to accommodate the material of the tabs 80, 81 to ensure the bottom and top edges of the containers are aligned with one another.

Figure 3 is a schematic top plan view of a kitchen drawer 96 containing several containers 98, 100 and 102 fastened together by clips formed by taps 80 or 81 to occupy a portion of the drawer and provide organization and storage for a variety of components of the multi-tool system.

As an example, the container 98 is larger than the containers 100 and 102. It contains accessories for the multi-tool system, but no handles. Instead, it includes an ice cream scoop 82, a cheese sheer 104, a pizza-cutting wheel 84 and a grater 106.

Each of the containers 100 and 102 contains a handle 88 together with other accessories to be attached to the handles.

These containers and their arrangement in the kitchen drawer 96 are strictly by way of example to show just some of the combinations that can be used advantageously to store and organize the components of the multi-tool system neatly and compactly. Other kits constructed in accordance with the present invention are shown in other figured of the drawings and are described below.

HANDLE Figures 4 through 11 illustrate the preferred handle 88 of the multi-tool system.

The handle 88 has a hand grip portion 108 with a tapered shape and a pointed end 140. At the opposite end there is a rotatable locking ring 110 and a receptacle 112 for receiving a mounting projection on an accessory. The locking ring 110 operates in a snap-acting manner to lock an accessory in place and attach it to the handle by the simple step of inserting a projection into the receptacle 112. The attaching structure also allows the accessory to be detached easily, with one finger, merely by turning the locking ring 110 through a relatively small angle to free the accessory and allow it to fall out of the receptacle under the force of gravity, with the use of only one hand. Referring now to Figure 5, which is an exploded view of the handle 88, the handle has a hard molded plastic base 114. In one embodiment, the base 114 has a plurality of circumferential ribs 116 and longitudinal ribs 118. Preferably, the ribs 116 and 118 are of approximately the same thickness. The ribbed construction reduces the use of material and increases the molding speed with which the handles can be manufactured.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the handle also includes an elastomeric cover 130 which is co-molded in place over the base 114 during manufacturing. The material of which the base 114 is made preferably is a very strong thermoplastic resin such as a polycarbonate material, and the cover 130 is made of an elastomeric material such as Sanoprene.

Although the ribbed construction for the base 114 saves polycarbonate material and some molding time, the spaces between ribs are filled with elastomeric material during co-molding of the cover 130. Because the elastomeric material can be considerably more costly than polycarbonate material, it is preferred to make the base member solid with a rough surface to which the elastomeric material adheres.

Surrounding the receptacle 112 is a circumferential groove 128 in which the latching ring 110 is seated for rotation. The latching ring 110 preferably includes two halves 120 and 122, which are assembled and sonically welded together while an inner ring 154 is seated in the groove 128 and after a coil spring 126 has been inserted into the group. The leading edges 132 and 134 of the two halves of the locking ring are flared so as to give a rounded outside edge to help guide projections into the square opening formed by joining the ring halves 102 and 122. The inside edge of the ring around the central opening is flat. A protrusion 124 extends outwardly from the upper ring half 120 for use in rotating the ring 110.

As it is shown in Figure 6, in which the base 114 is shown in dashed outline, the elastomeric cover 130 is of varying thickness along the length of the handle. It is relatively thin in a necked-down region 136 and is thicker towards the larger trailing end of the handle, thus providing extra softness in the areas to be gripped with the most pressure by the hand. This extra cushioning makes the handle easier and more comfortable to use.

The handle also is given a wasp-like cross-sectional shape, as also is apparent in Figure 6, and is curved downwardly, also so as to conform to the shape of the hand holding the handle. However, this shape also is provided for decorative effect, and gives the handle a sleek, streamlined and attractive look.

Figure 7 is a cross-sectional schematic view showing the locking ring 110, the spring 126 which is used in the operation of the locking ring, and the inner construction of the attachment mechanism. The handle has a body end portion 144 in which the rectangular- shaped recess 112 is formed. A first stop member 142 is attached to the body 144 member, and a second stop member 146 is attached to the internal surface of the ring 110.

A second stop member 148 extends from the body 144, and another stop 150 member extends from the inner surface of the ring 110. With the components in the rest position shown in Figure 7, the stop members 148 and 150 are separated by an angle A of approximately 21°.

The operation of the locking ring will be explained below after the following description of the locking structure on the accessories. ACCESSORY LOCKING STRUCTURE

Figures 12 through 14 show the pizza-cutting wheel accessory 84 which is one of a number of accessories which can be attached to the handle 88.

Figure 13 is an exploded view showing the insertion of the pizza wheel locking structure into the handle 88 in the direction indicated by arrow 80. Figure 14 shows the pizza wheel and the handle assembled together and ready for use.

Referring particularly to Figure 12, at one end of the pizza wheel 84 is a projection 166 with a square cross-section matching that of the receptacle 112 in the handle but with slightly smaller dimensions so that it fits into the receptacle 112 easily. The projection 166 has a rounded front end 168 for use as a camming surface. A circumferential groove 170 extends around the projection 166 at its base. A flange 172 which is flared or rounded on its left surface and is of approximately the same outer diameter as the ring 110, is provided and forms one wall of the groove 170.

A molded plastic curved arm 174 extends from the flange 172 and a stainless steel cutting blade 176 is rotatably mounted on the end of the arm 174 by means of a fastener 178. Preferably, the arm 174 and the fastener 178 are molded plastic, as is the projection 166 and the other components of the pizza wheel, except for the cutting blade 176.

It should be understood that each of the accessories to be attached to the handle has a projection 166 and groove 170 and is attached to and detached from the handle in the same way as the pizza wheel. The pizza wheel is being used as a vehicle for explanation of the attachment function.

OPERATION

Referring again to Figures 7 through 11, as well as Figures 12 through 14, the attachment of an accessory to the handle 88 will be described. Figure 8 shows the locking ring 110 in its relaxed or stable condition as shown in Figure 7, in which the coil spring 126 holds the ring in the position shown in Figure 7. In this position, the square opening in the ring 110 is rotated clockwise by approximately 21° with respect to the square receptacle 112 so that the four straight sides of the opening in the ring extend over the four corners of the opening 112, as shown at 156, 158, 160 and 164 in Figure 8. With the ring 110 in this position, and the projection 166 inserted into the receptacle 112, the projection 166 and the accessory are locked in position due to the fact that the edges 156, 158, 160 and 164 of the ring 110 extend into the groove 170 and prevent the accessory from coming free from the handle. The inner edge of the ring around the central hole is flat, as is the outermost wall of the groove 170 (Fig. 12) so that the arrangement of the two flat surfaces, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the projection holds the components together.

In addition, the square shape of the projection 166 and the corresponding square shape of the receptacle 112 prevent the accessory from rotating relative to the handle. It is highly advantageous that the locking of the accessory in place is performed very simply. As it is illustrated in Figure 13, one merely inserts the projection 166 into the receptacle 112. The rounded front surface 168 Fig. 12) of the projection bears against the edge portions of the hole in the center of the ring 110 so as to compress the spring 126 and rotate the ring 110 counterclockwise to the position shown in Figure 9 in which the square hole in the ring 110 is aligned with the receptacle 112 to permit the projection to be inserted into the receptacle. The resilience of the spring 126 causes the edges of the hole in the ring 110 to snap into the groove 170. The release of an accessory from the handle is also is relatively easy.

All that need be done is to press on the upstanding projection 124 on the ring 110 in the direction of arrow 162 (Figure 7) to compress the spring 126 and rotate the ring 110 to the position shown in Figure 9, thus releasing the accessory. As a result, with the simple one finger motion, the user may release the accessory and it will drop away from the handle if the handle is turned slightly upwardly to take advantage of the force of gravity. The release thus can be accomplished with one hand.

CHEESE SLICER

Figure 15 shows the cheese sheer 104 which also is shown in Figure 1. The cheese slicer has a die-cast zinc body. The projection 166 and the flange 172 are die cast with the body. The body has a pair of support arms 182 and 184 and mounting supports 186 and 188. A stainless steel cutting wire 192 is secured to the supports 186 and 188 by stainless steel pins 193. The wire extends over the front edges of the supports and is stretched taut to form a stable cutting element. A plastic roller 190 is rotatably mounted in the supports 186 and 188 at a pre-determined distance from the wire. The combination of the cutting wire 192 and the roller 190 are used in a known manner to cut cheese slices of a relatively constant desirable thickness. The attachment structure has the strength and durability to stand up to the sometimes heavy pressure extended on the slicer during use.

In a lower cost version, the body can be molded polycarbonate instead of die-cast zinc. ZESTER

The zester 92 includes a mounting projection 166 and flange 177 with a pair of arms 194 and end supports 196. A stainless steel scraper element pivotably mounted on the supports 196. Preferably, the body, including the projection 166, is molded of polycarbonate material.

Although a single molding step is preferred, the projection or "insert" 166 also can be made separately and attached as shown in Figure 17, to a square post 210 which is provided at one end of the accessory. The post is force-fitted into a square hole 112 in the insert 166 to secure it to the body of the accessory. This method can be used advantageously when the insert 166 and the body are made of different materials.

CITRUS REAMER

Figure 18 shows the citrus reamer or juicer 94. It has a die-cast zinc body with a projection 166 fastened to the body by a polycarbonate insert. The body is an oblate spheroid with ridges 202, 204 and 206, and a blunt pointed end 200. The ridges are formed by alternating large and small elongated recesses 205 and 207, respectively. The larger recesses 205 extend from the near end of the reamer, where a flange 172 and handle attachment member or projection 166 are located, to near the tip 200. The smaller recesses 207 are not only narrower and shorter than the recesses 205, but they also are shallower, as it is shown in Figures 58 through 71.

As it can be seen in Figures 69-71, the recesses 205 are both substantially deeper and wider, as well as being longer than the smaller recesses 207. This is believed to be highly advantageous in that it sharpens the edges 209 formed between the recesses so as to dig into the fruit more effectively. Furthermore, it is believed that the larger recesses 205 augment the flow of juice squeezed from the fruit.

When a handle 88 is snapped onto the projection 166, the reamer can be used by pushing the point 200 into a cut half of a fruit and rotating the reamer to extract juice from the fruit. It is particularly useful in juicing lemons, limes, oranges and other such fruit quickly and easily. ICE CREAM SCOOP

Figure 19 shows the ice cream scoop 82. It is die-cast zinc and consists of the projection 166, flange 172, a support arm 208, and a bowl shaped scoop portion 209. HORIZONTAL PEELER

Figure 20 shows what is called a "horizontal" peeler It is given this name in order to distinguish it from the so-called "straight" or "swivel" peeler shown in Figures 22 and 23

The peeler 214 includes a projection 166 and flange 172 forming part of a die-cast zinc body which has arms 216 and mounting supports 218 for rotatably supporting a blade mounting structure 220 with a cutting blade 222. The blade 222 is used in a known manner to peel vegetables, etc.

Alternatively, a lower cost version is made of molded polycarbonate.

MELON BALLER Figure 21 shows the melon bailer 90, which has a molded polycarbonate projection 166 and flange 172, joined with a stainless steel stem 226 and cutting bowl 228 which is used to cut a melon ball in a known manner.

The enlarged section 224 is a joint which is formed to join the stainless steel elements to the plastic elements. The end of each segment is enlarged to increase the surface area of contact between the parts, projects are provided from the metal surface, and the plastic is molded to the metal.

STRAIGHT PEELER

Figures 22 and 23 show the "straight" or "swivel" peeler 86. It consists of a metal or polycarbonate body including the flange 172 and the projection 166, and a body with spaced-apart support arms 232 with a support member 234 secured to the outer ends of the arms 230 and 232. A stainless steel cutting blade 236 with an incuse pair of cutting edges 238 is rotatably mounted in the flange 172 and the support 234.

The assembled peeler shown in Figure 23 is used in a known manner to peel vegetables, etc. Although a single molding or casting is preferred, the insert 166 can be secured by the post 210 in the hole 212, as shown in Figure 22.

GRATER

Figure 44 is a perspective view of the grater 106. The grater 106 includes a stainless steel grater blade 378 with grater teeth 380, and a molded polycarbonate frame 374, projection 166 and flange 172. The frame is solidly secured to the edges of the blade 368 by forming the edges of the blade into bent tabs and co- molding the polycarbonate material over the edges.

The flange 172 and projection 166 form a substantial angle to the blade 378. The angle is provided in order to allow the grater to be held easily at the most desirable angle for most grating jobs, when the unit 106 is attached to the handle 88.

The rear surface of the border at the lower or outer end 379 of the grater is given a co-molded coating (not shown) of elastomeric material to inhibit the grater from slipping when its rear lower edge is resting on a countertop, cutting board or other such support surface.

Figure 45 is a perspective view of a stackable tray kit embodiment of the invention; Figures 46 and 47 are, respectively, front elevation views of the upper and lower components of the kit shown in Figure 45.

Figure 48 is a perspective view of the upper component of the kit of Figure 45 without implements; and Figure 49 is a perspective view of the lower component of the kit of Figure 45, without the implements.

FURTHER ACCESSORIES

Figures 33 through 39 show some of the many additional accessories which can be used with the handle 88, or, with suitable modifications with any of the other handle and attachment structures shown.

Figure 33 shows a fork 320; Figure 34 shows a medium-sized carving knife 322; Figure 35 shows a bread knife 324; Figure 36 shows a spoon 326; Figure 37 shows a turner 328 such as a pancake turner; Figure 38 shows a paring knife 330; and Figure 39 shows an apple corer 332. Preferably, the utensils are made of stainless steel and the flange 172 and projection 166 are made of polycarbonate co-molded over one end of the shaft of the utensil, such as the end 321 of the fork 320 shown in Fig. 33. Holes 323 in the end of the shaft are penetrated and filled with plastic during molding so as to solidly secure the plastic parts to the metal parts.

Each of these additional accessories has the square projection 166 with the groove 170 and the flange 172 so that they can be fastened to and used with the handle 88 shown above.

Figure 40 shows a butcher block type of support 334 with a sloping face 336 and slots or holes cut into the face 336 to receive various different sizes of knives 324 and 330. This also comprises another version of the kit of the present invention. Advantageously, the projections 166 extend outwardly from the surface 336 so that a handle easily can be pushed downwardly on one of the projections 166 to secure the handle and the accessory together.

The mounting 334 can be made of wood, or transparent plastic to allow the utensils to be seen, and can have different shaped holes to receive other accessories so that they can be stored outside of the drawers in the kitchen.

Figure 41 is shows another kit, similar to the one shown in Figure 40. A block of wood 338 has circular holes, such as holes 344 and 342, of a depth greater than the combined length of the flange 172 and the projection 166 of each accessory, and slots or other shaped receptacles to receive kitchen utensils such as the paring knife 330 and a butter knife 346. A further wooden block 339 supports the block 338 which leans at an angle so as to present the upper surface 340 of the block at an angle.

The openings 342 and 344 preferably are made considerably larger in diameter than the diameter of the flange 172, in order to easily receive the attachment end of one of the handles 88 so that the handle can be inserted into the cavity to attach to each of the tools stored in the block 338.

By this means, the attachment ends of the knives 330 and 346 are recessed out of view.

If desired, the block 338 in Figure 40 can be made transparent, or windows can be provided to allow the utensils within to be seen. Alternatively, or in addition, a marking next to each opening can be provided to identify its contents.

The variety of utensils which can be used to advantage in the multi- tool system is extensive. In addition to those shown, such utensils include can openers, jar openers, bottle/can openers, garlic presses, whisks, ladles, turning fork for spaghetti, strainer spoons and ladles, pie servers, spatulas, potato mashers, meat tenderizers, strainers, pots and pans, or any other utensils which have handles.

Each of the multi-tool system components is made dishwasher-safe; that is, the component can be washed regularly in a dishwasher without significant deterioration. The cracking and deterioration of wooden and some prior plastic handles has been avoided, at a cost that is considerably reduced because there are many more accessories than handles.

ALTERNATIVE ATTACHMENT STRUCTURE Figures 24 through 27 illustrate an alternative attachment structure for attaching accessories to the handle in the multi-tool system. The assembled device shown in Figure 24 includes a handle 238 with an attached horizontal peeler 242, whose construction is substantially the same as the horizontal peeler 214 shown in Figure 20, except for the means used for attaching it to the handle. Referring now to Figure 26, which is a cross-sectional view taken along line 26-26 of Figure 24, the attachment means includes a rounded flange 244 to which a projection structure is attached and extends to the left as shown in Figure 26. The projection structure includes side walls 246 and a pair of opposed projections 248 forming catch receivers. A pair of release push-buttons 240 is mounted on opposite sides of the handle (see Figures 24 and 25). Each of the push buttons actually is the end of a molded lever mechanism which has a pivot point 52 and catch arms 256.

When the projection of the accessory is pushed into the receptacle shown in Figure 25, the forward edges of the projections 248 push the flexible plastic catch arms 250 aside, and those arms snap back into the notches or receivers formed by the projections 248, thus providing a snap-action catch which locks the accessory to the handle.

In order to release the accessory from the handle, the buttons 240 are pushed with the fingers. This rocks each of the arms 250 around the pivot points 252 and pulls them away from engagement with the projections 248, thus releasing the accessory from the handle. As it is shown in Figure 25, a further projection 254 shaped to mate with a receiving hole 256 in the handle is provided on the accessory in order to further guide the accessory accurately into the handle cavity.

SECONDALTERNATIVEATTACHMENTSTRUCTURE Figures 28 through 30 show a second alternative attachment structure.

The structure shown in Figures 28 through 30 includes a handle 258 and three different accessories 260, 277 and 280 for attachment to the handle. The accessory 260 is a zester, the accessory 276 is a straight peeler with a blade 278, and the accessory 280 is an ice cream scoop. The attachment structure includes a pair of inclined latch members 264 and 270 with catch surfaces 266 and 271 respectively. Both elements 264 and 270 are pivotably mounted on pins 268 attached to a mounting member 272 which is secured within the housing 259 of the handle 258.

A spring 274 also is mounted to rotate on the pin 268, and serves to thrust the two members 264 and 270 apart.

Two release buttons 262 are mounted in holes 265 in the housing of the handle and holes 263 in the members 264 and 270. By depression of the release buttons 262, the elements 264 and 270 are pivoted inwardly towards the center of the handle to withdraw each of the catch edges 266 and 271 from a corresponding receiver in the accessory.

Referring to Figure 30, one such receiver edge is shown at 286. Another (not shown) is located at the upper part of the opening in the accessory 280. The accessory 280 includes a support arm 282 and an ice cream scoop bowl 284. The body of the accessory has a tapered inlet opening 281 which receives the tapered projection formed by the elements 264, 270 and 272, and the straight sides of the elements 264 and 270 mating with the straight sides of the opening 28 keep the accessory from rotating on the handle.

THIRD ALTERNATIVE ATTACHMENT STRUCTURE

Figure 31 is a schematic diagram of another attachment device of the invention. The structure shown in Figure 31 includes a handle 288 having a housing 312 with a longitudinal shaft 296, and a coil spring 30 surrounding the shaft 296 and bearing against a bulkhead 302 through which the shaft 296 passes.

The shaft 296 has a rack structure 298 at its left end which mates with gear teeth 294 on mounted catch members 292 rotatably mounted in the housing 312. It should be understood that the rack is not shown engaged with the gear teeth, for the sake of clarity in the drawings. However, it should be understood that they are so engaged.

The accessory 290 has a tapered cavity 308 with opposed receivers 310 for the catch members 292. The forward end of the handle is tapered as shown at 306. In operation, the spring 3— tends to hold the projections 292 in their fully extended position, as shown in Figure 31, so as to keep the members 292 engaged in the receivers 310 to hold the accessory onto the handle.

When it is desired to release the accessory from the handle, an externally-extending end attachment 304 to the shaft 296 is pushed inwardly in the direction indicated by arrow 305. This rotates the members 292 about their pivots and withdraws them from the receiving notches 310 so as to release the accessory from the handle.

When the tapered end 306 of the handle is inserted into the tapered cavity 308 in order to attach the accessory to the handle, the sloping side walls of the cavity 308 rotate the elements 292 backwardly until they move far enough to snap into the receiving notches 310.

FOURTH ALTERNATIVE ATTACHMENT STRUCTURE

Figure 32 shows a fourth alternative attachment structure, which is the same as that shown in Figure 31 except that the coil spring 300 bears against the bulkhead 309, and the pivotably mounted catch members 316 are rotated by means of a linkage instead of a rack and pinion arrangement such as that shown in Figure 31. The linkage includes a first link 314 pivotably attached at one end to the shaft 296, and pivotably connected at its other end to one end of the lever arm forming part of the catch member 316. When it is desired to release the accessory from the handle, the end extension 318 of shaft 296 is pulled in the direction indicated by arrow 307 to compress the spring 300 and withdraw the catch elements 316 from the receiving grooves 310 in the accessory 290.

When the tapered forward end 306 of the handle is inserted into the tapered cavity 308 of the accessory 290, the side walls of the cavity cam the catch members 316 in the direction shown by the arrows and then, when they reach the receiving cavities 310, they snap into place under the urging of the spring 300.

It can be seen from the foregoing that in all of the attachment embodiments, it is possible to engage an accessory with the handle simply by pushing the two together. The accessory snaps into place without requirement of the operation of a lever or the like.

Also, releasing the accessory from the handle involves no more than button pushing, and can be done with one hand while allowing gravity to remove the accessory from the handle.

COUNTER-TOP DISPLAY KIT Figure 42 is a perspective view of another kit constructed in accordance with the invention. The kit allows the storage, organization and display of the handle 88 and accessories on a cupboard shelf or counter-top, or a counter-top or shelf in a store selling the product, etc..

The kit 348 includes a handle mounting and storage unit 350 with a curved and sloping top wall 351 and a recess 358 shaped to receive and hold the handle 88 where it can be easily seen, grasped and replaced.

Also included are modular storage and display units 352, 354, 356, etc., for holding and displaying accessories for use with the handle 88.

Each of the units 352, 354 and 356 is identical to the other. Each has four upstanding projections or bosses 360 each of which has a flat, horizontal upper surface with a central square hole 361 slightly larger than the projections 166 on the attachments so that the attachments can be stored upright with the attachment projections 166 extending into the holes 361.

One such attachment, a straight peeler 86, is shown mounted in one of the holes in the unit 352. As it can be seen, the flange portion 172 of the peeler rests on the upper surface of the boss 360 and the working portion of the peeler 86 extends upwardly where it can be seen, grasped and replaced easily.

Each of the three units 352 and 354 has an upper arcuate surface 362 from which the bosses 360 extend. Each unit also has a front side wall 364 and a rear side wall 368 shown in Figure 43.

Each front side wall 364 has a pair of vertical notches or gaps 366, and the rear wall 368 has a pair of upstanding tabs 370 spaced apart by the same distance as the notches or gaps 366. The width of each of the tabs 370 is greater than the width of each of the gaps 366. The tabs 370 are molded with a vertical member 372 attaching it to the rear wall 368.

The tabs 370 can be fitted into the gaps 366 to tightly secure each of the units 352, 354 and 356 together.

The handle storage and display unit 350 also has a rear structure such as that shown in Figure 43 whereby one of the units 352, 354 and 356 can be attached to the rear of the unit 350.

Thus, for a person wishing to start with only a few accessories, he or she can buy a kit including, for example, only the units 350 and 352 which provides a handle and four accessories.

Later, if the person decides he or she wants to add to the original multi- tool system, one or more additional units 354 or 356 can be purchased with one to four additional accessories and attached to the other units to form a readily expandable multi-tool system.

The units 350, 352, 354 and 356 preferably are molded of thermoplastic material such as ABS. The counter-top units shown in Figures 42 and 43 also serve well to display the multi-tool system on store counters and shelves, and in television and other advertising. Thus, the units serve double-duty; saving space and adding convenience in the kitchen, while serving to show the product in a good light.

STACKABLE TRAY KIT Figures 45 through 49 show further embodiments of the kit of the present invention. Figure 45 shows a kit 390 consisting of a stack of individual storage trays 392 and 394, each of which itself comprises a separate multi-tool implement kit. The trays 392 and 394 are identical to one another, except for the types of implements they are designed to hold. The trays shown in Figures 45 through 49 differ from the trays shown in Figures 1 through 3 primarily in that the trays 392 and 394 are made to be easily stackable on top of one another.

Now referring to Figures 45, 48 and 49, each of the trays 392 and 394 has a flat upper wall 396 and vertical side walls 398 and 400 which support the upper wall 396 above a flat surface on which the tray rests, such as the bottom of a drawer. Rear side walls are indicated at 402 and 404, but are not visible in the drawings.

At each of the four corners of the tray is a vertical post 406 which has an upper end 408 with a curved approximately semi-circular flange 410 extending around the innermost half of the post and extending slightly above the surface of the upper end 408.

Thus, the flange 408 forms semi-circular receptacles at the tops of the posts 406.

Extending from the bottom of the tray directly below each of the posts 406 is a rubber foot pad 412 which is attached by adhesive to a flange extending underneath the tray at each corner. This pad serves two purposes; first, it minimizes slipping of the tray on a flat surface upon which it is resting, and it also serves as an alignment device fitting into the receptacle formed at the top of each post. This holds the upper tray in place relative to the lower tray so that the trays will not slip out of alignment with one another after they have been stacked. By making the projections 410 only semi-cylindrical instead of cylindrical, it is easier to insert the feet 412 into the receptacles, without detracting from the function of holding the stacked trays together.

As with the trays shown in Figures 1 through 3, each of the kitchen implements is stored in its own individual recess shaped specifically to hold that implement. The implements shown in Figures 45 through 49 are given the same reference numerals that they have been given above in this patent application. As with the trays shown in Figures 1 through 3, the implements extend out from the upper surface 396 by a substantial distance. As it can be seen in Figures 46 and 47, each of the implements extends outwardly by at least 50% of its height. This makes the implements easier to grasp when removing them from the tray. As it is shown in Figure 47, larger implements such as the citrus juicer

94, the receptacle 76 is made deeper so that the upper surface of the juicer does not extend above the plane 411 of the tops of the posts. Thus, there will be no interference between the implements in the lower tray with the upper tray when the trays are stacked. It is preferable that approximately 40% to 60% or more of the height of each implement extend upwardly out of the upper surface of the tray to ensure ease of removal and replacement of the implements in the tray.

Figures 48 and 49 show the two trays 392 and 394 without implements. The implement recesses are given the same reference numerals as in Figures 1 through 3, with the exception of recesses 414 and 416 in Figure 49 which are, respectively, for the cheese slicer 104 (Figure 15) and the horizontal parer 214 (Figure 20), which are not shown in Figures 1 through 3.

It should be understood, of course, that the stackable trays also can be used on a counter/top, in which case they will store the implements compactly and with the use of a minimum footprint on the countertop.

Although two trays are shown stacked atop one another, it should be understood that three or more trays can be stacked atop one another, if desired.

The trays 392 and 394 desirably are molded of a thermoplastic resin such as ABS. It also should be understood that the structures used for holding the implements in the trays shown in Figures 1 through 3 and 45 through 49 can take a variety of different forms. For example, instead of using recesses in an upper wall, under some circumstances it may be advantageous to have a lower bottom wall with projections or bumps extending upwardly in the appropriate locations to form a support for the implements.

The kit and tray structures shown in Figures 45 through 49 have several significant advantages. First, like the embodiment of Figures 1 through 3, by keeping the implement-receiving recesses shallow enough to insure that the implements extend outwardly by a substantial amount, a substantial savings of plastic material is realized, while making certain that the implements are relatively easy to grasp to remove from the trays.

By the use of posts to make the trays stackable, the increase in material needed is kept to a minimum.

By providing trays which can be stacked atop one another, the footprint taken up by a set of different trays is minimized. This can lead to the advantageous preservation of deep drawer space which may be necessary for other items.

Another advantage is that, by providing the posts for use in stacking the trays atop one another, a relatively large gap is provided between the trays into which the user can see to determine what implements are in the lower tray or trays. A further advantage is that the trays are standardized as to size and external shape so as to enable better utilization of container space and economies of scale in manufacturing.

A still further advantage of the compartmented implement holding trays described above and in the further description to follow is that they provide very convenience organizers for storing and organizing a variety of kitchen implements in addition to multi-tool devices. These organizers are particularly beneficial for use in drawers to minimize the clutter for a wide variety of different implements, including adjustable measuring spoons and scoops and many other implements. They store such other implements with good visibility, relatively compactly, and in an organized fashion to minimize clutter.

FURTHER ACCESSORIES

Figures 50-53 shows two additional accessories for use in the multi- tool device of the present invention. CAN OPENER

Figures 50 and 51 are front and rear perspective views, respectively, of a can opener 450 with the connecting projection 166 and the flange 172 as in the other multi-tool implements described above. The can opener is of a conventional side-opening rotary type, and includes a body 452 with a large rotary handle 454, a curved guide rail 456, a rotary drive wheel 458 driven by rotation of the handle 454, and a horizontal circular cutter blade 460.

As it is well known, the can opener is used by resting the guide rail 456 on the upper edge of the can and inserting the upstanding rim of the can between the drive wheel 458 and the body 452. Then, when the handle 454 is rotated, the cutter wheel 460 is thrust sideways into the metal of the can just beneath the upper rim and further rotation of the handle 454 causes the lid to be cut off of the top of the can. Advantageously, as it is well known, the lid then can be refitted by hand on the top of the can to close it.

BOTTLE/PUNCH OPENER

Figures 52 and 53 are perspective and front elevation views, respectively, of a combination bottle opener and punch-type can opener.

The bottle/punch can opener device 462 has a metal ring 464 secured to the flange 172 and the projection 166. The ring 464 has a lower projection 466 to fit under the rim of a bottle cap so that by pulling upwardly on the handle attached to the projection 166, leverage can be obtained to pry a bottle cap off of a bottle.

A metal punch-type can opener 468 is secured to the ring 464 to punch holes in the tops of cans for pouring fruit juice or other beverages from the can. GARLIC PRESS

Figure 67 is a perspective view of a garlic press 620 constructed in accordance with the present invention.

Unlike most other implements described herein, the garlic press does not attach to or detach from the handle 88. Instead, the handle is integrally attached. The handle comprises two halves 622 and 624 advantageously shaped like the handle 88 when the two halves are closed together as shown in Figure 67. The garlic press itself, apart from the handles, is conventional. One handle half 622 is secured to the upper portion 626 of the garlic press, and the lower handle half 624 is secured to the lower half 628 of the garlic press. The two halves of the press are hinged together at 630.

As is well known, the garlic press is used by opening the halves of the press, and inserting a clove of garlic. Then, by pushing the handle halves 622 and 624 together, one squeezes juice from the garlic through holes 629 for use in cooking, etc.

An array 627 of plastic projections is provided so that when the handles are rotated fully apart, the projections are aligned with and enter the holes 629 in the lower part 628 of the press 620 to clean any solid matter which may be closing the holes. The materials of which the press are made are chrome-plated zinc, except for a plastic coating on the handles and the cap 626, which is made of polycarbonate.

JAR OPENER Figures 72 through 75 show a novel jar opener 640 constructed in accordance with the present invention.

Figures 72 and 73 are top perspective and bottom perspective views, respectively, of the jar opener when it is closed, and Figures 74 and 75 are, respectively, top and bottom perspective views of the jar opener 640 when it is open and ready for use.

The jar opener 640 includes a central support member 642 which is attached to the flange 172 and projection 166 for connection to a handle 88.

Two elongated gripper arms 644 and 646 are pivoted at 652 and 654 to the support member 642. The arm 646 has a serrated metal edge member 648, and the member 644 has a straight, smooth metal edge 650. The serrations on the edge member 648 are slanted in a direction to increase their penetration into the metal of a jar lid when the tool 640 is rotated counter-clockwise to remove a lid.

When it is desired to store the jar opener 640 in the receptacle provided for it in one of the trays described above, it is folded up so as to be compact as shown in Figures 72 and 73, and occupies relatively little space in the tray. It also can be stored in a kitchen drawer by itself, if desired, and similarly occupies relatively little space.

When it is prepared for use, the members 644 and 646 are rotated outwardly to the position shown in Figure 75 until a metal pin 656 extending downwardly from each arm hits the end of one of two slots 657 in the bottom surface of the support member 642 to prevent the further opening movement of the arms 644 and 646.

In use, with the jar opener 640 in the position shown in Figure 74, a screw type jar lid to be loosened is pressed into the V-shaped space between the arms 644 and 646, and turning torque is applied to the handle attached to the handle member 166 to loosen the jar lid.

When it is no longer in use, the jar opener 640 can be folded up again and stored compactly in the tray or a drawer.

The jar opener preferably is made of polycarbonate, except for the pivot pins 652 and 654, the edge members 648 and 650, and the stop pins 656. Those parts preferably are made of stainless steel.

FURTHER ORGANIZER TRAY EMBODIMENTS

Figure 54 is a top plan view of another embodiment of an organizer tray 470 similar to the trays shown in Figures 45-49. Figure 55 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 55-55 of Figure 54 and shows implements in place in the tray.

The tray 470 shown in Figures 54 and 55 differs from that shown in Figures 45-49 primarily in that the tray has receptacles 472, 474, 476 and 478, for example, for storing kitchen implements on edge rather than laying flat. That is, the broadest dimension of each is vertical instead of horizontal. By this means, the organizer tray is made to have a smaller footprint so as to save horizontal space in a drawer or on a countertop.

The tray 470 includes an upper horizontal support wall 482, side walls 484 and four posts 480 each extending upwardly at one of the four corners of the tray and identical to the posts 408 and the tray shown in Figures 45-49, except that they are taller to accommodate the greater height that the implements on edge occupy. Referring now to Figure 55, the receptacle 472 contains an ice cream scoop 82 which is rotated 90° from the position in which it is shown resting in Figure 45.

Similarly, receptacle 474 contains a pizza cutter 84 like that shown in Figures 12-14, except that it has a plastic guard cover 486 covering the edge of the cutter blade 176 which is easily snapped on and off of the blade, thereby minimizing the chance that the user will cut his or her fingers.

The receptacle 476 contains a straight (swivel) peeler 86 and the receptacle 478 contains a handle 88. The depth of the receptacles varies, depending upon which implement is to be placed in it. The depth preferably is selected so that a substantial portion, preferably more than half of the object held in the receptacle extends above the surface 482 so as to make the implement easy to grasp and remove.

It is preferable that the end of the pizza cutter with the projection flange 172 and projection 166 on it (see Figure 12 — not shown in Figures 54 and 55) extends upwardly above the surface 482 so as to make it easy to grasp and encourage the user to grasp it instead of the blade portion of the cutter.

The peeler 86 is the same as the peeler shown in Figures 22 and 23, except that there is an added snap-on plastic blade guard 488 covering the cutter blade 236.

Figure 56 is a partially broken-away cross-sectional view like that of Figure 55 of a tray 490 which is a modification of the device shown in Figures 54 and 55. This modification 490 is the same as that shown in Figures 54 and 55, except that at least one, and as many as all receptacles in the tray are inclined at a substantial angle, e.g., 45° with respect to vertical. These receptacles can be used to store taller implements such as the pizza cutter 84 and the ice cream scoop 82 at an angle, thus reducing the height to which they extend vertically, while storing other implements such as the handle 88 in vertical receptacles. This enables a compromise between minimizing the footprint of the tray and minimizing its height. Figure 57 shows another organizer tray 500 constructed in accordance with the present invention. The tray 500 has side walls 502, a bottom wall 516, and horizontal and vertical divider walls 504 and 506 which divide the space in the tray into uniform square or rectangular receptacles 518, 520, 522 and 524. The size of the receptacles is determined so that it will hold the largest of the implements when laying flat as shown in dashed outline in Figure 57. Thus, the size of the receptacles is sufficient to hold the pizza cutter 84 and the handle 88 as well as smaller implements like the peeler 86 and the ice cream scoop 82.

Each receptacle has an indicia on its bottom which is a representation of the implement that is to fit into the compartment. Thus, compartment 518 has a small replica or representation 508 of an ice cream scoop. Similarly, the receptacle 520 has a small representation 510 of a peeler; receptacle 522 has a small representation 512 of a pizza cutter; and receptacle 523 has a representation 514 of the handle 88.

Preferably, the indicia 508, 510, 512 and 514 are marked permanently on the bottom wall 516 such as by embossing, engraving or molding the images when the trays are formed. Alternatively, images on self-adhesive labels can be applied so as to be removable to change the indicia of the implement to be stored in the receptacle. This can reduce manufacturing costs by standardizing the receptacle shape for all trays and thereby increasing the volume of production runs.

The tray 500 has upstanding posts 408 like the trays shown in Figures 45-49 to allow stacking. Of course, by leaving off the indicia in each of the receptacles, the trays can be made and sold for general storage use so as to hold kitchen implements and other items.

Figure 58 is a top plan view of a variation of the tray or receptacle shown in Figure 57. Instead of forming the tray into receptacles of uniform size, the tray is formed into rectangular receptacles adapted to hold one or a limited number of different implements, so as to save space as compared with the tray 500 shown in Figure 57.

The tray 530 includes side walls 502 and a vertical partition 536 and a horizontal partition 534 dividing the space in the tray into three compartments 538, 540 and 542, each of which is of a size and shape to hold a particular implement or group of implements. As in the Figure 57 embodiment, indicia 512, 514 and 508 are marked on the bottoms of the compartments to indicate the implements which are primarily intended to be stored in the receptacles. Thus, the compartments for the handle 88 and the ice cream scoop 82 (shown in dashed outline only) are narrower than that for the pizza cutter 84 (also shown only in dashed outline). Of course, other implements having the same space requirements can be stored in each of the compartments, as desired.

As shown in Figure 57, the intended contents for each of the receptacles can be indicated by indicia other than a picture of the implement. For example, letters such as the letter "H" shown at 505 can be used to indicate "handle", and the word "HANDLE" can be spelled out as shown at 503. Similarly, as it is shown in Figure 56, indicia such as the letters "PC" or "PIZZA CUTTER", or a number or other alphanumeric symbol can be marked on the receptacle 522. The implement is marked with the same symbol as its receptacle.

Similarly, each container and each implement can be color coded. For example, the handle compartment 524 can be colored black to match the black color of the handle, the ice cream scoop 82 can be colored red to match the red interior of the receptacle 518, the pizza cutter 84 can be colored green to match the green of the receptacle 522 and the peeler 86 can be colored blue to match the blue interior of the receptacle 520.

It should be readily apparent that essentially any indicia capable of distinguishing implements from one another can be used as a marking to help guide the user in returning specific implements to the desired locations. This greatly enhances the orderliness of the kitchen drawers or counter tops where the organizers are used.

Another indicia which can be used as a full-representation of the implement adhered to the bottom of the receptacle for receiving that implement.

Braille indicia can be used to aid the blind. The implements have corresponding Braille markings on them. Of course, the indicia provided by the specific shapes of the receptacles conforming to the implement shapes also can be sensed by touch and thus "read" by the blind. This can be particularly beneficial to blind people because the organization of kitchen implements by use of the invention makes it easier for blind people to find them. Visible and/or tactile indicia also can be used in addition to the specific conforming shape of a receptacle to identify the implement at least with certain receptacles which have shapes which are confusingly similar to one another.

As with the Figure 57 embodiment, the indicia can be marked on the bottoms of the compartments, either permanently or with removable labels.

Figures 59-63 show several different ways to form receptacles or holders for individual implements, other than by molding recesses in a flat plastic panel.

Figures 59 and 60 show a technique using a plurality of molded projections 554 extending upwardly from a bottom plastic panel 552. The length and pattern of the projections are such as to form a cradle for the implement, in the manner shown in Figure 60.

Figure 60 shows the projections supporting an ice cream scoop 82.

Figure 61 shows an alternative structure for forming peaks 554, 556, 558 and 560 instead of the individual projections 54 to provide a cradle for the implement. This forms a stronger structure in which there are no individual projections to break off.

Figures 62 and 63 show the formation of an upstanding ridge 566 in the shape of the implement to be cradled. As is shown in Figure 60, a complete tray is formed by adding side walls 557 and corner posts 555 at the four corners of the bottom panel 552.

If desired, the side walls can be raised from the level shown in Figure 60 to the level 559 shown in dashed line, or other wall construction can be used, depending upon whether the trays are to be stacked, aligned side-by-side, or made to slide one on top of the other.

Figure 64 shows a tray substantially the same as that shown in Figures 45-49, except that, instead of receptacles for the handle and implements of a multi- tool kitchen set, three receptacles 572, 574 and 576 are provided for containing adjustable measuring devices 582, 584 and 586. Item 582 is a tablespoon-sized adjustable measuring spoon; item 586 is a teaspoon-sized adjustable measuring spoon; and item 584 is an adjustable scoop. Since the scoop is larger than the other devices and stands taller, it extends upwardly out of its receptacle, thus making it easy to grasp.

The measuring spoons do not extend upwardly above the edges of their respective receptacles. Therefore, access indentations 578 and 580 are provided to allow one to insert a finger underneath a portion of the measuring spoon to easily remove it from the receptacles.

In fact, such access indentations can be provided in any of the foregoing embodiments, wherever it is necessary or expedient to provide a deep receptacle which will not allow the object in the receptacle to extend above the surface of the tray.

SLIDING TRAY EMBODIMENTS

Figure 65 shows an assembly 590 of two stacked trays 592 and 594 in which the top tray 594 slides on the upper edges 602 of the parallel sides 600 of the lower tray 592 to expose the implements covered by the upper tray 594. The opposed lower corners of the upper tray form an arcuate recess

606 which matches the curvature of the curved upper edges 602 or rails of the lower tray, as shown best in Figure 66.

The horizontal support panel 596 and the bottom surface 610 of the upper tray for the implements in the receptacles 598 to avoid hitting the bottom 610. In the embodiment shown in Figure 64, the length of the bottom tray

592 is substantially greater than the length W of the upper tray 594. Thus, some of the implements in the lower tray are not covered by the upper tray and are visible at all times. If the implements are under the upper tray are needed, the user merely slides the upper tray to one side, in the direction of the arrow M, to expose them. If preferred, the lengths of the upper and lower trays can be made the same, as if the lower tray 592 were cut along the dashed line 612. The resulting assembly occupies a smaller footprint. The top tray can be moved over a portion of the lower tray, without falling off. However, if a wider opening is desired, one can hold up the leading edge of the upper tray with one hand to prevent tilting of the tray. Figure 76 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the sliding trays feature of the invention. The assembly 660 shown in Figure 76 includes a relatively large tray 662, a smaller tray 664 attached side-by-side to the tray 662, and a smaller tray 666 slidably mounted on the two lower trays 662 and 664.

As it is shown in the cross-sectional view of Figure 79, the upper edge of one side of each tray has an inverted V-shape, thus forming a tongue for a tongue- in-groove rail structure. A groove is formed on the bottom edge of each of the trays so that when one of the trays is placed on top of the other the tongue and groove structure thus formed allows the trays to slide easily with respect to one another without easily becoming misaligned. It should be understood, of course, that the bottom trays should have recesses deep enough to fully seat the implements therein without any part extending upwardly above the surface of the tray so that the movement of a tray which slides upon it will not be impeded.

Alternatively, the upper surface of the lower trays can be recessed in the manner shown in the embodiment of Figure 65.

Figure 77 is a top plan view of a kitchen drawer 674 containing the assembly 660. As it can be seen, the top fray 666 slides forwardly and backwardly in the drawer in the direction indicated by the arrow 669.

Figure 78 is a top plan view of a wider but shallower drawer showing the assembly 590 from Figure 65 in a kitchen drawer 676. The top tray 594 slides from left to right in the direction of the arrow M.

Both of the assemblies shown in Figures 65 and 76 have the advantage of allowing some of the implements in the lower trays to be visible at all times, and others to be easily accessible, while simultaneously increasing the organized storage capacity in the drawer.

PACKAGE CODING

Figures 80-82 show a package coding system to permit the sale of trays and implements of the kits separately or in sub-combinations in a manner so as to insure that the customer will obtain the proper tray for each of the implements purchased. Figure 80 shows a single straight peeler 86 mounted on a card 680 with a hanger opening 682 and a color code indicia 684. The color code marking is a large dot of a color to match the color on a box in which a tray is sold which will accommodate the peeler. Figure 81 shows another card 686 with two implements mounted on it, a melon bailer 90 and a can opener 450, and two indicia 690 and 649 in the form of colored dots, as well as a hanger hole 688. Since one of the implements in the package is intended for one tray, and the other implement for another tray, two different color coded indicia 690 and 694 are provided, together with a leg end indicating which indicia applies to which implement.

Figure 82 is a perspective view, partially broken away, of a box in which a tray depicted at 698 on the box cover is sold. The box 696 has a color code indicia 700 on an upstanding flap 702. By comparing the color code indicia on an implement package with the one on a tray package, the customer can be sure of getting the right tray for each implement purchased.

If desired, the purchases of kits and components by each customer can be stored in the memory of the store computer so that when the customer next purchases any components, the identity of those components can be compared with those stored in the computer so as to make certain that the customer has a tray to match the implements purchased.

In addition to the color code markings on the packages shown in Figures 80-82, there are alphanumeric markings such as the letters "A" and "B", which can be used in addition to or instead of the color coding to identify the trays and implements to go in the trays. Other indicia similarly can be used for the same purpose.

The above description of the invention is intended to be illustrative and not limiting. Various changes or modifications in the embodiments described may occur to those skilled in the art. These can be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. It should be understood that some or all of the implements, in addition to the garlic press, can be made with internal handles as well as with removable handles and the protection for the invention also extends to these implements.

Claims

CLAIMSWHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A kitchen implement kit comprising the combination of a container, said container being positioned in a drawer, a plurality of kitchen implements in said container, said implements being selected from the group consisting of:

(a) a handle having a coupling structure for releasably securing to said handle an accessory having a mating coupling structure, and at least one accessory having said mating coupling structure;

(b) a plurality of said accessories, each having said mating coupling structure;

(c) a handle having one of said coupling structures and a plurality of said accessories, each having said mating coupling structure; said container having a support structure with a plurality of receptacles, each for holding one of said implements in a substantially horizontal orientation when said container rests on a horizontal surface.

2. A kit as in Claim 1 in which each of said recesses is shaped to conform to the outlines of a different one of said implements, and to open upwardly to permit substantially vertical movement for removal and placement of an implement in said receptacle.

3. A kit as in Claim 1 in which said attachments are selected from the group consisting of a pizza cutter, a peeler, a grater, a zester, a cheese slicer, a melon bailer, an ice cream scoop, a citrus reamer, a corer, a fork, a knife, a spoon, a turner, a jar opener, a can opener, and a bottle opener.

4. A kit as in Claim 1 in which one of said handle and said accessory has a spring-loaded locking element to fit into a mating recess on the other of said handle and said accessory when said handle and said accessory are pressed together, said mating locking member being shaped to move said locking element aside when said mating locking member is pressed against said locking member, said spring-loaded locking element being positioned and biased to snap into said recess.

5. A multi-tool kitchen implement device comprising: a handle;a kitchen implement for attachment to said handle; said handle having a resiliently biased latch member; said implement having a receiver for said latch member and a cam surface for moving said latch member to a non-engaged position upon bringing said cam surface to bear against said latch member, and releasing said catch member to snap it into said receiver to hold said handle and said implement together; and a release member mounted on said handle and manually operable for withdrawing said latch member from said receiver to release said implement from said handle.

6. A device as in Claim 5 in which said handle has a receptacle and said implement has a projection positioned to be fitted into said receptacle when said implement is attached to said handle.

7. A multi-tool kitchen implement device as in Claim 5 in which said kitchen tool accessory is selected from the group consisting of a pizza cutter, a peeler, a grater, a zester, a cheese slicer, a melon bailer, an ice cream scoop, a citrus reamer, a corer, a fork, a knife, a spoon and a turner, a can opener, a bottle opener, and a jar opener.

8. A multi-tool kitchen implement device as in Claim 5, a ring rotatably mounted on said handle, said ring having a central hole with a shape conforming to the shape of said receptacle and having an internal edge forming said latch member, and said projection having a groove shaped to serve as said receiver for said catch member, said ring being rotatable between a first position in which said central hole in said ring is aligned with said receptacle and a second position in which said internal edge of said hole is positioned in said groove, and a resilient bias member for urging said ring towards said second position.

9. A multi-tool kitchen implement device as in Claim 27 in which said cam surface is the tapered leading edge of a surface on said accessory. 29. A handle for a multi-tool kitchen implement device, said handle comprising: an elongated body member; a releasable attachment structure at one end of said body member; said attachment structure being adapted to releasably secured to said handle each of a plurality of kitchen implement accessories having mating attaching structures; said body member being made of a relatively hard and strong material; a flexible elastomeric cover molded onto said body member, said cover and said body member forming a handle which conforms to the shape of a human hand when it is gripped by such a hand.

10. An implement for a multi-tool kitchen implement system, said implement comprising: a kitchen tool having a working end and an attachment end; an attachment device at said attachment end, said attachment device comprising a receiver for a spring-loaded latch member on a handle to be attached to said tool; a projection shaped to fit into a corresponding receptacle in said handle and engage the side walls of said receptacle to prevent rotation of said tool and said handle relative to one another; said receiver having at least one bearing surface substantially perpendicular to the direction of movement of said projection into said receptacle and being positioned and shaped to receive and hold said latch member until it is withdrawn from engagement with said surface

11. An implement as in Claim 10 in which said kitchen tool is selected from the group consisting of a pizza cutter, a peeler, a grater, a zester, a cheese slicer, a melon bailer, an ice cream scoop, a citrus reamer, a corer, a fork, a knife, a spoon, a turner, a bottle opener, and a can opener.

12. A method of making a handle for a multi-tool kitchen implement device, said method comprising the steps of molding a plastic handle base member and co-molding an elastomeric cover onto said base member, said molded body including a shaped receptacle for an accessory attachment projection.

13. A kitchen implement kit comprising the combination of a container, a plurality of kitchen implements in said container, said implements being selected from the group consisting of:

(a) a handle having a coupling structure for releasably securing to said handle an accessory having a mating coupling structure, and at least one accessory having said mating coupling structure; (b) a plurality of said accessories, each having said mating coupling structure;

(c) a handle having one of said coupling structures and a plurality of said accessories, each having said mating coupling structure; at least one wall forming a plurality of recesses, each of said recesses being dimensioned to receive one of said implements; a plurality of posts extending upwardly from said walls to support another container of kitchen implements in a position spaced upwardly from the first-named container.

14. A kit as in Claim 13 in which each of said recesses is shaped to conform to the shape of a selected one of said implements, and has a depth dimensioned to allow a substantial portion of each of said implements to extend upwardly out of said recess.

15. A tray for holding kitchen implements, said tray comprising a wall forming a horizontal support surface, a plurality of kitchen implement receptacles supported by said support surface, and a plurality of posts extending upwardly from said support surface to support another tray of kitchen implements above the first- named tray, in which each of said receptacles has vertically extending walls, said walls extending to a height substantially less than the height of an implement placed in said receptacle so as to leave a substantial portion of said implement extending out of said receptacle.

16. A tray for holding kitchen implements, said tray comprising a support wall forming a horizontal support surface, a plurality of kitchen implement receptacles supported by said support surface, and at least one of said receptacles having visible indicia identifying one of a plurality of kitchen implements which will fit into said receptacle.

17. A tray as in Claim 16 in which said indicia is selected from the group consisting of: (a) said receptacle having an outline shaped like said one implement;

(b) a visible representation of said one implement;

(c) alphanumeric indicia;

(d) color coding to match a color adjacent said receptacle to a color on said one implement; and

(e) a combination of two or more members of the group.

18. A tray as in Claim 16 in a kitchen drawer with a support structure supporting a second tray above it; said support structure being selected from the group consisting of: (a) a slide structure for allowing said second tray to slide on said first tray to uncover at least a portion of said first tray; and (b) a plurality of posts extending upwardly from said support wall to support said second tray above said first tray with spacing between said trays.

19. A citrus fruit juicer comprising: an oblate spheroid tapered to a blunt point at one end and a handle member at the end opposite said one end; said oblate spheroid having a plurality of elongated, relatively deep and broad recesses extending from adjacent said opposite end to adjacent said one end and spaced circumferentially from one another; and a plurality of relatively shallow elongated recesses of relatively narrow width extending in the same direction as said deep recess and located at circumferentially spaced locations between said deep recesses.

20. A kitchen implement kit comprising: at least one implement storage holder held by an implement holder package; a plurality of kitchen implements, each packaged independently of any implement holder; said implement holder having a plurality of receptacles, each receptacle having a first indicia identifying a specific one of said implements the receptacle is intended to hold; said implement holder package having holder indicia identifying the holder held by said package by the combination of implements which it is intended to hold; each of said implement packages bearing at least one of said holder indicia matching that on the package of the holder intended to hold said implement.