Patents Issued in May 1, 2001
  • Patent number: PP11855
    Abstract: A distinct cultivar of Chrysanthemum plant named ‘Yomaggie’, characterized by its uniformly mounded, broad and dense plant habit; shiny dark green leaves; quilled daisy-type inflorescences that are about 5.7 cm in diameter; attractive upright lavender, purple-tipped ray florets and bright yellow disc florets; and numerous inflorescences per plant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Yoder Brothers, Inc.
    Inventor: Leon Glicenstein
  • Patent number: PP11856
    Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of dwarf, winter hardy Euonymus fortunei named ‘Bushel of Gold’ which is an extensively tested sport. This new and distinct cultivar is characterized primarily as to novelty by it's extreme cold hardiness to Zone 4, its golden yellow stems and foliage of a compact nature, its dwarf stature and its uniform and vigorous growth habit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignees: Fleming's Flower Fields, Inc.
    Inventors: David W. Fleming, Gretchen A. Zwetzig
  • Patent number: PP11857
    Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of winter hardy hibiscus plant named, ‘Crown Jewels’ is the result of a unique hybridization. This new and distinct cultivar is characterized primarily as to its low-growing nature, its extreme cold hardines to Zone 4, its dark purple “maple-cut leaf”, its ruffled white flowers with red partially-streaking centers, and its vigorous and uniform growth habit, and its floriforous nature from midsummer until frost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Fleming's Flower Fields, Inc.
    Inventors: David W. Fleming, Gretchen A. Zwetzig
  • Patent number: RE37149
    Abstract: CLAIM The ornamental design for a cutting tool insert, as shown and described. DESCRIPTION FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a cutting tool insert in accordance with a first embodiment of the subject invention; FIG. 2 is a top plan view of FIG. 1, wherein the bottom plan view is identical; FIG. 3 is a side elevation view from any side of the cutting tool insert in FIG. 2; FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines “4—4” in FIG. 1; FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a cutting tool insert in accordance with the second embodiment of the subject invention; FIG. 6 is a top plan view of FIG. 5, wherein the bottom plan view is identical; FIG. 7 is a side elevation view from any side of the cutting tool insert in FIG. 5; FIG. 8 is a cross-section view taken along lines “8—8” in FIG. 5; FIG. 9 is an isometric view of a cutting tool insert in accordance with a third embodiment of the subject invention; FIG. 10 is a top plan view of FIG.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Kennametal Inc.
    Inventors: Rudi Hartlohner, Franz Havrda
  • Patent number: RE37150
    Abstract: An air filter device to filter fresh air for occupants of a vehicle is disclosed. The device includes a generally circular bottom base unit including a perimeter mounting portion to retain said device in an air conduit. The perimeter mounting portion includes a pair of mounting lips separated by an outwardly extending mounting groove. The lips resiliently flex over a rim formed in the vehicle to position the device in place. Extending from the base unit is an air filter which is sized and shaped to fit into a cavity located within a blower motor assembly. In this manner the device can be retrofit into a standard vehicle to provide air filtration without requiring extensive modification of the ducting and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventor: Lawrence Anonychuk
  • Patent number: RE37151
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for testing and filling hydraulic assemblies such as a hydraulic clutch control assembly for a motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Automotive Products
    Inventor: Robert Henry LaFountain
  • Patent number: RE37152
    Abstract: A griller having a substantially horizontally extending grill member to support food while being grilled, the grill member consisting of alternating bars and slots the bars being made of aluminium, aluminium alloy or a substance having similar heat transmitting properties there being arranged under the grill member an elongated electric heating element that is accommodated within a groove formed on the underside of the grill member, whereby fats and liquids emerging from food being cooked on the grill member are prevented from coming into contact with the electric heating element, an electric plug socket connected to the electric heating element directly and without intervention of a thermostat, the heating element and the grill member being constructed and arranged so that heat from the heating element is distributed more or less evenly over the surface of the grill member, the grill member being removeably supported on a container that in use underlies the grill member and acts to catch fat and liquids from
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventors: William J. O'Brien, Stephen J. McClean
  • Patent number: RE37153
    Abstract: A variable pressure reducing device for reducing high pressure in steam and hot water samples forces the liquid through an annular passageway between a pair of rods within a complementary pair of tubes. The flow rate through the rod-in-tube device, or the pressure drop across the device, is adjustable by means of a rotatable guide screw for adjusting the position of the rods within the tubes. The rods are tapered to provide a smooth flow of liquid through the device. The seal around the guide screw is self energized by means of a seal jacket between a valve gland and a stem portion of the guide screw constructed so that the biasing force of a spring on the seal jacket is supplemented by pressure from liquid flowing through the device The guide screw is centered within the valve gland to keep the guide screw properly aligned, particularly when the device is used with a motor for rotating the guide screw to adjust the position of the rods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Sentry Equipment Corp.
    Inventors: Richard R. Henszey, Bruce W. Weiss
  • Patent number: RE37154
    Abstract: Here is disclosed a method for manufacturing individual disposable underpants provided around a waist line and a pair of leg-holes with elastic members from two continuous webs and a plurality of continuous elastic members, characterized by that the webs are applied on predetermined locations with adhesive so that the elastic members can be reliably held on the webs although the elastic members must be forcibly curved when the elastic members are bonded between the webs with use of adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Uni-Charm Corporation
    Inventors: Hironori Nomura, Taiji Shimakawa, Sadanori Matsura, Hiroki Yamamoto, Hirofumi Ohnishi
  • Patent number: RE37155
    Abstract: A restraining and protection device for the protection and the restraint of neckstrap-suspended equipment used in the field, comprising a flexible waterproof cover 10 of sufficient size to envelope most surfaces of the equipment. Attached to or part of the cover 10 is a length of elastomeric material 20 running along the edge of the cover 10. Attached to or associated with the edge of the cover are two attach tabs 40A and 40B, which enable attachment of the device 100 to the user or the user's clothing. As the restraining and protective device 100 is placed over the equipment and attached to the user or user's clothing, the elastic action of the cover 10 edge keeps the equipment protected, camouflaged, and restrained from swinging. This is accomplished by combining the actions of the elastomeric material along the cover 10 edge and the attachment means used to maintain the restraint and protection device's 100 position on the user or user's clothing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: M. Dan Andersen
  • Patent number: RE37156
    Abstract: The system of the present invention provides a mechanism for executing a script sequence containing a plurality of commands and associated time for executing the commands. The system allows a user of the script sequence to specify an arbitrary time, either forward or backward from a current time, and the result of the execution reflects the cumulative effects of executing the script sequence from the beginning up to the arbitrary time. The system provides for a skip ahead mechanism in which commands are executed without waiting for the occurrence of their associated time. The system also provides for rewind and key-frame features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Object Technology Licensing Corporation
    Inventors: Eric R. Neumann, Albert James Fenton
  • Patent number: RE37157
    Abstract: A compact printer has a sheet feeder positioned at its front wall and electrophotographic components arranged along a sheet moving path for receiving a sheet from the sheet feeder and for exposing, developing, then transferring a toner image onto the sheet. At its rear side, the printer has an image fixing unit and a discharge portion for discharging the sheet to a side output tray or onto the top wall of the printer. The discharge portion is provided with a detachably hinged, sheet turning apparatus when it is desired to discharge sheets onto the top wall, or with a detachably hinged cover with a rear opening to discharge sheets onto a rear side output tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kunihiko Ikeda, Shigeru Suzuki, Takashi Yokota, Akira Shimura, Yutaka Kodama, Shigeru Yamazaki, Masaichi Niro, Satoru Tomita
  • Patent number: RE37158
    Abstract: Implantation of germanium (45) into a PMOS buried channel to permits the enhancement implant profile (to 45) to be made more shallow. The shallow profile will reduce or eventually solve P-channel buried channel-induced short channel effects and enable further decrease in device length to deep submicron range. Benefits include better short channel characteristics, i.e., higher punch through voltage BVDSS, less VT sensitivity to the drain voltage (defined as curl) and better subthreshold leakage characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Roger Ruojia Lee
  • Patent number: RE37159
    Abstract: An optically active 3-[6(S)-2,2,6-trimethylcyclohexan-1-yl]propanol derivative represented by formula (I): wherein R1 represents a lower alkyl group, and a perfume containing the same as an active ingredient are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Takasago International Corporation
    Inventors: Tatsuya Ohmoto, Akemi Shimada, Takeshi Yamamoto
  • Patent number: RE37160
    Abstract: A method for preparing diphenol compounds, which method includes the steps of coupling a hydroxyphenyl carboxylic acid with a L-tyrosine ester in a water-miscible organic reaction solvent containing a carbodiimide capable of forming a water-solvent urea by-product, thereby forming a diphenol reaction product; and combining the reaction mixture with an amount of water effective to precipitate the diphenol as a water-immiscible organic phase, so that a water-immiscible organic phase is formed containing the diphenol reaction product. New diphenol monomers and polymers polymerized therefrom are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Rutgers, The State University
    Inventors: Joachim B. Kohn, Kimberly A. Hooper
  • Patent number: RE37161
    Abstract: A system and method for anterior fixation of the spine utilizes a cylindrical implant engaged in the intradiscal space at the cephalad and caudal ends of the construct. The implants are cylindrical fusion devices (10) filled with bone material to promote bone ingrowth and fusion of the disc space. An attachment member (40) is connected to each of the fusion devices (10) and bone screws (30) having similar attachment members (33) are engaged in the vertebral bodies of the intermediate vertebrae. A spinal rod (50) is connected to each of the attachment members using an eyebolt assembly (53, 54, 55). In a further inventive method, a revision of the construct is achieved by removing the fusion devices. Each fusion device is engaged by an elongated guide member (62) over which a cylindrical trephine (70) is advanced. The trephine (70) has an inner diameter larger than the diameter of the fusion implant and includes cutting teeth (72) for extracting a core (84) of bone material around the fusion implant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventors: Gary K. Michelson, Lawrence M. Boyd
  • Patent number: 6223349
    Abstract: A closure device for slit openings of aquatic sport suits, in particular of suits made of chloroprene rubber, with zippers which close the slit opening arranged both on the outside and on the inside of the aquatic sport suit. Both halves of the zipper are secured along the slit opening in close proximity to the sides of the opening. Two mutually overlapping tabs which also overlap the slit opening may be arranged on the inside of the aquatic sport suit along both sides of the slit opening. At least one sealing device is provided between the zippers (4, 8) which are arranged on the outside (1) and the inside (5) of the aquatic sport suit (2). If necessary, the zipper (8) disposed on the inside (5) is attached to two strips (12, 13; 12′, 13′) which are disposed on the inside (5) of the aquatic sport suit (2) and extend lengthwise along the slit opening (3), with the zipper (8) closing an opening region (3′) formed between the two strips (12, 13; 12′, 13′).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Erich Roiser
  • Patent number: 6223350
    Abstract: A knee pad construction includes a molded, elastomeric pad with a concave back side and a multi-segmented, integrally molded shape. A retention strap is positioned on the lower ⅔ of the pad for holding the pad over a knee.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Knee-On Australia Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Maxwell K. McFarlane
  • Patent number: 6223351
    Abstract: A method for designing unique swimwear, more particularly, women's swim suits by creating swimwear exclusive of bottom side seams, making certain attributes available such as a slim appearance; a comfortable fit and quick-change ability. Thus, the present invention is designed to reflect current and trendy fashions, yet hold the unique quality of side seam exclusion which allows for individual comfort, durability and quick-change ability. Further, manufacturing production cost is down due to the fact that the swim suit can be manufactured and sold in sizes S-M-L only.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Jone Marie
  • Patent number: 6223352
    Abstract: An adjustable clothing ensemble for an infant comprises a top portion and a bottom portion. Plural horizontal rows of fasteners are disposed on the top portion. A single horizontal row of fasteners is positioned on the bottom portion such that the length of the ensemble may adjusted as the infant grows.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Mary Watlington
  • Patent number: 6223353
    Abstract: A glove assembly that is designed to diminish the usefulness of a person's dominant hand to a point below that of the non-dominant hand, but not so low as to render the dominant hand unusable. The glove assembly includes a glove with a palmward surface. A convex protrusion extends from the palmward surface of the glove and covers at least a majority of the palmward surface. The convex protrusion prevents the palm of the overall glove assembly from being configured into a concave configuration, regardless of the orientation of the hand within the glove. Since the palm of the glove assembly cannot become concave, the glove assembly decreases the ability of a person to grasp and manipulate the curved surface of a ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Ralph Lardieri, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6223354
    Abstract: A golf glove for promotion and securing the proper grip of a golf glove consisting of a five fingered glove and an elastic strip, one end of the strap arranged to be removably attached to the knuckle portion of the back of the glove and the other end arranged to be removably attached to the base of the thumb portion of the palm side of the glove, the strap, in use, to be stretched over the little, middle, and ring fingers of the glove and diagonally across the palm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Kevin Carothers
  • Patent number: 6223355
    Abstract: The present invention is a decorative hat generally defined by a body portion, a plurality of decorative lights, a D.C. electrical power source, electrical circuitry, and a switching means. A mouth is formed in one end of the body portion for fitting over a person's head. The plurality of decorative lights are attached to the outside of the body portion for forming an illuminated decorative display on the outside of the body portion. The electrical power source is attached to the inside of the body portion for providing a source of electrical power inside the hat. The plurality of decorative lights and the electrical power source are each attached to and electrically coupled to the electrical circuitry for enabling the electrical power source to supply electrical power to the decorative lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Milton C. Irving
  • Patent number: 6223356
    Abstract: A foam type elevator base that may be purchased large enough to fit most commodes and that is easily cut with a sharp tool or a hot wire and that is given a finished look using a thin plastic cover fastened adhesively over the edge is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: John H. Corbin
  • Patent number: 6223357
    Abstract: A vacuum toilet comprising a bowl with flushing nozzles, a shut-off valve and a waste pipe. Connected in the lower region of the bowl is a pipe (12) which leads from the latter upwards and terminates open at a level (H2) slightly below the flushing nozzles (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Sanivac Vakuumtechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Oliver Claas
  • Patent number: 6223358
    Abstract: A convertible pool cover support including a fixed support portion positionable within the pool. A pool cover supporting portion is couplable with the fixed support portion for supporting a pool cover at an elevation with respect to the pool. A pair of corner pads are positionable on the pool cover supporting portion. The corner pads have a plurality of securement straps extending outwardly therefrom. A volleyball net portion is adapted for coupling with the fixed support portion when the pool cover supporting portion is removed therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Charles M. DePietro
  • Patent number: 6223359
    Abstract: An automatic water level system having a pair of micro-switches nested within a substantially cylindrically shaped primary housing having a first and second end for electrical lead lines. The primary housing is disposed within a cavity of a substantially cylindrical, T-shaped secondary housing or baffle including a mounting assembly. Each electrical lead line is a water resistant control line, which extend from an end of the pair of micro-switches disposed within the primary housing to a remote control unit via the first and second ends. The control lines are optionally recessed within a cavity of the secondary housing for connection to a remote control unit, which activates a fluid supply valve and/or a drain valve. The secondary housing further includes a first and second cap having concentric apertures and the respective caps are removably secured to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventors: Lonny W. Oltmanns, Randy J. Garcia
  • Patent number: 6223360
    Abstract: A water therapy apparatus includes a casing holding a liquid, the casing having an overflow port, a drain port, and an upwardly extended water pipe, a motor-pump controlled to pump the liquid from the casing into the water pipe, a control valve mounted on one end of the upwardly extended water pipe remote from the casing for causing the liquid passing through the upwardly extended water pipe to form a waterfall falling toward the casing, a meshed wooden plate mounted in the casing at a top side on which the user sits to receive the striking of the waterfall coming from the control valve, and a control device mounted on the outside of the casing for controlling the motor-pump to pump the liquid from the casing into the upwardly extended water pipe for producing a waterfall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Chien-Hao Lu
  • Patent number: 6223361
    Abstract: A waste disposal system quietly and effectively evacuates solid, liquid, and slurry food waste from a galley sink via a vacuum action created when a normally closed flush valve momentarily opens and eliminates the differential pressure between the sink and the drain line. The system is automatically disabled when a clogged condition is sensed. The sink bowl is equipped with a sealable cover that cuts down the noise associated with vacuum pressure evacuation systems to an acceptable level. The system also has a rinse subsystem including a rinse valve for introducing rinse water into the sink just before a flush operation commences. The sink bowl includes an air inlet port in communication with an air inlet duct that extends outside of and above the cart for providing cabin pressure air to the sink. A controller controls the timing and operation of the flush and rinse operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Mag Aerospace Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Mike M. Rozenblatt
  • Patent number: 6223362
    Abstract: A sink apron for absorbing excess water from bathroom sink counters comprising of a towel-like material 24 attached by adhesive or stitches 32 to a layer of light-weight rubber base 26. The sink apron encircles the washbasin in the shape of a semi-oval and is separable into two pieces to provide customization to any sink size. The sink apron easily detaches and reattaches using hook-and-loop fasteners 28, 30 sewn on opposing ends of the pieces. For sinks wherein the sink fixture is built outside of the washbasin, the sink apron comprises of a hole 22 to allow the apron to encircle the sink fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Betty Bei Liang
  • Patent number: 6223363
    Abstract: A bunk bed assembly for providing a place for people to sleep. The bunk bed assembly includes a plurality of generally vertically extending elongate columns that are spaced apart and oriented in a generally rectangular configuration. Each of the columns has upper and lower ends and a transparent peripheral sidewall extending between the ends. The peripheral sidewall of each of the columns defines a bore through the column. A pair of spaced apart upper and lower bunks extend between the columns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Rickie F. Sumlin
  • Patent number: 6223364
    Abstract: A multi-motion lifting and transferring apparatus for assisting persons when entering and exiting a vehicle is disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, an apparatus in accordance with the present invention is realized as having an electrically actuated rotator for rotating a support member about a substantially vertical axis, an electrically actuated extension arm for moving the electrically actuated rotator and the support member along a plane having a vertical component, and an electrically actuated slide tray for moving the electrically actuated extension arm, the electrically actuated rotator, and the support member along a substantially horizontal plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Thomas F. Egan
  • Patent number: 6223365
    Abstract: Straps are used to form a supporting plane for a body resting on a supporting structure, which straps are double folded and inserted under the body while holding one end of the strap until the other end of the strap is completely inserted under the body. Two bars are placed parallel and with a certain distance from the body on each side of the body. The free part of each strap is attached, double folded, to one of the bars. The attachment point of the strap is rotated around the geometric axis of the bar in such a way that the part of the strap, which runs from the body, will be placed over the double folded end. The end of the strap, which has been inserted under the body is fixed on the other bar or is attached in the same way as the first end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Liko Research & Development AB
    Inventor: Gunnar Liljedahl
  • Patent number: 6223366
    Abstract: A foldable mechanism for a playpen includes a connection element having substantially an U-shaped cross section with two open side faces, one front face, and one rear face, the front and rear faces being provided with a U-shaped cutout and a plurality of first openings and a plurality of second openings; a press-down block having two sides each with a side groove having a narrow portion and a enlarged open end, front and rear faces each having a groove with two closed ends, an elongated through hole passing through the front and rear faces, and a hollow center with one closed end for receiving a spring, the press-down block being attached to the connection element by a first screw passing through the through hole and pressed against the spring, such that the press-down block can be pressed down, or biased, with respect to the connection element by an external force and moved back by the spring force; and a pair of hollow rods each having therein a U-shaped reed spring with protrusions on both outer faces of t
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Kenny Cheng
  • Patent number: 6223367
    Abstract: The present invention is a stadium blanket having an attached storage bag. The blanket is of sufficient size to allow the blanket to protect a user from the elements or to be used as a sleeping bag. The blanket has a water repellent liner on one side and a fleece for warmth on the other. The storage bag may also be used as a pillow and as an anchor when placed around a users feet. The storage bag may also be lined to enclose and warm a users feet. When not in use, the blanket is folded and enclosed within the storage bag for ease of storage or carrying.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventors: Katherina Grace French, Dianna Lynn Benson, Natalie Rhene Vandevuss
  • Patent number: 6223368
    Abstract: A support device provided to be arranged on a base member (1) such as a mattress, a bunk or a bed, and comprising an inflatable portion (2) which is arranged to be in an inflated state in order to lift a person resting upon the inflatable portion (2), the inflatable portion (2) comprising an inlet opening (5) and an outlet opening (6) for the supply and evacuation respectively of an inflation medium. The inflatable portion (2) comprises a lateral projection (4) provided to project beyond a lateral edge (3) of the base member (1) and at which the inlet opening (5) and the outlet opening (6) are arranged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Jyrki Anslin
  • Patent number: 6223369
    Abstract: Multiple varieties of patient support surfaces are presented with a common modular assembly primarily including a perimeter chassis and integrated upper support element. Perimeter bolsters provide relatively firmer support for gently prompting a patient towards the center of the bed, without obstructing regular entry and egress. The added stability facilitates safer transfers and better sitting at the edge of the bed. Pressure redistribution air cylinders (turned either longitudinally or laterally) are captured by shaped, slotted inner bolsters aid underside arches of an integral foam topper. All such features work collectively to cradle and surround the air cylinders. The resulting interlocking, integrated design provides flexible progressive support while maximizing structural integrity. Different arrangements of air cylinders and static or dynamic performance thereof, either non-powered or powered, permit different embodiments to be created using the same modular assembly approach.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Span-America Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Edmund K. Maier, Richard W. Raburn, Mark D. Chastain
  • Patent number: 6223370
    Abstract: A mattress having an anti-roll off feature is disclosed. The mattress has an innerspring unit having an array of coiled compression springs separating opposed parallel surfaces, wherein the surfaces are covered by a webbing made of a nonwoven polypropylene, and wherein the outer periphery of the webbing has horizontally disposed rigid foam planks wrapped and held in place by the webbing. The foam planks are formed from polyethylene foam. Additionally, vertically disposed rigid polyethylene foam planks with cross members are situated within the innerspring unit between the compressions springs at the periphery of the innerspring unit. The foam planks with cross members provide the support needed to achieve the anti-roll off feature. In an alternative embodiment, rigid polyethylene foam cylinders are placed within the rows of compression springs at the periphery of the innerspring unit to provide support at those locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Chattam & Wells Mattress Company
    Inventor: Earl Sanderson Kluft
  • Patent number: 6223371
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing mattresses is achieved by providing first and second layers of latex material having different indentation load deflection values. Each layer is then cut lengthwise along a longitudinal plane, preferably a medial plane to define first and second layer portions of the first and second layers each of an identical height. The layer portions are then cross united and adhesively bonded together thereby producing a mattress possessing a composite load deflection value dictated by the different indentation load deflection values of the starting layers. Preferably matching recesses are formed in the first and second layer portions of both layers. Medial recesses receive postural inserts of relatively high ILD values, whereas transverse recesses at headed foot sections are aligned to define voids at the foot and head sections of the mattress to provide head and foot relief.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventors: Steven J. Antinori, Rick Robinson
  • Patent number: 6223372
    Abstract: A combination carabiner and tool device comprises a curvilinear handle and a lockable gate to form a loop. In the handle is a folding knife and additional useful tools at both ends. A push button lock releasably holds the knife blade in the blade open position. The knife blade is pivoted into position and releasably locked by manipulation with the user's thumb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Launce R. Barber
  • Patent number: 6223373
    Abstract: A pair of pliers with multiple functions is disclosed. The pliers have a pair of shanks pivotally engaged with each other each having a jaw formed at one end thereof, a polygon hole defined in the other end to hold a tool head, a hammer formed on the outside of one of the jaws and a chisel formed on the other. In addition, teeth and a cutting edge are formed on the face of the corresponding jaws or shanks. Consequently, the pair of pliers can be used as a hammer, a chisel or a screwdriver. This can improve the flexibility of the pair of pliers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Shih-Yuan Yeh
  • Patent number: 6223374
    Abstract: A plier device includes two handles each having an open channel formed in one end, and a pair of rods pivotally secured together at a middle pivot pin. The rods include two ends each having a pair of jaws. The jaws each includes a rib engaged into the channels of the handles for detachably securing the tool device to the handles. The handles each includes a pair of flanges extended inward of the channel, the jaws each includes a pair of opposite grooves for receiving the flanges of the handles. The handles each has a spring-biased projection engaged with the jaws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Hsing Tai Lin
  • Patent number: 6223375
    Abstract: A drilling and wrenching tool for use with a rotary power tool and combinations thereof. The tool includes a drill adapter having a drill bit protruding from a drill shank thereof, and a sleeve member having a first end with a first opening and a second opposite end with a second opening. The first opening of the sleeve member has a first sleeve engagement surface and a first fastener engagement surface, and the second opening has a second sleeve engagement surface and a second fastener engagement surface. The drill shank is axially disposable into the first or second opening of the sleeve member, and an outer shank engagement surface of the drill shank is engagable with the first or second sleeve engagement surface to impart rotation from the rotary power tool to the sleeve member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc
    Inventor: James C. Vaughan, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6223376
    Abstract: Disclosed is a toothbrush.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Joong Woo Lee
  • Patent number: 6223377
    Abstract: The device sprays a mist of cleaning fluid onto the record medium—e.g., motion picture film—and wipes it off, preferably with a soft material such as velvet. Then, the film is dried with air, including thin air jets to spread the liquid evenly, and heated, ionized air. The device has a closed housing and air in the housing is evacuated and sent to a still to recover much of the cleaning liquid and prevent its escape into the atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Deluxe Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: Hans Leisinger, George J. Rowland, Colin F. Mossman
  • Patent number: 6223378
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1) for applying to a floor (2) a sheet material drawn from a reel (5) of a strip (6), which device comprises a frame (7) and two rollers (8, 9) guided in rotation on the frame around parallel axes, on which a strip (6) of material (4) is disposed so that a generator of each roller is selectively placed in contact with the floor (2) by an application means during the utilization of the device (1) in a back-and-forth movement; a handle (3) articulated to the frame (7) around an axis (3A) parallel to the axes of the rollers; a means for controlling the feeding of the strip (6) so as to ensure the replenishment of the material placed in contact with the floor (2) and the winding of the soiled strip (6) onto a receiving mandrel (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Beuvry Nov, SARL
    Inventor: Christian Watellier
  • Patent number: 6223379
    Abstract: A foot cleaner device for scrubbing and cleaning one's feet with ease and comfort.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Annie L. Martin
  • Patent number: 6223380
    Abstract: A dispensing apparatus including a spray bottle dispenser including a bottle portion and a spray head portion and a frame portion connecting said dispenser to a surface contacting portion and configured such that when said dispensing apparatus is in an upright position, said surface contacting portion is located above and in front of a nozzle portion of said spray head portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Sunex L.L.C.
    Inventors: William L. Klima, Benjamin A. Pezzlo, Walter F. Klima, Jr.
  • Mop
    Patent number: 6223381
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a mop wherein a cylindrical member is fixed in a groove of a sponge. The cylindrical member has a smaller length than the sponge and a flat surface located midway between a first end and second ends thereof. The flat surface is located in a same horizontal plane as first and seconds lands defined by the groove in the sponge. A single screw is turned into the cylindrical member at the center of the flat surface and a handle is turned onto the screw until an end of the handle engages the flat surface. A roller with a smaller diameter than the diameter of the cylindrical member has a first axial projection, which is located in a first opening in a strap, and a second axial projection which is in a second opening in the strap. The strap is flexed and the first and second axial projections on the cylindrical member are located in third and fourth openings in the strap such that the roller and cylindrical member are parallel to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Arthur King Brown, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6223382
    Abstract: A flexible hand holdable cloth for washing a user's body with the cloth including a first handle to provide a first finger grasping region thereon and a second extendible handle having a contracted condition wherein the second handle is maintained proximate the flexible cloth so that the second handle does not interfere with the use of the flexible cloth as a hand holdable body cloth and an extended condition to enable a user to grasp and extend the second handle while holding onto the first handle to enable the user to rub the flexible cloth on the user's back with a back and forth motion. The extendible handle is further usable to retain the cloth in a display or storage condition by contracting the handle around the cloth when the cloth is in a rolled condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Paul D. L. Schwab