Is there is a patent for Icee/Slurpee drain/drip pans. My grandfather created a plastic one to replace metal ones.

Question

7-11 or Southland Corp in the 80's had Icee machines with a metal drip/drain pan. This needed replaced often due to carbonation causing erosion. My grandfather designed a plastic one which 7-11 stores began using. He never patented this. I believe I still have the design blueprint.  How can I get more info and can I file a patent?

James L. Arrasmith · Answer

You mentioned that your grandfather created a plastic drip pan for Icee/Slurpee machines that 7-11 stores used, but he never patented it. To explore whether a patent already exists for this type of invention, you can start by conducting a patent search through databases like the USPTO’s Patent Public Search or Google Patents. Searching for patents from the 1980s that are related to Icee or Slurpee machines may help you find similar designs. 
 
Since your grandfather never patented his design, it’s important to know that patents generally need to be filed before the invention becomes publicly used. This might affect the ability to file a new patent if the product has been in use for a long time. However, keeping the blueprint is valuable, and it could be worth looking into whether the design offers any new, patentable improvements today. 
 
Getting more information about the possibility of a new patent or the status of existing patents can help guide your next steps. You may want to reach out to the USPTO or another patent resource to discuss your situation and explore the best options for your grandfather's invention.

Q: Is there is a patent for Icee/Slurpee drain/drip pans. My grandfather created a plastic one to replace metal ones.