Patent Publication Number: US-2003234205-A1

Title: Multi-tool kitchen utensil kit and container

Description:
[0001] This invention relates to kitchen utensils, kitchen utensil kits and containers and manufacturing methods. This patent application is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 10/177,699 filed Jun. 20, 2002, and of application Ser. No. 29/164,208, filed Aug. 19, 2002, and of application Ser. No. 10/286,691, filed Nov. 1, 2002. 
    
    
     
       [0002] The crowding and jumble of kitchen utensils in the usual kitchen drawer is a hindrance of long standing. The jumble makes it difficult to find individual implements, and often extends the time and exasperation in obtaining a utensil from the drawer due to the fact that the drawer cannot be closed until the utensils in the drawer are rearranged.  
       [0003] One of the causes of the foregoing problems is the amount of space occupied by each implement.  
       [0004] Proposals have been made in the past to provide a partial solution to this problem by supplying a single handle with a plurality of attachments to be attached to the handle, each being an implement for a different purpose.  
       [0005] Such prior proposals have been considerably less than fully satisfactory. Although, in theory, those proposals result in a reduction of the volume occupied by the kitchen utensils, they are believed to do little to lessen the jumble and difficulty of finding and retrieving specific implements.  
       [0006] Furthermore, the means used to attach the individual accessories to the handle are relatively difficult to use and/or less than fully satisfactory in other ways.  
       [0007] Another problem with some kitchen implements, especially those whose handles are visible when the implements are stored such as kitchen knives, the handles are not dishwasher-safe; that is, the handles, usually made of wood or heat-sensitive plastics, will fade, crack or otherwise deteriorate if they are washed frequently in the dishwasher.  
       [0008] Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a kitchen utensil device which alleviates or resolves the above problems.  
       [0009] In particular, it is an object to provide a utensil system in which the components are ordered and housed so as to minimize tangling and disorder of the components, and to minimize the use of kitchen drawer and other storage space.  
       [0010] It is another object of the invention to provide a multi-tool kitchen implement device with a handle and a plurality of attachments easily and securely attachable to and detachable from the handle.  
       [0011] It is a further object of the invention to provide such a multi-tool device which is relatively strong, durable, simple in construction and easy to use and store.  
       [0012] Another object of the invention is to provide such a device which is ergonomically shaped so as to make it easy to grasp and comfortable to use.  
       [0013] It is a further object of the invention to provide a method of manufacturing the multi-tool device of the invention and the kit with economy, speed and quality.  
       [0014] Another object of the invention is to provide an organizer tray or receptacle for organizing and compactly storing kitchen implements in the kitchen.  
       [0015] Still further, it is an object to provide improved kitchen implements with superior or performance and/or structural strength and cost advantages over prior comparable implements.  
       [0016] Another object of the invention is to provide packaging for the separate sale of individual implements and trays so as to assure that the implements are properly matched to the trays in which they fit.  
       [0017] In accordance with the present invention, the foregoing objectives are satisfied by the provision of a multi-tool kitchen utensil kit with a container to hold and organize a plurality of components of a multi-tool device in the container.  
       [0018] An additional object is to provide a multi-tool kitchen device and kit in which the tools are both attractive in appearance and yet are made dishwasher-safe at a moderate to low cost.  
       [0019] Preferably, the container has a plurality of recesses, each shaped to hold a component of the multi-tool device. Each kit is adapted to be secured together with other containers containing different components of the multi-tool device to form a organization system to keep the tool components in an orderly fashion in a kitchen drawer or on a shelf, or in another available space.  
       [0020] In one embodiment, each recess is shaped to receive a specific component, and means are provided for attaching various containers together to form a unitary support structure for holding and organizing the multi-tool components neatly in a kitchen drawer. Thus, space is saved and the usual jumble of kitchen implements in the drawer is avoided.  
       [0021] Alternatively, the kit includes a container for storage on a counter-top or similar surface.  
       [0022] The implements can be stored with one end up in a relatively deep container, or flat in a relatively shallow container for use in shallow drawers.  
       [0023] The single handle needed for use with a variety of tools, and the tools themselves, can be made both dishwasher-safe and attractive in appearance at a modest cost.  
       [0024] In one embodiment of the kit, the handle and a plurality of accessories are stored in units suitable for display on a kitchen counter-top, shelf or other such surface. The kit also is useful for display of the product in stores, on television and in other advertising.  
       [0025] In another embodiment of the kit, the handle and a plurality of accessories are stored in stackable trays. The trays preferably have upstanding posts which are used to support and accurately align one tray on top of the other. Preferably, the trays have side walls which are substantially shorter in height than the attachments which fit into the trays, thus saving material for the trays and making the attachments easier to grasp and remove. The stackable trays occupy a smaller footprint than the other trays designed for use inside drawers, thus allowing for more flexibility in the use of the drawer space.  
       [0026] The multi-tool device includes a handle with attachment means mating with similar attachment means on each of a plurality of accessories so that each accessory can simply be inserted and snapped into place and held tightly in the handle. This holds the accessory onto the handle very securely. The accessory then can be detached by the simple act of pushing a button or lever with one finger or separated from the handle by simply tipping the handle to allow gravity to do the work.  
       [0027] The handle advantageously is ergonomically shaped, and is manufactured by co-molding a flexible elastomeric cover over a molded plastic handle to provide a handle which can be firmly, easily and comfortably gripped while wielding the kitchen implement attached to it.  
       [0028] In another aspect, the invention includes an organizer tray for kitchen implements. Preferably, the trays are assembled together, either side-by-side, or stacked on top of one another. Either upstanding posts are used to support the top of the bottom tray, or the top tray is made so as to slide on the bottom tray.  
       [0029] Indicia are provided to identify the implement which is to go into the receptacle. The indicia can take several forms, including shaping the receptacle like the shape of the article to go into it; marking the receptacle with a representation of the implement; and color coding or alphanumeric marking of the implements and the receptacles.  
       [0030] An improved reamer-type citrus fruit juicer is provided with alternating large and small recesses in the reamer body for better juice extraction.  
       [0031] An improved jar opener is provided with hinged clamp jaws which can be folded into a compact unit for space-saving storage in the tray and in a kitchen drawer.  
       [0032] A packaging system is provided in which components of the kit are sold separately with indicia, preferably color-coding, on the packages of implements and trays to indicate the tray that each implement is designed to fit into so that the purchaser buys the right tray for each implement purchased.  
       [0033] The foregoing and other objects and advantages of the invention will be described in or apparent from the following description of the drawings. 
     
    
    
     IN THE DRAWINGS  
     [0034]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a multi-tool kitchen utensil kit of the present invention;  
     [0035]FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional, broken away view illustrating the attachment of the two kit modules of FIG. 1 together;  
     [0036]FIG. 3 is a top plan view of a kitchen drawer with various kit modules located in the drawer to organize and arrange the components of a multi-tool kitchen utensil or implement system;  
     [0037]FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the handle of the multi-tool device of the present invention;  
     [0038]FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the handle shown in FIG. 4;  
     [0039]FIG. 6 is a phantom side elevation view of the handle shown in FIG. 4;  
     [0040]FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along lines  7 - 7  of FIG. 4;  
     [0041]FIGS. 8 and 9 are front elevation views showing the handle of FIG. 4 in two different operative configurations;  
     [0042]FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a component of the handle shown in FIG. 4;  
     [0043]FIG. 11 is a broken-away perspective view of another component of the handle of FIG. 4;  
     [0044]FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a pizza cutter accessory for the handle down in FIG. 3;  
     [0045]FIGS. 13 and 14 are perspective views showing the process of attachment of the pizza cutter of FIG. 12 to the handle of FIG. 4;  
     [0046]FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a cheese slicer accessory;  
     [0047]FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a citrus peel scraper or “zester” accessory;  
     [0048]FIG. 17 is an exploded view of the device shown in FIG. 16;  
     [0049]FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a citrus fruit reamer accessory;  
     [0050]FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an ice cream scoop accessory;  
     [0051]FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a “horizontal: accessory” peeler accessory;  
     [0052]FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a melon baller accessory;  
     [0053] FIG. . 22  is an exploded view of a “straight” peeler accessory;  
     [0054]FIG. 23 is a perspective assembly view of the device shown in FIG. 22;  
     [0055]FIG. 24 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention;  
     [0056]FIG. 25 is an exploded perspective view of the device shown in FIG. 24;  
     [0057]FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional, partially schematic broken-away view taken along line  26 - 26  of FIG. 24;  
     [0058]FIG. 27 is a top plan view, partially cross-sectional and partially schematic, of the device shown in FIGS. 24 through 26;  
     [0059]FIG. 28 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention with a zester accessory;  
     [0060]FIG. 29 is an exploded view of the device shown in FIG. 28, with a straight peeler accessory;  
     [0061]FIG. 30 is an exploded perspective view of the device of FIG. 28 with an ice cream scoop accessory;  
     [0062]FIGS. 31 and 32 are top plan views, partially schematic, and partially cross-sectional, of two additional embodiments of the invention;  
     [0063] Each of FIGS. 33 through 39 is a top plan view of a different accessory for use with the handle of the invention;  
     [0064]FIG. 40 is a side elevation view of a component holder and kit provided in accordance with the present invention;  
     [0065]FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional view of another component holder and kit provided in accordance with the invention;  
     [0066]FIG. 42 is a perspective, partially exploded view of another component holder and kit provided in accordance with the present invention;  
     [0067]FIG. 43 is a rear elevation view of each of the modules shown in FIG. 42;  
     [0068]FIG. 44 is a perspective view of another accessory provided in accordance with the present invention;  
     [0069]FIG. 45 is a perspective view of another kit including stacked individual kits or trays;  
     [0070]FIGS. 46 and 47 are front elevation views of the separate trays of FIGS. 45;  
     [0071]FIGS. 48 and 49 are perspective views of the trays of FIGS. 46 and 47, without implements in them;  
     [0072]FIGS. 50 and 51 are front and rear perspective views of another accessory provided in accordance with the present invention;  
     [0073]FIGS. 52 and 53 are front perspective and side elevation views, respectively, of another accessory provided in accordance with the present invention;  
     [0074]FIG. 54 is a top plan view of another embodiment of the implement holder or tray of the present invention;  
     [0075]FIG. 55 is a cross-sectional view taken along line  55 - 55  of FIG. 54, with implements in place in the tray;  
     [0076]FIG. 56 is a cross-sectional, partially broken away view like that of FIG. 55 but of a different embodiment of the implement holder or tray of the present invention;  
     [0077]FIG. 57 is a top plan view of another implement holder or tray constructed in accordance with the present invention;  
     [0078]FIG. 58 is a top plan view of another embodiment of the implement holder or tray of the present invention;  
     [0079]FIGS. 59 and 60 are perspective and side elevation schematic views, respectively, of a portion of another embodiment of the holder or tray of the present invention;  
     [0080]FIG. 61 is a schematic, side elevation view of another embodiment like that shown in FIGS. 59 and 60;  
     [0081]FIG. 62 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the structure shown in FIG. 63, taken along lines  62 - 62  of FIG. 63;  
     [0082]FIG. 63 is a perspective, partially schematic view of another embodiment of the holder or tray of the present invention;  
     [0083]FIG. 64 is a perspective view of another implement holder or tray of the present invention;  
     [0084]FIG. 65 is a perspective view of sliding tray assembly provided in accordance with the present invention;  
     [0085]FIG. 66 is an enlarged, broken away view of a detail of the structure of FIG. 65;  
     [0086]FIG. 67 is a perspective view of a garlic press implement of the present invention;  
     [0087]FIG. 68 is a side elevation view of the citrus fruit reamer shown in perspective view in FIG. 18;  
     [0088]FIGS. 69, 70 and  71  are cross-sectional views taken, respectively, along lines  69 - 69 ,  70 - 70 , and  71 - 71 ;  
     [0089]FIGS. 72 and 73 are top and bottom perspective views, respectively, of a jar opener implement of the present invention in closed position;  
     [0090]FIGS. 74 and 75 are top and bottom perspective views of the device shown in FIGS. 72 and 73, in an open condition;  
     [0091]FIG. 76 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the slidable trays of the present invention;  
     [0092]FIG. 77 is a top plan view of a kitchen drawer with the assembly of FIG. 76 inside;  
     [0093]FIG. 78 is a top plan view of the superimposed trays shown in FIG. 65 in place in a kitchen drawer;  
     [0094]FIG. 79 is a cross-sectional, broken away view taken along line  79 - 79  of FIG. 76;  
     [0095]FIGS. 80 and 81 are top plan views of packages, each containing a single implement (FIG. 80) or a combination of implements (FIG. 81) for sale as components of the kit of the present invention; and  
     [0096]FIG. 82 is a front perspective, partially broken-away view of a package in which a tray constructed in accordance with the invention is sold. 
    
    
     MULTI-TOOL KITCHEN UTENSIL KIT  
     [0097] FIGS.  1 - 3  illustrate one embodiment of the multi-tool kitchen utensil or implement kit  50  constructed in accordance with the present invention.  
     [0098] The kit  50  includes at least one container  52  containing a plurality of components for interconnection to one another to form various kitchen tools. Two such containers  52  and  54  are shown in FIG. 1 to illustrate the different forms that the containers and their contents can take.  
     [0099] The container  52  is generally rectangular in shape, and has four vertical side walls  56  and a top wall  55 . The top wall  55  has a plurality of depressions  62 ,  64 ,  66  and  68 , each of which is shaped to receive a specific component of a multi-tool device.  
     [0100] The components to be used in a particular grouping can be varied as desired. However, the grouping shown in container  52  includes a handle  88 , an ice cream scoop  82 , a pizza-cutting wheel  84  and a peeler  86 .  
     [0101] Container  54  also has four vertical side walls  60  and an upper wall  58 . It is smaller in size than the container  52 , and contains different components of the multi-tool system. The upper wall  58  has recesses  70 ,  72 ,  74  and  76  in which are located, respectively, a handle  88 , a melon bailer  90 , a citrus fruit skin scraper or “zester”  92 , and a citrus reamer or juicer  94 .  
     [0102] A cover  59  is shown for the container  54 , which would cover the container when sold in stores. A similar cover normally will be provided for the container  52 .  
     [0103] Each of the containers  52  and  54  is preferably molded of a thermoplastic resin such as ABS. Its walls are thick and sturdy enough to serve not only as packaging in which the product is shipped and sold, but durable storage and organizing means for the multi-tool components in the kitchen.  
     [0104] To this end, the container  52  is provided with an elongated upstanding tab  80  on the lower edge of at least one side wall.  
     [0105]FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the attachment of the two containers  52  and  54  together by use of the tab  80 . The lower edge of the rear side-wall  60  of container  54  (not visible in FIG. 1) has a shallow notch slightly longer than the tab  80 . The front wall of the unit  54  is inserted into the clip formed by tab  80 , so as to secure the containers together to form an enlarged container and organizer structure.  
     [0106] The container  54  has two separate tabs  81  which can be used to join the units  52  and  54  side-by-side, with the tabs  81  fitting into notches  83  in the side walls of the unit  52 .  
     [0107] The notches in the lower edges of the rear and side walls are provided in order to accommodate the material of the tabs  80 ,  81  to ensure the bottom and top edges of the containers are aligned with one another.  
     [0108]FIG. 3 is a schematic top plan view of a kitchen drawer  96  containing several containers  98 ,  100  and  102  fastened together by clips formed by taps  80  or  81  to occupy a portion of the drawer and provide organization and storage for a variety of components of the multi-tool system.  
     [0109] As an example, the container  98  is larger than the containers  100  and  102 . It contains accessories for the multi-tool system, but no handles. Instead, it includes an ice cream scoop  82 , a cheese slicer  104 , a pizza-cutting wheel  84  and a grater  106 .  
     [0110] Each of the containers  100  and  102  contains a handle  88  together with other accessories to be attached to the handles.  
     [0111] These containers and their arrangement in the kitchen drawer  96  are strictly by way of example to show just some of the combinations that can be used advantageously to store and organize the components of the multi-tool system neatly and compactly. Other kits constructed in accordance with the present invention are shown in other figured of the drawings and are described below.  
     Handle  
     [0112]FIGS. 4 through 11 illustrate the preferred handle  88  of the multi-tool system.  
     [0113] The handle  88  has a hand grip portion  108  with a tapered shape and a pointed end  140 . At the opposite end there is a rotatable locking ring  110  and a receptacle  112  for receiving a mounting projection on an accessory. The locking ring  110  operates in a snap-acting manner to lock an accessory in place and attach it to the handle by the simple step of inserting a projection into the receptacle  112 . The attaching structure also allows the accessory to be detached easily, with one finger, merely by turning the locking ring  110  through a relatively small angle to free the accessory and allow it to fall out of the receptacle under the force of gravity, with the use of only one hand.  
     [0114] Referring now to FIG. 5, which is an exploded view of the handle  88 , the handle has a hard molded plastic base  114 . In one embodiment, the base  114  has a plurality of circumferential ribs  116  and longitudinal ribs  118 . Preferably, the ribs  116  and  118  are of approximately the same thickness. The ribbed construction reduces the use of material and increases the molding speed with which the handles can be manufactured.  
     [0115] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the handle also includes an elastomeric cover  130  which is co-molded in place over the base  114  during manufacturing.  
     [0116] The material of which the base  114  is made preferably is a very strong thermoplastic resin such as a polycarbonate material, and the cover  130  is made of an elastomeric material such as Sanoprene.  
     [0117] Although the ribbed construction for the base  114  saves polycarbonate material and some molding time, the spaces between ribs are filled with elastomeric material during co-molding of the cover  130 . Because the elastomeric material can be considerably more costly than polycarbonate material, it is preferred to make the base member solid with a rough surface to which the elastomeric material adheres.  
     [0118] Surrounding the receptacle  112  is a circumferential groove  128  in which the latching ring  110  is seated for rotation.  
     [0119] The latching ring  110  preferably includes two halves  120  and  122 , which are assembled and sonically welded together while an inner ring  154  is seated in the groove  128  and after a coil spring  126  has been inserted into the group. The leading edges  132  and  134  of the two halves of the locking ring are flared so as to give a rounded outside edge to help guide projections into the square opening formed by joining the ring halves  102  and  122 . The inside edge of the ring around the central opening is flat. A protrusion  124  extends outwardly from the upper ring half  120  for use in rotating the ring  110 .  
     [0120] As it is shown in FIG. 6, in which the base  114  is shown in dashed outline, the elastomeric cover  130  is of varying thickness along the length of the handle. It is relatively thin in a necked-down region  136  and is thicker towards the larger trailing end of the handle, thus providing extra softness in the areas to be gripped with the most pressure by the hand. This extra cushioning makes the handle easier and more comfortable to use.  
     [0121] The handle also is given a wasp-like cross-sectional shape, as also is apparent in FIG. 6, and is curved downwardly, also so as to conform to the shape of the hand holding the handle. However, this shape also is provided for decorative effect, and gives the handle a sleek, streamlined and attractive look.  
     [0122]FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional schematic view showing the locking ring  110 , the spring  126  which is used in the operation of the locking ring, and the inner construction of the attachment mechanism.  
     [0123] The handle has a body end portion  144  in which the rectangular-shaped recess  112  is formed. A first stop member  142  is attached to the body  144  member, and a second stop member  146  is attached to the internal surface of the ring  110 .  
     [0124] A second stop member  148  extends from the body  144 , and another stop  150  member extends from the inner surface of the ring  110 . With the components in the rest position shown in FIG. 7, the stop members  148  and  150  are separated by an angle A of approximately 21°.  
     [0125] The operation of the locking ring will be explained below after the following description of the locking structure on the accessories.  
     Accessory Locking Structure  
     [0126]FIGS. 12 through 14 show the pizza-cutting wheel accessory  84  which is one of a number of accessories which can be attached to the handle  88 .  
     [0127]FIG. 13 is an exploded view showing the insertion of the pizza wheel locking structure into the handle  88  in the direction indicated by arrow  80 . FIG. 14 shows the pizza wheel and the handle assembled together and ready for use.  
     [0128] Referring particularly to FIG. 12, at one end of the pizza wheel  84  is a projection  166  with a square cross-section matching that of the receptacle  112  in the handle but with slightly smaller dimensions so that it fits into the receptacle  112  easily. The projection  166  has a rounded front end  168  for use as a camming surface.  
     [0129] A circumferential groove  170  extends around the projection  166  at its base. A flange  172  which is flared or rounded on its left surface and is of approximately the same outer diameter as the ring  110 , is provided and forms one wall of the groove  170 .  
     [0130] A molded plastic curved arm  174  extends from the flange  172  and a stainless steel cutting blade  176  is rotatably mounted on the end of the arm  174  by means of a fastener  178 . Preferably, the arm  174  and the fastener  178  are molded plastic, as is the projection  166  and the other components of the pizza wheel, except for the cutting blade  176 .  
     [0131] It should be understood that each of the accessories to be attached to the handle has a projection  166  and groove  170  and is attached to and detached from the handle in the same way as the pizza wheel. The pizza wheel is being used as a vehicle for explanation of the attachment function.  
     Operation  
     [0132] Referring again to FIGS. 7 through 11, as well as FIGS. 12 through 14, the attachment of an accessory to the handle  88  will be described.  
     [0133]FIG. 8 shows the locking ring  110  in its relaxed or stable condition as shown in FIG. 7, in which the coil spring  126  holds the ring in the position shown in FIG. 7. In this position, the square opening in the ring  110  is rotated clockwise by approximately 21° with respect to the square receptacle  112  so that the four straight sides of the opening in the ring extend over the four corners of the opening  112 , as shown at  156 ,  158 ,  160  and  164  in FIG. 8. With the ring  110  in this position, and the projection  166  inserted into the receptacle  112 , the projection  166  and the accessory are locked in position due to the fact that the edges  156 ,  158 ,  160  and  164  of the ring  110  extend into the groove  170  and prevent the accessory from coming free from the handle. The inner edge of the ring around the central hole is flat, as is the outermost wall of the groove  170  (FIG. 12) so that the arrangement of the two flat surfaces, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the projection holds the components together.  
     [0134] In addition, the square shape of the projection  166  and the corresponding square shape of the receptacle  112  prevent the accessory from rotating relative to the handle.  
     [0135] It is highly advantageous that the locking of the accessory in place is performed very simply. As it is illustrated in FIG. 13, one merely inserts the projection  166  into the receptacle  112 . The rounded front surface  168  FIG. 12) of the projection bears against the edge portions of the hole in the center of the ring  110  so as to compress the spring  126  and rotate the ring  110  counterclockwise to the position shown in FIG. 9 in which the square hole in the ring  110  is aligned with the receptacle  112  to permit the projection to be inserted into the receptacle. The resilience of the spring  126  causes the edges of the hole in the ring  110  to snap into the groove  170 .  
     [0136] The release of an accessory from the handle is also is relatively easy. All that need be done is to press on the upstanding projection  124  on the ring  110  in the direction of arrow  162  (FIG. 7) to compress the spring  126  and rotate the ring  110  to the position shown in FIG. 9, thus releasing the accessory. As a result, with the simple one finger motion, the user may release the accessory and it will drop away from the handle if the handle is turned slightly upwardly to take advantage of the force of gravity. The release thus can be accomplished with one hand.  
     Cheese Slicer  
     [0137]FIG. 15 shows the cheese slicer  104  which also is shown in FIG. 1. The cheese slicer has a die-cast zinc body. The projection  166  and the flange  172  are die cast with the body. The body has a pair of support arms  182  and  184  and mounting supports  186  and  188 . A stainless steel cutting wire  192  is secured to the supports  186  and  188  by stainless steel pins  193 . The wire extends over the front edges of the supports and is stretched taut to form a stable cutting element. A plastic roller  190  is rotatably mounted in the supports  186  and  188  at a pre-determined distance from the wire. The combination of the cutting wire  192  and the roller  190  are used in a known manner to cut cheese slices of a relatively constant desirable thickness. The attachment structure has the strength and durability to stand up to the sometimes heavy pressure extended on the slicer during use.  
     [0138] In a lower cost version, the body can be molded polycarbonate instead of die-cast zinc.  
     Zester  
     [0139] The zester  92  includes a mounting projection  166  and flange  177  with a pair of arms  194  and end supports  196 . A stainless steel scraper element pivotably mounted on the supports  196 . Preferably, the body, including the projection  166 , is molded of polycarbonate material.  
     [0140] Although a single molding step is preferred, the projection or “insert”  166  also can be made separately and attached as shown in FIG. 17, to a square post  210  which is provided at one end of the accessory. The post is force-fitted into a square hole  112  in the insert  166  to secure it to the body of the accessory. This method can be used advantageously when the insert  166  and the body are made of different materials.  
     Citrus Reamer  
     [0141]FIG. 18 shows the citrus reamer or juicer  94 . It has a die-cast zinc body with a projection  166  fastened to the body by a polycarbonate insert. The body is an oblate spheroid with ridges  202 ,  204  and  206 , and a blunt pointed end  200 . The ridges are formed by alternating large and small elongated recesses  205  and  207 , respectively. The larger recesses  205  extend from the near end of the reamer, where a flange  172  and handle attachment member or projection  166  are located, to near the tip  200 . The smaller recesses  207  are not only narrower and shorter than the recesses  205 , but they also are shallower, as it is shown in FIGS. 58 through 71.  
     [0142] As it can be seen in FIGS.  69 - 71 , the recesses  205  are both substantially deeper and wider, as well as being longer than the smaller recesses  207 .  
     [0143] This is believed to be highly advantageous in that it sharpens the edges  209  formed between the recesses so as to dig into the fruit more effectively. Furthermore, it is believed that the larger recesses  205  augment the flow of juice squeezed from the fruit.  
     [0144] When a handle  88  is snapped onto the projection  166 , the reamer can be used by pushing the point  200  into a cut half of a fruit and rotating the reamer to extract juice from the fruit. It is particularly useful in juicing lemons, limes, oranges and other such fruit quickly and easily.  
     Ice Cream Scoop  
     [0145]FIG. 19 shows the ice cream scoop  82 . It is die-cast zinc and consists of the projection  166 , flange  172 , a support arm  208 , and a bowl shaped scoop portion  209 .  
     Horizontal Peeler  
     [0146]FIG. 20 shows what is called a “horizontal” peeler It is given this name in order to distinguish it from the so-called “straight” or “swivel” peeler shown in FIGS. 22 and 23  
     [0147] The peeler  214  includes a projection  166  and flange  172  forming part of a die-cast zinc body which has arms  216  and mounting supports  218  for rotatably supporting a blade mounting structure  220  with a cutting blade  222 . The blade  222  is used in a known manner to peel vegetables, etc.  
     [0148] Alternatively, a lower cost version is made of molded polycarbonate.  
     Melon Baller  
     [0149]FIG. 21 shows the melon baller  90 , which has a molded polycarbonate projection  166  and flange  172 , joined with a stainless steel stem  226  and cutting bowl  228  which is used to cut a melon ball in a known manner.  
     [0150] The enlarged section  224  is a joint which is formed to join the stainless steel elements to the plastic elements. The end of each segment is enlarged to increase the surface area of contact between the parts, projects are,provided from the metal surface, and the plastic is molded to the metal.  
     Straight Peeler  
     [0151]FIGS. 22 and 23 show the “straight” or “swivel” peeler  86 . It consists of a metal or polycarbonate body including the flange  172  and the projection  166 , and a body with spaced-apart support arms  232  with a support member  234  secured to the outer ends of the arms  230  and  232 . A stainless steel cutting blade  236  with an incuse pair of cutting edges  238  is rotatably mounted in the flange  172  and the support  234 .  
     [0152] The assembled peeler shown in FIG. 23 is used in a known manner to peel vegetables, etc.  
     [0153] Although a single molding or casting is preferred, the insert  166  can be secured by the post  210  in the hole  212 , as shown in FIG. 22.  
     Grater  
     [0154]FIG. 44 is a perspective view of the grater  106 . The grater  106  includes a stainless steel grater blade  378  with grater teeth  380 , and a molded polycarbonate frame  374 , projection  166  and flange  172 . The frame is solidly secured to the edges of the blade  368  by forming the edges of the blade into bent tabs and co-molding the polycarbonate material over the edges.  
     [0155] The flange  172  and projection  166  form a substantial angle to the blade  378 . The angle is provided in order to allow the grater to be held easily at the most desirable angle for most grating jobs, when the unit  106  is attached to the handle  88 .  
     [0156] The rear surface of the border at the lower or outer end  379  of the grater is given a co-molded coating (not shown) of elastomeric material to inhibit the grater from slipping when its rear lower edge is resting on a countertop, cutting board or other such support surface.  
     [0157]FIG. 45 is a perspective view of a stackable tray kit embodiment of the invention; FIGS. 46 and 47 are, respectively, front elevation views of the upper and lower components of the kit shown in FIG. 45.  
     [0158]FIG. 48 is a perspective view of the upper component of the kit of FIG. 45 without implements; and FIG. 49 is a perspective view of the lower component of the kit of FIG. 45, without the implements.  
     Further Accessories  
     [0159]FIGS. 33 through 39 show some of the many additional accessories which can be used with the handle  88 , or, with suitable modifications with any of the other handle and attachment structures shown.  
     [0160]FIG. 33 shows a fork  320 ; FIG. 34 shows a medium-sized carving knife  322 ; FIG. 35 shows a bread knife  324 ; FIG. 36 shows a spoon  326 ; FIG. 37 shows a turner  328  such as a pancake turner; FIG. 38 shows a paring knife  330 ; and FIG. 39 shows an apple corer  332 .  
     [0161] Preferably, the utensils are made of stainless steel and the flange  172  and projection  166  are made of polycarbonate co-molded over one end of the shaft of the utensil, such as the end  321  of the fork  320  shown in FIG. 33. Holes  323  in the end of the shaft are penetrated and filled with plastic during molding so as to solidly secure the plastic parts to the metal parts.  
     [0162] Each of these additional accessories has the square projection  166  with the groove  170  and the flange  172  so that they can be fastened to and used with the handle  88  shown above.  
     [0163]FIG. 40 shows a butcher block type of support  334  with a sloping face  336  and slots or holes cut into the face  336  to receive various different sizes of knives  324  and  330 . This also comprises another version of the kit of the present invention. Advantageously, the projections  166  extend outwardly from the surface  336  so that a handle easily can be pushed downwardly on one of the projections  166  to secure the handle and the accessory together.  
     [0164] The mounting  334  can be made of wood, or transparent plastic to allow the utensils to be seen, and can have different shaped holes to receive other accessories so that they can be stored outside of the drawers in the kitchen.  
     [0165]FIG. 41 is shows another kit, similar to the one shown in FIG. 40. A block of wood  338  has circular holes, such as holes  344  and  342 , of a depth greater than the combined length of the flange  172  and the projection  166  of each accessory, and slots or other shaped receptacles to receive kitchen utensils such as the paring knife  330  and a butter knife  346 . A further wooden block  339  supports the block  338  which leans at an angle so as to present the upper surface  340  of the block at an angle.  
     [0166] The openings  342  and  344  preferably are made considerably larger in diameter than the diameter of the flange  172 , in order to easily receive the attachment end of one of the handles  88  so that the handle can be inserted into the cavity to attach to each of the tools stored in the block  338 .  
     [0167] By this means, the attachment ends of the knives  330  and  346  are recessed out of view.  
     [0168] If desired, the block  338  in FIG. 40 can be made transparent, or windows can be provided to allow the utensils within to be seen. Alternatively, or in addition, a marking next to each opening can be provided to identify its contents.  
     [0169] The variety of utensils which can be used to advantage in the multi-tool system is extensive. In addition to those shown, such utensils include can openers, jar openers, bottle/can openers, garlic presses, whisks, ladles, turning fork for spaghetti, strainer spoons and ladles, pie servers, spatulas, potato mashers, meat tenderizers, strainers, pots and pans, or any other utensils which have handles.  
     [0170] Each of the multi-tool system components is made dishwasher-safe; that is, the component can be washed regularly in a dishwasher without significant deterioration. The cracking and deterioration of wooden and some prior plastic handles has been avoided, at a cost that is considerably reduced because there are many more accessories than handles.  
     Alternative Attachment Structure  
     [0171]FIGS. 24 through 27 illustrate an alternative attachment structure for attaching accessories to the handle in the multi-tool system. The assembled device shown in FIG. 24 includes a handle  238  with an attached horizontal peeler  242 , whose construction is substantially the same as the horizontal peeler  214  shown in FIG. 20, except for the means used for attaching it to the handle.  
     [0172] Referring now to FIG. 26, which is a cross-sectional view taken along line  26 - 26  of FIG. 24, the attachment means includes a rounded flange  244  to which a projection structure is attached and extends to the left as shown in FIG. 26. The projection structure includes side walls  246  and a pair of opposed projections  248  forming catch receivers.  
     [0173] A pair of release push-buttons  240  is mounted on opposite sides of the handle (see FIGS. 24 and 25). Each of the push buttons actually is the end of a molded lever mechanism which has a pivot point  52  and catch arms  256 .  
     [0174] When the projection of the accessory is pushed into the receptacle shown in FIG. 25, the forward edges of the projections  248  push the flexible plastic catch arms  250  aside, and those arms snap back into the notches or receivers formed by the projections  248 , thus providing a snap-action catch which locks the accessory to the handle.  
     [0175] In order to release the accessory from the handle, the buttons  240  are pushed with the fingers. This rocks each of the arms  250  around the pivot points  252  and pulls them away from engagement with the projections  248 , thus releasing the accessory from the handle.  
     [0176] As it is shown in FIG. 25, a further projection  254  shaped to mate with a receiving hole  256  in the handle is provided on the accessory in order to further guide the accessory accurately into the handle cavity.  
     Second Alternative Attachment Structure  
     [0177]FIGS. 28 through 30 show a second alternative attachment structure.  
     [0178] The structure shown in FIGS. 28 through 30 includes a handle  258  and three different accessories  260 ,  277  and  280  for attachment to the handle. The accessory  260  is a zester, the accessory  276  is a straight peeler with a blade  278 , and the accessory  280  is an ice cream scoop.  
     [0179] The attachment structure includes a pair of inclined latch members  264  and  270  with catch surfaces  266  and  271  respectively. Both elements  264  and  270  are pivotably mounted on pins  268  attached to a mounting member  272  which is secured within the housing  259  of the handle  258 .  
     [0180] A spring  274  also is mounted to rotate on the pin  268 , and serves to thrust the two members  264  and  270  apart.  
     [0181] Two release buttons  262  are mounted in holes  265  in the housing of the handle and holes  263  in the members  264  and  270 . By depression of the release buttons  262 , the elements  264  and  270  are pivoted inwardly towards the center of the handle to withdraw each of the catch edges  266  and  271  from a corresponding receiver in the accessory.  
     [0182] Referring to FIG. 30, one such receiver edge is shown at  286 . Another (not shown) is located at the upper part of the opening in the accessory  280 . The accessory  280  includes a support arm  282  and an ice cream scoop bowl  284 .  
     [0183] The body of the accessory has a tapered inlet opening  281  which receives the tapered projection formed by the elements  264 ,  270  and  272 , and the straight sides of the elements  264  and  270  mating with the straight sides of the opening  28  keep the accessory from rotating on the handle.  
     Third Alternative Attachment Structure  
     [0184]FIG. 31 is a schematic diagram of another attachment device of the invention. The structure shown in FIG. 31 includes a handle  288  having a housing  312  with a longitudinal shaft  296 , and a coil spring  30  surrounding the shaft  296  and bearing against a bulkhead  302  through which the shaft  296  passes.  
     [0185] The shaft  296  has a rack structure  298  at its left end which mates with gear teeth  294  on mounted catch members  292  rotatably mounted in the housing  312 . It should be understood that the rack is not shown engaged with the gear teeth, for the sake of clarity in the drawings. However, it should be understood that they are so engaged.  
     [0186] The accessory  290  has a tapered cavity  308  with opposed receivers  310  for the catch members  292 . The forward end of the handle is tapered as shown at  306 .  
     [0187] In operation, the spring  3 —tends to hold the projections  292  in their fully extended position, as shown in FIG. 31, so as to keep the members  292  engaged in the receivers  310  to hold the accessory onto the handle.  
     [0188] When it is desired to release the accessory from the handle, an externally-extending end attachment  304  to the shaft  296  is pushed inwardly in the direction indicated by arrow  305 . This rotates the members  292  about their pivots and withdraws them from the receiving notches  310  so as to release the accessory from the handle.  
     [0189] When the tapered end  306  of the handle is inserted into the tapered cavity  308  in order to attach the accessory to the handle, the sloping side walls of the cavity  308  rotate the elements  292  backwardly until they move far enough to snap into the receiving notches  310 .  
     Fourth Alternative Attachment Structure  
     [0190]FIG. 32 shows a fourth alternative attachment structure, which is the same as that shown in FIG. 31 except that the coil spring  300  bears against the bulkhead  309 , and the pivotably mounted catch members  316  are rotated by means of a linkage instead of a rack and pinion arrangement such as that shown in FIG. 31.  
     [0191] The linkage includes a first link  314  pivotably attached at one end to the shaft  296 , and pivotably connected at its other end to one end of the lever arm forming part of the catch member  316 .  
     [0192] When it is desired to release the accessory from the handle, the end extension  318  of shaft  296  is pulled in the direction indicated by arrow  307  to compress the spring  300  and withdraw the catch elements  316  from the receiving grooves  310  in the accessory  290 .  
     [0193] When the tapered forward end  306  of the handle is inserted into the tapered cavity  308  of the accessory  290 , the side walls of the cavity cam the catch members  316  in the direction shown by the arrows and then, when they reach the receiving cavities  310 , they snap into place under the urging of the spring  300 .  
     [0194] It can be seen from the foregoing that in all of the attachment embodiments, it is possible to engage an accessory with the handle simply by pushing the two together. The accessory snaps into place without requirement of the operation of a lever or the like.  
     [0195] Also, releasing the accessory from the handle involves no more than button pushing, and can be done with one hand while allowing gravity to remove the accessory from the handle.  
     Counter-top Display Kit  
     [0196]FIG. 42 is a perspective view of another kit constructed in accordance with the invention. The kit allows the storage, organization and display of the handle  88  and accessories on a cupboard shelf or counter-top, or a counter-top or shelf in a store selling the product, etc.  
     [0197] The kit  348  includes a handle mounting and storage unit  350  with a curved and sloping top wall  351  and a recess  358  shaped to receive and hold the handle  88  where it can be easily seen, grasped and replaced.  
     [0198] Also included are modular storage and display units  352 ,  354 ,  356 , etc., for holding and displaying accessories for use with the handle  88 .  
     [0199] Each of the units  352 ,  354  and  356  is identical to the other. Each has four upstanding projections or bosses  360  each of which has a flat, horizontal upper surface with a central square hole  361  slightly larger than the projections  166  on the attachments so that the attachments can be stored upright with the attachment projections  166  extending into the holes  361 .  
     [0200] One such attachment, a straight peeler  86 , is shown mounted in one of the holes in the unit  352 . As it can be seen, the flange portion  172  of the peeler rests on the upper surface of the boss  360  and the working portion of the peeler  86  extends upwardly where it can be seen, grasped and replaced easily.  
     [0201] Each of the three units  352  and  354  has an upper arcuate surface  362  from which the bosses  360  extend. Each unit also has a front side wall  364  and a rear side wall  368  shown in FIG. 43.  
     [0202] Each front side wall  364  has a pair of vertical notches or gaps  366 , and the rear wall  368  has a pair of upstanding tabs  370  spaced apart by the same distance as the notches or gaps  366 . The width of each of the tabs  370  is greater than the width of each of the gaps  366 . The tabs  370  are molded with a vertical member  372  attaching it to the rear wall  368 .  
     [0203] The tabs  370  can be fitted into the gaps  366  to tightly secure each of the units  352 ,  354  and  356  together.  
     [0204] The handle storage and display unit  350  also has a rear structure such as that shown in FIG. 43 whereby one of the units  352 ,  354  and  356  can be attached to the rear of the unit  350 .  
     [0205] Thus, for a person wishing to start with only a few accessories, he or she can buy a kit including, for example, only the units  350  and  352  which provides a handle and four accessories.  
     [0206] Later, if the person decides he or she wants to add to the original multi-tool system, one or more additional units  354  or  356  can be purchased with one to four additional accessories and attached to the other units to form a readily expandable multi-tool system.  
     [0207] The units  350 ,  352 ,  354  and  356  preferably are molded of thermoplastic material such as ABS.  
     [0208] The counter-top units shown in FIGS. 42 and 43 also serve well to display the multi-tool system on store counters and shelves, and in television and other advertising. Thus, the units serve double-duty; saving space and adding convenience in the kitchen, while serving to show the product in a good light.  
     Stackable Tray Kit  
     [0209]FIGS. 45 through 49 show further embodiments of the kit of the present invention.  
     [0210]FIG. 45 shows a kit  390  consisting of a stack of individual storage trays  392  and  394 , each of which itself comprises a separate multi-tool implement kit. The trays  392  and  394  are identical to one another, except for the types of implements they are designed to hold.  
     [0211] The trays shown in FIGS. 45 through 49 differ from the trays shown in FIGS. 1 through 3 primarily in that the trays  392  and  394  are made to be easily stackable on top of one another.  
     [0212] Now referring to FIGS. 45, 48 and  49 , each of the trays  392  and  394  has a flat upper wall  396  and vertical side walls  398  and  400  which support the upper wall  396  above a flat surface on which the tray rests, such as the bottom of a drawer. Rear side walls are indicated at  402  and  404 , but are not visible in the drawings.  
     [0213] At each of the four corners of the tray is a vertical post  406  which has an upper end  408  with a curved approximately semi-circular flange  410  extending around the innermost half of the post and extending slightly above the surface of the upper end  408 .  
     [0214] Thus, the flange  408  forms semi-circular receptacles at the tops of the posts  406 .  
     [0215] Extending from the bottom of the tray directly below each of the posts  406  is a rubber foot pad  412  which is attached by adhesive to a flange extending underneath the tray at each corner. This pad serves two purposes; first, it minimizes slipping of the tray on a flat surface upon which it is resting, and it also serves as an alignment device fitting into the receptacle formed at the top of each post. This holds the upper tray in place relative to the lower tray so that the trays will not slip out of alignment with one another after they have been stacked. By making the projections  410  only semi-cylindrical instead of cylindrical, it is easier to insert the feet  412  into the receptacles, without detracting from the function of holding the stacked trays together.  
     [0216] As with the trays shown in FIGS. 1 through 3, each of the kitchen implements is stored in its own individual recess shaped specifically to hold that implement. The implements shown in FIGS. 45 through 49 are given the same reference numerals that they have been given above in this patent application.  
     [0217] As with the trays shown in FIGS. 1 through 3, the implements extend out from the upper surface  396  by a substantial distance. As it can be seen in FIGS. 46 and 47, each of the implements extends outwardly by at least 50% of its height. This makes the implements easier to grasp when removing them from the tray.  
     [0218] As it is shown in FIG. 47, larger implements such as the citrus juicer  94 , the receptacle  76  is made deeper so that the upper surface of the juicer does not extend above the plane  411  of the tops of the posts. Thus, there will be no interference between the implements in the lower tray with the upper tray when the trays are stacked.  
     [0219] It is preferable that approximately 40% to 60% or more of the height of each implement extend upwardly out of the upper surface of the tray to ensure ease of removal and replacement of the implements in the tray.  
     [0220]FIGS. 48 and 49 show the two trays  392  and  394  without implements. The implement recesses are given the same reference numerals as in FIGS. 1 through 3, with the exception of recesses  414  and  416  in FIG. 49 which are, respectively, for the cheese slicer  104  (FIG. 15) and the horizontal parer  214  (FIG. 20), which are not shown in FIGS. 1 through 3.  
     [0221] It should be understood, of course, that the stackable trays also can be used on a countertop, in which case they will store the implements compactly and with the use of a minimum footprint on the countertop.  
     [0222] Although two trays are shown stacked atop one another, it should be understood that three or more trays can be stacked atop one another, if desired.  
     [0223] The trays  392  and  394  desirably are molded of a thermoplastic resin such as ABS.  
     [0224] It also should be understood that the structures used for holding the implements in the trays shown in FIGS. 1 through 3 and  45  through  49  can take a variety of different forms. For example, instead of using recesses in an upper wall, under some circumstances it may be advantageous to have a lower bottom wall with projections or bumps extending upwardly in the appropriate locations to form a support for the implements.  
     [0225] The kit and tray structures shown in FIGS. 45 through 49 have several significant advantages.  
     [0226] First, like the embodiment of FIGS. 1 through 3, by keeping the implement-receiving recesses shallow enough to insure that the implements extend outwardly by a substantial amount, a substantial savings of plastic material is realized, while making certain that the implements are relatively easy to grasp to remove from the trays.  
     [0227] By the use of posts to make the trays stackable, the increase in material needed is kept to a minimum.  
     [0228] By providing trays which can be stacked atop one another, the footprint taken up by a set of different trays is minimized. This can lead to the advantageous preservation of deep drawer space which may be necessary for other items.  
     [0229] Another advantage is that, by providing the posts for use in stacking the trays atop one another, a relatively large gap is provided between the trays into which the user can see to determine what implements are in the lower tray or trays.  
     [0230] A further advantage is that the trays are standardized as to size and external shape so as to enable better utilization of container space and economies of scale in manufacturing.  
     [0231] A still further advantage of the compartmented implement holding trays described above and in the further description to follow is that they provide very convenience organizers for storing and organizing a variety of kitchen implements in addition to multi-tool devices. These organizers are particularly beneficial for use in drawers to minimize the clutter for a wide variety of different implements, including adjustable measuring spoons and scoops and many other implements. They store such other implements with good visibility, relatively compactly, and in an organized fashion to minimize clutter.  
     Further Accessories  
     [0232] FIGS.  50 - 53  shows two additional accessories for use in the multi-tool device of the present invention.  
     Can Opener  
     [0233]FIGS. 50 and 51 are front and rear perspective views, respectively, of a can opener  450  with the connecting projection  166  and the flange  172  as in the other multi-tool implements described above.  
     [0234] The can opener is of a conventional side-opening rotary type, and includes a body  452  with a large rotary handle  454 , a curved guide rail  456 , a rotary drive wheel  458  driven by rotation of the handle  454 , and a horizontal circular cutter blade  460 .  
     [0235] As it is well known, the can opener is used by resting the guide rail  456  on the upper edge of the can and inserting the upstanding rim of the can between the drive wheel  458  and the body  452 . Then, when the handle  454  is rotated, the cutter wheel  460  is thrust sideways into the metal of the can just beneath the upper rim and further rotation of the handle  454  causes the lid to be cut off of the top of the can. Advantageously, as it is well known, the lid then can be refitted by hand on the top of the can to close it.  
     Bottle/punch Opener  
     [0236]FIGS. 52 and 53 are perspective and front elevation views, respectively, of a combination bottle opener and punch-type can opener.  
     [0237] The bottle/punch can opener device  462  has a metal ring  464  secured to the flange  172  and the projection  166 . The ring  464  has a lower projection  466  to fit under the rim of a bottle cap so that by pulling upwardly on the handle attached to the projection  166 , leverage can be obtained to pry a bottle cap off of a bottle.  
     [0238] A metal punch-type can opener  468  is secured to the ring  464  to punch holes in the tops of cans for pouring fruit juice or other beverages from the can.  
     Garlic Press  
     [0239]FIG. 67 is a perspective view of a garlic press  620  constructed in accordance with the present invention.  
     [0240] Unlike most other implements described herein, the garlic press does not attach to or detach from the handle  88 . Instead, the handle is integrally attached. The handle comprises two halves  622  and  624  advantageously shaped like the handle  88  when the two halves are closed together as shown in FIG. 67. The garlic press itself, apart from the handles, is conventional. One handle half  622  is secured to the upper portion  626  of the garlic press, and the lower handle half  624  is secured to the lower half  628  of the garlic press. The two halves of the press are hinged together at  630 .  
     [0241] As is well known, the garlic press is used by opening the halves of the press, and inserting a clove of garlic. Then, by pushing the handle halves  622  and  624  together, one squeezes juice from the garlic through holes  629  for use in cooking, etc.  
     [0242] An array:  627  of plastic projections is provided so that when the handles are rotated fully apart, the projections are aligned with and enter the holes  629  in the lower part  628  of the press  620  to clean any solid matter which may be closing the holes. The materials of which the press are made are chrome-plated zinc, except for a plastic coating on the handles and the cap  626 , which is made of polycarbonate.  
     Jar Opener  
     [0243]FIGS. 72 through 75 show a novel jar opener  640  constructed in accordance with the present invention.  
     [0244]FIGS. 72 and 73 are top perspective and bottom perspective views, respectively, of the jar opener when it is closed, and FIGS. 74 and 75 are, respectively, top and bottom perspective views of the jar opener  640  when it is open and ready for use.  
     [0245] The jar opener  640  includes a central support member  642  which is attached to the flange  172  and projection  166  for connection to a handle  88 .  
     [0246] Two elongated gripper arms  644  and  646  are pivoted at  652  and  654  to the support member  642 . The arm  646  has a serrated metal edge member  648 , and the member  644  has a straight, smooth metal edge  650 . The serrations on the edge member  648  are slanted in a direction to increase their, penetration into the metal of a jar lid when the tool  640  is rotated counter-clockwise to remove a lid.  
     [0247] When it is desired to store the jar opener  640  in the receptacle provided for it in one of the trays described above, it is folded up so as to be compact as shown in FIGS.  72  and.  73 , and occupies relatively little space in the tray. It also can be stored in a kitchen drawer by itself, if desired, and similarly occupies relatively little space.  
     [0248] When it is prepared for use, the members  644  and  646  are rotated outwardly to the position shown in FIG. 75 until a metal pin  656  extending downwardly from each arm hits the end of one of two slots  657  in the bottom surface of the support member  642  to prevent the further opening movement of the arms  644  and  646 .  
     [0249] In use, with the jar opener  640  in the position shown in FIG. 74, a screw type jar lid to be loosened is pressed into the V-shaped space between the arms  644  and  646 , and turning torque is applied to the handle attached to the handle member  166  to loosen the jar lid.  
     [0250] When it is no longer in use, the jar opener  640  can be folded up again and stored compactly in the tray or a drawer.  
     [0251] The jar opener preferably is made of polycarbonate, except for the pivot pins  652  and  654 , the edge members  648  and  650 , and the stop pins  656 . Those parts preferably are made of stainless steel.  
     Further Organizer Tray Embodiments  
     [0252]FIG. 54 is a top plan view of another embodiment of an organizer tray  470  similar to the trays shown in FIGS.  45 - 49 .  
     [0253]FIG. 55 is a cross-sectional view taken along line  55 - 55  of FIG. 54 and shows implements in place in the tray.  
     [0254] The tray  470  shown in FIGS. 54 and 55 differs from that shown in FIGS.  45 - 49  primarily in that the tray has receptacles  472 ,  474 ,  476  and  478 , for example, for storing kitchen implements on edge rather than laying flat. That is, the broadest dimension of each is vertical instead of horizontal. By this means, the organizer tray is made to have a smaller footprint so as to save horizontal space in a drawer or on a countertop.  
     [0255] The tray  470  includes an upper horizontal support wall  482 , side walls  484  and four posts  480  each extending upwardly at one of the four corners of the tray and identical to the posts  408  and the tray shown in FIGS.  45 - 49 , except that they are taller to accommodate the greater height that the implements on edge occupy.  
     [0256] Referring now to FIG. 55, the receptacle  472  contains an ice cream scoop  82  which is rotated 90° from the position in which it is shown resting in FIG. 45.  
     [0257] Similarly, receptacle  474  contains a pizza cutter  84  like that shown in FIGS.  12 - 14 , except that it has a plastic guard cover  486  covering the edge of the cutter blade  176  which is easily snapped on and off of the blade, thereby minimizing the chance that the user will cut his or her fingers.  
     [0258] The receptacle  476  contains a straight (swivel) peeler  86  and the receptacle  478  contains a handle  88 .  
     [0259] The depth of the receptacles varies, depending upon which implement is to be placed in it. The depth preferably is selected so that a substantial portion, preferably more than half of the object held in the receptacle extends above the surface  482  so as to make the implement easy to grasp and remove.  
     [0260] It is preferable that the end of the pizza cutter with the projection flange  172  and projection  166  on it (see FIG. 12—not shown in FIGS. 54 and 55) extends upwardly above the surface  482  so as to make it easy to grasp and encourage the user to grasp it instead of the blade portion of the cutter.  
     [0261] The peeler  86  is the same as the peeler shown in FIGS. 22 and 23, except that there is an added snap-on plastic blade guard  488  covering the cutter blade  236 .  
     [0262]FIG. 56 is a partially broken-away cross-sectional view like that of FIG. 55 of a tray  490  which is a modification of the device shown in FIGS. 54 and 55. This modification  490  is the same as that shown in FIGS. 54 and 55, except that at least one, and as many as all receptacles in the tray are inclined at a substantial angle, e.g., 45° with respect to vertical. These receptacles can be used to store taller implements such as the pizza cutter  84  and the ice cream scoop  82  at an angle, thus reducing the height to which they extend vertically, while storing other implements such as the handle  88  in vertical receptacles. This enables a compromise between minimizing the footprint of the tray and minimizing its height.  
     [0263]FIG. 57 shows another organizer tray  500  constructed in accordance with the present invention. The tray  500  has side walls  502 , a bottom wall  516 , and horizontal and vertical divider walls  504  and  506  which divide the space in the tray into uniform square or rectangular receptacles  518 ,  520 ,  522  and  524 . The size of the receptacles is determined so that it will hold the largest of the implements when laying flat as shown in dashed outline in FIG. 57. Thus, the size of the receptacles is sufficient toehold the pizza cutter  84  and the handle  88  as well as smaller implements like the peeler  86  and the ice cream scoop  82 .  
     [0264] Each receptacle has an indicia on its bottom which is a representation of the implement that is to fit into the compartment. Thus, compartment  518  has a small replica or representation  508  of an ice cream scoop. Similarly, the receptacle  520  has a small representation  510  of a peeler; receptacle  522  has a small representation  512  of a pizza cutter; and receptacle  523  has a representation  514  of the handle  88 .  
     [0265] Preferably, the indicia  508 ,  510 ,  512  and  514  are marked permanently on the bottom wall  516  such as by embossing, engraving or molding the images when the trays are formed. Alternatively, images on self-adhesive labels can be applied so as to be removable to change the indicia of the implement to be stored in the receptacle. This can reduce manufacturing costs by standardizing the receptacle shape for all trays and thereby increasing the volume of production runs.  
     [0266] The tray  500  has upstanding posts  408  like the trays shown in FIGS.  45 - 49  to allow stacking.  
     [0267] Of course, by leaving off the indicia in each of the receptacles, the trays can be made and sold for general storage use so as to hold kitchen implements and other items.  
     [0268]FIG. 58 is a top plan view of a variation of the tray or receptacle shown in FIG. 57. Instead of forming the tray into receptacles of uniform size, the tray is formed into rectangular receptacles adapted to hold one or a limited number of different implements, so as to save space as compared with the tray  500  shown in FIG. 57.  
     [0269] The tray  530  includes side walls  502  and a vertical partition  536  and a horizontal partition  534  dividing the space in the tray into three compartments  538 ,  540  and  542 , each of which is of a size and shape to hold a particular implement or group of implements. As in the FIG. 57 embodiment, indicia  512 ,  514  and  508  are marked on the bottoms of the compartments to indicate the implements which are primarily intended to be stored in the receptacles. Thus, the compartments for the handle  88  and the ice cream scoop  82  (shown in dashed outline only) are narrower than that for the pizza cutter  84  (also shown only in dashed outline). Of course, other implements having the same space requirements can be stored in each of the compartments, as desired.  
     [0270] As shown in FIG. 57, the intended contents for each of the receptacles can be indicated by indicia other than a picture of the implement. For example, letters such as the letter “H” shown at  505  can be used to indicate “handle”, and the word “HANDLE” can be spelled out as shown at  503 .  
     [0271] Similarly, as it is shown in FIG. 56, indicia such as the letters “PC” or “PIZZA CUTTER”, or a number or other alphanumeric symbol can be marked on the receptacle  522 . The implement is marked with the same symbol as its receptacle.  
     [0272] Similarly, each container and each implement can be color coded. For example, the handle compartment  524  can be colored black to match the black color of the handle, the ice cream scoop  82  can be colored red to match the red interior of the receptacle  518 , the pizza cutter  84  can be colored green to match the green of the receptacle  522  and the peeler  86  can be colored blue to match the blue interior of the receptacle  520 .  
     [0273] It should be readily apparent that essentially any indicia capable of distinguishing implements from one another can be used as a marking to help guide the user in returning specific implements to the desired locations. This greatly enhances the orderliness of the kitchen drawers or counter tops where the organizers are used.  
     [0274] Another indicia which can be used as a full-representation of the implement adhered to the bottom of the receptacle for receiving that implement.  
     [0275] Braille indicia can be used to aid the blind. The implements have corresponding Braille markings on them. Of course, the indicia provided by the specific shapes of the receptacles conforming to the implement shapes also can be sensed by touch and thus “read” by the blind. This can be particularly beneficial to blind people because the organization of kitchen implements by use of the invention makes it easier for blind people to find them.  
     [0276] Visible and/or tactile indicia also can be used in addition to the specific conforming shape of a receptacle to identify the implement at least with certain receptacles which have shapes which are confusingly similar to one another.  
     [0277] As with the FIG. 57 embodiment, the indicia can be marked on the bottoms of the compartments, either permanently or with removable labels.  
     [0278] FIGS.  59 - 63  show several different ways to form receptacles or holders for individual implements, other than by molding recesses in a flat plastic panel.  
     [0279]FIGS. 59 and 60 show a technique using a plurality of molded projections  554  extending upwardly from a bottom plastic panel  552 . The length and pattern of the projections are such as to form a cradle for the implement, in the manner shown in FIG. 60.  
     [0280]FIG. 60 shows the projections supporting an ice cream scoop  82 .  
     [0281]FIG. 61 shows an alternative structure for forming peaks  554 ,  556 ,  558  and  560  instead of the individual projections  54  to provide a cradle for the implement. This forms a stronger structure in which there are no individual projections to break off.  
     [0282]FIGS. 62 and 63 show the formation of an upstanding ridge  566  in the shape of the implement to be cradled.  
     [0283] As is shown in FIG. 60, a complete tray is formed by adding side walls  557  and corner posts  555  at the four corners of the bottom panel  552 .  
     [0284] If desired, the side walls can be raised from the level shown in FIG. 60 to the level  559  shown in dashed line, or other wall construction can be used, depending upon whether the trays are to be stacked, aligned side-by-side, or made to slide one on top of the other.  
     [0285]FIG. 64 shows a tray substantially the same as that shown in FIGS.  45 - 49 , except that, instead of receptacles for the handle and implements of a multi-tool kitchen set, three receptacles  572 ,  574  and  576  are provided for containing adjustable measuring devices  582 ,  584  and  586 . Item  582  is a tablespoon-sized adjustable measuring spoon; item  586  is a teaspoon-sized adjustable measuring spoon; and item  584  is an adjustable scoop.  
     [0286] Since the scoop is larger than the other devices and stands taller, it extends upwardly out of its receptacle, thus making it easy to grasp.  
     [0287] The measuring spoons do not extend upwardly above the edges of their respective receptacles. Therefore, access indentations  578  and  580  are provided to allow one to insert a finger underneath a portion of the measuring spoon to easily remove it from the receptacles.  
     [0288] In fact, such access indentations can be provided in any of the foregoing embodiments, wherever it is necessary or expedient to provide a deep receptacle which will not allow the object in the receptacle to extend above the surface of the tray.  
     Sliding Tray Embodiments  
     [0289]FIG. 65 shows an assembly  590  of two stacked trays  592  and  594  in which the top tray  594  slides on the upper edges  602  of the parallel sides  600  of the lower tray  592  to expose the implements covered by the upper tray  594 .  
     [0290] The opposed lower corners of the upper tray form an arcuate recess  606  which matches the curvature of the curved upper edges  602  or rails of the lower tray, as shown best in FIG. 66.  
     [0291] The horizontal support panel  596  and the bottom surface  610  of the upper tray for the implements in the receptacles  598  to avoid hitting the bottom  610 .  
     [0292] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 64, the length of the bottom tray  592  is substantially greater than the length W of the upper tray  594 . Thus, some of the implements in the lower tray are not covered by the upper tray and are visible at all times. If the implements are under the upper tray are needed, the user merely slides the upper tray to one side, in the direction of the arrow M, to expose them.  
     [0293] If preferred, the lengths of the upper and lower trays can be made the same, as if the lower tray  592  were cut along the dashed line  612 . The resulting assembly occupies a smaller footprint. The top tray can be moved over a portion of the lower tray, without falling off. However, if a wider opening is desired, one can hold up the leading edge of the upper tray with one hand to prevent tilting of the tray.  
     [0294]FIG. 76 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the sliding trays feature of the invention.  
     [0295] The assembly  660  shown in FIG. 76 includes a relatively large tray  662 , a smaller tray  664  attached side-by-side to the tray  662 , and a smaller tray  666  slidably mounted on the two lower trays  662  and  664 .  
     [0296] As it is shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 79, the upper edge of one side of each tray has an inverted V-shape, thus forming a tongue for a tongue-in-groove rail structure. A groove is formed on the bottom edge of each of the trays so that when one of the trays is placed on top of the other the tongue and groove structure thus formed allows the trays to slide easily with respect to one another without easily becoming misaligned.  
     [0297] It should be understood, of course, that the bottom trays should have recesses deep enough to fully seat the implements therein without any part extending upwardly above the surface of the tray so that the movement of a tray which slides upon it will not be impeded.  
     [0298] Alternatively, the upper surface of the lower trays can be recessed in the manner shown in the embodiment of FIG. 65.  
     [0299]FIG. 77 is a top plan view of a kitchen drawer  674  containing the assembly  660 . As it can be seen, the top tray  666  slides forwardly and backwardly in the drawer in the direction indicated by the arrow  669 .  
     [0300]FIG. 78 is a top plan view of a wider but shallower drawer showing the assembly  590  from FIG. 65 in a kitchen drawer  676 . The top tray  594  slides from left to right in the direction of the arrow M.  
     [0301] Both of the assemblies shown in FIGS. 65 and 76 have the advantage of allowing some of the implements in the lower trays to be visible at all times, and others to be easily accessible, while simultaneously increasing the organized storage capacity in the drawer.  
     Package Coding  
     [0302] FIGS.  80 - 82  show a package coding system to permit the sale of trays and implements of the kits separately or in sub-combinations in a manner so as to insure that the customer will obtain the proper tray for each of the implements purchased.  
     [0303]FIG. 80 shows a single straight peeler  86  mounted on a card  680  with a hanger opening  682  and a color code indicia  684 . The color code marking is a large dot of a color to match the color on a box in which a tray is sold which will accommodate the peeler.  
     [0304]FIG. 81 shows another card  686  with two implements mounted on it, a melon baller  90  and a can opener  450 , and two indicia  690  and  649  in the form of colored dots, as well as a hanger hole  688 . Since one of the implements in the package is intended for one tray, and the other implement for another tray, two different color coded indicia  690  and  694  are provided, together with a leg end indicating which indicia applies to which implement.  
     [0305]FIG. 82 is a perspective view, partially broken away, of a box in which a tray depicted at  698  on the box cover is sold. The box  696  has a color code indicia  700  on an upstanding flap  702 . By comparing the color code indicia on an implement package with the one on a tray package, the customer can be sure of getting the right tray for each implement purchased.  
     [0306] If desired, the purchases of kits and components by each customer can be stored in the memory of the store computer so that when the customer next purchases any components, the identity of those components can be compared with those stored in the computer so as to make certain that the customer has a tray to match the implements purchased.  
     [0307] In addition to the color code markings on the packages shown in FIGS.  80 - 82 , there are alphanumeric markings such as the letters “A” and “B”, which can be used in addition to or instead of the color coding to identify the trays and implements to go in the trays. Other indicia similarly can be used for the same purpose.  
     [0308] The above description of the invention is intended to be illustrative and not limiting. Various changes or modifications in the embodiments described may occur to those skilled in the art. These can be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention.  
     [0309] It should be understood that some or all of the implements, in addition to the garlic press, can be made with internal handles as well as with removable handles and the protection for the invention also extends to these implements.