On January 11, 2006, Rubbermaid Incorporated filed a suit against Plano Molding Company in the US District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, alleging infrigement of U S Patent No. 6,983,854, Anti-tip rack for long handled tools.

We know, we know, this is not quite the most interesting subject matter invention that we have come across, but have you looked in your garage lately? If it resembles the IdeaCop(tm)'s, then it is not a pretty sight.

Since we need companies like Rubbermaid to help keep our homes in order, we are conflicted in posting potentially material prior art, but that is our call in life and so we do what we do.

Thus, the IdeaCop(tm) has put together some references and Plano may get a head start on its defense for the patent in play.

If you are really conflicted, go out and buy a Rubbermaid product but in any event, post your comments and alternative references.

Better yet, contact the parties!
John D. Gould
MERCHANT & GOULD PC
P.O. BOX 2903
MINNEAPOLIS MN 55402-0903
jgould@merchant-gould.com

Plano Molding Company
431 East South Street
Plano IL, 60545
customercare@planomolding.com

USPat_6%2C983%2C854.DOC