Patents Issued in August 4, 1998
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Patent number: 5787682Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus and method for shrinking portions of a shrinkable film beneath leading and trailing transverse end seams of a film wrapped product. First and second controllable sources of heated fluid are connected to first and second nozzles positioned beneath a conveyor on which the film wrapped product is conveyed. The nozzles are arranged to travel back and forth below the conveyor and their travel is timed such that the heated fluid from the first nozzle heats only the leading seam and the heated fluid from the second nozzle heats only the trailing seam.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Ossid CorporationInventor: Sydney S. Tolson
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Patent number: 5787684Abstract: A multiple pack of individually packaged items comprises an array of individual packages in a desired configuration which array is held in the desired configuration by a planar sheet material adhered to each package of the array. The planar sheet material is preferably a sheet of corrugated cardboard. The invention also includes a method of forming the multiple pack and apparatus for use.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Mars UK LimitedInventor: Peter Arnold Compton
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Patent number: 5787685Abstract: The use of unitary liquid fuel storage chambers provides advantages in the manufacturing and assembly of inflators for use in airbag passive restraint systems. A unique process of injecting liquid fuel through a conduit which is controlled to discharge the liquid fuel beneath the rising surface of the liquid fuel in the container and then sealing the storage chamber with a unique stopper provides consistently accurately filled unitary fuel containing storage chambers. The filled and sealed unitary storage chambers can then be either stored or assembled into an inflator. The assembly of the inflator can be at a location separate from that at which the storage container is loaded with fuel, whereby the relatively hazardous loading and handling of liquid fuels can be separated from the inflator assembly area.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.Inventors: Harry W. Miller, II, Karl K. Rink, Walter A. Moore, Don T. Jensen
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Patent number: 5787686Abstract: The present invention further provides a substantially non-aqueous agricultural pesticide concentrate formulation of a non-ionic surfactant and a amphipathic graft copolymer composition in admixture with a water-insoluble organic agricultural pesticide which concentrate formulation can be easily diluted with water to form non-settling, freeze-thaw stable formulations.The present invention further provides methods for the use of water-diluted agricultural pesticide concentrate formulations of the above non-ionic surfactant concentrate formulations in the kill and control of agricultural pest.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: The Dow Chemical CompanyInventors: Craig J. Bott, Dale M. Pickelman, Ritchie A. Wessling
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Patent number: 5787687Abstract: A filling system of a container filling apparatus is configured for selectively, vertically moving an associated container positioned on a conveyor. The apparatus includes a food pump, and a container support platform operatively associated with the conveyor. The support platform is adapted to engage and support the container. A servo-controlled drive motor is configured to move each container positioned on the conveyor, in a controlled, generally vertical direction, perpendicular to the conveying path, toward and away from the food pump. A control system is operatively connected to the motor for providing controlled, programmable movement of the drive motor. Upon commencement of filling of the container with food product, the control means generates and transmits a signal to the motor to selectively position the container in proximity to the food pump and to move the container away from the food pump during filling, in a controlled manner, perpendicular to the conveying path.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Inventors: Martin J. Mueller, Michael A. Weigandt
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Patent number: 5787688Abstract: A cast iron container for containing contaminated waste has a lid or cover sealed thereto by molten lead which is deposited in a channel or groove formed between the cover and the container.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignees: Commissariat A L'Energie Atomique, AFE EnvironmentInventors: Jacques Peulve, Jean-Paul Becue
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Patent number: 5787689Abstract: A bag discharge constriction apparatus and method are disclosed in which the extent to which an opening in a bag is constricted is adjustably varied to control the discharge of material from the bag. The apparatus has a first control bar and a second control bar, each defining at least one angular relationship in a corresponding plane. Also disclosed is a means for moving at least one control bar in its associated plane toward and away from the other control bar. The control bars are disposed in opposing configuration such that the combination of the angular relationships forms a predetermined confined shape between the control bars. It is into this predetermined confined shape that the neck of the bag to be constricted is placed and the bars are then moved toward or away from each other to constrict or open the neck of the bag.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Spiroflow-Orthos Systems, Inc.Inventor: Robert Dearing
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Patent number: 5787690Abstract: A residual product removing apparatus which can prevent a liquid food (12) from flowing out even when a seal portion (S) is cut at its center. A pair of cutting rails (31, 32) are disposed in a cutting jaw (15a), and a cutter (21) is disposed in a clearance (33) formed between the cutting rails (31, 32) to be movable in advancing and retracting directions. A packaging material is cut at opposing portions (11a, 11b) when the cutter (21) is advanced. Dollies (31a, 32a) are disposed along the cutting rails (31, 32). A pair of heating bodies are disposed in a heat sealing jaw (15b) so as to squeeze and seal the opposing portions (11a, 11b) of the packaging material in cooperation with the dollies (31a, 32a). A groove (38) is formed between the heating bodies. The tip of the cutter (21) enters the groove (38) when the cutter (21) is advanced, and the tip of the cutter (21) presses the packaging material when the cutter (21) is located at its retracted position.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance S.A.Inventor: Hidetoshi Konno
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Patent number: 5787691Abstract: Apparatus for wrapping articles in film material includes a stationary frame supporting a vertically reciprocable frame which in turn supports a rotatable ring member carrying a film carriage assembly by which film is wrapped around a load during rotation of the ring member. The ring member is a cast composite ring of a thermosetting, fiberglass reinforced polyester and comprises a flange by which the ring member is supported for rotation and a body portion on which the film carriage and slip ring members are mounted.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Newtec International S.A.Inventors: Faruk M. Turfan, Normand Boyer, Thomas M. Oleksy
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Patent number: 5787692Abstract: A method and apparatus for accommodating a saddle on the back of a horse whose anatomy does not conform to the shape of the saddle in that the lengths of its leg bones are different causing its scapulae to be at different heights. The apparatus includes inflatable chambers that are supported on the back of a horse under the saddle at predetermined regions over the scapula, the ribs adjacent thereto and the overlying muscles and that are independently inflatable to transfer part of the weight of the saddle and a rider from the scapula to the adjacent ribs and overlying muscles thereby to distribute the load more evenly between the scapula and adjacent ribs and muscles and also to level the saddle. The chambers have air valves accessible to the rider so that inflation of the chambers can be adjusted by a rider while in the saddle.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Inventor: Vernon Purdy
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Patent number: 5787693Abstract: A universal powerhead apparatus which is securable to a frame portion of a land vehicle, pump or other tool to replace an existing internal combustion engine of the device without requiring significant modification to the frame portion of the device. The powerhead apparatus includes an electric motor and a universal mounting plate which is secured to a portion of the motor. The universal mounting plate has a footprint substantially similar to that of a specific make and displacement of internal combustion engine which the apparatus is intended to replace. The overall footprint of the apparatus is also similar to the specific make and displacement of a gasoline powered engine which it is designed to replace.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 1994Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventor: Colin Dyke
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Patent number: 5787694Abstract: A piston operated collecting machine for an agricultural harvested product comprises a pressing piston, a collector for collecting a harvested product, a feeding element for supplying the harvested product to the collector, a transmission having an input shaft connectable with a drive shaft of a pulling vehicle and imparting a movement to the pressing piston, two driven shafts operating so that one of the driven shaft drives the collector while another of the driven shafts drives the feeding element, and two overloading couplings arranged so that one of the driven shafts is connected with the transmission through one of the overloading couplings, while another of the driven shafts is connected with the transmission through another of the overloading couplings.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Claas Kommanditgesellschaft auf AktienInventors: Werner Tertilt, Martin Hawlas
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Patent number: 5787695Abstract: A dragged type mower having a body joined, at a front upper end thereof, to and suspended from an end of a boom of a travelling civil engineering machine through a suspending mechanism. The body includes a substantially rectangular-parallelepipedal frame, a cutter assembly having its shaft mounted horizontally and centrally in the frame, and a drive mechanism for driving the cutter assembly. Arcuate guide skids concentric with the cutter shaft and slightly greater in radius than the cutter shaft are provided at both side end sections of the frame from its front side to the bottom end thereof, and a horizontal guide roller is provided at the rear bottom end of the body.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Inventor: Masanori Nishioka
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Patent number: 5787696Abstract: A picking attachment having one or more pull-in rotors (2) and stationary comminuting tools (10), wherein the comminuting tools are in the form of rotating cutting disks (11) which are arranged on a carrier shaft (12) directed parallel to the axis of each pull-in rotor and form a cutting roller situated lower than the pull-in rotors.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 1995Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Carl Geringhoff GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Ludger Wiegert, Georg Krassort
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Patent number: 5787697Abstract: A crop divider assembly is provided for use on the row crop header of a combine or the like, and includes an elongated, hollow, double-walled divider and a similarly constructed snout. The divider includes longitudinally opposed proximal and distal ends, and defines a central groove extending longitudinally from the distal end toward the proximal end. The snout includes an upper proximal end, an opposed lower distal end, a semi-conical top wall, and a bottom wall defining a centrally disposed depending tongue extending longitudinally from the upper proximal end toward the lower distal end. The tongue is sized for receipt in the groove and is supported in the groove for pivotal movement about an axis extending in a direction transverse to the length of the groove so that the groove guides pivotal movement of the snout and prevents relative lateral shifting.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Vande Weerd Combine, Inc.Inventor: Warren L. Post
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Patent number: 5787698Abstract: A fruit picker includes a rigid, hollow sleeve having an opening at the top end thereof, and a fruit engaging mechanism connected to the sleeve at the top end for engaging a piece of fruit. The fruit engaging mechanism includes a string attached at one end thereof to a first point on the sleeve, the string passing through a hole provided in the sleeve at a second point which is separated from the first point by a predetermined arcuate distance along a side of the sleeve. The opposite end of the string extends down the outside of the sleeve so that it can be grasped by a user of the fruit picker. The string defines, in conjunction with the side of the sleeve, a variable size opening in which the piece of fruit to be picked is received. The fruit engaging mechanism further includes a biasing mechanism which is slidably attached to the string for biasing the string away from the first and second point so as to increase the size of the variable size opening.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Inventor: S. Everett Rushing
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Patent number: 5787699Abstract: An inner rotor 5 has a recess 7 formed at a position corresponding to a navel 6 and the recess 7 has a taper surface 7a formed to the peripheral edge thereof. The end surface 6c of the navel 6 can be moved together with a support member 12 to an ordinary spinning position where it can be engaged with a thread Y drawn out through a thread guide and to a thread piecing position where it cannot be engaged therewith. When the thread is pieced, the navel 6 is disposed at the thread piecing position and after a seed thread is introduced into an outer rotor 2 from a thread drawing-out path 6b in the state that both the rotors 2, 5 are rotated, a fiber bundle in a fiber collecting portion 2a is drawn out together with the seed thread and a thread is spun without passing through the thread guide. Thereafter, the navel 6 is moved to the ordinary spinning position.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toyoda Jidoshokki SeisakushoInventors: Toshio Morishita, Atsuo Sakakibara
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Patent number: 5787700Abstract: A sealed chain is provided that traps lubricant and dust electrostatically. The chain includes an inner plate which is penetrated by a bushing and an outer plate which is penetrated by a pin. The inner and outer plates are connected alternatingly. Between the inner plate and the outer plate, a seal which is coaxial with the bushing and the pin, is provided in contact with the inner and outer plates. The contact area between the seal and the inner plate is smaller than the contact area between the seal and the outer plate. An annular dust hole, which is around the end of the bushing for sliding on the pin is formed on the inner part of the surface of the seal facing the inner plate. When chain bends due to, for example, winding by a sprocket, the seal slides on the inner plate thus, generating electrostatic charge. The end of the bushing 12, which slides on the pin, is encircled by the dust hole, which entraps lubricant electrostatically on sliding surfaces and dust formed by the wear of sliding surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Tsubakimoto Chain Co.Inventor: Koji Tanaka
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Patent number: 5787701Abstract: The invention hereof provides, in a single device, means for accepting and breaking chains of different sizes, from small chains to large, industrial type chains, the device accepting a plurality of drive blocks with outwardly projecting parallel ejection pins of differing sizes and/or spacings to accommodate to chains of different sizes, and accepting a plurality of chain nests of different sizes to receive the pins of a cooperant drive block while holding the chains of a cooperant size thereby permitting the ejection of the roller pins from the chain whereby the chain is "broken" or disassembled.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Patton Tool Co., Inc.Inventor: Frank A. Small
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Patent number: 5787702Abstract: A propulsion plant operating on the basis of a catalytic and/or chemical decomposition of a liquid propellant, is equipped with a so-called aspirator ring (19) that covers the exit openings of the injection pipes (11), thereby screening these openings toward the decomposition chamber. The aspirator ring (19) is further enclosed by an aspirator screen (19A). The aspirator ring is constructed as a vaulted channel (20) in which the discharge bores (21) are arranged in a pattern that assures a uniform distribution of the propellant into the catalyst bed in the decomposition chamber. The aspirator screen (19A) is also formed with a channel and both the channel in the screen (19A) and the channel in the aspirator ring (19) preferably have a semicircular cross-section. The catalyst bed is divided into two separate beds so that the respective housing can also be divided so that subassemblies of the thruster may be built separately and then assembled.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Daimler-Benz Aerospace AGInventors: Peter Tiedtke, Josef Wiener
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Patent number: 5787703Abstract: A combined ramjet and rocket engine, operates as a ramjet in atmosphere, and a rocket engine in space is provided with a rectilinear duct. The engine has interior of the rectilinear duct paired and hinged rectilinear baffles which move from one of the duct walls. These hinged rectilinear baffles move into and out of the planar duct wall and define both the constriction of the Venturi for the ramjet engine configuration or the closure of the duct for the rocket engine configuration. The hinged rectilinear baffles are given leading and trailing wall surfaces so that during movement within the duct for the ramjet configuration, alteration of the slope of the collector and diffuser of the Venturi can occur. The hinged rectilinear baffle bordering the diffuser is manifolded to supply fuel when the engine is ramjet configured and fuel and oxidant when the engine is rocket engine configured.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Inventor: Russell Fougerousse
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Patent number: 5787704Abstract: An ionization unit is placed in an engine exhaust system. The ionization unit comprises an inlet to a first chamber and an outlet from a second chamber. Within the first chamber there is located an anode mesh and a grid mesh adapted to place a negative charge upon particulate matter passing through the first chamber. Within the second chamber there is located an anode element positively charged to attract the negatively charged particulate matter. Relatively clean air is exhausted at the outlet.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Inventor: Humberto Alexander Cravero
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Patent number: 5787705Abstract: A procedure has been proposed for diagnosing operability of a catalytic treatment device for catalytically treating internal combustion engine exhaust gas, by determining whether the catalytic treatment device reaches a light-off operating condition within a short period of time following an engine coldstart operation. When catalytic converter temperature reaches a temperature level associated, for an operable catalytic converter, with light-off, the operating efficiency of the converter is sampled and, if persistently below an acceptable operating efficiency over a number of coldstart operations, a deterioration in the converter is stored and indicated.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventor: Thomas Roger Thoreson
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Patent number: 5787706Abstract: An exhaust gas purification device (10) for trapping combustion engine exhaust emissions, particularly hydrocarbons and particulate matter, is disclosed. The device includes a casing (12) having an inlet (14) for exhaust gases from a combustion engine. The casing (12) houses a filtering and/or adsorbing medium (16), whilst a catalytic converter (22) is arranged downstream of the medium (16). A valve arrangement is provided for controlling exhaust gas flow through the filtering and/or adsorbing medium (16). The casing further includes a throughflow passage (18) adjacent the filtering and/or adsorbing medium (16), the passage running from the upstream end to the downstream end of the filtering and/or adsorbing medium (16). The passage also includes a throttling valve (20) responsive to temperatures in the device.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: AB VolvoInventors: Gudmund Smedler, Staffan Lundgren, Edward Jobson, Bjorn Dexell, Ove Backlund
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Patent number: 5787707Abstract: A modified in-line adsorber system capable of meeting the California ultra-low emission vehicle (REV) standard using a combination of burn-off catalyst and a modified adsorber constructed with an open flow region of substantially unobstructed flow having a hole or a region of larger cell openings to increase the amount and rate of contact between the exhaust gas and the burn-off catalyst, and thereby reduce the light-off time of the burn-off catalyst. For best effect, the open flow region of the adsorber is positioned along the exhaust stream between the engine and the burn-off catalyst as defined by the exhaust flow path of least resistance.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 1995Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Corning IncorporatedInventors: William Hertl, Donald L. Guile, Mallanagouda D. Patil, Jimmie L. Williams
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Patent number: 5787708Abstract: The present invention is particularly well suited for purifying exhaust from relatively large lean burn diesel engines. The emissions purification system causes the addition of an optimal amount of fuel through the engine fuel injector after closure of the fuel injector needle check valve by enlarging the fuel injector SAC volume. The optimal amount corresponds to an amount that will achieve optimal NOx reduction rates for the given engine operating condition and exhaust temperature when the exhaust is passes through appropriate deNOx and oxidation catalysts located downstream from the injector. The emissions purification system of the present invention has the ability to greatly reduce NOx content of the exhaust while maintaining HC emissions at acceptable levels and greatly reducing system complexity.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: William H. Lane, Daniel J. Learned, Randy N. Peterson, Aaron L. Smith
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Patent number: 5787709Abstract: An exhaust manifold of which each exhaust port is formed by a pipe member is disclosed. Each pipe member at one end portion has a wedge shape section. Each pipe member at the other end portion is connected to the cylinder head of an engine. The pipe members are abutted one another in the one end portion to form the merging portion of the exhaust manifold. A plurality of radial partition walls are formed in the merging portion by joining end surfaces of the pipe members one another. In the exhaust manifold, two adjacent partition walls among the partitions walls are arranged almost symmetrically around a plane which passes through the center of the merging portion and is parallel to a direction in which the largest force is generated by thermal expansions of the exhaust ports.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yoshimasa Watanabe, Taro Ikeya
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Patent number: 5787710Abstract: A hydraulic emergency circuit for a hydraulically-operated friction clutch disposed as a part as an electro-hydraulic clutch control between an internal combustion engine and a transmission has a hydraulic pump provided for supplying at least one working line and connected with a power take-off shaft of the internal combustion engine, a throttle valve disposed in the working line, two control lines branching off upstream and downstream of the throttle valve, and a switch valve connected with the control lines and provided for controlling and operating a supply of pressure for the friction clutch, the control line upstream of the throttle valve being connected to a first control input of the switch valve, the control line disposed downstream of the throttle valve being in hydraulic connection with a second control input of the switch valve which is located approximately opposite to the first control input, and a restoring string disposed on a control piston side adjoining the second control input.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 1995Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventor: Peter Baeuerle
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Patent number: 5787711Abstract: An internal combustion engine cooling system incorporating a motor-assisted turbofan is disclosed. The turbine-driven fan is increased in rotational speed by energizing a motor attached to the turbine fan shaft from an outside power source to provide required cooling air flow. The cooling air system of the invention also includes a ducted fan for supplying cooling air for one or more heat exchangers, and is controlled via inputs from an engine speed sensor for providing a motor operating signal, a flow sensor downstream of the heat exchangers for providing a motor operating signal, and temperature sensors located throughout the cooling circuits.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Turbodyne Systems, Inc.Inventors: William E. Woollenweber, Edward M. Halimi
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Patent number: 5787712Abstract: A cryogenic refrigerator includes a displacer and a cylinder therein for generating a very low temperature. And, a sealing ring is provided in an inserted condition within a ring shaped groove which is formed at an outer peripheral portion of the displacer, the sealing ring having resilience for extending itself outward so that a sealing member on an outer diameter thereof is enlarged and that an outer portion of the sealing ring is slidably contacted to an inner face of the cylinder, and the sealing ring being made of non-magnetic alloy, thereby a magnetic noise and disturbance of an outer magnetic field due to the cryogenic refrigerator are greatly decreased.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Daikin Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Naoki Fukui, Shuji Fujimoto
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Patent number: 5787713Abstract: Methods and apparatus for gasification of liquid nitrogen and other cryogenic liquids are provided. The apparatus includes a gasification unit capable of refrigerating at least one cryoelectronics energy converter and utilizing the heat generated thereby to gasify a cryogenic fluid. Refrigeration is provided by the cryogenic fluid in the gasification unit. The gasification unit is preferably capable of gasifying at least 1 liter/hour of cryogenic fluid. The gasification unit can be coupled to a chemical processing unit such that gasified cryogenic fluid produced in the gasification unit can be introduced into the chemical processing unit for use therein. A secondary heat recovery unit can be provided upstream of the chemical processing unit to separate entrained liquid particles from the gasified cryogenic fluid produced by the gasification unit. Cryogenic fluid can be supplied to the gasification unit from an air liquefaction plant, a storage tank, a truck or the like.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: American Superconductor CorporationInventor: Carl J. Russo
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Patent number: 5787714Abstract: A method is provided for cooling a high temperature superconductor such as an oxide superconductor to a lower temperature at a lower cost with a more simple system. A superconducting coil is attached to a cooling stage of a refrigerator. By immersing the superconducting coil on the cooling stage in liquid nitrogen, the superconducting coil is cooled rapidly. Then, the superconducting coil is further cooled by the refrigerator. By the cooling operation of the refrigerator, the liquid nitrogen is solidified. Thus, the superconducting coil is surrounded with solidifed nitrogen. The superconducting coil covered with the solidified nitrogen is further cooled by the refrigerator. In the superconducting coil cooled to a lower temperature and covered with solid nitrogen, quenching is suppressed to allow a higher current to be conducted.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Kengo Ohkura, Kenichi Sato
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Patent number: 5787715Abstract: A miniature mixed gas refrigeration system and method of operation are disclosed, having a coaxial catheter with an inner high pressure supply lumen and an outer low pressure return lumen. An optimum gas mixture is formulated from a group of component fluids, according to calculated thermodynamic properties of a group of candidate fluid mixtures. The gas mixture is pressurized by a compressor to a pressure less than 420 psia, for safety reasons. The distal portion of the outer lumen contains a micro-miniature heat exchanger constructed of laminated plates or sheets. The plates or sheets establish high pressure and low pressure passageways, with high surface area, having a tortuous path for the gas flow to maximize heat exchange. The high pressure outlet of the heat exchanger is connected to a Joule-Thomson expansion element where the high pressure gas is expanded isenthalpically to a lower temperature at least as low as 183K.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignees: Cryogen, Inc., The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of CommerceInventors: John D. Dobak, III, Ray Radebaugh, Marcia L. Huber, Eric D. Marquardt
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Patent number: 5787716Abstract: A method and apparatus for a dry ice sublimation system is shown. The dry ice is placed in a vacuum chamber and a vacuum is drawn on the vacuum chamber. As the dry ice sublimates, the cold sublimated gas is fed into a cooling chamber which contains products to be cooled. The temperature of the cooling chamber may be varied inversely with the vacuum in the vacuum chamber, which inversely varies the sublimation temperature of the dry ice and hence the temperature of the sublimated gas. Automatic feed systems may continuously supply product to be cooled or dry ice or both. A bypass around the vacuum chamber allows a turbulence to be created around the dry ice in the vacuum chamber to aid the rate of sublimation.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Inventor: Russel G. Allen, Jr.
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Patent number: 5787717Abstract: This invention relates to a suction inlet/discharge outlet opening or closing apparatus for an air conditioner having a function to close a suction inlet and a discharge outlet at the time of recovery of electric power, with reference to a time duration retrieved from an appropriate storage containing the time duration counted during a closing/opening of the suction inlet and discharge outlet, and a method therefor.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yong-Woong Bang
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Patent number: 5787718Abstract: Disclosed is a method for controlling a quick cooling function of a refrigerator. When both compartments are at an abnormal temperature state in a refrigerator the method independently controls a freezer compartment and a refrigerating compartment. The user selects a quick cooling function for any compartment. This method preferentially controls only selected compartment temperature, reducing the time needed to quickly cool the selected compartment, and thus reducing power-consumption.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Seo Kook Jeong
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Patent number: 5787719Abstract: A self-contained seafood processing and storage system is described. The system includes a cooler section with refrigeration and processing section for seafood and utensils washed down at sanitation facilities, including fresh bacteria contaminated fluid and debris and waste water (septic) storage, water heater, frozen storage refrigeration, and on-board generator. All of this is mounted on or in an insulated truck body. The purpose of this system is to deliver fresh seafood to retailers and restaurants where the proprietors can view and select seafood on a daily basis before it is delivered for use.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Inventor: Robert F. Wilson
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Patent number: 5787720Abstract: The invention relates to a device and a method for pre-cooling brewing liquor using a refrigeration device, the said refrigeration device being designed as an absorption-type refrigeration device, and preferably as a LiBr absorption-type refrigeration device, with an evaporator, an absorber, a generator and a condenser, and the generator being operated with surplus process heat produced in the brewery. Use is preferably made of the water vapour heat which is recovered in the copper vapour condenser and which can be subjected to intermediate storage in an energy reservoir.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Bernhard LenzInventors: Bernhard Lenz, Wolfgang Felgentraeger
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Patent number: 5787721Abstract: A drain spout that is easy to remove for cleaning and for accessing components behind or proximal to the drain pan. Instead of directly connecting the drain hose to the drain pan outlet spout, the drain hose connects to a drain funnel attached to or formed as a part of the shelf supporting the drain pan. The drain pan itself sits on the shelf and the outlet spout of the drain pan fits within the shelf funnel without a positive connection. The drain pan can be lifted out without disengaging the drain hose.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: American Standard Inc.Inventors: Dale E. Fromm, Dwayne L. Johnson
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Patent number: 5787722Abstract: A heat exchange unit for an air conditioning/refrigeration system includes a plurality of independent spiral coils carrying hot refrigerant. Water is sprayed onto an upper set of the coils and passes through a bank of surface media onto a lower set of coils and then into a sump where it is recirculated. Water is also sprayed onto the lower coils. Air flows upwardly though the unit and cools the downwardly moving water droplets. Although most of the cooling in the unit is from evaporation, an unusual feature is the almost complete lack of scale buildup. The unit is almost completely dark inside so algae doesn't grow. Periodic high water temperatures and periodic purging of the recirculated water minimizes fungi growth. The coils are supported in such a manner that the tubes are allowed to lengthen and expand radially when temperatures are high and shrink when temperatures are low.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Inventor: Robert E. Jenkins
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Patent number: 5787723Abstract: A remote ice-making machine is disclosed having a compressor unit remote from an evaporator unit, a supply line for transferring refrigerant from the compressor unit to the remote evaporator unit, and a return line for returning refrigerant from the evaporator unit to the compressor unit during an ice-making mode. The preferred evaporator unit has an ice-forming evaporator and a heating unit, as well as a valve for controlling the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator unit. A method for making ice with the remote ice-making unit is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Manitowoc Foodservice Group, Inc.Inventors: Lee G. Mueller, Howard G. Funk, Timothy J. Kraus, Steven P. Kutchera, Gregory McDougal, David J. Williamson
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Patent number: 5787724Abstract: A top mount refrigerator having a freezer door pivotally mounted to a cabinet at a position spaced above a fresh food compartment door is provided with a dispenser assembly mounted in the freezer door. A water supply line for the dispenser assembly is routed to the freezer door through a center hinge unit for the two doors. In the preferred embodiment, the water supply line, which preferably leads from a water storage tank housed within the fresh food compartment, is routed to the center hinge unit through a lower hinge unit upon which the fresh food door is pivotally mounted and a conduit that is foamed in-situ within the fresh food door. In models incorporating a dispenser assembly requiring a supply of electrical power, wires are lead into the freezer door through an upper hinge unit associated with the freezer door.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Maytag CorporationInventors: Douglas A. Pohl, Virgil R. Thompson
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Patent number: 5787725Abstract: A refrigerator and a method for circulating cold air in the refrigerator are provided for blocking the backward stream of cold air within a freezing chamber and a main cold air duct into a cold chamber regardless of occurrence of a pressure difference caused by different supply amount of the cold air to the freezing chamber and cold chamber, thereby preventing freezing of food within the cold chamber. For this, an evaporator produces the cold air supplied to the freezing chamber, and a fan apparatus draws in the cold air within the freezing chamber. Ducts allowing for the flow of the cold air includes the main cold air duct which leads the cold air admitted from the fan apparatus to return to the freezing chamber via the evaporator, a cooling duct branched from the main cold air duct to supply the cold air to the cold chamber and a cold air return duct for leading the cold air within the cold chamber to return to the evaporator.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Daewoo Electronics, Ltd.Inventor: Jun-Chul Shin
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Patent number: 5787726Abstract: An AAATHP is designed to make the non-evaporated liquid refrigerant stemming from the evaporator according to the operational condition of the AAATHP to rectify the refrigerant vapor to be sent to the rectifier from the regenerator, thus improving the efficiency of the rectifier and safely maintaining the operational system of the AAATHP. The AAATHP comprises the following parts: An automatic switch valve to send liquid refrigerant accumulated at the bottom of the evaporator. The heat exchanging pipe enables the liquid refrigerant formed by the evaporator to flow in the rectifier so as to enable the liquid refrigerant sent out by the automatic switch valve to exchange its heat with the refrigerant vapor coming to the rectifier from the regenerator. A first liquid refrigerant passage pipe formed between the automatic switch valve and the heat exchanging pipe sends the liquid refrigerant accumulated at the bottom of the evaporator to the heat exchanging pipe.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: LG Electronics, Inc.Inventor: In-Seak Kang
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Patent number: 5787727Abstract: A high-temperature generator having a high durability and reliability is disclosed. The generator comprises a double shell type furnace body defining a combustion chamber and a liquid chamber surrounding the combustion chamber. A burner is arranged at a front end of the combustion chamber for generating high temperature gas within the combustion chamber. A smoke tube assembly including a plurality of smoke tubes is arranged in the liquid chamber aligned along a longitudinal direction of the furnace body. The rear end of the smoke tube opens to the combustion chamber. A rear wall having a double-wall configuration is provided with an aperture arranged to face the rear end of the smoke tube assembly, and the aperture is covered with a cover plate detachably mounted to the rear wall.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Ebara CorporationInventors: Naoyuki Inoue, Teiichi Mochizuki, Motonao Kera
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Patent number: 5787728Abstract: A suction accumulator for use in a heat pump or air conditioning system includes an inlet tube that has a plurality of holes therein. One hole is preferably at the end of the inlet tube while the others are preferably of decreasing size and spaced apart from near the bottom of the accumulator upward along the inlet tube. Such an arrangement ensures that a vapor/liquid mixture of refrigerant and lubricant entering the accumulator does not cause excessive foaming during normal operation while quickly destratifying a stratified mixture that frequently occurs during periods of system inactivity or floodback.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Carrier CorporationInventors: Satish R. Das, Don A. Schuster, Larry J. Burkhart
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Patent number: 5787729Abstract: A baffle or deflector having a cone-shaped baffle. Refrigerant fluid enters through the apex and flows through the deflector toward the inner wall of a vessel in an air-conditioning system. The laminar flow of refrigerant fluid against the inner wall separates the liquid and vapor components of the refrigerant fluid. Radial openings in the deflector allow the outlet tube to pass by the deflector. The amount of refrigerant fluid used in the system can be maximized while the size of the vessel can be minimized.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Automotive Fluid Systems, Inc.Inventor: Halim Wijaya
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Patent number: 5787730Abstract: A process and a system for producing helium from a helium-bearing feed gas that is purified in a cryogenic processing unit to produce cryogenic crude helium containing at least 10% helium. The cryogenic crude helium is directly introduced into a thermal swing helium refinery where it is refined. Refrigeration is supplied to the refinery by the cryogenic crude helium from the cryogenic processing unit.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.Inventors: Carl Joseph Heim, James Joseph Maloney
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Patent number: 5787731Abstract: A personal ornament of the present invention is capable of the usage by the condition in corresponding to the interest of the users and a time, place or object which is used it by them. A part of a support member of a ring shape is lacked of limit. The body of revolution which is pivotally mounted on the opening part of the support member which has decorated parts with a plural of gemstones or decorated figures at outward circumferential part in the body of revolution is made to be able to arrest certainly a voluntary rotative part.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Inventor: Isao Ebara
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Patent number: 5787732Abstract: A hosiery item such as tights formed from a pair of joined circularly by knitted tubes. In some areas such as the brief it has knitted regions having courses with curved angular ranges having stich heights. The front of the brief is characterized by high and medium compression stripes at least one of which cross over at its ends to form a ventral panel. same course outside these parts. See, for example, the area forming the briefs of the tights having at least one high compression strip, the ends of which cross over at the front and form a ventral panel.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Inventors: Maurice Perron, Michel Bonnin, Marie-Christine Aillet