Patents Examined by Richard A. Bertsch
  • Patent number: 5503454
    Abstract: An arrangement for securing a terminal end of a covering member in an automotive seat, in which a carpet is laid on the reverse side of the seat, the arrangement comprising a securing member provided at the terminal end of covering member and a securing groove formed on the reverse surface of seat frame of the seat. By inserting the securing member in the securing groove, both terminal ends of the covering member and end of the carpet can be secured to the seat frame at the same time, and further there may be eliminated such creation of level difference or unevenness in the carpet on the reverse side of seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1996
    Assignee: Tachi-S Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takao Sakamoto
  • Patent number: 5503536
    Abstract: A pump having a reciprocating piston/plunger unit adapted to be actuated by a railway wheel rolling over it has a unitary plunger and piston, with the piston double-acting so that when the outlet pressure exceeds a certain value, the plunger remains retracted. An accumulator is provided in fluid communication with the outlet so as to store accumulated hydraulic pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1996
    Assignee: Applied Power Inc.
    Inventors: Carl G. Waldenstrom, Xudong Yu
  • Patent number: 5503221
    Abstract: The invention relates to a discharge system for combustion gases of a gas turbine or the like, whereby one end of the discharge pipe is connected to the gas turbine or the like, whilst the other end of the discharge pipe is connected to a heat exchanger. A branch pipe, which extends transversely to the discharge pipe, is connected to said discharge pipe. A valve mechanism is disposed near the connection of the branch pipe to the discharge pipe, which valve mechanism is pivotable between a first position, in which the end of the branch pipe connecting to the discharge pipe is closed, and a second position, in which the discharge pipe is closed downstream of the connection of the branch pipe to the discharge pipe. At least one curved guide vane is provided, which, in the second position of the valve, is located upstream of the valve mechanism, at least partially within the discharge pipe, and which extends downstream from its upstream edge, in the direction of the branch pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1996
    Inventor: Philip R. Koudijs
  • Patent number: 5501580
    Abstract: A progressive cavity pump is located in a well and driven by a downhole electrical motor. A connector locates between the drive shaft of the motor and the rotor of the pump. The connector includes a connector shaft which has a lower end restrained on a longitudinal axis. The upper end orbits with the lower end of the rotor. The connector shaft has splined ends that are received in couplings. The connector shaft flexes during the orbiting movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1996
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Donald J. Barrus, Steven K. Tetzlaff
  • Patent number: 5501072
    Abstract: A thrust propulsion mechanism (10) for a boat (12) includes an outlet conduit (22) extending athwartships from a first outlet port (16) to a second outlet port (16') in the hull (18). A paddle-wheel impeller (24) is mounted within the hull for rotation about an axis of rotation (34) by a reversible motor (30). A circumferential paddle (58) portion of the paddle-wheel impeller extends into an aperture (26) defined centrally in the top wall of the outlet conduit. An inlet conduit (20) extends athwartships from a first inlet port (14) to a second inlet port (14'), and intermediate thereof supplies water to the center of the paddle-wheel impeller. Water is discharged from the paddle-wheel impeller through one of the outlet ports, dependent on the direction of rotation of the paddle-wheel impeller, to create thrust by a combined paddle-wheel and centrifugal pump action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1996
    Assignee: Pumpeller, Inc.
    Inventors: Mitchell A. Plancich, Merall L. Thompson
  • Patent number: 5501579
    Abstract: An axial multi-piston compressor includes a drive shaft, a cylinder block having cylinder bores formed therein and surrounding the drive shaft, and a plurality of pistons slidably received in the respective cylinder bores, wherein the pistons are successively reciprocated in the cylinder bores by a rotation of the drive shaft so that a suction stroke and a discharge stroke are alternately executed in each of the cylinder bores. During the suction stroke, a fluid is introduced into the cylinder bore, and during the compression stroke, the introduced fluid is compressed and discharged from the cylinder bore such that a residual part of the compressed fluid is inevitably left in the cylinder bore when the compression stroke is finished. The compressor further includes a rotary valve for allowing the residual part of the compressed fluid to escape from the cylinder bore into another cylinder bore after the suction stroke is executed in the former cylinder bore over a given short period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1996
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toyoda Jidoshokki Seisakusho
    Inventors: Kazuya Kimura, Chuichi Kawamura, Masafumi Ito, Yoshihiro Makino
  • Patent number: 5501578
    Abstract: A hydrostatic pump of the axial piston type having a significantly reduced overall length due to a special three point bearing arrangement for the main shaft (1) of the pump and the charge pump shaft (12). The improvement comprises a bearing assembly which consists of just three bearings (6, 14, 23) at separate locations for simultaneously supporting the coupled main shaft (1) and charge pump shaft (12). A first bearing 6 is located at the end of the main shaft (1) which is opposite that coupled to the charge pump shaft (12), a second bearing (14) is located at the end of the charge pump shaft (12) which is opposite to that coupled to the main shaft (1), and a third bearing (23) is located at the junction of the coupled shafts (1,12) to provide for their common support. The third bearing (23) can be a needle bearing or of the plain bushing type. The shafts (1,12) can be coupled by mating splines (17,22) and engage each other in a clearance fit (21).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1996
    Assignee: Sauer Inc.
    Inventor: Eckhard Skirde
  • Patent number: 5501577
    Abstract: A technique for detecting and containing liquid leaks in a liquid pumping, gas-operated diaphragm pump, and for stopping the pump operation when such leaks occur. If there is a leak in such a pump, the exhaust air gets contaminated with the liquid. With this technique the pump exhaust gas is captured in a container where any liquid within the gas is separated and is allowed to accumulate at the container bottom. The level of liquid accumulated at the container bottom is sensed, and when it reaches a predetermined level, a signal is send to a pneumatically operated shutoff valve to stop the pump operation by stopping the inflow of gas into the pump, or the outflow of liquid from the pump, or to stop the inflow of liquid into the pump. In addition, when the accumulated liquid reaches a predetermined level, a signal may be sent to a pneumatically operated warning device, turning it on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1996
    Inventors: Gary L. Cornell, Donald G. Vise
  • Patent number: 5499885
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for joining a first structural element, having a passageway formed therein which opens to the exterior thereof, to a second element. A plurality of members are assembled into a joining device which is then nested inside of the passageway. The members are then moved with respect to each other to enlarge the size of the joining device so that the members engage the wall of the passageway in supporting contact therewith. The members of the enlarged joining device are then secured together into a unitary support block, with the members in supporting contact with the passageway wall. The unitary support block is connected to the second element. Unique member components, member securing means, member moving means, and the like form a new and useful apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1996
    Inventor: William A. Chapman
  • Patent number: 5499908
    Abstract: An energy efficient hermetic compressor for compressing hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants. The compressor includes a motor compressor unit with a rotating oil pickup tube to which an oil paddle is attached. The oil paddle rotates in a base lubricant of polyol ester mixed with a siloxane ester foaming agent. The combination of the foaming additive with the oil paddle creates a foam layer that floats in the oil sump to reduce the sound level of the compressor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1996
    Assignee: Tecumseh Products Company
    Inventor: Raymond J. Schmitz, III
  • Patent number: 5499861
    Abstract: The invention relates to a load-bearing frame for a chair, in particular for an office chair, which can be adjusted in terms of its height and inclination and comprises a seat carrier (1), a backrest carrier (2), a load-bearing and pivoting device (80) and a standing column (5). By means of struts (46, 32) arranged on the knee side and backrest side and supported on a spindle body, the seat carrier and backrest carrier (1, 2) are mounted on a spindle body such that they can pivot about a horizontal axis (X), oriented transversely to the seat direction, against the restoring force at least of a first spring element (40, 40'), and, in any position, can be fixed, and released again, by a second spring element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1996
    Assignee: Giroflex-Entwicklungs-AG
    Inventor: Hermann Locher
  • Patent number: 5498138
    Abstract: An improved sampling pump has utility for withdrawing fluid from a pressurized source and outputting fluid to a sampling container. The fluid pump assembly of the present invention includes an operator unit for reciprocating a plunger, and a side body port positioned within the pump body for receiving a removable filter. A pressure regulator has an inlet positioned within a side body port of the pump body and regulator outlet port in fluid communication with the operator unit. A collar rotatable with respect to a regulator housing is provided for reducing installation costs and for optionally removing condensate from the regulator. An adjustable discharge valve is pressure balanced for increasing the reliability of the pump. An improved seal is utilized for dynamic seal engagement between the pump body and the pump plunger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1996
    Assignee: PGI International, Ltd.
    Inventors: Spencer M. Nimberger, Robert L. Ward
  • Patent number: 5498141
    Abstract: A hygienic tank truck pump for pumping liquid articles of food, such as milk, from either a stationary tank to the tank of a tank truck or between the tank truck and a tailer trunk coupled to the tank truck. The hygienic pump includes a side channel pump, a hydraulic motor for driving the side channel pump, and a hydraulic system of the tank truck for supplying hydraulic fluid to the motor. As a result, the tank truck pump is self-priming and presents a high capacity relative to weight and the capability of simple cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1996
    Assignee: APV Rosista A/S
    Inventor: Frode Agger
  • Patent number: 5497616
    Abstract: A high temperature mounting system useful, for example for ceramic composite flameholders in a gas turbine engine reheat system uses dovetail clamping. A flameholder carries a dovetail projection which is clamped against a further ceramic, intermediate member by wedge blocks on opposite sides of the dovetail. The intermediate member has raised edges with angled faces opposite the dovetail projection against which the wedge blocks bear. The assembly is clamped to a metal support or flange by clamp bolts which pass through each of the wedge blocks and the intermediate member. The included angle of the contact faces is determined by principles of DAZE geometry to keep the bolts from loosening due to differential thermal expansion. Each wedge block is clamped by single bolt and relative expansion between the bolts is absorbed by bolt bending or nut sliding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1996
    Assignee: Rolls-Royce Inc.
    Inventor: Martyn G. Roberts
  • Patent number: 5495715
    Abstract: The amount of fuel supplied by a low pressure pump and a high pressure pump to combustion means is controlled by a control unit. If most of the fuel delivered by the pumps is required by the engine a clutch engages to provide a direct mechanical drive between the pumps so that they are driven at the same speed. However if the combustion equipment requires a reduced flow of fuel the clutch disengages and the excess fuel is diverted by a valve to a turbine. The turbine drives the low pressure pump at a higher speed than the speed of the high pressure pump. The energy of the diverted fuel is converted to mechanical energy to drive the turbine so that the temperature rise of the diverted fuel is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Rolls-Royce plc
    Inventor: Russell A. Loxley
  • Patent number: 5495710
    Abstract: The invention concerns a dual-flow turbine engine equipped with a thrust reversal system and at least one device for restricting the annular channel for the ejection of cold gases. According to the invention, each restriction device, consisting of a fitting (7) and a shutter (8) pivoting with respect to the said fitting, has sealing means disposed between the said shutter and fitting, adapted for defining at least one airtight chamber (12, 13) between these last two, each fitting (7) having, in line with each chamber, at least one orifice. Furthermore, elastic means are arranged so as to act on the shutter (8) in such a way as to produce an initial release of the latter. These devices aim to guarantee the holding of the shutter (8) in its closed position, where it is clamped against the fitting (7), during flight, whilst ensuring the opening of this shutter after landing, under the effect of the elastic means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Conception Aeronautique du Sud-Ouest
    Inventor: Guy Servanty
  • Patent number: 5496154
    Abstract: A fan drive with high torque release embodying the concepts of the present invention is adapted to disengage the fan drive under high torque conditions. The fan drive includes an input shaft member and an output shaft member. A torque transfer device operatively connects the input shaft member with the output shaft member. A spring apply mechanism is provided for engaging the torque transfer device at low speeds and under low torque loading, and a centrifugal apply mechanism is provided for maintaining engagement of the torque transfer device under higher operating speeds and at properly anticipated torque loading. A release mechanism substantially disengages the torque transfer device upon the application of higher than desired torque loading conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Arthur Hall, III, Robert F. Combs
  • Patent number: 5496152
    Abstract: A pump in which a valve bridges the pressure region and the suction region and the delivery system displaces liquid from the suction region to a pressure region. The pump housing has an annular channel connected to the suction or intake passage and into which an injector extends to train a jet from the high pressure side a the valve into the suction region through the channel which surrounds the injector so that the jet asperates liquid from the channel into the suction region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Luk Farhzeug-Hydraulik GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Manfred Heise, Hans J. Lauth, Van D. Nguyen, Erwin Stammler
  • Patent number: 5494420
    Abstract: A self-aligning connection between a rotary and reciprocating pump piston allows relative radial movement between the pump piston and the rotary cam. The self-aligning connection is formed by a pin carried by the rotary cam and is positioned in a radial recess located in the pump piston. An improved drive for the rotary cam is perfected by a cam follower pin supported from the housing by a roller bearing race which is pressed fitted within a bore formed by the pump housing. The pump piston abuts a TEFLON pad located in the pump cylinder to reduce dead space and insure that the pump produces accurate volumes. The employment of different plastic materials between the rotary cam and the pump housing provides an improved bearing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1996
    Assignee: Diba Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: James A. Mawhirt, Jack M. Olich, Mark Huza
  • Patent number: 5494409
    Abstract: A vapor recovery system for use with fuel dispensing nozzles. The system includes a fuel dispensing nozzle and a vapor piping line operably connected to the nozzle for insertion into a tank for receiving fuel. The line has a small diameter with respect to the diameter of the fuel dispensing hose supplying fuel to the nozzle. A sump is connected to the other end of the line and has a source of vacuum for positively assisting flow of vapor through the line. The sump includes a filter for separating fuel from the vapor to produce vapor clean air. It also has both a vent for venting the vapor clean air and a drain for removing the separated fuel. The system preferably further includes a vacuum regulator means for regulating the vacuum in the vapor piping line by controlling the vacuum at about 1 to about 5 inches of mercury in the line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1996
    Inventors: Michael C. Webb, Thomas Wilson, Ken Kunaniec