WO2006138335A2 - Dispositif d'aspiration et supports pour articles de cuisine, petits appareils, et autres applications - Google Patents

Dispositif d'aspiration et supports pour articles de cuisine, petits appareils, et autres applications Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2006138335A2
WO2006138335A2 PCT/US2006/023092 US2006023092W WO2006138335A2 WO 2006138335 A2 WO2006138335 A2 WO 2006138335A2 US 2006023092 W US2006023092 W US 2006023092W WO 2006138335 A2 WO2006138335 A2 WO 2006138335A2
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
base
suction device
plate
kitchenware
handle
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2006/023092
Other languages
English (en)
Other versions
WO2006138335A3 (fr
Inventor
Louis F. Henry
Charles S. Paradise
Original Assignee
Lifetime Brands, Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US29/232,227 external-priority patent/USD522823S1/en
Priority claimed from US29/232,218 external-priority patent/USD532261S1/en
Priority claimed from US29/232,321 external-priority patent/USD519802S1/en
Priority claimed from US29/232,225 external-priority patent/USD530989S1/en
Priority claimed from US29/232,217 external-priority patent/USD530992S1/en
Priority claimed from US29/232,228 external-priority patent/USD521287S1/en
Priority claimed from US29/232,214 external-priority patent/USD545629S1/en
Priority claimed from US11/241,332 external-priority patent/US7810777B2/en
Priority claimed from US11/239,921 external-priority patent/US20060285428A1/en
Priority claimed from US11/294,180 external-priority patent/US20060284001A1/en
Priority claimed from US11/302,298 external-priority patent/US20070006742A1/en
Priority claimed from US11/337,021 external-priority patent/US20060283299A1/en
Priority claimed from US29/253,777 external-priority patent/USD565356S1/en
Application filed by Lifetime Brands, Inc. filed Critical Lifetime Brands, Inc.
Publication of WO2006138335A2 publication Critical patent/WO2006138335A2/fr
Publication of WO2006138335A3 publication Critical patent/WO2006138335A3/fr

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G19/00—Table service
    • A47G19/02—Plates, dishes or the like
    • A47G19/08—Plate-holders
    • A47G19/10—Devices for securing plates to the table
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G29/00—Supports, holders, or containers for household use, not provided for in groups A47G1/00-A47G27/00 or A47G33/00 
    • A47G29/093—Devices for securing receptacles to tables, or the like
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
    • A47J36/00—Parts, details or accessories of cooking-vessels
    • A47J36/34—Supports for cooking-vessels
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
    • A47J43/00—Implements for preparing or holding food, not provided for in other groups of this subclass
    • A47J43/04—Machines for domestic use not covered elsewhere, e.g. for grinding, mixing, stirring, kneading, emulsifying, whipping or beating foodstuffs, e.g. power-driven
    • A47J43/07—Parts or details, e.g. mixing tools, whipping tools
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
    • F16B47/00—Suction cups for attaching purposes; Equivalent means using adhesives
    • F16B47/006—Suction cups for attaching purposes; Equivalent means using adhesives the suction cups being activated by the rotation of a cranked lever arm

Definitions

  • the field of the invention is mechanical suction or suction cup devices for use on various implements. More specifically, the invention is a base unit and suction mechanism that can be use on kitchenware, small appliances, and other devices and implements that a user wishes to be anchored firmly on a countertop, work surface, wall, mirror, or other structure or product.
  • the invention includes attachment assemblies for securing the base to the implement.
  • mixing bowls can be difficult to handle and may slide or spill contents if the ingredients being mixed are stiff or bulky or chunky, or if the user does not maintain a sufficient grip on the bowl.
  • Small children often throw their dishes off the table or highchair tray.
  • Graters can slip and slide when food items are being grated, especially if the food is hard or sticky.
  • Chopping boards are also subject to movement and slippage when items are being cut, sliced, or chopped, again, especially if the items being cut, sliced, or chopped are difficult to grip or cut.
  • Corkscrews can be difficult to control if the cork is hard, or the bottle is slippery; if a stand corkscrew is used, the stand can slip and slide on the counter. Towel holders, too, will slip or tip if a towel hangs up during the unrolling of the towels or if the towel is inadvertently pulled too hard or quickly or if an individual towel section is difficult to tear.
  • Threaded engagements for suction cups are shown in U.S. Patent Nos. 1,871,113, 2,542,101, 2,940,713, 5,104,077, 5,381,990, 6,045,111, 6,193,197, 6,478,271, 813,265, 906,624, and 975,271, as well as in Japanese Patent No. 5,220,042. Twist cams, compression plungers, and cam levers on shafts are shown in U.S. Patent Nos. 3,863,568, 5,087,005, 5,366,129, 5,395,159, 5,970,860, and 6,666,420.
  • Suction cups that are simply pressed onto a surface have been used in a host of devices as shown by U.S. Patents Nos. 4,022,412, 4,093,165, 4,987,827, 5,029,786, 5,076,527, 5,085,390, 5,186,559, 5,297,750, 5,474,206, 5,992,806, 6,405,973, 6,439,760, 6,443,388, 6,596,374, 6,619,604, and 6,739,061
  • Additional suction cup activating devices include pins pulled outward activate a suction devices in U.S. Patent No. 4,505,446; a rotating handle lifts central shaft in u.s. patent no. 2,871,053, and valves of various kinds in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,560,216, 4,756,497, and 6,776,368.
  • Spring biased shafts are shown in U.S. Patent Nos. 1,193,899, 3,747,170, and 5,065,973.
  • Levers that provide leverage on a suction device are shown in U.S. Patent Nos. 6,308,923 and 6,808,090.
  • a hooked rod serves as an actuator connector in U.S. Patent No. 4,012,007.
  • U.S. Patent No. 2,871,053 a rotating handle lifts a central shaft.
  • Some of these devices are not particularly reliable in operation. Many are unsightly, and many are bulky, having a relatively high profile. Also, many of such devices do not have an easy, sure-handed way to engage the suction device that is not also unsightly or problematic in terms to a firm, secure attachment.
  • suction cups that are pressed onto a work surface although permitting a lower profile, more compact kitchenware item or implement, are generally not as durable or reliable, can become deformed while being stored, and are frequently very difficult to remove from work surfaces, especially if they have some moisture or sticky substance under them or are pressed too firmly on the work surface.
  • suction device could be easily connected to items other than kitchen items, such as radios, CD and DVD players, trays for medical use, boat accessories, tools and equipment for use out of doors, lamps, and a multitude of other items.
  • the suction device would provide an effective means to secure the object or implement to a surface and eliminate the need for a user to devote the use of a hand to secure and maintain the item securely in place while other operations are being performed.
  • the suction device can also be used to anchor tools, appliances, and other devices to mirrors, workshop benches or tables, boats, carts, automobiles, pickups, airplanes, campers, and other locations where it is desirable to secure items against movement.
  • suction devices especially those with an exposed suction cup or multiple exposed suction cups, are also very unattractive and do not blend in well with kitchen decor or other kitchenware items.
  • the present invention comprises a reliable suction device in a housing or base.
  • the suction device can be reliably and very firmly secured to a work surface, or even another item of kitchenware.
  • the housing or base itself can either be permanently attached to a variety of kitchenware items or removably attached to a variety of kitchenware items.
  • the removable base or housing attachments are easy to operate and do not require the use of tools.
  • the suction device comprises a suction pad, a suction pad plate, a handle, and a pivot, all of which are housed in a base.
  • the suction pad is larger than the plate.
  • a central portion of the suction pad is connected to the suction pad plate such that an outer portion of the suction pad extends beyond the outer periphery of the suction pad plate and makes contact with the surface to which the suction pad is to be secured.
  • Bridge-like structures extend away from the surface of the suction pad plate. Each bridge-like structure has a slanted or sloped underside.
  • the handle extends from the underside of one bridge-like structure, though the pivot, along the underside of the second bridge-like structure, and out through an elongated horizontal slot in the side of the base, where it ends in a handle grip.
  • the handle is in sliding contact with the sloped or ramped underside of the bridge-like structures.
  • the handle slides along the sloped undersides of the bridge-like structures, causing the bridge-like structures, and, with them, the suction pad plate to move away from the surface to which the suction pad is to be secured.
  • the suction pad plate moves away from the surface, the plate pulls the central portion, but not the outer portion, of the suction pad away from the attaching surface and creates a partial vacuum between the central portion of the suction pad and the surface, causing the outer portion of the suction pad to adhere to the surface.
  • the base that houses the suction device is attached, removably, semi-permanently, or permanently, to items of kitchenware such as towel holders, chopping boards, mixing bowls, countertop corkscrews, children's dishes, graters, slicers, and salad spinners.
  • the housing or base is easily attached and detached via either a snap fit connection, an interlocking connection that snaps into place, an interlocking attachment that snaps in place, or a ramp and peg arrangement similar to threaded connections.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the invention showing a suction device housed in a base;
  • Fig. 2 is a cross sectional view of the suction device of the invention showing the handle, pivot, bridge-like structures, suction pad, and suction pad plate;
  • Fig. 3 is an exploded view of the base, handle, pivot, plate, and bridge-like components of the suction device of the invention
  • Fig. 4 is a perspective view the handle, suction pad plate, pivot, and handle of the invention.
  • Fig. 5 is a side view of the handle, pivot, and bridge-like structures, and suction pad plate showing the plate on a surface;
  • Fig. 6 is a side view of the handle, pivot, and bridge-like structures, and suction pad plate showing the suction pad plate pulled away from a surface;
  • Fig. 7 is a perspective section view of a rectangular base of the invention, an attachment plate for an item of kitchenware, and an interlocking removable connection between the base and the attachment plate;
  • FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a circular base of the invention, the circular bottom of an item of kitchenware, and a snap-fit removable connection between the base and the bottom of the kitchenware;
  • FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the suction device of the invention attached or connected to a mixing bowl and showing the handles of two suction devices, one for securing the base to a work surface and the other for securing the bowl to the base;
  • FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the suction device of the invention attached or connected to a chopping board;
  • FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the suction device of the invention attached or connected to a grater
  • Fig. 12 is a perspective view of the suction device of the invention attached or connected to a child's dish;
  • FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the suction device of the invention attached or connected to a mandoline-type slicer and showing a suction device attached to a front of the slicer, folded away for storage;
  • Fig. 14 is a perspective view of the suction device of the invention attached or connected to the slicer of Fig. 13, but with the front suction device extended outward of the front of the slicer for use;
  • Fig. 15 is a perspective view of the suction device of the invention attached or connected to a salad spinner;
  • Fig. 16 is a perspective view of the suction device of the invention attached or connected to a towel holder
  • FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the suction device of the invention incorporated in the base of a tabletop corkscrew;
  • Fig. 18 is a perspective view of a bottom portion of a salad spinner showing a preferred structure for removably attaching or securing the salad spinner to a base containing a suction device;
  • Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a bottom portion of a child' s dish showing a preferred structure for removably attaching or securing the child's dish to a base containing a suction device.
  • a suction device assembly 1 comprises a suction device 2 and a base 5.
  • the base 5 forms an interior chamber 22 and has an attachment structure 50, a top 55, at least one side 56, and a bottom 57 forming an opening 58.
  • An elongated horizontally oriented slot 59 is formed in the side 56 of the base 5.
  • the attachment structure 50 which is formed on or attached to the top 55 of the base 5, may be used to removably connect the base 5 to an item of kitchenware or some other implement or device.
  • different types of attachment structures may be incorporated in or secured to the base 5 and used to connect the base 5 to items of kitchenware or other devices.
  • attachment structures may be incorporated in the sides of bases or items kitchenware. In some cases, the base 5 may integrally incorporated into the kitchenware item and be simply a lower portion of the kitchenware item.
  • the suction device 2 comprises a suction pad 60, a suction pad plate 61, a handle 62, and a pivot 63.
  • the suction plate 61 has a top side 64.
  • Two spaced-apart bridge-like structures 65 extend away and outward from the top side 64 of the plate 61.
  • Each bridge-like structure 65 has an underside 66 that is ramped or sloped.
  • the pivot 63 is situated between the bridge-like structures 65.
  • the plate 61 is here shown as single structure, the plate could be made in two or more pieces that are attached to one another for use in the device 2.
  • the suction pad 60 is larger in diameter than the suction pad plate 61.
  • the suction pad has a central portion 68 and an outer portion 69.
  • the outer portion 69 of the suction pad 60 extends beyond and outward from the suction pad plate 61.
  • the central portion 68 of the suction pad 60 is situated on and connected to the top side 64 of the plate 61.
  • the suction pad 60 may also be overmolded onto or otherwise attached to the plate 61, or, if desired, glued to the top or bottom of the plate 61, effectively making the pad 60 and the plate 61 a single structure.
  • the handle 62 extends from the sloped underside 66 of one of the bridge-like structures 65, through a hole 70 in the pivot 63, along the sloped underside 66 of the other bridge-like structure 65, and outward thorough the elongated slot 59 in the side 56 of the base 5 above the bottom opening 58 of the base 5.
  • the handle 62 so situated, is in sliding contact with the sloped undersides 66 of the bridge-like structures 65.
  • the suction device 2 is oriented so that the outer portion 69 of the suction pad 60, which extends outward from the plate 61, makes contact with the counter or work surface through the bottom opening 58 of the base 5.
  • the various parts of the suction device 2 are made of a plastic, such as ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer), or nylon. Plastic is preferred, not only because it is durable, but also because it can be easily molded to form the parts disclosed. However, other materials could be used for the various parts of the suction device 60, so long as they can be molded or constructed in the appropriate shapes and configurations.
  • the suction pad 60 is made from natural rubber, silicone rubber, TPR (thermoplastic rubber), or a flexible plastic material such as PVC.
  • the preferred embodiment of the suction device has a suction pad 60 made from natural rubber and other suction device 2 structures made from ABS.
  • Suction device 2 is operated by moving its handle 62 from one side of the elongated slot 59 to the other.
  • Movement of the handle 62 in one direction causes the handle 62 to slide along the sloped undersides 66 of the bridge-like structures 65. As the handle 62 slides along the slope undersides 66, it pulls the plate 61 from which the bridge-like structures 65 extend, in turn causing the plate 61 to pull the central portion 68 of the suction pad 60 away from the work surface or countertop, while the outer portion 69 of the suction pad 60 remains in contact with that surface.
  • the air pressure between the suction pad 60 and the work surface decreases, creating a partial vacuum under the central portion 68 of the suction pad 60, which, in turn causes the outer portion 69 of the suction pad 60, which is still in contact with the work surface, to adhere to that surface.
  • the handle 62 When the handle 62 is moved in the opposite direction (i.e., in a direction in the elongated slot 59 opposite from the direction described above to engage the suction device 2), the handle slides in the opposite direction along the sloped undersides 66 of the bridge-like structures 65, the suction pad 60 relaxes, and the suction plate 61 is allowed to move toward the surface to which it is adhered, which reduces the partial vacuum (increases the pressure between the suction pad 60 [and the plate 61, which is below a part of the pad 60] and the surface to which the suction device 2 is adhered). When the partial vacuum has been so reduced, the suction pad 60 is no longer adhered to the surface, and the suction device 2 can be easily removed from the surface to which it formerly secured.
  • FIG. 1 An item of kitchenware (or appliance, tool, or other product or device) incorporating a suction device 2 is placed in a desirable location on a work surface or countertop (or a wall, mirror, or other surface). In this position, the outer portion 69 of the suction pad 60 is in contact with the work surface or counter.
  • the handle 62 of the suction device 7 is moved in the elongated slot 59. As the handle 62 moves in the slot 59 the central portion 68 of the suction pad 60 is raised upward, creating a partial vacuum under the central portion 68 of the suction pad 60 while the outer portion of the 69 of the suction pad 60 remains on the work surface.
  • the vacuum or suction so created under the central portion 68 of the suction pad causes the kitchenware device to stick or adhere to the counter or work surface in the desired location.
  • the kitchenware device will not be moved or tipped on the counter or work surface when some operation is performed by or in the kitchenware device, because the device is firmly secured to the counter by the suction device 2.
  • the handle 62 of the suction device 2 may be moved in the slot 59 in the side 56 of the base 5 to relieve the partial vacuum under the central portion 68 of the suction pad 60.
  • the kitchenware item may then be moved to a different location on the counter or work surface, where it may again be adhered by suction in the manner stated above.
  • the base 5 of the suction assembly 1 may be permanently attached to any kitchenware item, or the base 5 may be incorporated into the structure or mold of the kitchenware housing so that the kitchenware device is a unitary structure having a unitary housing that includes the kitchenware device with a base portion that houses the suction device 2.
  • the permanent attachment or integral incorporation of the base 5 in the kitchenware item is the preferred embodiment for devices such as countertop corkscrews, because there is little need to remove the base from such devices.
  • the entire kitchenware device may be removably connected to the base 5 of the suction device 2.
  • Fig. 7 shows a section through a base 71 of the type shown in Fig. 1 (but with suction device 2 omitted) and an attachment plate 72.
  • the attachment plate 72 may be attached or secured to a kitchenware device by conventional screw, bolt, or other means via differently shaped attachment openings 73. Or the attachment plate 72 may be incorporated into and made a part of the bottom structure of the kitchenware device.
  • An extension 74 of the base 71 forms a slot 75
  • an extension 76 of the plate 72 forms a slot 77.
  • the extensions are formed so that one may interlock with the other, and, when they are so interlocked, secure the base 71 to the plate 72.
  • the plate 72 is attached to or incorporated into the kitchenware device, the plate and the kitchenware device are then both connected to the base 71.
  • the interlocking extensions 74 and 76 are easily engaged by aligning the extensions 74 and 76 and sliding one extension toward the other until the extensions 74 and 76 interlock, as shown in Fig. 7. So engaged, the base 71 and the plate 72 (together with any attached kitchenware device) are firmly connected. Movement of the extensions 74 and 76 in opposite directions will disengage the extensions 74 and 76 and, accordingly, disengage the base 71 from the plate 72 of the kitchenware item. Cooperating nubs (or projections) and recesses may be built into the extensions 74 and 76 so that the extensions 74 and 76 may be snapped or locked to place.
  • FIG. 8 shows a circular base 78 containing a projection or rib 79 around the upper perimeter of the base 78 that is engaged by a matching slot or recess 80 formed in the bottom 81 of the kitchenware device.
  • the kitchenware device snaps onto the base 78 by placing the bottom 81 of the l ⁇ tchenware device on top of the base 78 and pressing the kitchenware device downward until the projection 79 snaps into the recess 80.
  • FIG. 9 Other types of removable and permanent base attachments are show in Figs. 9, 13, 14, 18, and 19 and are described below.
  • the attachment assemblies described here and below may be used, not only on kitchenware, but on all sorts of devices and implements that require attachment to a stand, base, or some other object or structure.
  • the suction pads 60 remain very tightly secured or adhered to a counter or other work surface, even when the partial vacuum has been released. This may occur if the suction device 2 is pressed onto a surface in a forceful or fast manner such that some air is expelled from the under the pad 60 before the handle 62 is moved. Thus, it is convenient to have the suction pad 60 form a pull tab 90, as shown, for example, in Figs. 1, 9, 10, and 17. If the suction pad 60 remains too tightly secured, the tab 90 may be pulled to release the suction pad 60.
  • the preferred embodiment of the suction device 2 contains at least one lock indentation 93 formed at the end of at least one of the sloped undersides 66 of the bridge-like structures 65, as shown in Figs. 3-6.
  • the lock indentation 93 thus prevents the suction from being released by an incidental bumping of or other movement of the handle 62.
  • the lock 93 prevents the suction plate 61 from moving of its own accord (due to the force of partial vacuum and the sliding of the handle 62 along the sloped undersides 66 of the bridge-like structures 65) toward the surface to which the suction pad 60 is secured and, consequently, releasing the partial vacuum.
  • the preferred embodiment of the plate 61 forms suction pad seats 94, as shown in Figs. 2, 3 and 4.
  • the preferred embodiment of the suction pad 60 forms corresponding holes 95 that cooperate with the seats 94 so that the suction pad 60 may be placed on the suction pad plate 61 and secured or held thereon by the suction pad seats 94.
  • the use of such seats 94 prevents the suction pad
  • Fig. 9 shows a mixing bowl 100 and base 101.
  • the base 101 contains two suction devices, as indicated by the extended handles 102 and 103.
  • the suction device operated by handle 102 is constructed and operates as described above; it secures the mixing bowl assembly to the work surface.
  • the suction device operated by handle 103 is again constructed and operates as described above, but it is inverted so that the suction device secures the bowl 100 to the base 101.
  • the base 101 is custom-shaped to receive the bowl 100 and presents an attractive, sleek appearance.
  • the base 101 is secured to a work surface so that it will not move or be disturbed during the mixing process.
  • the mixing bowl 100 may be secured to the base at different angles.
  • the mixing bowl 100 and base 101 may thus be secured in a way that prevents either or both from moving or becoming dislodged while the bowl 100 is being used and permits the user to use both hands for mixing and adding ingredients without having to hold and control either the base 101 or the bowl 100.
  • the bowl 100 can be securely attached to the base 101 at a large variety of angles to accommodate the preferences of the user, as well as the necessary orientations of the bowl 100 for adding different types of ingredients and performing different types and speeds of mixing.
  • Fig. 10 shows a chopping board 105, under which is a base 108 that contains a suction device constructed as describe above.
  • the suction device is operated by handle 106.
  • the chopping board 105 may be firmly secured to the counter or work surface by the suction device.
  • the user may desire to use the chopping board 105 apart from the suction device, and, accordingly, the base 108 of the suction device is secured to a plate on the bottom of the cutting board 105 with a interlock connection as shown in Fig. 7.
  • the chopping board 105 can be secured to the counter so the user is free to use both hands for the chopping or cutting operation without devoting either hand to the control and stabilization of the chopping board during the operation.
  • Fig. 11 shows a cheese grater 110 connected to a base 111 housing a suction device that is constructed and operates in the same manner as described above.
  • the user may desire to use the grater 110 apart from the suction device, and, accordingly, the base of the suction device is secured to a plate on the bottom of the grater 110 with an interlocking connection as shown in Fig. 7.
  • the grater 110 may be secured to the counter so the user is free to use both hands for the grating operation without devoting either hand to the control and stabilization of the grater 110 during the operation.
  • Fig. 12 shows a child's dish 115 and incorporated base 116 housing a suction device that is constructed and operates in the same manner as described above.
  • the base 116 is removable from the dish 115, which makes it easier to clean the child's dish 115 and base 116.
  • the child's dish 115 may be secured to a table or high chair tray, thus preventing a small child from intentionally or accidentally knocking the dish 115 off the table or tray.
  • the dish 115 is so secured the person feeding or tending the child need not hold the dish 115 to prevent it from being knocked off the table or tray, but may, instead, use both hands to feed and clean the child.
  • Figs. 13 and 14 show a mandoline-type sheer 120 with a suction device contained in a base 121 at the front of the sheer 120.
  • a preferred embodiment of the base 121 is connected by to the sheer 120 by an axle or axles 122 to permit it to be rotated under the sheer 120 for convenient storage, or, as shown in Fig. 14, may extended or rotated out from the front of the slicer 120 for use during the slicing operation.
  • the suction device secures the front of the slicer 120 to the counter or work surface so the user may slice food on the slicer 120 without devoting a hand to controlling the slicer 120.
  • Fig. 15 shows a salad spinner 130 attached to a base 131 containing a suction device that is constructed and operated as described above.
  • the suction device permits the salad spinner 130 to be securely attached to a counter or work surface while it is spinning so that is will not move around on the counter or spill its contents. So attached, the user need not control the salad spinner 130 with either hand and may tend other tasks related or unrelated to the operation of the spinner 130.
  • the base 131 is attached to the salad spinner via the connection as shown in Fig. 18, below.
  • Fig. 16 shows a towel holder 140 connected to a base 141 containing a suction device that is constructed and operated as described above.
  • the towel holder 140 is mounted to a top 142 of the base 141 by either a permanent or semi-permanent connection.
  • a tube 143 of the towel holder 140 may be screwed into the top 142 of the base via cooperating threaded connections in the top 142 of the base 141 and the tube 143.
  • the tube 143 may be installed over a plastic inner tube that may be threaded into the top 142 of the base 141.
  • the use of the suction device permits the towel holder to be firmly secured to the counter while towels are being unrolled, thus preventing the towel holder from moving or tipping if a towel is pulled to vigorously or does not easily separate from a roll of towels.
  • Fig. 17 shows a tabletop corkscrew 150 connected to a base 151 containing a suction device that is constructed and operated as described above.
  • the corkscrew is mounted to the base 151 by either a permanent or semi-permanent connection.
  • the use of the suction device permits the corkscrew 150 to be secured to the counter while the corkscrew 150 is being used to remove a cork from a bottle, thus preventing the corkscrew 150 from moving or tipping during the removal of the cork.
  • Figs. 18 and 19 show base embodiments and attachments that are preferred for use on the child's dish 115 and the salad spinner 130.
  • Fig. 18 shows a base attachment for a salad spinner 160 having a bottom portion 161 and abase 162 that houses a suction device.
  • Pegs 163 extend from the outside of the base 162.
  • Inside the bottom portion 161 of the salad spinner 160 are two ramped structures 164.
  • the salad spinner 160 is secured to the base 162 by setting the bottom portion 161 on top of the base 162 such that the pegs 163 are positioned near the ends 165 of the ramped structures 164.
  • Bumps 166 are formed on the upper surface of the ramps 164 at an end thereof opposite ends 165.
  • the salad spinner 160 is rotated so that the pegs 163 move up the ramped structures 164, moving the base 162 and the bottom portion 161 of the salad spinner 160 toward one another and, as the rotation continues, securing the base 162 to the bottom portion of the salad spinner 160 when the pegs 163 are forced over bumps 166 so as to lock the salad spinner 160 and the base 162 together.
  • the connection so achieved is similar to a threaded connection, but uses the pegs 163 and the ramped structures 164 in the place of threads configured to engage one another.
  • the rotation of the salad spinner 160 in the opposite direction in relation to the base 162 causes the pegs 163 to move back over the bumps 166 and in the opposite direction on the ramped surfaces 164 and causes the salad spinner 160 and the base 162 to move away from one another such that they can be separated when the pegs 163 have moved off the ends 165 of the ramped structures 164.
  • Fig. 19 shows a base attachment for a child's dish 170.
  • the base attachment shown is similar to the attachment of the salad spinner 16.
  • the ramped structures 171 are built into an extension 172 that extends from a bottom portion 173 of the child's dish 170.
  • Pegs 174 extend from the inside of a rim 175 on a base 176 that contains a suction device.
  • the child's dish 170 is set inside the rim 175 of the base 176 such that the pegs 174 are near the ends 177 of the ramped structures 171.
  • the child's dish 170 is then rotated such that the pegs 174 slide on the ramps 171 and move the dish 170 and the base 176 toward each other until the pegs 174 are forced over bumps 178 formed on the surface of the ramps 171 at an end of the ramps 171 opposite the ends 177.
  • the dish 170 and the base 176 are secured to one another in a manner similar to that described with respect to the salad spinner 160 above. Again, this attachment is similar to a threaded connection.
  • the child's dish 170 is removed from the base 176 by rotating the dish 170 in the opposite direction.
  • bases of different shapes or configurations may be used on any of the above devices to suite the needs and desires of users and consumers.
  • the large variety of shapes and configurations of base that can house suction devices such as suction device 2 make it easy to design round, square, rectangular, or irregularly shaped bases that embody a multitude of novel, attractive styles and appearances to match kitchen decor, to match other kitchenware items, or to appeal to the different artistic and decorating tastes of consumers.
  • the attachment assemblies described herein may be used, not only on kitchenware, but on all sorts of devices and implements that require attachment to a stand, base, or some other object or structure.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Food Science & Technology (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Hooks, Suction Cups, And Attachment By Adhesive Means (AREA)
  • Nozzles For Electric Vacuum Cleaners (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un dispositif d'aspiration qui peut être configuré pour et adapté à différents types d'articles de cuisine, de petits appareils, et d'autres dispositifs. Ce dispositif d'aspiration comprend une base, une poignée, un pivot, une plaque, et une ventouse. La ventouse est raccordée à la plaque. Deux structures de type liaisons présentant des côtés inférieurs inclinés s'étendent depuis la plaque. La poignée s'étend depuis le côté inférieur d'une des structures de type liaisons, à travers le pivot, jusqu'au côté inférieur de la deuxième structure de type liaison, et à l'extérieur d'une encoche allongée ménagée dans la base. La poignée est en contact coulissant avec les côtés inférieurs inclinés des structures de type liaisons. A mesure que la poignée est déplacée dans l'encoche allongée, le contact coulissant de la poignée avec les côtés inférieurs des structures de type liaisons tire la plaque, ainsi qu'une partie centrale de la ventouse, à l'opposé de la surface sur laquelle la ventouse est appliquée, créant un vide partiel entre la partie centrale de la ventouse et la surface d'application, amenant ainsi la partie extérieure de la ventouse à adhérer à la surface. Le mouvement de la poignée dans le sens opposé dans l'encoche allongée amène la plaque à se déplacer vers la surface d'application, et à relâcher la ventouse de sorte que cette dernière n'adhère plus à ladite surface. La base peut être configurée et conçue selon diverses manières, et peut ainsi être utilisée avec de nombreux articles de cuisine et d'autres éléments. La base peut également être conçue pour être fixée amovible sur divers articles de cuisine et autres accessoires.
PCT/US2006/023092 2005-06-16 2006-06-14 Dispositif d'aspiration et supports pour articles de cuisine, petits appareils, et autres applications WO2006138335A2 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (44)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US29/232,217 2005-06-16
US29/232,225 USD530989S1 (en) 2005-06-16 2005-06-16 Salad spinner with suction device
US29232248 2005-06-16
US29/232,271 2005-06-16
US29/232,215 2005-06-16
US29/232,248 2005-06-16
US29/232,214 USD545629S1 (en) 2005-06-16 2005-06-16 Round mixing bowl
US29/232,214 2005-06-16
US29/232,218 2005-06-16
US29/232,229 2005-06-16
US29/232,321 2005-06-16
US29232222 2005-06-16
US29232220 2005-06-16
US29/232,222 2005-06-16
US29232229 2005-06-16
US29/232,228 2005-06-16
US29/232,228 USD521287S1 (en) 2005-06-16 2005-06-16 Towel holder with suction device
US29232271 2005-06-16
US29/232,218 USD532261S1 (en) 2005-06-16 2005-06-16 Mandoline slicer with suction devices
US29232226 2005-06-16
US29232215 2005-06-16
US29/232,227 2005-06-16
US29/232,321 USD519802S1 (en) 2005-06-16 2005-06-16 Corkscrew base with suction device
US29/232,227 USD522823S1 (en) 2005-06-16 2005-06-16 Corkscrew with suction device
US29/232,220 2005-06-16
US29/232,226 2005-06-16
US29/232,217 USD530992S1 (en) 2005-06-16 2005-06-16 Grater with suction device
US29/232,225 2005-06-16
US11/239,921 2005-09-30
US11/241,332 2005-09-30
US11/241,332 US7810777B2 (en) 2005-06-16 2005-09-30 Suction device and bases for kitchenware, small appliances, and other applications
US11/239,921 US20060285428A1 (en) 2005-06-16 2005-09-30 Mixing bowl with suction devices
US11/294,180 2005-12-05
US11/294,180 US20060284001A1 (en) 2005-06-16 2005-12-05 Roll holder and dispenser for paper products
US11/302,298 US20070006742A1 (en) 2005-06-16 2005-12-13 Food spinner with suction device and brake
US11/302,298 2005-12-13
US11/337,021 US20060283299A1 (en) 2005-06-16 2006-01-20 Food slicer with suction device and adjustable cutting surface
US11/337,021 2006-01-20
US29/253,778 2006-02-13
US25377606 2006-02-13
US29/253,777 2006-02-13
US25377806 2006-02-13
US29/253,777 USD565356S1 (en) 2005-06-16 2006-02-13 Mixing bowl
US29/253,776 2006-02-13

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2006138335A2 true WO2006138335A2 (fr) 2006-12-28
WO2006138335A3 WO2006138335A3 (fr) 2007-05-24

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Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2006/023092 WO2006138335A2 (fr) 2005-06-16 2006-06-14 Dispositif d'aspiration et supports pour articles de cuisine, petits appareils, et autres applications

Country Status (1)

Country Link
WO (1) WO2006138335A2 (fr)

Cited By (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2443417A (en) * 2006-11-06 2008-05-07 Signwaves Ltd Mounting device with suction cup having reversibly concealed release tabs
US20130048770A1 (en) * 2011-08-26 2013-02-28 Yan Kwong Wong Special pedestal for food processor
WO2013117111A1 (fr) * 2012-02-07 2013-08-15 江门市蓬江区嘉宝盛塑料五金厂有限公司 Base de ventouse du type à combinaison
WO2017088142A1 (fr) * 2015-11-26 2017-06-01 江门市安豪贸易有限公司 Ventouse et ventouse à vide la comprenant
US10624482B2 (en) 2017-09-01 2020-04-21 Brooke Boak Non-slip container with hidden suction cup
US10731391B2 (en) 2017-09-27 2020-08-04 James E. Lucari Suction-security system
US11246452B2 (en) 2020-04-17 2022-02-15 Dc Drummond Products Inc. Appliance base
CH717893A1 (de) * 2020-09-22 2022-03-31 Furlenmeier Eduard Küchenhilfsmittel.

Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3747170A (en) * 1971-11-10 1973-07-24 K Tel International Clamp arrangement
DE9017381U1 (de) * 1990-01-15 1991-03-14 Kremsner, Roland, Unterschützen Haltevorrichtung, insbesondere für den Haushalts- und Küchenbereich

Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3747170A (en) * 1971-11-10 1973-07-24 K Tel International Clamp arrangement
DE9017381U1 (de) * 1990-01-15 1991-03-14 Kremsner, Roland, Unterschützen Haltevorrichtung, insbesondere für den Haushalts- und Küchenbereich

Cited By (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2443417A (en) * 2006-11-06 2008-05-07 Signwaves Ltd Mounting device with suction cup having reversibly concealed release tabs
GB2443417B (en) * 2006-11-06 2010-12-29 Signwaves Ltd Suction cup mount for display item
US20130048770A1 (en) * 2011-08-26 2013-02-28 Yan Kwong Wong Special pedestal for food processor
US9173524B2 (en) * 2011-08-26 2015-11-03 Yan Kwong Wong Special pedestal for food processor
WO2013117111A1 (fr) * 2012-02-07 2013-08-15 江门市蓬江区嘉宝盛塑料五金厂有限公司 Base de ventouse du type à combinaison
WO2017088142A1 (fr) * 2015-11-26 2017-06-01 江门市安豪贸易有限公司 Ventouse et ventouse à vide la comprenant
CN107250574A (zh) * 2015-11-26 2017-10-13 江门市安豪贸易有限公司 吸附盘及具有该吸附盘的真空吸盘
US10502256B2 (en) 2015-11-26 2019-12-10 Anho Houseware Co., Ltd. Jiangmen Suction cup and vacuum suction cup having same
US10624482B2 (en) 2017-09-01 2020-04-21 Brooke Boak Non-slip container with hidden suction cup
US10731391B2 (en) 2017-09-27 2020-08-04 James E. Lucari Suction-security system
US11246452B2 (en) 2020-04-17 2022-02-15 Dc Drummond Products Inc. Appliance base
CH717893A1 (de) * 2020-09-22 2022-03-31 Furlenmeier Eduard Küchenhilfsmittel.

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