Patents Issued in November 15, 2001
  • Publication number: 20010040037
    Abstract: Waterproof construction of communication equipment improved so as to prevent even a little water from leaking in through the section of a waterproof packing to electronic parts and electronic circuits is provided. The waterproof construction of communication equipment comprises a waterproof packing at an opening of a body of the communication equipment, between a lid or a door which blocks the opening and the equipment body, for sealing the joint of them, and a water absorber having greater elastic contractibility than that of the waterproof packing, placed on more inside of the equipment body than a position of the waterproof packing, held between the lid or the door and the equipment body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Applicant: NEC CORPORATION
    Inventor: Masayuki Negishi
  • Publication number: 20010040038
    Abstract: A latching device is provided for a circuit pack having a cable retainer carried upon the front of the operating lever of the device. The cable retainer is oriented for positional and directional control of cable by directing cable longitudinally of the faceplate of the circuit pack and away from the fronts of other circuit packs within a shelf.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Jay R. Sobel, Raymond Woo, Bevin G. Schmidt, Willi M. Lotz
  • Publication number: 20010040039
    Abstract: A contact-connecting device connects more than two indicator fibers in an electrically conducting manner to create a conducting connection of the indicator fibers at the end of a safety-monitored synthetic fiber rope made from electrically insulating synthetic fibers and the electrically conducting indicator fibers. A fastener fixes the contact-connecting device and the indicator fibers relative to one another, which creates a low-cost and reliable contact-connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2000
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventor: Claudio De Angelis
  • Publication number: 20010040040
    Abstract: A flexible electrically conductive track including an elongated flexible insulating member (150) providing at least one longitudinally extending slot (159) to receive an electric conductor (158). The conductor (158) includes a pair of generally parallel co-extensive contact strips (165) joined by a plurality of transverse ribs (166). The slots (159) are closed by resiliently displaceable flanges (161) which are displaced to provide access to the conductor (158).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 1997
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventor: JOHN A. SINCLAIR
  • Publication number: 20010040041
    Abstract: An armored flexible communication cable includes an central core member. Armor wire is formed into spaced apart coils and wrapped around the central core member to affix the position of the elongated central core member with respect to the outer armor wrap and to provide crush protection for the central core member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Applicant: Gamut Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Barry Pennington, Doug Askins
  • Publication number: 20010040042
    Abstract: A cable having a plurality of individually shielded twisted pairs, ISTPs. Each shield has multiple layers. Each shield has a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. Each shield has a first longitudinally extending side and a second longitudinally extending side. Each shield is oriented around its respective twisted pair with a lateral fold or “cigarette wrap” fold. With respect to each shield, a portion of each shield's first longitudinally extending side is bonded to a portion of its second longitudinally extending side. An overall shield, often a braided construction, may surround the plurality of ISTPs. A cable jacket surrounds the overall shield and the plurality of individually shielded twisted pairs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventor: Jason A. Stipes
  • Publication number: 20010040043
    Abstract: The present invention provides cables having a body that is surrounded by a vacuum metallized layer. The metallized layer can be grounded with a metallized thermoform connector to prevent the release or impingement of harmful EMI radiation. Optionally, an insulating top coating can be disposed over the metallized layer over the cable body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Applicant: SHIELDING FOR ELECTRONICS, INC.
    Inventors: Jesus Al Ortiz, Rocky R. Arnold
  • Publication number: 20010040044
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include an electrical cable apparatus and method for making. The electrical cable comprises a plurality of paired conductive elements such as twisted pairs of individually insulated copper wire, a flame retardant yarn layer formed or wrapped helically around the conductor pairs or groups of conductor pairs, and a dielectric jacket formed around the conductive pairs and the yarn layer(s). The yarn layer is formed or wrapped around individual conductor pairs or, alternatively, around groups of conductor pairs. The yarn layer is made of, e.g., glass yarn, non-woven glass yarn tape, polyimides such as Kapton® tape, polyaramid yarns such as Kevlar® and Nomex®, or other suitable flame retardant materials and/or material combinations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 1999
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: PRIYA L. TABADDOR, PRIYA L. TABADDOR, VENKATESH VASUDEVAN
  • Publication number: 20010040045
    Abstract: A lead-in clamp with electric wire protective casing are disclosed. The electric wire protective casing is a long plastic roll tube, whose longitudinal free edges are not sealed, but rather can be expanded out and drawn back, on the roll tube there being formed a series of uniformly spaced transverse recesses. The lead-in clamp comprises left and right clamp stems, left and right clamp bodies and a clamping spring. When the left and right clamp bodies are fitted together, a wire passing cylinder and a casing guiding head are formed. When in use, the wires are put into the wire passing cylinder, then insert the casing guiding head into one end of the wire protective casing tube. After the wire protective casing tube is fixed stationary by hand, the lead-in clamp is pushed toward the other end of the wire protective casing, thereby to encase all of the wires into the wire protection casing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventor: Man Huang Shak
  • Publication number: 20010040046
    Abstract: In a high-voltage hollow insulator, which has an insulating body, with a hollow support element made of a thermosetting composition, and a potential control device, the potential control device is encapsulated with the thermosetting composition of the support element and at least partially encoiled with fibers. For production, a blank of the support element is formed from the potential control device and the still soft thermosetting composition in accordance with the filament-winding process and is heated and cured. The hollow insulator can be produced in a simple and low-cost way. The structural design of the potential control device is no longer bound to mechanical requirements or requirements necessary for installation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventor: Roland Hoefner
  • Publication number: 20010040047
    Abstract: Printed circuit boards, cards and chip carriers are fabricated by treating an already circuitized substrate with a swelling agent, then treating the circuitized substrate with a composition containing an alkaline permanganate, a chromate and/or chlorite and then applying a metal layer to coat the circuitized portion of the substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: John Joseph Konrad, Konstantinos I. Papathomas, Timothy Leroy Wells, James Warren Wilson
  • Publication number: 20010040048
    Abstract: A method 10, 110 for making multi-layer electronic circuit boards 82, 148 having metallized apertures 18, 20, 118, 120 which may be selectively and electrically connected to a source of ground potential.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Achyuta Achari, Brenda Joyce Nation, Delin Li, Lakhi N. Goenka, Richard Keith McMillan, Vivek A. Jairazbhoy, Andrew Zachary Glovatsky, Robert Edward Belke, Robert Joseph Gordon, Thomas Bernd Krautheim
  • Publication number: 20010040049
    Abstract: A circuit board assembly containing two pluralities of busbars or wires arranged in a lattice configuration, there being electrical continuity at each of the intersecting points. Slits are provided on each of the busbars which engage each other to complete the lattice. In the case of wires, they are bonded to each other. The conductive member thus formed may be sandwiched between two insulative films and is placed on an insulative plate which, in turn, is enclosed by an electrical connection box. The configuration provides substantial advantages in economy of production, simplified equipment required, and ease of altering the circuitry.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Tatsuya Sumida, Masanobu Sato, Kazuhiro Aoki
  • Publication number: 20010040050
    Abstract: A circuit board assembly containing two pluralities of busbars or wires arranged in a lattice configuration, there being electrical continuity at each of the intersecting points. Slits are provided on each of the busbars which engage each other to complete the lattice. In the case of wires, they are bonded to each other. The conductive member thus formed may be sandwiched between two insulative films and is placed on an insulative plate which, in turn, is enclosed by an electrical connection box. The configuration provides substantial advantages in economy of production, simplified equipment required, and ease of altering the circuitry.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Applicant: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tatsuya Sumida, Masanobu Sato, Kazuhiro Aoki
  • Publication number: 20010040051
    Abstract: The invention relates to a coaxial conductor comprising an inner conductor (S), an outer conductor (U) encasing the inner conductor (S) at least partly, and a dielectric (E) placed between the same. The coaxial conductor (K) is formed in a multi-layer circuit board (M) primarily by means of vias (2a-2h) and strip conductors (1a-1i). According to an embodiment of the coaxial conductor of the invention, the inner conductor (S) is formed substantially parallel to the board layers (3a-3e) of the multi-layer circuit board (M), the inner conductor (S) is formed of at least one strip conductor (1a, 1b) or at least one electroconductive via (2a) or a combination of the same, and the outer conductor (U) is formed of at least four electroconductive vias (2b-2h) and at least two strip conductors (1c-1i). The dielectric (E) is at least partly formed of the material of the board layers (3a-3e). The invention relates also to a method for manufacturing a coaxial conductor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 1998
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventor: MARKKU LIPPONEN
  • Publication number: 20010040052
    Abstract: A floating rig or structure for drilling in the floor of an ocean using a rotatable tubular includes a seal housing having a rotatable seal connected above a portion of a marine riser fixed to the floor of the ocean. The seal rotating with the rotating tubular allows the riser and seal housing to maintain a predetermined pressure in the system that is desirable in underbalanced drilling, gas-liquid mud systems and pressurized mud handling systems. The seal is contemplated to be either an active seal or a passive seal. A flexible conduit or hose is used to compensate for relative movement of the seal housing and the floating structure because the floating structure moves independent of the seal housing. A method for use of the system is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Darryl A. Bourgoyne, Don M. Hannegan
  • Publication number: 20010040053
    Abstract: Method of drilling subterranean formations with rotary drag bits equipped with cutting elements including superabrasive, multi-aggressiveness cutting faces or profiles which are especially suitable for drilling formations of varying hardness and for directional drilling through formations of varying hardness. The present invention includes providing and using rotary bits incorporating cutting elements having appropriately aggressive, appropriately positioned cutting surfaces so as to enable the cutting elements to engage the particular formation being drilled at an appropriate depth of cut at a given weight on bit to maximize rate of penetration without generating excessive, unwanted torque on bit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2000
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventor: Christopher C. Beuershausen
  • Publication number: 20010040054
    Abstract: A method and system of forming a lateral wellbore in a time and trip saving manner using a mill/drill to locate and place a casing window. In one aspect of the invention, a lateral wellbore is drilled with liner which is subsequently left in the lateral wellbore to line the sides thereof. In another aspect, the mill/drill is rotated with a rotary steerable system and in another aspect, the mill/drill is rotated with a downhole motor or a drill stem.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: David M. Haugen, Frederick T. Tilton
  • Publication number: 20010040055
    Abstract: A rock-crushing rotary drill bit includes a body having a rock-crushing roller rotatably mounted thereon by bearings. The body includes a first flushing channel for conducting flushing fluid to flush the bearings, and a second flushing channel for discharging flushing medium outside of the bit body to flush away cuttings. The second flushing channel terminates in a discharge recess which defines a linear center axis. A nozzle is disposed at a downstream end of the discharge recess, and a valve element is disposed at an upstream end of the discharge recess. The valve element is spring-biased for closing the discharge recess, the valve element being openable against the spring bias in response to a sufficient pressure build-up of flushing medium within the second flushing channel. The valve element includes a guide structure for guiding the valve element for linear movement along the center axis of the discharge recess.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Urban Olsson, Rune Sanden
  • Publication number: 20010040056
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for determining the size and/or weight of a person sitting on a seat determines the respective positions of the centers of gravity of active weight of the person in at least two different sections of the seat and evaluates the size and/or weight of the person from the respective positions so determined.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Aloyse Schoos, Bodgan Serban, Michel Witte
  • Publication number: 20010040057
    Abstract: A multi-wheel vehicle provided with at least six running wheels, that is, a pair of first running wheels serving as driving wheels, a pair of second running wheels such as castors disposed before or behind said pair of first running wheels so as to be laterally turned in the traveling direction of said vehicle, and a pair of third running wheels disposed before or behind said first running wheels. The vehicle comprises a prime mover, a speed change operation means, a steering operation means, a transmission drivingly connected with said prime mover, and a pair of running-driving axles onto which said respective first running wheels are attached. The transmission applies composite force of first equal rotational forces in the same directions and second equal rotational forces in opposite directions onto said pair of first running wheels. The speed change operation means is manipulated so as to regulate the direction and magnitude of said first rotational forces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Toshiyuki Hasegawa, Koji Irikura, Hiroaki Shimizu
  • Publication number: 20010040058
    Abstract: A tracked vehicle produces a pressure no more than 3 psi on the ground by increasing the number of contact points on the inner surface of the track. The stiffness of the track is also selected to minimize bowing between the idler wheels or rollers. The track is therefore kept substantially straight between the rollers so increase the efficiency associated with transferring power to track. The drive sprocket is positioned above the ground so as to eliminate complexity in the design and yet effectively transmit power to the tracks. Positioning the drive sprocket above ground also prevents derailing of the track. The track is also held in a constant state of tension on the driver sprocket and the roller. This too prevents derailment. The undercarriage of the vehicle includes torsion axles and sealed bearings to provide for a lower maintenance track. Components associated with the undercarriage do not require constant greasing and cleaning of the idler wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Applicant: A.S.V., Inc.
    Inventors: Gary Lemke, Brad Lemke, Cary Safe, Edgar Hetteen
  • Publication number: 20010040060
    Abstract: A power-generating control apparatus for a vehicle having an engine and a power-generator operated by the engine or electric motor includes a slowdown detector to detect a slowdown state of the vehicle, a main battery for the vehicle, and a sub-battery. The control apparatus includes a switch-over device which switches over at least one of the main battery and the sub-battery to the power-generator or motor, which in a slowdown state detected by the slowdown detector, switches over to couple the power-generator or the motor and the sub-battery. In engine stop, the switch over device switches to the sub-battery as a power supply of operating load. Accordingly, because the sub-battery can absorb slowdown energy, driving efficiency of the power-generator or motor at slowdown becomes excellent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Kazuhiko Morimoto, Yoshiaki Omata
  • Publication number: 20010040061
    Abstract: The invention provides a temperature controller for a vehicular battery which uses the waste heat of the engine to control the temperature of a high temperature battery, to thereby enable miniaturization of the vehicle and energy savings, and which can accurately control the high temperature battery to an optimum efficiency temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 1999
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: KENJI MATUDA, TOYOTAKA HIRAO, HIROSHI MIZUTANI, GREGORY A. MAJOR, JUNE BIAN
  • Publication number: 20010040062
    Abstract: A novel drive for a lifting platform utilizing a simple propeller, impeller, or gas turbine is disclosed. The axial air rotation from the drive is eliminated in order to permit the development of a partial toroidal vortex which efficiently maintains a raised air pressure zone beneath the lifting platform. The axial components are eliminated by means such as flow straightening vanes, which may also serve to control lateral motion of the lifting platform. The system can also be easily modified to function as an attractor device. Overall, the present invention explores the effect of vortices, both cylindrical and toroidal, and seeks to optimize their effects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2000
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventor: Lewis Illingworth
  • Publication number: 20010040063
    Abstract: An engine cradle adapted for receiving an engine includes a left side wall defining a C-shaped opening therein. The engine cradle also includes a right side wall, which is essentially a solid wall that provides a reflective surface for reflecting heat to the engine when contained within the engine cradle. The engine cradle also includes a front wall connected between forward portions of the left and right side walls. The engine cradle also includes a bottom panel and a rear panel connected between bottom portions of the front, left side, and right side walls.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Jerome Wubbolts, Bruno Girouard, Berthold Fecteau, Anne-Marie Dion
  • Publication number: 20010040064
    Abstract: A frame assembly is described including a tunnel, an engine cradle disposed forward of the tunnel and connected thereto, and a sub-frame disposed forward of the engine cradle and connected thereto. A forward support assembly extends upwardly from the subframe. An upper column extends upwardly from the engine cradle to connect with the forward support assembly. A rear brace assembly extends upwardly from the tunnel to connect with the forward support assembly and the upper column. In one embodiment, the frame assembly further includes an engine disposed in the engine cradle. An endless track is operatively connected to the engine and disposed beneath the tunnel for propulsion. A pair of skis is operatively connected to a steering device for steering. In another embodiment, the frame assembly further includes an engine disposed in the engine cradle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Bruno Girouard, Berthold Fecteau, Jerome Wubbolts, Anne-Marie Dion
  • Publication number: 20010040065
    Abstract: A rear end collision sensor is designed to detect the possibility of a rear end collision of a vehicle in advance. Upon detection, a controller drives a seat belt system to restrain the head of a seat occupant toward a headrest of the seat or to straighten the spine of the seat occupant to protect the neck against impending impact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Applicant: NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hideo Takagi, Chinmoy Pal
  • Publication number: 20010040066
    Abstract: A vehicle having a fuel tank mounted about the central upper part of the vehicle is disclosed. A tank cover covers the fuel tank, and a gearshift lever for an automatic transmission is located on a side of the fuel tank. A recess is formed in the side of the fuel tank, by cutting an opening toward the inside of the vehicle. The gearshift lever is disposed in a space formed between the recess and the tank cover. This arrangement provides a saddle-type vehicle with a larger, more comfortable leg space for the driver and permits the mounting of an automatic transmission with a gearshift lever located as close to the driver as possible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Masahiro Inoue, Hitoshi Furuhashi
  • Publication number: 20010040067
    Abstract: On the outer periphery of a bearing 10 for supporting a worm 71 rotating interlocked with the rotation of a steering assist motor 6 inside the housing 8, elastic members 20 are provided to restrain the bearing 10 from moving in the radial direction thereof. The force for the restraint by the elastic members 20 is made different depending on the position in the peripheral direction thereof. A portion of the elastic member, wherein the force for restraining the movement of the bearing 10 in the radial direction is small, energizes the worm 71 to the meshing position of the worm 71 and a worm wheel 72. Another portion, wherein the force for restraining the movement is large, restrains the worm 71 from moving along the lead of the worm wheel 72. With this configuration, the elastic members 20 can reduce the amount of the backlash at the meshing portion of the worm 71 and the worm wheel 72, and can make the rotation torque applied to the meshing portion of the worm gears relatively small.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Applicant: KOYO SEIKO CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Tetsuya Murakami, Takeo Iino, Masanori Kobayashi, Akihiko Shiina, Yoshio Ito, Tatsuo Otsuka, Takayuki Todaka
  • Publication number: 20010040068
    Abstract: Systems and apparatus for muffling sounds produced by an internal combustion engine, and optionally catalytically degrading pollutants within waste exhaust gases. The systems and apparatus utilize a bed of particles within a muffling chamber. The gases are introduced using a diffusion tube with holes therethrough. The muffling particles preferably include silica or alumina, which can also catalytically degrade pollutants. Typically, the muffling/reaction chamber is maintained at a temperature in a range from about 50° C. to about 500° C., which is much lower than temperatures within conventional muffling systems for diesel engines. The muffling systems operate as substantially lower back pressure compared to conventional muffling systems. The systems and apparatus can be adapted to be used in combination with diesel engines or other internal combustion engines and industrial burners.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Thomas C. Maganas, Alan L. Harrington
  • Publication number: 20010040069
    Abstract: An equipment support leg providing a multiplicity of functions. Static applications are addressed through a threaded shaft and foot. The improved foot is bolted into support legs in such a way as to allow swiveling desirable for conforming to grounds. Mobile applications are addressed through a modified castor. The castor may be lowered to the ground or retracted into a safe position by use of a handle attached to a bearing. Jacking or leveling needs are met by use of the leveler handle which is attached to a bearing, located near the top of threaded shaft. Therefore, one support leg converts from stationary capabilities to mobile capacities, and converts back again into the original stationary position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: James T. Trovato, James G. Novotny
  • Publication number: 20010040070
    Abstract: A work platform for use on bridges or other structures wherein a plurality of cables extend in spaced relation along a section of the structure and are supported by the structure and wherein a floor comprising a plurality of corrugated flooring panels or sections is supported on the cables and removably secured to the cables. The positions of the cables are adjustable in vertical and horizontal directions. A connector assembly releasably connects each of the platform flooring sections to a respective supporting cable on which it rests. Each connector assembly comprises a first part which rests on a bottom wall of the panel and has a portion which extends through an opening in the bottom wall and back through the opening and is connected to a second part to form an eyelet through which the cable passes. In aspects of the present invention, the first and second parts are connected by a lever or a wedge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Applicant: Paul Kristen, Inc.
    Inventor: Lambros Apostolopoulos
  • Publication number: 20010040071
    Abstract: An elevator including a movable unit, such as a passenger cage or a counterweight balancing the passenger cage, configured to ascend and descend in an elevator shaft by operation of a drive unit, and a governor configured to detect the speed of the movable unit to effect an emergency stop of the movable unit, the governor being fixed by means of a support member to a guide rail extending along the elevator shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 1999
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventor: HIROTADA SASAKI
  • Publication number: 20010040072
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for securing a wheeled device such as a shopping cart is disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a body having a bottom surface for engaging a support surface and a top surface defining at least one first stop having a first face and a second face, the first face sloping upwardly from the bottom surface towards the rear face and defining a leading edge positioned near the support surface, an apex provided between the first and second faces, the second face sloping downwardly from the apex, and at least one securing element for securing the cart securing structure to the support surface. In use, the wheels of a cart are rolled over the sloping first face into engagement with the second face. In another embodiment of the invention, the body defines first and second stops having a trough positioned therebetween and the wheels of a cart are rolled over a sloping surface of the first stop into engagement with the trough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventor: Ronald L. Scheffer
  • Publication number: 20010040073
    Abstract: An improved tire chocking system comprising a pair of triangular-shaped tire chocks connected by a semi-rigid cable securely attached to each tire chock. In the preferred embodiment, the cable includes a wire rope surrounded by a protective outer hose. The ends of the wire rope are securely attached to the chocks via stop plugs wedged or forced into longitudinally aligned bores formed in each chock. A crimp nut is attached to the distal ends of the wire rope to prevent disengagement from the stop plugs. The wire rope and hose form a semi-rigid cable that extends upward when the two tire chocks are aligned vertically on their ends to delineate a desired parking area. The three surfaces of each chock are marked with a high visibility stripe to improve visibility.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventor: Peter Agtuca
  • Publication number: 20010040074
    Abstract: A golf car having a hydraulic fluid brake system. The hydraulic fluid brake system is implemented as a disk brake system which is responsive to hydraulic fluid pressure generated from a master cylinder. A brake pedal and associated linkage provides input to a master cylinder to generate a hydraulic fluid pressure to control a brake caliper assembly. The brake pedal has a range of travel, where a first portion of the range defines a service mode of operation and a second portion of the range defines a parking mode of operation. In the parking mode of operation, the brake pedal and linkage engages a detent to maintain application of the brake to provide a parking mode of operation. An accumulator in the brake system provides an input force to maintain hydraulic fluid pressure sufficient to retain a parking mode of operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Joseph A. Lang, Susan R. Lang, Terry Lou Reese, James M. Criscuolo, Donald D. Brown, James A. Buckley, Scott A. Walterman
  • Publication number: 20010040075
    Abstract: A method of increasing the length, thickness, and density of graphite flakes in a brake rotor includes forming a brake rotor of gray iron, cast iron, or damped iron. The method further includes EDG machining a surface of the brake rotor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2000
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Anwar R. Daudi, Weston E. Dickerson
  • Publication number: 20010040076
    Abstract: The invention relates to a brake unit (1) having a brake disc (2) of ceramic and a hub (10, 10′) of a different material, which radially overlap one another with their mutually facing rims and are mechanically joined by a wreath-type rim of mounting bolts (15) that axially penetrate the overlapping rims. Provision is made according to the present invention for the mounting bolts (15) to be uniformly included in the transmission of torque. For this, entrainment bores (5, 5′) or entrainment slots provided in the brake disc (2) are plastically lined according to the present invention with a metal or plastic sleeve (20), or the disc material is formed specifically to certain areas in this region (34) as a plastically deformable C/C structure. The invention relates furthermore to a method for manufacturing a partially ceramized molded article, in particular a brake disc (2) having a C/C structure in the area of the entrainment bores (5, 5′) or entrainment slots.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Gerhard Gross, Tillman Haug, Kolja Rebstock, Christian Schwarz
  • Publication number: 20010040077
    Abstract: A rotor has an array of grooves formed on the brake pad contact surface. The array is preferably formed as a repeating pattern of regularly spaced grooves. The repeating pattern of grooves creates a plurality of radially and circumferentially offset rings of grooves. The rings can radially overlap. The rotor is preferably ventilated having two brake pad contact surfaces separated by a plurality of vanes. The grooves are preferably arranged on the brake pad contact surfaces between the vanes. The grooves can have various configurations and shapes. The array of grooves increases friction between a brake rotor and brake pads, and decreases the thermal gradient and thermal distortion on the brake pad contact surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Wenqi Qian, Donald L. Burgoon, Seen E. Killeen
  • Publication number: 20010040078
    Abstract: A damping apparatus having a cylinder, a fluid, and a floating piston. The cylinder includes a fluid chamber with the fluid located within the fluid chamber. The floating piston is coupled to the cylinder to carry the fluid in the fluid chamber. The floating piston is movable in response to movement of the fluid when a force is applied to the cylinder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Jose L. Gonzalez, Thomas Jesse Rogers
  • Publication number: 20010040079
    Abstract: An apparatus for reducing harmonics and vibrations of a rotating base piece. The apparatus includes a plurality of chain links. The plurality of chain links are interconnected to form a belt assembly open at the ends. The belt assembly has a leading end and a following end. The chain links are interconnected between the leading end and the following end. An apparatus for reducing harmonics and vibrations of a rotating base piece also includes a spring member. The spring member is connectable to the leading end and the following end of the belt. The belt may be attached to a rotating base piece for reducing harmonics and vibrations of a rotating base piece during rotation of the rotating base piece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 1999
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Applicant: Ray R. Regan, Esq.
    Inventor: KENNETH TUROS
  • Publication number: 20010040080
    Abstract: A horizontally retractable handle of wheeled luggage is introduced. The handle is retracted to the top of the luggage when it is not in use. When the handle is in use, the user simply pulls out the handle horizontally, transits the handle from its horizontal position to a vertical position, locks the handle in the vertical position, and then pulls the handle out to its maximum length. When the handle is not in use, the user pushes the handle down and rotates the handle in a reverse direction to transit it from the vertical position to a horizontal position; thereby, pushing the handle horizontally into its preserving recess on the top of the luggage body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2000
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Applicant: Chaw Khong Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chung Hsien Kuo
  • Publication number: 20010040081
    Abstract: A validator for coins including a coin entry (11) though which a coin (12) can pass to enter the validator, coin exit (4, 5) through which the coin can pass as it leaves the validator, and at least one coin rail (1) upon which the coin (12) rolls upon entry into the validator until just prior to exiting the validator, the coin (12) remaining in continuous contact (as defined herein) with the at least one coin rail (1) as it passes through the validator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 1999
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: PETER SMITH, ADAM LAWS
  • Publication number: 20010040082
    Abstract: Various models of brake parts (products) are produced with a mixedly transferring production system. The mixedly transferring production system includes a top line, a first production line, a second production line, and a third production line, a mixedly transferring depot, a part depot, and a set assembling line, and a product depot (mentioned in order of processing flow). Out of them, the first to third production lines, the mixedly transferring depot form the mixedly transferring block division type of production system. In addition, an averaging post and a production order plate (kanban) sorter are provided (mentioned in order of production command flow).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Tomoharu Yamanaka, Yasuhiko Yamazaki, Masayuki Kitano
  • Publication number: 20010040083
    Abstract: The invention relates to a picker for electronic components (24, 25, 26), more particularly for picking and subsequently testing the components (24, 25, 26). The picker comprises a fixed feed rail (11) for accommodating a plurality of components (24, 25, 26) arranged juxtaposed in a row as well as a conveyor unit (17) arranged at an exit opening (43) of the feed rail (11) and perpendicularly shiftable thereto. The conveyor unit comprises a window (27) suitable for receiving a single component (24, 25, 26).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 1999
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Applicant: Helmuth Heigl
    Inventor: HELMUTH HEIGL
  • Publication number: 20010040084
    Abstract: A spout is used for confining the grain flow from an auger. The auger may be a combine, grain cart unloading auger or a grain auger. The spout includes a chute that mounts on the auger tube. An overflow opening in the chute allows grain or other matter to flow out of the spout if the outlet of the chute is plugged. This prevents filling and overloading of the auger and consequent auger damage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Darcy Tofin, Leslie G. Hill
  • Publication number: 20010040085
    Abstract: The braking device comprises at least one flexible braking means (1) extending across the trajectory of the sheets (2) and mounted so as to pivot around a transverse axis (4) so that its trajectory around the said axis intersects the trajectory of the sheets (2), the direction of rotation of the end of the said flexible braking means (1) and intersecting the trajectory of the sheets (2) being opposite the direction of motion of the sheets, and also comprises drive means for pivoting the braking means (1) in dependence on the longitudinal dimensions of the sheets (2) and the frequency with which they pass. The means driving the braking means (1) around the said transverse axis (4) comprise a variable-speed electromagnetic actuator (5) connected to control means which in real time record the parameters relating to the longitudinal dimension of the sheets and the frequency with which they pass.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Applicant: Bobst S.A.
    Inventor: Jean-Claude Rebeaud
  • Publication number: 20010040086
    Abstract: A conveyor belt idler support includes a fixed frame having support idlers for a return path of the belt. A movable frame is mounted on the fixed frame and is tiltable to support the carrying portion of the belt with a varying degree of tilt to allow the belt extend in a curved path around corners. The fixed frame has a projecting bracket carrying support rollers which extends into a hollow box portion at the center of the movable frame adjacent the middle to support most of the load on the movable frame. The movable frame has a center section and outwardly and upwardly sloping side sections each carrying idlers to define a trough for the belt. At one side, the movable frame carries a upwardly extending guide roller to limit lateral movement of the belt and allow the belt to apply a lateral force to the movable frame to tilt it about the support roller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 1999
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Applicant: The Robbins Company
    Inventor: SHIRLEY RIFFE
  • Publication number: 20010040087
    Abstract: The invention disclosed consists of a modular conveyor formed by a number of removably attachable conveyor sections, which form an elongated, endless conveyor. Each section contains a frame, a guide roller, and a plurality of legs. A drive roller is attached adjacent to the conveyor section located at one end of the elongated endless conveyor and an end roller is attached adjacent to the conveyor section at the opposite end of the elongated endless conveyor. An endless conveyor belt is mounted over the frames, the drive roller, and the end roller. The endless conveyor belt is further supported by the guide rollers. A drive motor is connected to the drive roller to provide motive power to drive the conveyor belt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Donald S. Thurston, Gary M. Cardno