WO2019164480A1

WO2019164480A1 - Versatile mount external scoop holder

Info

Publication number: WO2019164480A1
Application number: PCT/US2018/018990
Authority: WO
Inventors: Brian Albert EBELT; Robert William VIS; Brian Gerald POLLY; John Myers
Original assignee: Manitowoc Foodservice Companies, Llc
Priority date: 2018-02-21
Filing date: 2018-02-21
Publication date: 2019-08-29

Abstract

This disclosure relates in part to a holder for a scooping device. The holder comprises a bottom and one or more side walls extending up from the bottom, in which the bottom and the one or more side walls are integrally formed with one another or separately formed and fixedly attached to one another; and a cavity formed within the bottom and the one or more side walls, and having an open end. The cavity is sufficient to receive, and hold within, the scooping device. The holder can further comprise a base in which the holder is mounted onto the base. The holder can further comprise a bracket in which the base is mounted onto the bracket. The bracket can be mounted onto a wail or a bin. The bracket permits the holder to be mounted vertically or horizontally on a selected surface.

Description

VERSATILE MOUNT EXTERNAL

SCOOP HOLDER

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Disclosure

[0001] This disclosure relates generally to an external scoop holder that allows the end user a versatile method of storing the scoop (e.g., ice scoop) outside of a storage bin (e.g., ice bin). The external scoop holder is designed to be placed on either side of a storage bin, or as a wall mount. It can be mounted vertically or horizontally which ever accommodates the space requirements and or health requirements.

2. Discussion of the Background Art

[0002] Scoops are widely used to transfer materials from one container to another. Typically, a scoop is used to transfer food, ice or other free flowing materials from a larger vessel to a smaller vessel, e.g., from a main storage bin, bag or receptacle to a bucket, bag or dispenser. The scoops are typically stored in the main storage bin, bag or receptacle with the materials to be transferred.

[0003] Most scoops used in transferring materials from one container to another permit contamination of the materials. The contamination typically results from, after handlin of a scoop by a user, the scoop being stored in the container in contact with the materials contained therein. The hands of the users typically grip the scoop, and, after the scooping is completed, the scoop is left in the ice machine or ice bin in contact with the ice, thereby permitting

contamination of the ice.

[0004] Many city health inspectors require that the ice scoop is not left in the storage bin.

Health inspectors that require the scoop to be outside of the storage bin, have varying requirements as to where and how the scoop must be kept. Some require that the scoop to be outside the storage bin, and covered.

[0005] Accordingly, a need exists to prevent contamination resulting from scoops used in transferring materials from one container to another, in particular, preventing contamination resulting from storage of scoops in a container and in contact with the materials to be transferred. Further, a need exists for a versatile method of storing the scoop outside of the storage bin.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0006] This disclosure relates to an external scoop holder that allows the end user a versatile method of storing the scoop (e.g., ice scoop) outside of a storage bin (e.g., ice bin). The external scoop holder is designed to be placed on either side of a storage bin, or as a wall mount. It can be mounted vertically or horizontally which ever accommodates the space requirements and or health requirements. With the custom fit of the external scoop holder with the scoop (e.g., ice scoop), this will insure that the external scoop holder will meet local health requirements as well as provide a convenient and smart way for storing the scoop for scooping (e.g., for ice scooping).

[0007] This disclosure relates in part to a holder for a scooping device. The holder comprises a bottom and one or more side walls extending up from the bottom, in which the bottom and the one or more side walls are integrally formed with one another or separately formed and fixedly attached to one another; and a cavity formed within the bottom and the one or more side walls, and having an open end. The cavity is sufficient to receive, and hold within, the scooping device.

[0008] This disclosure also relates in part to a holder for a scooping device. The holder comprises at least one bottom support and one or more side supports extending up from the at least one bottom support, in which the at least one bottom support and the one or more side supports are integrally formed with one another or separately formed and fixedly attached to one another; and a cavity formed within the at least one bottom support and the one or more side supports, and having an open end. The cavity is sufficient to receive, and hold within, the scooping device.

[0009] This disclosure further relates in part to a combination holder for a scooping device, and a scooping device for handling particulate material. The holder comprises a bottom and one or more side wails extending up from the bottom, in which the bottom and the one or more side walls are integrally formed with one another or separately formed and fixedly attached to one another; and a cavity formed within the bottom and the one or more side walls, and having an open end. The cavity is sufficient to receive, and hold within, the scooping device. The scooping device comprises a scoop section having a bottom, a leading edge, two spaced apart side walls extending up from opposed sides of the bottom, and a back disposed between the two side walls extending up from the bottom opposite the leading edge; a cavity formed within the bottom, the side walls, and the back, and having an open front end and extending rearward therefrom; and a handle having an elongated body connected to and extending rearwardly from the back, wherein the handle and back are integrally formed with one another or separately formed an fixedly or adjustably attached to one another.

[0010] The above-described and other features and advantages of this disclosure will be appreciated and understood by those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, drawings, and appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Fig. 1 shows a side perspective view of an example of a holder of this disclosure.

[0012] Fig. 2 shows a front perspective view of the holder of Fig. 1.

[0013] Fig. 3 shows a side perspective view of the holder of Fig. 1.

[0014] Fig. 4 shows an elevational perspective view' of the holder of Fig. 1.

[0015] Fig. 5 show's a side perspective view' of the holder of Fig. 1.

[0016] Fig. 6 show's a top plan view' of an example of a base for the holder of this disclosure. [0017] Fig. 7 show's a front perspective view of the base for the hol der of Fig. 6.

[0018] Fig. 8 shows a side perspective view of the base for the holder of Fig. 6. [0019] Fig. 9 shows a front perspective view of the base for the holder of Fig. 6.

[0020] Fig. 10 shows an elevational perspective view of the base for the holder of Fig. 6.

[0021] Fig. 11 shows an elevational perspective view of a wall mount bracket for the holder of this disclosure.

[0022] Fig. 12 shows a top plan view of the wall mount bracket of Fig. 11.

[0023] Fig. 13 shows a side perspective view of the wall mount bracket of Fig. 11.

[0024] Fig. 14 shows a side perspective view of the wall mount bracket of Fig. 11.

[0025] Fig. 15 shows a side perspective view of the wall mount bracket of Fig. 11.

[0026] Fig. 16 shows a side perspective view of a bin mount bracket for the holder of this disclosure.

[0027] Fig. 17 shows a front perspective view of the bin mount bracket of Fig. 16.

[0028] Fig. 18 shows a side perspective view of the bin mount bracket of Fig. 16.

[0029] Fig. 19 shows an elevational perspective view of the bin mount bracket of Fig. 16.

[0030] Fig. 20 shows an elevational perspective view of the holder, base and wall mount bracket (positioned horizontally) of this disclosure.

[0031] Fig. 21 shows an elevational perspective view of the holder, base and wall mount bracket (positioned vertically) of Fig. 20. [0032] Fig. 22 shows an elevational perspective view of the holder and base (positioned horizontally) of this disclosure.

[0033] Fig. 23 shows a perspective view of an example of the holder of this disclosure with the scoop structure positioned therein.

[0034] Fig. 24 show's a perspective view of an example of the holder of this disclosure with the scoop structure positioned therein.

[0035] Fig. 25 shows a perspective view of an example of the holder of this disclosure with the scoop structure positioned therein.

[0036] Fig. 26 show's a perspective view of an example of the holder of this disclosure with the scoop structure positioned mostly therein.

[0037] Fig. 27 shows a side perspective view of an example of a holder of this disclosure having a top cover with an opening to receive a handle of the scooping device.

[0038] Fig. 28 show's a perspective view of an example of the holder of this disclosure with the scoop structure positioned partially therein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0039] The external scoop holder of this disclosure allows the end user a versatile method of storing the scoop (e.g., ice scoop) outside of a storage bin (e.g., ice bin). The external scoop holder is designed to be placed on either side of a storage bin, or as a wall mount. It can be mounted vertically or horizontally w'hich ever accommodates the space requirements and or health requirements. With the custom fit of the external scoop holder with the scoop (e.g., ice scoop), this will insure that the external scoop holder will meet local health requirements as well as provide a convenient and smart w¾y for storing the scoop for scooping (e.g., for ice scooping).

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the holder can be reconfigured for different mounting options without the use of tools. For example, all thumbscrews can be used for ease of disassembling for cleaning and mounting options.

[0041] Referring to the drawings in detail and in particular to Figs. 1-5 and 20-28, the holder for the scooping device of this disclosure is shown therein. The holder structure of this disclosure includes the holder that is adapted to be cooperatively engaged with the scoop inside the cavity of the holder and the holder being mountable on the supporting structure (i.e., a base and a mount). The holder structure of this disclosure is constructed and adapted to have the holder portion thereof mounted with a supporting structure for storage of the scoop when not in use. Additional ly, the structure of this disclosure includes a scoop constructed and adapted to be engagable in the holder for storage and having a material carry ing compartment at one end portion of the scoop, and a handle compartment at the other end portion of the scoop.

[0042] The holder structure of this disclosure is shown, depicted and described herein in conjunction with use of the scoop for the handling of particulate material and, in particular, ice. The holder is described and depicted in conjunction with mounting same on ice-making machines or walls near ice-making machines. It is to be understood that the holder of this disclosure is not to be restricted specifically to use with ice scoops and the handling of ice material. It is to be understood that the holder of this disclosure is adapted for numerous uses in the handling of particulate material wherein the holder structure can be mounted on any substantial supporting structure preferably adjacent to the material which is to be worked with, transported, measured, or w hatever. In the hereinafter description in conjunction with use of the holder, together with the scoop to handle particulate material, such particulate material includes material in particle form; for example, ice cubes, cracked ice, flour, sugar, small grains, beans, ground beef, salt, candy, sand, and the like.

[0043] Figs. 1-5 show details of the holder 100 of this disclosure. Figs. 23-28 shows details of the holder 100 with the scoop structure 500 positioned therein in accordance with this disclosure.

[0044] The holder 100 is shown in detail in Figs. 1-5 and 20-28. The holder structure 102 is basically an elongated cylindrical, 3-dimensional rectangular, or 3-dimensional quadrilateral shaped container with a cavity 110 therein having an open end 108 adapted to receive the scoop 500, and which is removably mountable with a supporting structure. The open end 108 can optionally have a cover 1 12 with a slot 114 for fitting the handle of the scoop 500, when the scoop 500 is positioned in holder 100. Referring to Figs. 1-5 and 20-28 in particular, the holder structure 102 as shown has a bottom sidewall 104, and one or more side sidewalls 106 all integrally joined on the edge portions thereof and connected to a bottom 104. The one or more sidewalls 106 of the holder structure 102 can be curvilinear or rectangular in shape and joined with each other at the bottom and on their edge portions. The interior of the holder structure 102 can be constructed with smoothly contoured and arcuate interior edge portions on its elongated edges and also arcuate or rounded construction at the comers.

[0045] The interior of the holder structure 102 forms the cavity 110 in which the scoop 500 is placed for storage. The cavity 1 10 preferably has an open end 108 and the rounded comer construction so as to prevent the build-up of contaminate material and for easy cleaning of the edge portions and comer portions of the cavity 110. For example, the scoop 500 can be positioned in the holder structure 102 with the forward scoop edge spaced back from the holder bottom. When the scoop 500 is in the normal inserted position in the holder structure 102, the forward edge of the scoop can contact the holder's bottom.

[0046] In addition, as shown in Fig. 26, the holder 120 can be formed of metal rods or bars. In particular, the holder 120 as shown has at least one metal rod or bar as a top support 122, at least one metal rod or bar as a bottom support 124, and one or more metal rods or bars as side sidewalls 126 all integrally joined on the edge portions thereof and connected to a bottom support 124. The one or more metal rods or bars as sidewalls of the holder 120 can be curvilinear or rectangular in shape and joined with each other at the bottom and on their edge portions. The interior of the holder 120 can be open.

[0047] Figs. 6-10 show details of a base for the holder of this disclosure.

[0048] The base 200 is typically rectangular for fitting with the holder structure 102 of this disclosure. Figs. 6-10 show in detail the base 200, which includes angular edge portions 204 joining the larger portion 202. The edge portions 204 have holes therethrough indicated at 206 by which the holder structure 102 can be mounted. This mounting is adapted to hold the holder structure 102 engaged with the base 200 in a fixed position such as shown in Figs. 1-5 and 20- 22. The holder structure 102 is removable from the base 200 by removing the fasteners (e.g., screws). The removable feature of holder structure 102 is to provide for easy cleaning of it. The base is provided with holes 206 by which it can be used to secure it to the holder structure 102. The holes 206 are preferably tapered on their opening to accommodate flat headed screws. The base 200 may be secured to a holder structure by other means; for example, adhesive bonding, depending upon the structure to which it is secured.

[0049] Angular edge portion 208 joining the angular edge portion 204 is used to secure the holder structure 102 to the base 200. Figs. 20-22 show in detail the angular edge portion 208 that secures the holder structure 102 to the base 200.

[0050] Figs. 11-15 show details of a wall mount bracket for the holder of this disclosur e.

[0051] The wall mount bracket 300 is typically rectangular for fitting with the holder structure 102 of this disclosure. Figs. 11-15 show in detail the wall mount bracket 300, which includes angular edge portions 304 joining the larger portion 302. The edge portions 304 have holes therethrough indicated at 306 by which the base 200 can be mounted. Also, the larger portion 302 has holes therethrough indicated at 308 by which the wall mount bracket 300 can be mounted to a wall. This mounting is adapted to hold the holder structure 12 and base 200 engaged with the wall mount bracket 300 in a fixed position such as shown in Figs. 20 and 21. This wall mount bracket 300 is adapted to hold the holder structure 102 and base 200 engaged with the wall mount bracket 300 in an upright position. The holder structure 102 and base 200 are removable from the wall mount bracket 300 by removing the fasteners (e.g., screws). The removable feature of holder structure 102 is to provide for easy cleaning of it. The wall mount bracket 300 is provided with holes 306 by which it can be used to secure it to the base 200 and holder structure 102. The wall mount bracket 300 is provided with holes 308 by wiiich it can be used to secure it to a wall. The holes 306 and 308 are preferably tapered on their opening to accommodate flat headed screws. The w^rail mount bracket 300 may be secured to a base or holder structure by other means; for example, adhesive bonding, depending upon the structure to which it is secured.

[0052] Angular edge portion 310 joining the angular edge portion 304 is used to secure the wall mount bracket 300 to a wall. Figs. 20 and 21 show in detail the angular edge portion 310 that secures the wall mount bracket 300 to a wall. For example, the wall mount bracket 300 can be secured by screws to a wall, wherein the holder structure 102 will be adjacent to the ice storage opening in an upright position with the scoop 500 also upright having the handle readily available through the open end 108 or 128 of the holder structure 102.

[0053] Figs. 16-19 show' details of a bin mount bracket for the holder of this disclosure.

[0054] The bin mount bracket 400 is typically rectangular for fitting with the holder structure 102 of this disclosure. Figs. 16-19 show in detail the bin mount bracket 400, which includes angular edge portions 404 joining the larger portion 402. The edge portions 404 have holes therethrough indicated at 406 by which the base 200 can be mounted. Also, the larger portion 402 has holes therethrough by wiiich the bin mount bracket 400 can be mounted to a bin. This mounting is adapted to hold the holder structure 102 and base 200 engaged w ith the bin mount bracket 400 in a fixed position such as shown in Figs. 20 and 21. This bin moimt bracket 400 is adapted to hold the holder structure 102 and base 200 engaged with the bin mount bracket 400 in an upright position. The holder structure 102 and base 200 are removable from the bin mount bracket 400 by removing the fasteners (e.g., screws). The removable feature of holder structure 102 is to provide for easy cleaning of it. The bin mount bracket 400 is provided with holes 406 by wiiich it can be used to secure it to the base 200 and holder structure 102. The bin mount bracket 400 is provided with holes by which it can be used to secure it to a bin. The holes 406 are preferably tapered on their opening to accommodate flat headed screws. The bin mount bracket 400 may be secured to a base or holder structure by other means; for example, adhesive bonding, depending upon the structure to w'hich it is secured.

[0055] Angular edge portion 410 joining the angular edge portion 404 is used to secure the bin mount bracket 400 to a bin. Figs. 20 and 21 show' in detail the angular edge portion 410 that secures the bin mount bracket 400 to a bin. For example, the bin mount bracket 400 can be secured by screws to the side of an ice machine, wherein the holder structure 102 will be adjacent to the ice storage opening in an upright position with the scoop 500 also upright having the handle readily available through the open end 108 or 128 of the holder structure 102.

[0056] Figs. 20 and 21 show details of the combination of the holder structure 102, base 200 and wall mount bracket 300 of this disclosure which is positioned horizontally (Fig. 20) and vertically (Fig. 21). Fig. 22 shows details of the combination of the holder structure 102 and base 200 of this disclosure.

[0057] In the use and operation of the holder structure 102 of this disclosure, the wall mount bracket 300 or bin mount bracket 400 is mounted with some supporting structure preferably adjacent to wherever the scoop 500 is to be used so the holder structure 102 can be secured with the wall mount bracket 300 or bin mount bracket 400 for convenient use of the scoop 500 in such area. In view of the numerous possible applications for the holder structure 102 of this disclosure, it is described mainly herein in conjunction with only one use of the scoop, that is, in conjunction with the handling of ice particles. For example, the scoop 500 and holder structure 102 of this disclosure can be mounted with several different ice dispensing devices wherein the holder 100 is secured to the structure of the dispensing device in a convenient place for the scoop 500 to be removed from the holder structure 102 for use. In these several specific applications the W'all mount bracket 300 or bin mount bracket 400 is secured with the machine structure by screws, for example, where it is mounted on an ice machine.

[0058] Preferably, the holder 100 of this disclosure can be secured to the side of an ice machine. The ice machine is the type with an opening at an angle on the upper portion thereof and is normally covered by a door which slides or lifts to a position exposing the ice material in the storage cavity of the ice machine. The bin mount bracket 400 is secured to the sidewall of the machine so the holder 100 is in an upright and slightly angular position. In this upright and angular position for the holder structure 102, the scoop 500 is conveniently removable from the cavity of the holder 100 for use in removing ice material from the machine, and likewise it is easily replaceable in the holder for storage. [0059] In an example, the holder 100 of this disclosure can be mounted with a conventional ice cart. The ice cart can be an insulated container having wheels and adapted for use in the transportation of ice from an ice-making machine to where ever it is to be used in a convenient manner without substantially melting the ice; it is provided with an opening on its upper portion through which ice is placed into the insulated compartment of the cart. The holder structure 102 can be secured to the sidewall of the ice cart wherein the bin mount bracket 400 can be mounted by screws as hereinbefore shown and described. Placement of the holder 100 of this disclosure on an end of the ice cart affords convenient removal of the scoop 500 from the holder structure 102 for use in handl ing and distribu ting, loading and unloading of the ice material from the ice cart.

[0060] Alternatively, the holder 100 of this disclosure can be secured to another type of ice machine. The ice machine is of the type with the refrigeration apparatus for the machine extending substantially above the ice storage compartment. The ice machine is provided with a door covering the opening to the ice storage compartment which is the lower portion of the machine. In this instance the holder 100 of this disclosure is preferably secured to a sidewull of the ice machine in an upright and angular manner, thereby facilitating easy removal of the scoop 500 from the holder structure 102 as needed. The holder 100 of this disclosure is particularly advantageous for a machine such as this one which has a door that opens upward and which must be held open while removing ice from the storage compartment. For one person to remove ice from the storage compartment of the ice machine, he must hold the door open with one hand while removing ice with the other; in this instance the scoop 500 and holder 100 can have a particularly unique advantage because of accessibility.

[0061] As another example, a portion of an ice machine having a large interior storage compartment with a shelf in the storage compartment to allow use of the ice machine as a cooler as well as an ice producing machine can be used in accordance with this disclosure. The holder 100 of this disclosure can be secured to the shelf by attaching the bin mount bracket to it. In this instance the s holder structure 102 can be positioned at a place on the shelf which is convenient relative to the opening of the ice compartment. With the ice material immediately below the shelf, the scoop 500 can be removed from the holder structure 102, when the door to the ice compartment is opened, used to remove ice material from the compartment, and again replaced in the holder. In the machines of this type with an interior compartment that allow's the device to be used as a cooler, placing of the holder 100 of this disclosure inside the machine provides some secur ity for the scoop and the holder as it is not exposed as it would be on the exterior of a device. Additionally, in enclosing the holder 100 of this disclosure within the cavity of the ice machine, it is maintained at a cool temperature since it is within the refrigerated compartment; this may in some instances be an advantage, and the possibility of it being placeable inside the refrigerated cavity is available for whatever value there is in it.

[0062] In the manufacture of the holder 100 of this disclosure, it is obvious that the holder structure 102, as well as the base 200, wall mount bracket 300 and bin mount bracket 400, can be easily produced due to their simple nature of construction in order to achieve the end product.

The holder structure 102, base 200, wall mount bracket 300 and bin mount bracket 400 can be molded from plastic material by injection molding or other common manufacturing techniques in order to produce the accurately formed portions thereof in an economical manner. Additionally, the scoop 500 can be molded of a plastic material by injection molding techniques or other commercial manufacture techniques. In the alternative, the holder structure 102, base 200, wall mount bracket 300 and bin mount bracket 400, and also the scoop 500, can be formed of metal material such as stainless steel or aluminum and molded or forged into the shape of the required parts. In any event it is obvious that the holder 100 of this disclosure and with the base 200, wall mount bracket 300 and bin mount bracket 400, together with the scoop 500, are basically simple in configuration and present no major obstacles in construction and manufacture thereof regardless of the material of construction.

[0063] In the use and operation of the holder structure 102 of this disclosure, the storage holder 100 is designed so as to prevent, after the scoop 500 has been used and contacted with a person’s hand, contamination of the material being scooped. The holder 100 of this disclosure provides a storage container for the scoop 500 and is conveniently mountable with a supporting structure (e.g., base 200, wall mount bracket 300 and bin mount bracket 400). As described herein, the holder structure 102 of this disclosure is mountable on a supporting structure adjacent to the area in which the particulate material to be handled is stored. The holder structure 102 is constructed and adapted to prevent the build-up of contaminate-like particulate material within its cavity due to the rounde and smoothed interior cavity features. Additionally, the holder structure 102 is adapted to be easily mountable with a supporting structure by the base 200, wall mount bracket 300 and/or bin mount bracket 400. The holder structure 102 is adapted to be mountable in an upright position on a supporting structure preferably adjacent to the area in which the particulate material to be transferred is located.

[0064] As will become apparent from the foregoing description of the holder structure 102, a relatively simple and inexpensive method has been produced to provide a storage holder 100 for a scoop 500 which is mountable with a supporting structure (e.g., base 200, wall mount bracket 300 and/or bin mount bracket 400), the scoop 500 being adapted specifically for the handling of particulate material and the holder 100 adapted for use in storing the scoop 500 when not in use. The holder 100 includes the holder structure 102, a base 200, a wall mount bracket 300 and/or a bin mount bracket 400 to mount the structure with an additional supporting structure such as a wall, a machine, a display countertop or counterwall, and the like. The scoop 500 is obviously simple to use and provides means whereby the hand of the person using the scoop 500 can be shielded from the material which is being scooped. Additionally, the scoop 500 is easily usable over and over and storable in the holder 100 when not in use. Furthermore, the holder structure 102 of this disclosure is constructed so as to prevent a contaminate material buildup on either the scoop 500 or the holder 100.

[0065] The scoop 500 useful in this disclosure is not limiting, and includes any scoop that fits into the holder 100. In one embodiment, the scoop has a scoop section and an attached handle joined to a back of the scoop section. The handle and the scoop section are integrally formed with one another, e.g., from any suitable material such as wmod, metal, plastic (e.g.,

polycarbonate, polyethylene, polypropylene and polystyrene), composite or antimicrobial material, or separately formed and fixedly or adjustably attached to one another. The scoop section can incorporate a thicker walled front leading edge, i.e., thicker than the bottom and sides. This more durable front leading edge is less likely to chip and break upon blunt contact with the ice or other product to be scooped. The scoop section has a bottom, sides, and a back that are arranged to form a cavity. The handle is attached to the scoop section at the back. The scoop sectio further has an extended cavity section underneath the handle. The handle is spaced above the extended cavity section and has an elongated body that projects rearwardly from the back.

[0066] The extended cavity section can function as a shield to prevent a user's hand from coming into contact with the ice or scooped product. The extended cavity section also adds capacity and allows a user to transfer a larger amount of material when scooping. The larger volume is useful, for example, in scooping ice in that it keeps large ice cubes from not filing the extended cavity and small ice cubes from getting stuck in the extended cavity. The bottom of the scoop section can have a curved profile that is gradually convexly curved upward. Preferably, the bottom curvature is greater near the back than near the leading edge. The combination of the handle orientation and shape, the added capacity of the extended cavity section, the reinforced leading edge, and the curved bottom renders it easier for a user to perform a scooping motion without worrying about contaminating the material to be scooped and while being able to scoop large and/or heavy volumes of the material.

[0067] In another embodiment, the scoop 500 has a scoop section and an attached handle joined to a back of the scoop section. The handle and the scoop section are integrally formed with one another, e.g., from any suitable material such as wood, metal, plastic (e.g., polycarbonate) or composite material, or separately formed and fixedly or adjustably attached to one another. The scoop section can incorporate a thicker walled front leading edge, i.e., thicker than bottom and sides. This more durable front leading edge is less likely to chip and break upon blunt contact with the ice or other product to be scooped. The scoop section has a bottom, sides, and a back that are arranged to form a cavity. The handle is attached to the scoop section at the back. The scoop section further has an extended cavity section underneath the handle. The handle is spaced above the extended cavity section and has an elongated body defined by a first section that projects rearwardly from the back and a second section that projects rearwardly from the first section. The first section of the handle and the second section of the handle are integrally formed with one another, e.g., from any suitable material such as wood, metal, plastic (e.g., polycarbonate, polyethylene, polypropylene and polystyrene), composite or antimicrobial material, or separately formed and fixedly or adjustably attached to one another.

[0068] Again, the extended cavity section can function as a shield to prevent a user's hand from coming into contact with the ice or scooped product. The extended cavity section also adds capacity and allows a user to transfer a larger amount of material when scooping. The larger volume is useful, for example, in scooping ice in that it keeps large ice cubes from not filing the extended cavity and small ice cubes from getting stuck in the extended cavity. The bottom of the scoop section can have a curved profile that is gradually convexly curved upward. Preferably, the bottom curvature is greater near the back than near the leading edge. The combination of the handle orientation and shape, the added capacity of the extended cavity section, the reinforced leading edge, and the curved bottom renders it easier for a user to perform a scooping motion without worrying about contaminating the material to be scooped and while being able to scoop large and/or heavy volumes of the material.

[0069] The scoop 500 can optionally include one or more slits or perforations, or combinations thereof, on the bottom and/or side wails. The slits andhr perforations can be arranged in any suitable configuration for allowing drainage of liquids, gels, sand, bits of paper or plastic, or other matter from the scoop. The slits and/or perforations can allow' drainage when scooping solid materials from liquid materials. For example, when scooping ice, the slits and/or perforations allow' for selectively scooping ice while any melted ice (i.e., water) drains away through the slits and/or perforations. Also, for example, when scooping pickles or olives or the like, the slits and/or perforations allow' for selectively scooping the pickles or olives while solution or other matter, e.g., brine solution, sand or twigs, drains away through the slits and/or perforations.

[0070] The scoop 500 has several advantages. The extended cavity section of the scoop section gives the cavity of the ice scoop greater capacity without greatly increasing the overall scoop size. Greater capacity results in each scoop load carrying more ice or other product, which can make the transfer process faster. The smooth contours of the scoop section and the curved profile of the bottom, along with the various grooves and ridges noted above, can reduce the friction between the scoop and the ice, or other material being scooped, during the scooping action. The handle angle can enhance the scooping action and positions the scoop section upward while the handle is held level when carrying a full scoop. This can avoid spilling and permit carrying a fuller scoop. The reinforced leading edge of the scoop inhibits damage to the scoop when used to break chunks of ice that have melted together while also inhibiting damage to the exposed scoop edge. This more durable leading edge is less likely to chip and contaminate the ice with plastic fragments. The handle can be in either a fixed position or an adjustable position on the scoop. The scoop body may be solid or have slits or perforations.

[0071] The extended section of the cavity not only adds more capacity to the scoop cavity but functions to create a shield or guard that can protect the handle and the user's hand and knuckles from injury during use. The handle shield or guard inhibits the user's hand from contacting the ice or other material being scooped. In this way, the scoop extension helps prevent

contamination of the ice or other material in addition to providing added capacity.

[0072] As will be evident to one skilled in the art, the scoop 500 may be formed of injection molded resin, cast metal, multiple injection molded parts, one unitary structure and/or of different or integral materials, such as wood, metal, plastic, or the like. While this disclosure is for an ice scoop, the disclosed scoop could be used for scooping any suitably sized substance or food product, or other particulate, granular, solid or semi-solid materials.

[0073] Though the scoop 500 disclosed herein is particularly useful for scooping ice from a commercial ice machine, the scoop 500 can be utilized for scooping virtually any product from its container. For example, the ergonomic scoop is generally useful for the removal and transport of particulate, granular, solid or semi-solid materials (e.g., ice, pet foods, hardware items such as screws, nails, washers, and the like, agricultural materials such as seeds, grains, coffee beans, and the like, and casino chips) from one container to another.

[0074] Although certain holders and scoops and features have been described herein in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure, the scope of coverage of this patent is not limited thereto. On the contrary, this patent covers all embodiments of the teachings of the discl osure that fairly fall within the scope of permissible equivalents. [0075] While this disclosure has been described with reference to one or more exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the disclosure without departing from the scope thereof Therefore, it is intended that this disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiment(s) disclosed as the best mode contemplated, but that the disclosure wall include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A holder for a scooping device, said holder comprising:

a bottom and one or more side walls extending up from the bottom; wherein the bottom and the one or more side walls are integrally formed with one another or separately formed and fixedly attached to one another; and

a cavity formed within the bottom and the one or more side walls, and having an open end;

wherein the cavity is sufficient to receive, and hold within, the scooping device.

2. A holder for a scooping device, said holder comprising:

at least one bottom support and one or more side supports extending up from the at least one bottom support; wherein the at least one bottom support and the one or more side supports are integrally formed with one another or separately formed and fixedly attached to one another; and

a cavity formed within the at least one bottom support and the one or more side supports, and having an open end;

wherein the cavity' is sufficient to receive, and hold within, the scooping device.

3. The holder of claim 1 wherein the open end of the cavity'- is wider between the side walls than the cavity' near the bottom, and the side walls diverge gradually' away from one another from the bottom to the open end.

4. The holder of claim 1 wherein the bottom and the one or more side walls are integrally' formed with one another from at least one material selected from the group consisting of wood, metal, plastic, composite or antimicrobial material.

5. The holder of claim 1 wherein the holder includes one or more slits or perforations, or combinations thereof, on the bottom and/or the one or more side walls. tv The holder of claim 1 further comprising a base wherein the holder is mounted onto the base.

7. The holder of claim 6 further comprising a bracket wherein the base is mounted onto the bracket.

8. The holder of claim 7 herein the bracket is mounted onto a wal I or a bin.

9. The holder of claim 7 wherein the bracket permits the holder to be mounted vertically or horizontally on a selected surface.

10. The holder of claim 1 having a substantially cylindrical, 3 -dimensional rectangular, or 3- dimensional quadrilateral shape.

1 1. The holder of claim 1 further comprising a cover on the open end that is integrally formed with the one or more side walls or separately formed and fixedly attached to the one or more side walls.

12. The holder of claim 1 wherein the cover has an opening sufficient to receive a handle of the scooping device.

13. The holder of claim 1 wTterein the scooping device comprises;

a scoop section having a bottom, a leading edge, two spaced apart side walls extending up from opposed sides of the bottom, and a back disposed between the two side walls extending up from the bottom opposite the leading edge;

a cavity formed within the bottom, the side walls, and the back, and having an open front end and extending rearward therefrom; and

a handle having an elongated body connected to and extending rearwardly from the back, wiierein the handle and back are integrally formed with one another or separately formed and fixedly or adjustably attached to one another.

14. The holder of claim 13 wherein, for the scooping device, the cavity has an extended cavity section disposed under the handle.

15. The holder of claim 1 wherein the scooping device is an ice scoop.

16. A combination holder for a scooping device, and a scooping device for handling particulate material, said holder comprising:

a cavity formed within the bottom and the one or more side wails, and having an open end;

wherein the cavity' is sufficient to receive, and hold within, the scooping device: and said scooping device comprising:

a handle having an elongated body connected to and extending rearwardly from the back, wherein the handle and back are integrally formed with one another or separately_^ formed and fixedly or adjustably attached to one another.

17. The combination holder for a scooping device, and a scooping device for handling particulate material, of claim 16 further comprising a base wherein the holder is mounted onto the base.

18. The combination holder for a scooping device, and a scooping device for handling particulate material, of claim 16 further comprising a bracket wfrerein the base is mounted onto the bracket.

19. The combination holder for a scooping device, and a scooping device for handling particulate material, of claim 18 wherein the bracket is mounted onto a wall or a bin.

20. The combination holder for a scooping device, and a scooping device for handling particulate material, of claim 18 wherein the bracket permits the holder to be mounted vertically or horizontally on a selected surface.