Back to results
US 2008/0257331 A1Published application
Automated opening/closing apparatus and method for a container having a hinged lid
OwnerChris LOCKHARTinventor
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
An actuator moves the hinged lid of a cooking grill or similar container between a closed position and an opened position when an electronic sensor detects the approach of a person. For example, the actuator can open the lid when a person approaches, and then close the lid at a later time, such as when the person activates a switch or leaves the area, or after a time interval.
Claims21
An apparatus for opening and closing a cooking grill having a hinged lid, comprising:
- an actuator system coupled to a base of the cooking grill and the hinged lid;
- and
- a controller system having an electronic sensor, the controller system causing the actuator system to move the lid to an open position when the electronic sensor receives a signal.
A method for opening and closing a cooking grill having a hinged lid, comprising the steps of:
- receiving a signal in response to detection of an event occurring external to the grill;
- and
- in response to receiving the signal, causing an actuator system to move the lid from a closed position to an open position.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.