Patents Issued in April 14, 1998
  • Patent number: 5737861
    Abstract: A simplified gear box for intermittently displaying a number of displays on a display apparatus is comprised of a partial gear driven by a drive shaft, the partial gear cooperates with a number of pins on a rotatable pin wheel which is secured to a triangular shaped display element so as to intermittently rotate the display element upon rotation of the pin wheel. A number of gear boxes are connected to a number of triangular elements to intermittently synchronously rotate all of the triangular display elements, to display different images upon a face of the display apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Tri Motion Design, Inc.
    Inventor: Don Hansen
  • Patent number: 5737862
    Abstract: A portable sign having a magnetically attractable signboard, a frame supporting the signboard and a support for supporting the frame. Graphic elements cut from a magnetic material are releasably securable to the signboard by magnetic attraction without constraint as to location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventors: Garry T. Cooper, J. Murray Wright
  • Patent number: 5737863
    Abstract: A muzzle-loading firearm designed to utilize an ignition device carrier and to discharge projectiles having pre-cut rifling. The ignition device carrier serves to facilitate easy installation and removal of the primer or percussion cap required to discharge the firearm in addition to protecting both the primer from inclement weather and the shooter from powder detonation. The carrier also provides a means for positive mechanical extraction of the ignition device from the weapon. Projectiles for the firearm have the rifling grooves cut into them by forcing the bullets through an engraving die fashioned from a portion of the rifle barrel or from a separate barrel of slightly different dimensions than the barrel of the weapon which will fire the projectiles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: William F. Rainey, III
  • Patent number: 5737864
    Abstract: A safety device for locking fire-arms prevents the use of a revolver by an unauthorized person. A main body of tubular configuration includes a key-core, which can be axially displaced and is arranged inside the main body. A locking element projects from a piece which contacts a spring. The spring contacts a bottom wall of the main body. An end of the locking device passes through a window in the bottom wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: Milton Otto
  • Patent number: 5737865
    Abstract: A repeating shot gun, in particular a automatic shot gun, is provided with at least one barrel (29) which is rigidly attached to a plastic housing (1) when the gun is assembled, the shot gun having a coupling (3) formed either from a metal or from a material having properties similar to those of metals with respect to deformation and strength and having a barrel receiver (5) which is rigidly positioned in the housing (1), such that the barrel receiver (5) substantially coaxially surrounds the rear portion of the barrel (29) and the barrel (29) is in close-fitting engagement with the barrel receiver (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Heckler & Koch GmbH
    Inventors: Rudolf Brandl, Heinz Matt
  • Patent number: 5737866
    Abstract: Device for adapting shooting aids onto an individual fire-arm (1) at the vicinity of the front portion of the barrel, characterized in that it is comprised of a fixed element (8) integral with the fire-arm, and a removable element (13) which can be made integral with the fixed element (8) and the barrel (2) of the fire-arm. The shooting aid can be a laser designator or a grenade launcher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Giat Industries
    Inventors: Jean Minaire, Jean-Pierre Montgrenier
  • Patent number: 5737867
    Abstract: A fish-like artificial bait comprising a hollow fish-like main body made of a transparent resin material, a concave groove formed in a surface of the main body and served as a scale indicating portion, a heat pressure welded layer using a light non-transmitting transfer foil such as a metallic foil as its material and formed on the surface of the scale indicating portion excepting the concave groove, a light non-transmitting color painted layer formed on the surface of the fish-like main body excepting the scale indicating portion, a light non-transmitting color painted layer formed on the surface of the fish-like main body excepting the scale indicating portion, and a luminous material disposed on an inner side of the fish-like main body and served as a light source for light transmitting through the concave groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Shintowa Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Teruhiro Tsutsumi, Tomoyuki Moriya
  • Patent number: 5737868
    Abstract: A floatable bobber used to support an insertable fishing line in water. The bobber has a central one piece elongated plastic section with a T shaped slot at its lower section in which a fishing line may be inserted. Surrounding this section at its lower end is a slidable rubber sleeve used to hold the in-place fishing line. Further up the bobber is an enlarged foam section with internal weights. These weights are configured in a triangular shape with the one piece section extending through the middle of the triangle. When a fish is caught, tension is applied to the in-place fishing line to upright the attached normally prone floating bobber to indicate and alert a user to a potential catch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: Dennis Rikard
  • Patent number: 5737869
    Abstract: A fishing net assembly that includes two resilient members perpendicularly disposed with respect to each other and having substantially the same dimensions. Two interconnecting cables tense the ends of the resilient members in an arcuate position defining a plane below the point of intersection of the resilient members where a junction assembly is mounted to rigidly keep the resilient members in place. The net is mounted to the cables and defines a sac with one opening through which the crustaceans enter attracted by a bait mounted to underside of the junction assembly. The cables tension the resilient members providing an obstacle to the crustaceans entering the trap. A leader line is attached to the upperside of the junction assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: Narciso E. Murguido
  • Patent number: 5737870
    Abstract: A bait is provided particularly adapted for attracting and arresting mites such that when used in a particular trap it allows non-destructive collection of mites from a produce. This enables study and enumeration of mites to be more easily carried out than with previous bait/trap combinations. The bait takes the form of an aqueous gel body which is then mounted within an apertured container which forms the trap. The gel may further contain other attractant and arrestant components and its use allows mechanical trapping mechanisms to be dispensed with.A method of assessing infestation status and a trap for mounting the bait are also provided, together with methods for using the bait and/or trap as a microbial detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: The Minister of Agriculture Fisheries and Food in her Britannic Majesty's Government of the U.K. of Gt. Britain & N. Ireland
    Inventor: Bharat B. Thind
  • Patent number: 5737871
    Abstract: Compounds known as "solid dispersed dyes" are synthesized in a two-phase system from which they disproportionate into a water-immiscible solvent phase, providing marker solutions. Marker solution is added to a petroleum fuel to introduce the compound thereto in dissolved form. Subsequently, extraction of the compound with acidic aqueous solution produces a chromophoric reaction which indicates presence of the compound in the petroleum fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Morton International, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael R. Friswell
  • Patent number: 5737872
    Abstract: The invention disclosed is a synthetic seed and a method for the manufacture thereof. The seed comprises a plant propagule which is capable of producing an entire plant, encapsulated in a material including an inert filler, a binder and water. The synthetic seed has a prescribed selected water-activity to maintain viability until exposed to germination permissive conditions, and is of sufficient mechanical strength/hardness for use with mechanical seeding devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: National Research Council of Canada
    Inventors: James E. Cunningham, Danielle Julie Carrier, David I. Dunstan
  • Patent number: 5737873
    Abstract: A compact potted plant protector comprised of a flexible band forming a plurality of coils (18) wound around a central axis to create a spiral (20). This spiral (20) is wrapped around a plant to create a barrier for cats. The spiral (20) may also be circular, trapezoidal, square, or any form of polygon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: Kaj Gyr
  • Patent number: 5737874
    Abstract: A shutter for withstanding hurricane wind forces has an outer rectangular frame formed by four U-shaped channel members. An inner rectangular frame, also formed of four U-shaped blade channels, is mounted within the U-shaped channels of the outer frame. A plurality of Z-shaped blades extend horizontally between the vertical U-shaped inner blade channels and are secured in an angular position by fasteners. The blades each have a pair of horizontal end flanges which are secured at opposite ends to the inner frame, and have an intervening angled panel of reduced thickness to enable the blades to flex and absorb the wind forces. Longitudinal fins are formed on the inner frame channels and engage portions of the outer frame to radiate wind forces exerted on the blades to the outer frame. A pair of spring-biased plunger rods are mounted at the bottom ends of the outer frame for securing the shutter in a locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Simon Roofing and Sheet Metal Corp.
    Inventors: Jeffrey J. Sipos, Anthony R. Vross
  • Patent number: 5737875
    Abstract: A tension apparatus of a vehicle door powered sliding device comprises a motor fixed to a base plate, a wire drum mounted to the base plate by a first shaft and rotated by the motor, a wire cable provided between a vehicle sliding door and the wire drum for pulling the sliding door forward or rearward when the wire drum rotates, first and second tension arms rotatably mounted on the first shaft and having tension rollers which makes contact with the wire cable, an intermediate lever rotatably mounted on the first shaft, an adjusting member for fixing the first tension arm and the intermediate lever so that an angle of the first tension arm and the intermediate lever can be adjusted, a tension spring provided between the intermediate lever and the second tension arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Mitsui Kinzoku Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Patrick Dowling, Manabu Nakajima
  • Patent number: 5737876
    Abstract: A clutch mechanism of a powered sliding device for a vehicle sliding door comprises a swingable member held at a neutral position by means of resilient force of a return spring, an output gear fixed to an output shaft of a motor, first gears rotatably supported to the swingable member and engaged with the output gear, second gears rotatably supported to the swingable member and brought into contact with the first gears with predetermined frictional resistance, respectively, rack members fixed to the base plate and engaged with the second gears, respectively, a wire drum connected to the sliding door through a wire cable, a drum gear integrally rotated with the wire drum. When the first gears and the second gears are rotated by the motor, the swingable member is rotated due to the engagements of the second gears and the rack members against the resilient force of the return spring so that one of the first gears is engaged with the drum gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Mitsui Kinzoku Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Patrick Dowling
  • Patent number: 5737877
    Abstract: A block and tackle balance disposed between a jambliner and a window sash includes a spring and a non-rotating pulley system. A head block is disposed on a rod for attaching the balance to the jambliner and securing one end of the spring, and a slide block is disposed at about the midpoint of the rod for securing the other end of the spring. The slide block acts in combination with a base block and a pulley cord, to create the non-rotating pulley system. The slide block and the base block each have at least one cord-receiving channel formed in a raised u-shaped member, for slidably receiving the pulley cord. The base block further includes a bore for securing an end of the pulley cord, and is coupled via the pulley cord to a shoe, which moves in response to movement of the window sash. As the shoe moves, the cord slides within the channels, and the slide block moves toward the base block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Amesbury Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Meunier, Rick Skallerud, Larry VerSteeg, Gary Newman
  • Patent number: 5737878
    Abstract: The present invention is a door frame guard device which is removably secured to a conventional door frame or door jamb. The door frame guard device of the present invention comprises at least one component having a U-shape. This design will provide for the component to include three walls. For enabling the device to be attached to the side of the door jamb having hinges, at least one wall of the component is provide with a plurality of openings. These openings will receive the hinges and will render a device which is removably secured onto a door frame. Additional components can be utilized for additional coverage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventors: David B. Raulerson, Charlie E. Day, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5737879
    Abstract: A debris blocking gutter system includes a gutter having a front wall, a bottom wall and a rear wall forming a trough for receiving water. A shield for covering at least a portion of the trough includes a cover portion and a downwardly projecting blocking wall. A hanger or bracket includes a first arm for supporting the front wall and preventing it from collapsing due to the weight of debris. The hanger includes a second arm for supporting the shield without contacting the cover portion. The first and second arms prevents the gutter from collapsing due to the weight of debris such as snow and ice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: Vernon L. Sweet
  • Patent number: 5737880
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a rigid, one-piece, lightweight, plastic and/or resin cover housing structure designed to accommodate and protect an outdoor barbecue grill positioned within. The shape of the grill covering allows for the shape of an outdoor grill and further allows for convenient use and storage. Furthermore, the grill covering provides additional food service and/or preparation space, and an apparatus whereby cooking utensils can be stored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventors: Cedric M. Hayes, Ronald Haag, Darren P. O'Neill
  • Patent number: 5737881
    Abstract: An interlocking roof system of tiers of successively higher interlocking panels mounted on base members, each panel being held in place by protrusions fitted into notches in the base member of the next higher tier, the panels of each higher tier having a groove wrapped about and locked onto a lip of the adjacent lower panel, side lips and clips being used to connect adjacent panels located in the same horizontal tier. The base member of the lowest tier is mounted at its lowest edge on a riser along the lowest edge of the roof being covered and at its upper edge on the rafters of the roof being covered. The next lowest base member is located at its lowest edge along the upper edge of the adjacent lower base member and at its upper edge on the rafters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: Richard Stocksieker
  • Patent number: 5737882
    Abstract: A method of attaching to at least one bearing beam of a building. A clip with a blocking tab is attached to the bearing beam, and a roof assembly with two pivotally attached frames is unfolded and lowered. Each frame has a blocking member, and the roof is lowered so that the blocking member contacts the blocking tab and restrains the roof assembly from unfolding further. A roof has two parallel bearing beams, clips attached to each bearing beams, and a roof assembly. Each clip has a ramp and a blocking tab. The roof assembly has two pivotally attached frames, and each frame has a rafter and a blocking member. Each rafter rests on a ramp, and each blocking member is attached to a blocking tab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: International Village, Inc.
    Inventors: John F. Eckert, Jorge R. de Quesada
  • Patent number: 5737883
    Abstract: An anchor (20) which is attachable to the leg (500) of a canopy (502) framework includes a bar (22) having a foot (30), a weight (32), and at least one attaching means for attaching the anchor (20) to the leg (500). The anchor (20) is useful in circumstances where the wind could lift, displace, or overturn the canopy (502) and associated framework.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: Barbara Rose
  • Patent number: 5737884
    Abstract: A spiral stair case wherein segments of the outside stringer framework and segments of the central column are forming corresponding polygonal segments, wherein the spiral stair case preferably is made in octagonal polygonal segments, wherein one segment of the outside stringer together with one segment of the central column respectively is supporting preferably two stair treads of the the spiral stair case, wherein the segments of the outside stringer and the segments of the central column are strait, non curved elements, and wherein the stair treads are made strait and wherein all peripheral cuts are made strait, and wherein the segments are connected to each other by standard carpentry connection means, wherein the fascia, the baluster posts, the baluster filler parts and the handrail build the rigid outside stringer segments, wherein the outside stringer segments build a rigid, structural supporting outside stringer framework of the spiral stair case formed in polygonal segments and wherein the segments ar
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: Wolfram Schrom
  • Patent number: 5737885
    Abstract: A secondary interior window includes a rectangular frame having a first face, a second face, and an exterior peripheral edge. A peripheral groove is disposed along the exterior peripheral edge of the rectangular frame. A sheet of transparent polymer plastic is stretched across one of the first face and the second face of the rectangular frame and disposed in the peripheral groove. A compressible retainer is embedded in the peripheral groove thereby preventing withdrawal of the sheet of transparent polymer plastic from the groove and securing the sheet of transparent polymer plastic to the frame. The compressible retainer protrudes from the peripheral groove, thereby providing an exterior friction member by means of which the frame is held within an interior window cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: Eckhart Albert Stoyke
  • Patent number: 5737886
    Abstract: A method for deterring forgeries and authenticating signatures placed on any document or other object (collectively "Item") is disclosed. A first forgery-proof diffraction grating pattern or similar information bearing medium (Electronic Fingerprint or "EF") is issued to a person whose signature is being protected ("Principal") by a central registrar ("CR"). A personal identification number ("PIN") which has been assigned by the CR to the Principal is encoded on the EF. The PIN remains constant and is encoded on all EFs distributed to the Principal. In addition to the PIN, the EF contains another code ("Code") that is distinct for each EF distributed to the Principal. The Principal must acknowledge to the CR, through the use of his or her PIN, that he or she has received physical possession of the EFs before the EFs are considered valid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: Robert J. Kruckemeyer
  • Patent number: 5737887
    Abstract: A wall panel assembly for use in providing an open plan system to define separate areas. An L shaped connector bracket is utilized to join two panels together in an L configuration, three panels together in a T configuration, or four panels together in an X configuration. In each case one leg of the bracket is secured to an end edge of the first wall panel and the other leg of the bracket is secured to the end edge of a second panel. Where only two panels are being joined in an L configuration, a ball end edge of an L shaped trim post is positioned at one end edge in a socket groove defined by the connector bracket and rotated to bring another ball end edge of the trim panel into snapping coaction with a socket groove defined on another end edge of the connector bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: American Seating Company
    Inventor: Paul Allen Smeenge
  • Patent number: 5737888
    Abstract: A versatile surround trim mounting device comprises an extruded metal surround trim piece formed as three separate legs and joined together to form a U-shaped frame structure. The extrusion comprises a pair of parallel trim edges that are separated from each other by a connecting recessed tile support therebetween. The recessed tile support is further provided with two side support structures. A spring bias force is placed against one of the side supports to urge a tile to lock it against the opposite side support so that the versatile surround trim appears to the eye be horizontal and vertical rows of decorative tiles surrounding a prefabricated fireplace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Heat-N-Glo Fireplace Products Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Curtis Shimek, Ronald John Shimek
  • Patent number: 5737889
    Abstract: A device for sealing concrete joints is provided. The sealing device includes an elongate section (8) having a larger width than thickness (t). The section (8) has longitudinal edge portions (12, 13) and is intended for casting into two concrete structures (1, 2) for sealing a concrete joint area between the two structures (1,2). A swellable material (7, 14) is provided at least at the longitudinal edge portions (12, 13) thereof. The section (8) is made of a substantially rigid material and is provided with an internal cavity extending over a major part of its width.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Ing. B. Habberstad AS
    Inventors: Bent Habberstad, Ivar Aanstad
  • Patent number: 5737890
    Abstract: A frame assembly of the knock-down type in which the component parts can be shipped or transported in a knock-down condition and readily constructed with a minimum of tools or no tools, and disassembled when desired. The frame assembly includes at least one pair of spaced vertical stiles and at least one pair of horizontal rails substantially orthogonal thereto, and associated connecting elements for connecting the stiles and rails, one of the connecting elements being joined with a stile at a corner connection thereof and another of the connecting elements being joined with a rail at a corner connection thereof so that a pair of the associated connecting elements joins one of the stiles to one of the rails, and all of the stiles and rails as appropriate are joined to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: Marsha Vander Heyden
  • Patent number: 5737891
    Abstract: A channel-mounted panel structure using interlocking panels is described. Channel members that are generally hat-shaped in cross-section each have oppositely disposed longitudinal supporting members for use in cooperation with mounting slots of adjacent panels. Opposed edges of the panels are formed such that each formed edge includes a mounting slot along the length of the panel and a raised portion that cooperates with the raised portion of an adjoining panel to form a closure with a standing seam. Alternatively, closure may be provided by a cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Crown Partnership
    Inventor: Percy Greenberg
  • Patent number: 5737892
    Abstract: A structure for securing the edges of adjacent roof-forming panels is described. Channel members having gutter forming bottom and side walls engage the edges of adjacent panels. Specifically, ledges or the channel side walls cooperate with structures on the panel edges to secure the panel edges. A closure encloses the channel gutter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Crown Partnership
    Inventor: Percy Greenberg
  • Patent number: 5737893
    Abstract: A light weight, upholstered panel for use in modular and free standing office landscaping systems. The panels form free standing partitions which can be rearranged and assembled into an office system. Panels can be interconnected and positioned over a range of angles relative to adjacent panels. The panel core is composed of a light weight composite structural material with perimeter frame members along each edge. Each frame member has the same cross-section along its length. The horizontal perimeter horizontal frame members are inter-connected with the vertical frame members by corner connectors. The corner connectors have protrusions which engage hollow cavities in the ends of the frame members. The perimeter frame acts to transfer loads imposed on the panel to the structural core. The perimeter frame members incorporate formations to secure the panel fabric, trim and the inter-panel connection system in place and provide recesses for fasteners and support hardware.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Tetrad Marketing/Sales Ltd.
    Inventors: Paul Rossiter, Steven Jones, Andrew Schoenherr
  • Patent number: 5737894
    Abstract: A standing seam roof assembly in which adjacent roof panels are supported by underlying support structure in overlapping edge relationship to form a standing seam between adjacent roof panels is disclosed. A two piece hold down clip having a hook shaped section and a clip base secures the standing seam to the underlying support structure. The hook shaped section includes a slidable radiused portion, a substantially vertically extending portion and a hook portion which hooks over and is compressively secured to a corresponding radiused portion of the male sidelap portion. The slidable radiused portion slidably engages a c-shaped beam portion of the clip base, allowing the hook shaped section to move relative to the clip base as the panels expand and contract as a result of environmental conditions, while still resisting the unfurling and unzipping of the standing seam as a result of uplift forces on the panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Harold Simpson, Inc.
    Inventors: Harold G. Simpson, Leo E. Neyer
  • Patent number: 5737895
    Abstract: A monolithic, reinforced concrete framework for a multilevel, multi-unit building results from the utilization of factory prefabricated and finished wall panels, floor/ceiling panels and utility core modules, the juxtaposition of which, without forms, defines volumetric beam voids. The beam voids are exterior to the wall panels, floor/ceiling panels and core modules. Wall panels include light gage studs, which are loadbearing studs, and light gage column frames. Beam voids and column frames for a building level are poured with concrete at one time. Each building level is erected and poured in one day; and the next level can commence the following morning, without need for exterior scaffolds. The beams and columns carry the weight of the building down into the foundation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: Arthur Perrin
  • Patent number: 5737896
    Abstract: A method for preparing a lightweight concrete including mixing a slurry comprising water, a cementing binder and a fine grain aggregate together. Polystyrene pellets are add-mixed to the slurry to form a substantially homogeneous lightweight concrete mixture. A second embodiment is a method for making a lightweight concrete panel for use in a building's construction. The method includes coupling together a plurality of frame segments so that a concrete frame is established. The frame has an interior space that forms a receiver for a lightweight concrete mixture. The frame is filled with a lightweight concrete mixture so that the interior space is spanned by the lightweight concrete mixture across the frame. The lightweight concrete mixture is cured to a rigid state so that the set lightweight concrete mixture is retained within the frame thereby forming a lightweight concrete panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: Michael S. Rodgers
  • Patent number: 5737897
    Abstract: This invention relates to commercial roof assemblies applied over a flat roof deck, and, more particularly, to an insulation board composite capable of peel and stick application, in which the insulation board is mechanically attached to a roof deck, a release sheet is removed from the top face of the board (revealing the pressure sensitive adhesive layer), and a non-adhesive waterproofing membrane is then placed onto the adhesive face of the board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Building Materials Corporation of America
    Inventor: Michael P. Naipawer, III
  • Patent number: 5737898
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling the input of articles at the start-up phase of a packaging machine of the type having at least one article conveyance lane and an article grouping mechanism constructed and arranged to meter articles moving in the conveyance lane into predetermined groups, comprising:(a) at least one stop post aligned for extension into the conveyance lane, the stop post further being disposed at an infeed end of the article grouping mechanism;(b) means to actuate the stop post, whereby the stop post is extendible and retractable in the article conveyance lane, the stop post impeding travel of articles in the lane when extended and permitting travel of articles in the lane when retracted; and(c) means to coordinate actuation of the means to actuate with operation of the article grouping mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Riverwood International Corporation
    Inventors: Dennis C. Grimm, Mitch Lowe, Bruce D. Domino
  • Patent number: 5737899
    Abstract: This invention provides utilizes a centering device located in the accumulation portion of mail production equipment to reduce jamming caused by the insertion of material into an open envelope. The apparatus of this invention is located in the accumulation area of production mail equipment before the inserter. The apparatus of this invention includes: two guides; a solenoid and a flexible wire cable. Two centering guides are actuated through a solenoid and move to a predetermined center position to align and deskew the accumulated enclosure contents (which may include printed and pre-printed folded sheets, business reply envelopes and other insert material). A flexible wire cable is used to provide highly efficient transfer of motion from the solenoid to the centering guides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Pitney Bowes Inc.
    Inventors: Steven A. Supron, Michael D. Ballard, Joseph H. Marzullo
  • Patent number: 5737900
    Abstract: Banding apparatus in various embodiments include accelerator members for accelerating plastic bands downstream along a floating mandrel for propelling them at high speed with significant kinetic energy in being ejected off from an end of the mandrel toward and around articles to be banded. In one apparatus belts accelerate elongated label bands to more than 1,000 feet per minute. The peripheries of tear-off rollers turn continuously at a first speed for tearing successive bands off from perforated plastic tubing which may be pre-perforated label tubing. Alternatively, plastic tubing may be perforated during operation by continuously feeding flattened tubing between perforator and anvil rollers positioned upstream from the mandrel. Accelerator members shown as rollers or as revolving belts have repetitive first and second peripheral speeds alternating with each other in cycles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: PDC International Corporation
    Inventors: Anatole E. Konstantin, Jaroslaw T. Malkowski
  • Patent number: 5737901
    Abstract: The packaging of agricultural or horticultural produce requires much manual work, particularly when the stalks of fruits such as apples are all made to point in the same direction and/or when the most attractively colored side is properly presented. The invention relates to and provides a method which can be performed automatically wherein at least one camera recorded images of products are made and the products are packed subject to the recorded images.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: de Greef's Wagen-, Carrosserie-en Machinebouw, B.V.
    Inventor: Jacob Hendrik De Greef
  • Patent number: 5737902
    Abstract: A packaging apparatus is provided for placing pills into a series of pill receptacles moved under the apparatus at a predetermined speed by a conveyor. The packaging apparatus includes an escapement mechanism positioned above at least one drop chute and a vertical positioner for moving the drop chute adjacent to the pill receptacles so that pills may be sequentially placed into the pill receptacles. The apparatus includes a first horizontal positioner for moving the drop chute in a horizontal direction parallel to the path of travel of the pill receptacles and at a speed independent of the speed of the pill receptacles so that the lower end of the drop chute can be moved horizontally with respect to a pill receptacle while a pill is being placed therein. The apparatus may also further include a second horizontal positioner for moving the drop chute in horizontal directions transverse to the path of travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Aylward Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: John T. Aylward
  • Patent number: 5737903
    Abstract: A newspaper recycling disposal system that stacks and bundles used newspapers while eliminating need for using ties to tie the used newspapers to form bundles wherein the bundles are compatible with pulping processes used for recycling the used newspapers at paper mills, by virtue of eliminating the ties that are incompatible, and thereby eliminating contaminates which require labor and time to remove which reduces the value of the used newspapers that have been bundled. The system includes a generally circular-cylindrically-shaped container, a replaceable and circular-cylindrically-shaped rigid sleeve, and a circular-cylindrically-shaped mesh bag. The replaceable and circular-cylindrically-shaped rigid sleeve sits replaceably in the generally circular-cylindrically-shaped container and has the used newspapers stackable therein and has an open and circular-shaped top that forms an open mouth that receives the used newspapers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: Thomas Minutillo
  • Patent number: 5737904
    Abstract: Assembly of buckets for weighing a product in a machine for packaging said product, including at least a first and a second row of buckets, wherein each bucket of a row is in communication for the downward passage of the product with a corresponding bucket of the other row. In the assembly of buckets each of the buckets has a slanted surface for sliding of the product and the buckets of the rows of buckets in respective communication for the passage of the product are positioned to convey the product along a downwardly conveying path comprising the sliding surfaces of the corresponding buckets, so that relevant vertical fallings of the product are avoided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Simionato S.p.A.
    Inventor: Paolo Simionato
  • Patent number: 5737905
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for packaging products susceptible of absorbing carbon dioxide, in particular perishable food products. The method comprises the step of inserting a product in a containment package and the step of sealing the package. Before sealing, a preset amount of solid-phase carbon dioxide is introduced in the containment package. The sublimated carbon dioxide is then absorbed by the packaged product, avoiding collapse of the package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Valle Spluga S.p.A.
    Inventor: Marco Milani
  • Patent number: 5737906
    Abstract: A quick pressure reducing apparatus is used in vacuum packing of clothing, food, or the like. In order to quickly shift the interior of a preservation bag from the atmospheric state to a pressure reduced state, a reservoir tank is provided which is connected to a rotary pump functioning as a vacuum pump. By establishing communication between the reservoir tank and the preservation bag via an adapter, the internal pressure of the preservation bag can be sufficiently reduced. The adapter has a retractable communicating tubular member so as to smoothly reduce the internal pressure of the preservation bag. The adapter is inserted into the opening portion of the preservation bag whose internal pressure is to be reduced, thereby establishing communication between the preservation bag and the reservoir tank via the communicating tubular member. The opening portion of the preservation bag, together with the inserted adapter, is held between the upper and lower holding members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Zaidan Houjin Shinku Kagaku
    Inventor: Hajime Ishimaru
  • Patent number: 5737907
    Abstract: A framework for securing sundry items to a pack horse and for use as a chair or commode. A tubular framework includes a harness frame, a support frame and hinge plates which retain one to the other. A number of looped weldments anchor harness pieces which support the frame to a pack horse and anchor load securing straps and ropes. Multiple sleeve couplers project from the support frame and detachable legs mount to the sleeves and are retained with clips to provide a camp seat. A commode ring also mounts to the support frame to provide a portable toilet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: M. Orville Riley
  • Patent number: 5737908
    Abstract: A pre-pruning machine for trellised vines comprises a cutting module featuring superimposed tools each consisting of a cage and a cutting organ, and a feeding module consisting of superimposed feeding discs, it being possible to swivel the supports holding these modules by the action of a jack so that the said modules may interpenetrate each other in working phase. According to the invention, at least the motor of the cages is submitted to a slide drive limiting the torque, which is adjustable by the action of a pressure limiter (131; 133) within a calibrated range and selected by the operator in function of the working conditions (pruning type, advancing speed, etc.). Preferably, the motors of the cutting organs, feeders and cages are connected in series, the opening/closing device by means of the jack is connected in branch-off upstream of the feeder motor, and the feeder motor is also connected to a pressure limiter (131).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Binger France Sarl
    Inventor: Georges Andelfinger
  • Patent number: 5737909
    Abstract: A metallic cord for the reinforcement of elastomers comprising seven strands of two filaments wherein one strand is surrounded by six strands and the six strands are twisted in the same direction and have the same lay length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
    Inventors: Adam Richard Macklin, Italo Marziale Sinopoli
  • Patent number: 5737910
    Abstract: A method of imparting flat facets on hollow chain links intertwined to form a jewelry chain by tightly winding said jewelry chain about a drum of an ice lathe. Then freezing said drum and rotating it with said jewelry chain, next spraying water on said rotating chain in a controlled manner, to freeze at least part of each link of the chain in ice, and finally applying force by means of a pressure roller against at least one of said links of said chain, thereby at least partially flattening the outer wall of said at least one link to form a facet. After melting the ice, the chain is removed from the drum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Avraham Moshe Rozenwasser
    Inventor: David Rozenwasser