Abstract
A trash can stabilizer which can be mounted on the ground and includes rigid supports or flexible arms on a fixed vertical support. The support includes a support leg that extends from the back plate to the ground, and a diagonal leg that extends from a top portion of the support leg to a foot leg. Each of the supports or arms are in direct communication with and extending horizontally from the back plate and facilitate the insertion of a trash can or the like via flexible members/sheets, wheels, or bearings. The inserted trash can or the like is securely kept in an opening formed between the supports or arms and thereby is stabilized from tipping or being knocked over.
Claims
1. A trash can stabilizer comprising: a back plate for providing a flat vertical surface; and a pair of elongated, rigid supports associated with and extending horizontally away from the back plate, each support having a flexible member or sheet on an inner surface of the support, the flexible member facing and being convex toward another flexible member of the other support, wherein the flexible members or sheets are initially positioned so that an opening is provided between them, wherein the opening is smaller than the trash can that is to be received therein, with the flexible members or sheets which are configured to be compressed so that the trash can is insertable into the opening and after being inserted therein, the trash can is secured in the opening as the compressed flexible members or sheets attempt to return to their initial position.
2. The trash can stabilizer of claim 1, wherein each rigid support is attached to the back plate and extends horizontally away from the back plate.
3. The trash can stabilizer of claim 1, further comprising a support leg extending from the back plate toward the ground for placement of the back plate at a predetermined vertical position wherein the rigid supports are located at a height that is sufficient to hold a mid or upper portion of the trash can.
4. The trash can stabilizer of claim 3, further comprising a diagonal leg extending from a top portion of the support leg toward the ground diagonally to a foot leg.
5. A trash can stabilizer comprising: a back plate for providing a flat vertical surface; and a pair of elongated, rigid supports associated with and extending horizontally away from the back plate, each support having a first portion which faces that of the other support and being initially positioned so that an opening is provided between the first portions, wherein the opening is smaller than the trash can that is to be received therein, with the supports also having flexible members or sheets on each of the first portions, the flexible members or sheets facing and being convex toward each other, and being spaced apart from each other, positioned towards the forward ends of the supports, and configured to be compressed so that the trash can is movable past the flexible members or sheets and after moving past the flexible members or sheets, the trash can is secured in the opening.
6. The trash can stabilizer of claim 5, wherein each rigid support is attached to the back plate and extends horizontally away from the back plate.
7. The trash can stabilizer of claim 5, further comprising a support leg extending from the back plate toward the ground for placement of the back plate at a predetermined vertical position wherein the rigid supports are located at a height that is sufficient to hold a mid or upper portion of the trash can.
8. The trash can stabilizer of claim 7, further comprising a diagonal leg extending from a top portion of the support leg toward the ground diagonally to a foot leg.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
(1) These and other advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the subsequent detailed description of the invention and the appended claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
(2) FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the trash can stabilizer in use holding and stabilizing a trash can in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.
(3) FIG. 2 is a front view of the trash can stabilizer in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.
(4) FIG. 3 is a top view of the trash can stabilizer in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.
(5) FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the trash can stabilizer in use holding a trash can in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.
(6) FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another trash can stabilizer in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.
(7) FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another trash can stabilizer in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.
(8) FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another trash can stabilizer in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.
(9) FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another trash can stabilizer in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.
(10) FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another trash can stabilizer in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.
(11) FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another trash can stabilizer in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.
(12) FIGS. 11A-11D are an isometric, top, front, and side view of the trash can stabilizer in use holding and stabilizing a trash can, respectively, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.
(13) FIGS. 12A-12D are an isometric, top, front, and side view of the trash can stabilizer in use holding and stabilizing a trash can, respectively, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.
(14) FIGS. 13A-13D are an isometric, top, front, and side view of the trash can stabilizer in use holding and stabilizing a trash can, respectively, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.
(15) FIGS. 14A-14D are an isometric, top, front, and side view of the trash can stabilizer in use holding and stabilizing a trash can, respectively, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.
(16) FIGS. 15A-15D are an isometric, top, front, and side view of the trash can stabilizer in use holding and stabilizing a trash can, respectively, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.
(17) FIGS. 16A-16D are an isometric, top, front, and side view of the trash can stabilizer in use holding and stabilizing a trash can, respectively, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
(18) In this respect there has thus been outlined rather broadly the more important features of the instant invention, in order that the detailed description thereof that follows may be better understood, and in order that the present contribution to the art may be better appreciated.
(19) There are additional features of the instant invention, which will be described hereinafter, and which will form the subject matter of the claims appended hereto.
(20) Further in relation to this, before explaining at least the preferred embodiments of the invention in greater detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and to the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description, or illustrated in the appended Figures. The invention is capable of other embodiments, and of being practiced and carried out in a plurality of different ways. Also it is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as a limiting factor.
(21) As such, those having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the conception upon which this disclosure is based may also be utilized as a basis for designing other structures for carrying out the several purposes of the present invention. It is therefore equally important that the claims be regarded as including such equivalent constructions, insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
(22) As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by one having ordinary skill in the relevant art that the present invention has broad utility and application. Furthermore any embodiment discussed and identified as being “preferred” is considered to be part of a best mode contemplated for carrying out the present invention. Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrative purposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure of the present invention. Moreover many embodiments such as adaptations, variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements will be implicitly disclosed by the embodiments described herein and fall within the scope of the present invention.
(23) Accordingly, while the present invention is described herein in detail in relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the present invention, and is made merely for the purposes of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the present invention. The detailed disclosure herein of one or more embodiments is not intended, nor is to be construed to limit the scope of patent protection afforded by the present invention, which scope is to be defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof. It is not intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention be defined by reading into any claim a limitation found herein that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself.
(24) Thus for example any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of steps of various processes or methods that are described herein are illustrative and should not be interpreted as being restrictive. Accordingly, it should be understood that although steps of various processes or methods may be shown and described as being in a sequence or temporal order, the steps of any such processes or methods are not limited to being carried out in any particular sequence or order, absent an indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps in such processes or methods generally may be carried out in various different sequences and orders, while still falling within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention is to be defined by the appended claims rather than the description set forth herein Additionally it is important to note that each term used herein refers to that which the ordinary artisan would understand such term to mean based on the contextual use of such term herein. To the extent that the meaning of a term used herein as understood by the ordinary artisan based on the contextual use of such term differs in any way from any particular dictionary definition of such term, it is intended that the meaning of the term as understood by the ordinary artisan will prevail.
(25) The following definitions generally set forth the parameters of the present invention.
(26) As used herein, the term “arm” refers to the structural unit of the trash can stabilizer that is in direct contact with, holds and maintains the trash can in an upright position continuously. As noted herein, these arms are preferably flexible to contact and/or conform to the trash can that is to be held therein.
(27) As used herein, the term “loop” refers to structures added to the sides of the flexible arm, to which an elastic band, rope or cord can be attached to secure a trash can lid to the trash can. For example, the elastic band or cord can run across the top of the lid, with one end attached to one loop, and the other end attached to the other loop. Also, the band or cord can extend from the lid of a trash can or any other refuse container and be attached to the loop with a hook or by stitching. And the invention contemplates a number of other features that can be provided to secure the trash can lid to the trash can. These additional or alternative features include handles, clips, straps and buttons, flanges, knobs, slots, holes, screws or other fasteners, latches or magnets for steel trash cans.
(28) As used herein, the term “base leg” refers to the structural unit of the trash can stabilizer made up by a plurality of flat plates, wherein the base leg makes a physical contact with portions of the ground onto which the trash can stabilizer is mounted.
(29) As used herein, the term “perpendicular” refers to an angle of 90° to a given line, plane, or surface.
(30) As used herein, the term “track” refers to a structure built on the base leg, such that the length of the plurality of the flat plates can be adjusted horizontally at any desired level before the use of the trash can stabilizer.
(31) As used herein, the term, “backplate” refers to the unit of the trash can stabilizer used to mount it on a vertical fixed support surface.
(32) As used herein, the term “support bar” refers to the vertically adjustable structural units of the trash can stabilizer used to connect the back plate to the base leg
(33) As used herein, the term “pin” refers to a piece of metal with a point at one end and a round head at the other used merely for fastening purposes.
(34) As used herein, the terms “stud” and “stake” refer to a large-headed piece of metal that pierces and projects from a surface.
(35) As used herein, the term “longitudinal” refers to the running lengthwise rather than across the width of a material.
(36) As used herein, the term “transverse” is used interchangeably with the term “horizontal” and as such, has the same meaning.
(37) As used herein, the term “height” is the measurement of a vertical distance, whereas the term “length” is the measurement of a horizontal distance.
(38) As used herein, the term “tension” refers to a pulling force exerted by a one-dimensional continuous object.
(39) As used herein, the term “compression” refers to the application of inward forces to different points on a material or structure so as to reduce its size in one or more directions.
(40) As used herein, the term “plastic” refers to any of a wide range of synthetic or semi-synthetic organic solids that are malleable.
(41) As used herein, the term “metal” refers to any material such as but not limited to an element, compound, or alloy that is typically hard, opaque, shiny, has good electrical and thermal conductivity, and further that is malleable.
(42) As used herein, the term “malleability” refers to a material's ability to deform under compressive stress.
(43) As used herein, the term “opposite” refers to something having a position on the other or further side of something else, thus facing something, especially something of the same type.
(44) As used herein, the term “arcuate” refers to a structure that is curvilinear.
(45) As used herein, the term “stationary” refers to an object that is not moving.
(46) As used herein, the term “diameter” refers to any straight line segment that passes through the center of a circle or half-circle, and whose endpoints lie on the circle or half-circle.
(47) As used herein, the term “sufficient” is meant to have the equivalent meaning of adequate and enough.
(48) As used herein, the term “substantially” is meant to have the equivalent meaning of essentially, largely, considerably or the like.
(49) As used herein, the term “maximum” refers to the greatest quantity or value attainable or attained.
(50) As used herein, the term “minimum” refers to the least quantity assignable, admissible, attainable or possible.
(51) As used herein, “a” and “an” each generally denotes “at least one” but does not exclude a plurality unless the contextual use clearly dictates otherwise
(52) As used herein, the singular form “a”, “and”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
(53) The present invention provides an easy-to-use improved trash can stabilizer, which has multi-functionality. Thus, the trash can stabilizer is highly universal and is able to accept trash cans of many different sizes and shapes. However, having said that, a skilled artisan would understand that the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to merely holding and stabilizing trash cans, but can equally be used to stabilize refuse containers, receptacles or other similar structures.
(54) Now, generally referring to the drawings in which like numerals represent like components throughout the several views, the preferred embodiments of the present invention are next described. The following description of one or more preferred embodiment(s) is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses.
(55) FIGS. 1-4 depict the various embodiments of the present invention. In a first embodiment, the present invention specifically relates to a trash can stabilizer 2, which is composed of several individual structural units, wherein the individual structural units are best depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2. The main core components of the trash can stabilizer 2 in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention comprise: i) a base leg 4 made up by at least two flat base plates 6, wherein the at least two of the base plates are situated opposite one another on the trash can stabilizer 2, and are in direct perpendicular physical communication via a third base plate 6 forming the back portion of the base leg 4, ii) a back plate 10, which has a plurality of back plate holes 22 thereon, such that the trash can stabilizer 2 can be securely mounted on a vertical fixed surface, iii) at least two vertically adjustable support bars 12 having a plurality of support bar holes 24, and thanks to these support bar holes 24, the height of the support bars 12 can be conveniently adjusted at a desired level prior to use, and the chosen height can subsequently be secured by placing pins through the support bar holes 24 and iv) at least one arcuate shaped flexible arm 14 having a plurality of loops 16 attached to the sides of the flexible arm 14, wherein the arcuate shaped flexible arm is in a direct communication with, and is extending horizontally from the back plate 10, and further wherein the flexible arm 14 can easily conform to any shape or size of a trash can 20, whereby the flexible arm 14 can securely keep the trash can 20 in place, and can thereby stabilize the trash can 20 without the trash can 20 collapsing or tipping over.
(56) Without being limited, a person having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that typically the base leg 4 characterized by the plurality of flat base plates 6; the back plate 10; the support bars 12 and the arcuate shaped flexible arm 14 may be constructed from a metal, mixture of a plurality of metals, or may be thermoformed using a plastic material such as but not limited to polyethylene or the like. An immediate advantage of the trash can stabilizer 2 of the present invention is that the base leg 4 encompassed by the plurality of the flat base plates 6 are constructed thin enough, such that objects can roll or slide over them also advantageously eliminating a trip hazard, if the trash can stabilizer 2 is mounted and placed over a sidewalk.
(57) As best demonstrated in FIG. 1, another advantage of the trash can stabilizer 2 is that the minimum and maximum lengths of the base leg 4 can conveniently be adjusted at a desired level chosen exclusively by the user via the plurality of the flat base plates 6 that can be slid in a horizontal direction along a track 8 constructed on the base leg 4. As such, this unique feature affords great flexibility and advantage for the user when the area for installing the trash can stabilizer 2 is restricting and increased maneuverability is consequently required for installment by the user. The trash can stabilizer 2 can thereafter be mounted onto the ground securely for example by using studs or stakes 26. Other mounting arrangements are possible and a skilled artisan would understand that any other material rendering the trash can stabilizer 2 in a substantially stationary and fixed position can be utilized for mounting.
(58) Yet another benefit is the fact that the trash can stabilizer 2 can be mounted as a fixed stationary entity onto the ground, as well as on a vertical fixed surface such as a wall or any other fixed area. This feature is made possible thanks to the aforementioned back plate 10 having a plurality of back plate holes 22 and the support bars 12 having a plurality of support bar holes 24 built thereon, which is best viewed in FIG. 2. As such, a user is afforded another flexibility as the height of the support bars 12 can conveniently be vertically adjusted at a desired level, which simplifies the procedure for setting up the trash can stabilizer 2 for the user. When a suitable height for the support bars 12 has been chosen, the height is locked and stabilized by using pins or other such material. The trash can stabilizer 2 is subsequently anchored on a vertical fixed surface by taking advantage of the back plate holes 22. For this specific purpose, any material besides employing studs or stakes 26 that is readily available to a person of ordinary skill in the art may be utilized, which will ensure that the back plate 10 is mounted strongly enough, such that the trash can stabilizer 2 stays fixed in direct physical communication with the vertical surface at all times. This can be achieved by nailing the back plate to a wall or port, or by bolting it to a fence or other vertical structure.
(59) Yet another benefit of the trash can stabilizer 2 is the unique feature of the arcuate shaped flexible arm 14, which is in direct physical communication with the back plate 10 and extends horizontally from the back plate 10. As best viewed in FIGS. 1-3, the ends of the arcuate shaped flexible arm 14 curve in an outward direction, and this curvature 18 advantageously ensures that enough tension is provided at all times, such that the flexible arm 14 will hold and stabilize the trash can 2 even during the worst imaginable conditions. The unique design of the flexible arm 14 further allows the user to pass trash cans 2 of virtually any shape or size in and out of the vicinity of the trash can stabilizer 2 smoothly and without any complication. The opposite arcuate construction 18 of the forward ends of the flexible arms facilitates insertion of the trash can into the arms as the body of the can will push apart the two arms to allow the can to be inserted into the opening between the arms.
(60) The flexible arm 14 may be constructed with loops 16 added to the sides substantially in the mid-section portion of the flexible arm 14. Consequently, the benefit afforded by the loops 16 is such that a chain, elastic band or cord can run across the top of the lid, with one end attached to one loop, and the other end attached to the other loop. If desired, hooks can be provided at the ends of the band or cord to facilitate attachment to the loops. As such, the benefit of having the loops manufactured on the flexible arm 14 now becomes apparent, as the tension created by the chain, cord or elastic band when mounted onto the loops 16, will physically hold the trash can lid securely upon the trash can 2. Therefore, the loops 16 can provide an additional advantage of employing increased tension on the flexible arm 14 afforded additionally as described hereinabove by the curvature 18 provided by the ends of the flexible arm 14. Without being bound by theory, placing the loops 16 at substantially in the mid-section portion of the flexible arm 14 would beneficially provide the greatest achievable tension on the flexible arm 14.
(61) A second embodiment of the trash can stabilizer 2 is depicted in FIG. 4. The only differences between the first embodiment described hereinbefore and in FIGS. 1-3 and the second embodiment of the trash can stabilizer 2 shown in FIG. 4 is that the base leg 4 is composed of at least two non-slidable flat plates 6, and the third base plate 6 forming the back portion of the base leg 4, which is present in the first embodiment, is not present in this embodiment. Additionally, in this embodiment, the loops 14 are also not present on the flexible arm 14.
(62) A skilled artisan would immediately realize a number of additional variations of the invention. As noted above, the back plate alone is sufficient to be attached to a wall or fence using appropriate fasteners so that the stabilizer can be placed in a desired location for stabilizing and supporting the trash can. Alternatively, the device can be mounted on the ground using the embodiments of FIG. 1 or 4. In those embodiments, it would also instead be acceptable to utilize a single support bar rather than two provided that the single bar is appropriately secured in a hole with cement to hold the structure upright.
(63) Now generally referring to FIGS. 1-3, the operation of the first embodiment of the present invention will be outlined and described in greater detail. First the user must start by adjusting the horizontal length of the base leg 4 by sliding the two flat plates 6 along the track 8 constructed on the base leg 4. When a suitable length of the base leg 4 has been determined to be sufficient for a given purpose, the user subsequently inserts studs or stakes 26, or any other material with similar properties of studs or stakes 26, and thereafter mounts the trash can stabilizer 2 onto the ground. Subsequent to mounting the trash can stabilizer 2 onto the ground, the user then has to adjust the vertical height of the support bars 12 at a desired level followed by placing pins or like materials through the support bar holes 24. Following this step, as described above, the user then inserts studs or stakes 26 into the back plate holes 22 and affixes the trash can stabilizer 2 on a vertical fixed support surface. When the trash can stabilizer 2 has been stably mounted onto the ground and the fixed vertical support surface, the user must then place the trash can 20 into the area covered by the arcuate shaped flexible arm 14 by extending the ends of the flexible arm 14 in an outwardly direction simultaneously, and thereby opening the flexible arm 14. Finally, the trash can 20 is placed into the area covered by the flexible arm 14 and the trash can 20 is efficiently stabilized and held in an upright position afforded by the tension created by the flexible arm 14. As previously described, elastic bands or cords can be used to secure the trash can lid to the trash can 2. Also, if greater tension is warranted, elastic bands with hooks extending from the lid of the trash can 2 can optionally and conveniently be connected to the plurality of loops 16 situated on the sides of the flexible arm 14. Other arrangements for holding the lid in a closed position on the top of the trash can include the use of a loop, handle, clip, button, flange, knob, slot, hole, screw, latch, strap, magnet, or stitching. These numerous options present a wide variety of construction possibilities for a skilled artisan who is providing trash can stabilizers in accordance with the present invention.
(64) FIG. 5 is a trash can stabilizer 30 in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment comprises a pair of base legs 34 of elongated square rods which are situated opposite one another. Preferably, although not required, the forward ends of the rods can include end caps 35 made of a plastic or elastomeric material to protect the ends of the rods from damage and to provide a more aesthetic appearance. These rods 34 are attached to a flat base plate 36. Also provided are a pair of telescopic support bars 38 that are also in the form of elongated square rods with upper rods that includes a plurality of holes for adjusting the height of the support bars. The upper rods telescopically move vertically within the lower, larger rods. The support bars 38 and base legs 34 are reinforced and additionally connected by side plates 37. Also provided are optional back plates 32, 33 that provide further reinforcement of the stabilizer components. Back plate 32 is attached to both base plate 36 and support bars 38, while back plate 33 is attached to lower portions of the support bars 38.
(65) The stabilizer includes an arm structure 40 that includes cross-member 42, a pair of arm members 44 that have arcuate portions 46 attached thereto and wherein the arcuate portions 46 have pad members 48 attached thereto. The pad members 48 are provided for initial contact with the trash receptacle and which in turn urge the arcuate portions 46 outwardly to open the arm structure 40 so that it can receive the trash can therein. The arm structure 40 is attached to the upper rods of the support bars 38 so that it can be selectively adjusted to a desired height that is best to hold the trash can between the arms 44.
(66) FIG. 6 is another preferred trash can stabilizer 50 in accordance with the present invention. Where features of this embodiment are the same as those of FIG. 5, the same element numbers are used. In this embodiment, the stabilizer 50 is reinforced by providing larger side plates 52 which are L-shaped. These are attached to the both the base plate 36 and lower portions of the support bars 38. Additionally, the arm structure 40 that includes cross-member 42 and a pair of arm members 44 also includes forward ends 54 that are L-shaped with the end of the L facing downwardly. The arm members are angled upwardly to provide better balance of the device when it is freestanding while the L-shaped ends facilitate holding contact with a square or cylindrical trash can.
(67) FIG. 7 is another preferred trash can stabilizer 60 in accordance with the present invention. This stabilizer 60 has telescopic legs 62 made of square tube that can be adjusted to a desired length based on the size of the trash can to be retained therein. Preferably, although not required, the forward ends of the rods can include end caps 64 made of a plastic or elastomeric material to protect the ends of the rods from damage and to provide a more aesthetic appearance. These legs 62 are attached to a flat base plate 66. The base plate holds a generally U-shaped vertical support 68 which also includes a cross-plate 72 that provides additional support to the vertical support 68.
(68) The stabilizer includes an arm structure 70 that is attached to the cross-plate 72, a single U-shaped arm member 74 that is arcuate in shape and that include end portions 76 attached thereto. The arm member can be a round or polygon bar made of metal or a plastic, such as PVC. When the arm member 74 is are made of metal, the end portions 76 can be provided with a rubber or plastic cap, sleeve or glove to prevent scratching of the outer surfaces of the trash can when it is placed into or removed from the arms of the stabilizer 60. The arm member 74 is securely attached to the cross-plate 72, such as by welding or bolting. The arm structure 70 is maintained at a specific height that is selected to hold a particular size of trash can therein.
(69) FIG. 7 also illustrates another optional but preferred feature of the invention. As noted, it is typical to use chains, bungee cords or elastic straps to hold the trash can lid in place on the trash can. These are attached to one or both flexible arm members, and are extended or stretched over the lid and through any open lid handle to then engage the opposite flexible arm member. The chains, cords or straps can be mounted onto the arm members by appropriate fasteners or in some situations by welding or even wrapping around the arm members. The chains, cords or bands thus hold the lid on the can. As these chains, cords or bands are attached to the arm members, this could produce forces on those members which causes upward movement and stress on the arm members. To offset this, arm member stabilizers 78 are provided as shown. These arm member stabilizers are typically rods, cords or straps that are attached to the arm members and the base legs to prevent upward movement of the arm members when the chains, cords or bands are attached to the arm members and used to hold the lid on the can. These rods, cords or straps can be attached to the arm members and base legs with appropriate fasteners. Also, the arm member stabilizer rods, cords or bands can be provided with looped portions that fit around the arm members and base legs. Alternatively, attachment loops or other openings can be provided on the arm members or the base legs to facilitate attachment of the arm member stabilizing rods, cords or elastic bands.
(70) FIG. 8 is another preferred trash can stabilizer 70 in accordance with the present invention. Where features of this embodiment are the same as those of FIG. 7, the same element numbers are used. In this embodiment, the arm structure 82 of the stabilizer 80 has an arm member 84 that is made of two bent bars or rods to provide additional strength in holding the trash can therein. These bars can be made of metal or a plastic, such as PVC. When they are made of metal, as noted, the end portions 76 can be provided with a rubber or plastic cap, sleeve or glove to prevent scratching of the outer surfaces of the trash can it is placed into the arms of the stabilizer.
(71) FIG. 9 is yet another preferred trash can stabilizer 90 in accordance with the present invention. Where features of this embodiment are the same as those of FIG. 7 or 8, the same element numbers are used. In this embodiment, the arm structure 40 of the stabilizer 90 is the same as that of FIG. 5 and the same element numbers are used as in that figure to designate the same features. In FIG. 9, the rear plate 42 of the arm structure 40 is fixed in position securely attached to the cross-plate 72, such as by welding or bolting. The arm structure 40 is maintained at a specific height that is selected to hold a particular size of trash can therein.
(72) FIG. 10 is another preferred trash can stabilizer 100 in accordance with the present invention. Where features of this embodiment are the same as those of FIG. 5 or 6, the same element numbers are used. In FIG. 10, the stabilizer has certain ornamental features to tie into the proposed device name of CAN KOALA™ wherein the pad members 94 are configured to mimic the paws of a Koala Bear while the end caps 92 of the legs 34 are configured to mimic the feet of a Koala Bear. Typing into the ornamental feature is the use of base plate 36, side plates 52 and rear plate 42 in the shape of an open triangle which mimics the shape of a boomerang. In addition to these nice ornamental touches to the device, the open triangle plates provide good reinforcement strength at a lower weight due to the opening in the center area of each triangular plate.
(73) FIGS. 5-10 illustrate that the stabilizers depicted therein can be used as a freestanding device although in preferred embodiments wither the back plate of support bars can be attached to a structure such as the side of a building or a pole for further resistance to movement or tipping over of the stabilizer beyond that which is provided by the legs. Also, in these embodiments the arms members are sufficiently flexible to be moveable to a position for receiving the trash can therein but are also configured to provide sufficient force to return to their original position to securely hold the trash can from unintended or undesired movement. And each flexible arm can be provided with at least one loop attached thereto for receiving a rope, cord or elastic band to assist in holding the trash can between the arms or to prevent downward movement of the flexible arm.
(74) FIGS. 11-16 illustrate the various embodiments of the present invention with mechanisms that facilitate the insertion of the trash can or the like.
(75) In a first embodiment, the present invention specifically relates to a trash can stabilizer 100, as depicted in FIG. 11. FIG. 11A depicts an isometric view of the trash can stabilizer 100. FIG. 11B depicts a top view of the trash can stabilizer 100. FIG. 11C depicts a front view of the trash can stabilizer 100. FIG. 11D depicts a side view of the trash can stabilizer 100. The trash can stabilizer 100 is configured for holding and maintaining a trash can (not shown) in a stationary position or a substantially stationary position. The trash can stabilizer 100 comprises a back plate 7 for providing a flat vertical surface. The back plate 7 may comprise holes through which the stabilizer 100 can be mounted on a wall or fence. Any other mechanism of mounting the stabilizer 100 on a wall or fence should be readily available to a person of ordinary skill in the art. The stabilizer 100 further comprises a pair of elongated, rigid supports 8 associated with and extending horizontally away from the back plate 7. Each support 8 has a flexible member and/or sheet 9 which faces that of the other support 8. Any method which will readily be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art can be used to attach the flexible member and/or sheet 9 to each of the supports 8. The flexible members and/or sheets 9 are initially positioned so that an opening is provided between them. The opening is smaller in diameter than the trash can that is to be received therein. Flexible members and/or sheets 9 are configured to be compressed or flexed so that the trash can is insertable into the opening. In other words, the flexible members and/or sheets 9 conform to the shape of the trash can as the trash can is inserted toward the opening between the members and/or sheets. Preferably, the flexible members and/or sheets 9 are initially curved but become flattened as the trash can is inserted toward the opening. On the contrary, the rigid supports 8 do not change their shapes as the trash can is inserted toward the opening between the members and/or sheets. At any time, the supports 8 keep being perpendicular to the back plate 7. Accordingly, the flexible members and/or sheets 9 are made of materials which are capable of conforming their shapes when the can is inserted toward the opening. Also, the rigid supports are made of materials that can withhold the pressure or force applied when the trash can is inserted toward the opening. Alternatively, thickness of the members and/or sheets and supports can be chosen to provide flexibility or rigidity. After the trash can is inserted therein, it is secured in the opening as the compressed or flexed flexible members and/or sheets 9 attempt to return to their initial position. For example, the compressed or flexed flexible members and/or sheets 9 are shaped or dimensioned to have a restoring force so that the force is directly or indirectly applied to the trash can and helps stabilize the trash can from tipping or being knocked over. It is to be understood that a user can push the trash can or the like toward the opening provided between the flexible members and/or sheets 9 to secure it in place and pull it out from the opening when not used.
(76) FIG. 12 illustrates a trash can stabilizer 200 in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12A depicts an isometric view of the trash can stabilizer 200. FIG. 12B depicts a top view of the trash can stabilizer 200. FIG. 12C depicts a front view of the trash can stabilizer 200. FIG. 12D depicts a side view of the trash can stabilizer 200. The trash can stabilizer 200 comprises a back plate 7 for providing a flat vertical surface. The back plate 7 may comprise holes through which the stabilizer 200 can be mounted on a wall or fence. Any other mechanism of mounting the stabilizer 200 on a wall or fence should be readily available to a person of ordinary skill in the art. The stabilizer 200 further comprises a pair of elongated, rigid supports 8 associated with and extending horizontally away from the back plate 7. Any method which will readily be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art can be used to attach the flexible member and/or sheet 9 to each of the supports 8. Each support has a first portion 16 which faces that of the other support 8 and is initially positioned so that an opening is provided between the first portions 8. The opening is smaller in diameter than the trash can that is to be received therein. The supports also have flexible members and/or sheets 9 which are spaced apart from each other, positioned towards the forward ends 17 of the supports 8, and configured to be compressed or flexed so that the trash can is movable past the flexible members and/or sheets 9. In other words, the flexible members and/or sheets 9 conform to the shape of the trash can as the trash can is inserted toward the members and/or sheets. Preferably, the flexible members and/or sheets 9 are initially curved but become flattened as the trash can is inserted toward the members and/or sheets 9. The first portions 16 of the supports 8 are not covered by the flexible members and/or sheets 9. On the contrary, the rigid supports 8 do not change their shapes as the trash can is inserted toward the members and/or sheets. At any time, the supports 8 keep being perpendicular to the back plate 7. Accordingly, the flexible members and/or sheets 9 are made of materials which are capable of conforming their shapes when the can is inserted toward the flexible members and/or sheets 9. Also, the rigid supports are made of materials that can withhold the pressure or force applied when the trash can is inserted toward the flexible members and/or sheets 9. Alternatively, thickness of the members and/or sheets and supports can be chosen to provide flexibility or rigidity. After the trash can moves past the flexible members and/or sheets 9, it is secured in the opening provided between the first portions 16. The compressed or flexed flexible members and/or sheets 9 are shaped or dimensioned to have a restoring force. Once the can is inserted far enough into the device 200, the members and/or sheets 9 flex or relax back to their original shape and return to their initial position by the restoring force and function as a barrier or blockage that helps stabilize the trash can between the opening from tipping or being knocked over. It is to be understood that a user can push the trash can or the like toward the opening through the flexible members and/or sheets 9 to secure it in the opening and pull it out from the opening through the flexible members and or sheets 9 when not used.
(77) In preferred embodiments, each rigid support 8 is attached to the back plate 7 and extends horizontally away from the back plate 7. Also, the trash can stabilizer 100/200 further comprises a support leg 10 that extends from the back plate 7 toward the ground for placement of the back plate 7 at a predetermined vertical position so that the rigid supports 8 are located at a height that is sufficient to hold a mid or upper portion of the trash can. In some desirable embodiments, the support leg 10 comprises a plurality of holes and pin members such that back plate 7 can be adjusted to a desired height by selectively placing pins in the desired holes in the support leg 10. A diagonal leg 12, preferably, extends diagonally from a top portion of the support leg 10 toward the ground diagonally to a foot leg 13. In an embodiment, the support leg 10 and foot leg 13 are reverse T-shaped so that they can provide flat placement to the ground. The support leg 10 and foot leg 13 include an aperture 14 for receiving a stud or a stake that can be driven into the ground to secure the stabilizer 100/200 in position. In an embodiment, two support legs 10, two diagonal legs 12, and two foot legs 13 are provided. The flexible member and/or sheet 9, back plate 7, support leg 10, diagonal leg 12, and foot leg 13 are made of metal or plastic. Any material which will readily be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art can be used for the legs. The diagonal leg 12 is associated with the support leg 10 through a mechanism 11 such as hole, a slot, or a rail which adjusts a position of a top portion of the diagonal leg 12. The diagonal leg 12 is associated with the foot leg 13 through a mechanism 15 such as a hole, a slot, or a rail which adjust a position of a bottom portion of the diagonal leg 12. Any mechanism which will readily be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art can be used for the mechanism. An angle between the diagonal leg 12 and the foot leg 13 and a distance between the support leg 10 and the foot leg 13 are determined by the position of the top portion and the bottom portion of the diagonal leg 12. Each support 8 may include at least one loop 24 attached thereto for receiving a rope, cord or elastic band to assist in securing a trash can lid to the trash can.
(78) FIG. 13 illustrates a trash can stabilizer 300 in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13A depicts an isometric view of the trash can stabilizer 300. FIG. 13B depicts a top view of the trash can stabilizer 300. FIG. 13C depicts a front view of the trash can stabilizer 300. FIG. 13D depicts a side view of the trash can stabilizer 300. The trash can stabilizer 300 comprises a back plate 7 for providing a flat vertical surface. The back plate 7 may comprise holes through which the stabilizer 300 can be mounted on a wall or fence. Any other mechanism of mounting the stabilizer 300 on a wall or fence should be readily available to a person of ordinary skill in the art. The stabilizer 300 further comprises a pair of elongated, flexible arms 18 associated with and extending horizontally away from the back plate 7. Each arm 18 has a first portion 19 which faces that of the other arm 18 and is initially positioned so that an opening is provided between the arms 18. The opening is smaller in diameter than the trash can that is to be received therein. The arms 18 also have forward ends 20 which are spaced apart from each other and embed wheels 21 so that the trash can is insertable into the opening by moving the forward ends 20 of the arms 18 away from each other and contacting wheels 21. The contacted wheels 21 are configured to rotate to facilitate the insertion of the trash can or the like toward the opening formed between the first portions 19. Any method which will readily be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art can be used to embed the wheels 21 to each of the arms 18. Preferably, the wheels 21 are aligned to be horizontal to the ground. After the can is inserted therein, it is secured in the opening as the flexible arms 18 attempt to return to their initial position. It is to be understood that a user can push the trash can or the like toward the opening through the wheels 21 to secure it in place and pull it out from the opening through the wheels 21 when not used.
(79) FIG. 14 illustrates a trash can stabilizer 400 in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14A depicts an isometric view of the trash can stabilizer 400. FIG. 14B depicts a top view of the trash can stabilizer 400. FIG. 14C depicts a front view of the trash can stabilizer 400. FIG. 14D depicts a side view of the trash can stabilizer 400. The trash can stabilizer 400 comprises a back plate 7 for providing a flat vertical surface. The back plate 7 may comprise holes through which the stabilizer 400 can be mounted on a wall or fence. Any other mechanism of mounting the stabilizer 400 on a wall or fence should be readily available to a person of ordinary skill in the art. The stabilizer 400 further comprises a pair of elongated, flexible arms 18 associated with and extending horizontally away from the back plate 7. Each arm 18 has a first portion 19 which faces that of the other arm 18 and is initially positioned so that an opening is provided between the arms 18. The opening is smaller in diameter than the trash can that is to be received therein. The arms 18 also have forward ends 20 which are spaced apart from each other. Each of the forward ends 20 embeds more than one wheel 21 so that the trash can is insertable into the opening by moving the forward ends 20 of the arms 18 away from each other and contacting wheels 21. For example, each of the forward ends 20 may embed two, three, or four wheels 21. The multiple wheels can be horizontally, vertically, or randomly aligned in the forward ends 20. The contacted wheels 21 are configured to rotate to facilitate the insertion of the trash can or the like toward the opening formed between the first portions 19. Any method which will readily be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art can be used to embed the wheels 21 to each of the arms 18. Preferably, the wheels 21 are aligned to be horizontal to the ground. It is to be understood that more than one wheel 21 on each forward end 20 allows easier insertion of the trash can or the like toward the opening. After the can is inserted therein, it is secured in the opening as the flexible arms 18 attempt to return to their initial position. It is to be understood that a user can push the trash can or the like toward the opening through the wheels 21 to secure it in place and pull it out from the opening through the wheels 21 when not used.
(80) FIG. 15 illustrates a trash can stabilizer 500 in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15A depicts an isometric view of the trash can stabilizer 500. FIG. 15B depicts a top view of the trash can stabilizer 500. FIG. 15C depicts a front view of the trash can stabilizer 500. FIG. 15D depicts a side view of the trash can stabilizer 500. The trash can stabilizer 500 comprises a back plate 7 for providing a flat vertical surface. The back plate 7 may comprise holes through which the stabilizer 500 can be mounted on a wall or fence. Any other mechanism of mounting the stabilizer 500 on a wall or fence should be readily available to a person of ordinary skill in the art. The stabilizer 500 further comprises a pair of elongated, flexible arms 18 associated with and extending horizontally away from the back plate 7. Each arm 18 has a first portion 19 which faces that of the other arm 18 and is initially positioned so that an opening is provided between the arms. The opening is smaller in diameter than the trash can that is to be received therein. The arms 18 also have forward ends 20 which are spaced apart from each other and have bearings 23 so that the trash can is insertable into the opening by moving the forward ends 20 of the arms 18 away from each other and contacting bearings 23. The contacted bearings 23 are configured to rotate to facilitate the insertion of the trash can or the like toward the opening formed between the first portions 19. Any method which will readily be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art can be used to embed the bearings 23 to each of the arms 18. Unlike wheels that rotate in one direction, the ball-shaped bearings 23 provide a rotation in multiple direction. This allows a user to easily push the trash can or the like toward the opening through the bearings 23. After the can is inserted therein, it is secured in the opening as the flexible arms 18 attempt to return to their initial position. It is to be understood that a user can push the trash can or the like toward the opening through the bearings 23 to secure it in place and pull it out from the opening through the bearings 23 when not used.
(81) FIG. 16 illustrates a trash can stabilizer 600 in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16A depicts an isometric view of the trash can stabilizer 600. FIG. 16B depicts a top view of the trash can stabilizer 600. FIG. 16C depicts a front view of the trash can stabilizer 600. FIG. 16D depicts a side view of the trash can stabilizer 600 The trash can stabilizer 600 comprises a back plate 7 for providing a flat vertical surface. The back plate 7 may comprise holes through which the stabilizer 600 can be mounted on a wall or fence. Any other mechanism of mounting the stabilizer 600 on a wall or fence should be readily available to a person of ordinary skill in the art. The stabilizer 600 further comprises a pair of elongated, flexible arms 18 associated with and extending horizontally away from the back plate 7. Each arm 18 has a first portion 19 which faces that of the other arm 18 and is initially positioned so that an opening is provided between the arms 18. The opening is smaller in diameter than the trash can that is to be received therein. The arms 18 also have forward ends 20 which are spaced apart from each other. Each of the forward ends 20 embeds more than one bearing 23 so that the trash can is insertable into the opening by moving the forward ends 20 of the arms 18 away from each other and contacting bearings 23. For example, each of the forward ends 20 may embed two, three, or four bearings 23. The multiple bearings can be horizontally, vertically, or randomly aligned in the forward ends 20. Any method which will readily be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art can be used to embed the bearings 23 to each of the arms 18. It is to be understood that more than one bearing 23 on each forward end 20 allows easier insertion of the trash can or the like toward the opening. After the can is inserted therein, it is secured in the opening as the flexible arms 18 attempt to return to their initial position. It is to be understood that a user can push the trash can or the like toward the opening through the bearings 23 to secure it in place and pull it out from the opening through the bearings 23 when not used.
(82) In some desired embodiments, the forward end 20 of each flexible arm 18 preferably includes an arcuate portion that faces away from the opening to facilitate movement of the arms 18 away from each other by passing the trash can past and between the flexible arm ends 20. The wheels 21/bearings 23 are preferably embedded in the arcuate position. The flexible arms 18 preferably have second, rearward portions 22 that are attached to the back plate 7. The second, rearward portions 22 along with the first portions 19 may form a smooth/uniform or a varying degree of curvature or radius throughout the flexible arms 18, including a soft and/or sharp curve.
(83) In preferred embodiments, each flexible arm 18 is attached to the back plate 7 and extends horizontally away from the back plate 7. Also, the trash can stabilizer 300/400/500/600 further comprises a support leg 10 that extends from the back plate 7 toward the ground for placement of the back plate 7 at a predetermined vertical position so that the flexible arms 18 are located at a height that is sufficient to hold a mid or upper portion of the trash can. In some desirable embodiments, the support leg 10 comprises a plurality of holes and pin members such that back plate 7 can be adjusted to a desired height by selectively placing pins in the desired holes in the support leg 10. A diagonal leg 12, preferably, extends diagonally from a top portion of the support leg 10 toward the ground diagonally to a foot leg 13. In an embodiment, the support leg 10 and foot leg 13 are reverse T-shaped so that they can provide flat placement to the ground. The support leg 10 and the foot leg 13 include an aperture 14 for receiving a stud or a stake that can be driven into the ground to secure the stabilizer 300/400/500/600 in position. In an embodiment, two support legs 10, two diagonal legs 12, and two foot legs 13 are provided. The flexible member and/or sheet 9, back plate 7, support leg 10, diagonal leg 12, and foot leg 13 are made of metal or plastic. Any material which will readily be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art can be used for the legs. The diagonal leg 12 is associated with the support leg 10 through a mechanism 11 such as hole, a slot, or a rail which adjusts a position of a top portion of the diagonal leg 12. The diagonal leg 12 is associated with the foot leg 13 through a mechanism 15 such as a hole, a slot, or a rail which adjust a position of a bottom portion of the diagonal leg 12. Any mechanism which will readily be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art can be used for the mechanism. An angle between the diagonal leg 12 and the foot leg 13 and a distance between the support leg 10 and the foot leg 13 are determined by the position of the top portion and the bottom portion of the diagonal leg 12. Each flexible arm 18 may include at least one loop 24 attached thereto for receiving a rope, cord or elastic band to assist in securing a trash can lid to the trash can.
(84) It should also be noted that any of the arm structures can be used with any of the leg structures and side or back supports as disclosed herein. These components can be sleeved for the features they provide to construct any type of stabilizer for a particular trash can or series of trash cans. The various selections fall completely within the skill of an artisan that would have the benefit of this disclosure before them.
(85) In sum it is to be understood and realized that since numerous modifications and changes will readily be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact entities as specifically demonstrated in this disclosure. For example, the ends of the flexible arms can be configured to include a square or rectangular shape in order to engage and hold a similarly sized square or rectangular trash container. Of course, straight flexible arms can also be used but the invention is more adaptable to the use of flexible arms with ends that more or less conform to the shape of the trash can to be stabilized. Accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to falling within the scope of the invention.
(86) It should also be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with, or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of the disclosed invention. As such, the described materials used for the manufacture of the trash can stabilizer, and methods of use should not only be construed to be limited to specifically cover what has exclusively been described in this disclosure.
(87) Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have same meaning as commonly understood by the person of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Thus the scope of the embodiments of the present invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents rather than by the Figures.
