Patents Issued in July 10, 2012
  • Patent number: 8215046
    Abstract: A mounting arrangement for use with a shotgun or rifle to selectively position accessories along the barrel of the rifle. The mounting arrangement includes a forend and a series of mounting rails that receive the desired accessories. The forend includes a series of locator rails equally positioned around the outer circumference and spaced from each other at approximately 45°. The spacing of the locator rails allows a user to selectively attach an accessory in a larger number of desired locations around the outer circumference of the forend. Each of the mounting rails and locator rails engage each other in a dovetail configuration to prevent the radial separation of the mounting rail from the locator rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Advanced Technology International USA, LLC
    Inventor: John R. Chvala
  • Patent number: 8215047
    Abstract: A system and method for adapting a vertical fore grip to a user. In one embodiment, a system for adapting a vertical fore grip to a user can be provided. The system can include a vertical fore grip configured to adjustably attach to a firearm; a grip extension configured to modify the vertical fore grip, wherein the grip extension is further configured to mount at least one accessory; and a bolt assembly for adjustably attaching the grip extension to the vertical fore grip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Daniel Defense, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald B. Ash, Jr., Eric M. Rice
  • Patent number: 8215048
    Abstract: A weapon control device is provided and is coupled within a weapon for controlling accessories and auxiliary components. The weapon control device includes a processor and a connector operably engaging a selector switch of a weapon. The processor receives a signal from the connector in response to movement of the selector switch. The weapon control device further includes one of a transmitter and a transceiver, wherein one of the transmitter and transceiver send a signal in response to the processor receiving a signal from the connector. The weapon control device further includes a weapon accessory, wherein the weapon accessory is activated in response to the signal sent by one of the transmitter and transceiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: James Summers
  • Patent number: 8215049
    Abstract: A weapon stabilization platform assembly employing the action of the devices' telescoping tubular horizontal width adjustment attaching to the vertical roll over posts of a recreational off road 4×4, off road UTV, or other utility vehicle or frame vehicle by the nut and bolt compression of two bracket couplings or other attaching appliances fixed at the opposing end of each of the telescoping tubes. In a preferred embodiment, the device comprises a plurality of telescoping tubes being an outer sleeve and an inner sleeve that is sized to permit it to move horizontally in telescopic relationship to the outer sleeve, both sleeves being harbored within an anti-vibration foam cushion, being then sheathed within a protective fabric sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: Kurt Cameron Schuchman
  • Patent number: 8215050
    Abstract: An optical sight is provided and may include an optical element and a reticle displayed on the optical element. A housing of the optical sight may include a base, a first post extending from the base, a second post extending from the base, and a cross member extending between the first post and the second post to define an opening receiving the optical element therein. The first post and the second post may extend above the opening and away from the base a greater distance than a top surface of the cross member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Trijicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Jerry Glen Sabaldan Elpedes, Darin W. Schick, Mark William Lister, Joshua Lee Varner
  • Patent number: 8215051
    Abstract: A pest control material (11), such as mosquito netting, has a surface (12) with abrasive/absorptive microprojections (13). Insect pests such as mosquitoes suffer damage to their cuticle, resulting in dehydration and/or invasion by microbial pathogens. The material is made by coating a fabric with abrasive and/or absorptive materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Insectshield Limited
    Inventors: Bruce Alexander, Stephen John Russell
  • Patent number: 8215052
    Abstract: In a system and method for at least one of monitoring and controlling pests, a container having an interior chamber, is located in an area in which pests are to be at least one of monitored and controlled. At least a portion of the container is constructed of an environmentally degradable plastic. At least one of a pest monitoring material and a pest bait material is disposed within the interior chamber of the container for at least one of monitoring and controlling pests. The container is inspected at least once prior to the end of a predetermined time period to determine whether pests are present within the container. The container is replaced, along with the at least one of the monitoring material and the bait material, no later than about six months beyond the predetermined period of time following placement of the container in the area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: BASF Corporation
    Inventor: James H. Cink
  • Patent number: 8215053
    Abstract: A method for improving seed germination efficiency by reducing seedling loss caused by desiccation, temperature extremes, wind and water displacement, and consumption by animal and insect predators. The method comprises covering the medium for the seed growth with a layer of material which allows light transmission and provides a thermal barrier, and in addition applies a compacting force which brings the seed in better contact with the growing medium. The material also provides a barrier to protect the seed from animal and insect predators. The layer of material used preferably consists of a clear plastic membrane supporting the presence of a sufficient amount of water to allow the transmission of light, provide a thermal barrier, compact the seeds to the growing medium, and deter access from animals and airborne insects. The technique is applicable to all forms and seed germination including grass and vegetable gardens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: Richard Ohran
  • Patent number: 8215054
    Abstract: A floor for a cultivation area such as a greenhouse. An accommodating hole is excavated in the ground and a flexible holder for liquid such as water is placed therein. The top of said holder is provided with a supporting plate. By varying the level of the supporting plate, the level of the greenhouse floor is varied. The water can contain heat. Optionally there can be a further holder which, for example, contains liquid with different properties, such as a different temperature. A number of such holders can be incorporated in a greenhouse floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Klimrek I.E. B.V.
    Inventor: Jacobus Johannes Wilhelmus van Dijk
  • Patent number: 8215055
    Abstract: An apparatus for covering or protecting vegetation, in particular landscaping. The apparatus includes an elongated sheet of material having an upper edge and a lower edge. Spaced along the length of the elongated sheet are a plurality of stake pockets extending transversely to the longitudinal axis of the elongated sheet. The stake pockets receiving a stake used to secure the cover to a surface, typically the ground. Accordingly, the elongated sheet surrounds or is placed adjacent to the landscaping and the stakes are either inserted into the stake pockets or attached to the sheet using the stake pockets and correspondingly hold the elongated sheet upright and in place. In addition, a plurality of eyelets on the elongated sheet can be used to both hang decorations and anchor the elongated sheet to the ground surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: Cameron M. Miller
  • Patent number: 8215056
    Abstract: A device for preventing plant growth around a post, comprising an opaque sheet, an opening in the sheet, and a slit extending entirely from the opening to the perimetric edge. A fastener structure is arranged to fasten one of the edge portions to an other of the edge portions in a relationship wherein the edge portions overlap thereby effecting a slope of the sheet downwardly from the opening to the perimetric edge and wherein the opening is shaped to have a first shape when the edge portions are not overlapping and to have a second shape to conform to the post when the edge portions are fastened in the overlapping relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: Daniel T. Frederick
  • Patent number: 8215057
    Abstract: An apparatus for supporting the calyx of a flower of a plant having a lockable stem clip from which extend projections for supporting the calyx of the flower.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: Paul H. Rosenberg
  • Patent number: 8215058
    Abstract: A seed germination device for use in connection with a drip irrigation system, which includes a drip irrigation emitter having a water inlet tube for connection to a water source, an emitter housing having a base and a perimeter wall that define a partially enclosed interior space, an open end, and a water outlet, and a cellulosic seed packet disposed within the enclosed interior space and over said water outlet tube. When the emitter housing is disposed on or under soil and the water turned on, the seed packet dissolves and the germination commences.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. Cook
  • Patent number: 8215059
    Abstract: A modular gardening system includes a first monolithic growing pod forming an interior growing volume and including an opening to the growing volume defined by a frame-accommodating lip, and at least a second monolithic growing pod, the second monolithic growing pod being substantially identical to the first monolithic growing pod. The modular gardening system further includes a frame assembly configured to form a perimeter around the opening of the first monolithic growing pod within the frame-accommodating lip of the first monolithic growing pod and the opening of the second monolithic growing pod within the frame-accommodating lip of the second monolithic growing pod, the frame assembly further configured to support the first monolithic growing pod and the second monolithic growing pod in a side-by-side array, stepped array, or elevated array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: R. Marc Williams
  • Patent number: 8215060
    Abstract: A window regulator includes a carrier. The carrier includes a holding section and is capable slide along a guide rail with the holding section slidably contacting on the guide rail. The carrier supports a window panel. A brake mechanism is provided on the carrier. The brake mechanism prevents the window panel (the carrier) from self-weight drop by slidably contacting onto the guide rail by an urging force thereof. According to the window regulator, good down operations of the window panel can be maintained even if a slidably contacting portion(s) of the holding section that holds the guide rail becomes worn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Mitsui Mining and Smelting Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuyuki Sasaki, Yosuke Kitamura, Yasunori Nakajima
  • Patent number: 8215061
    Abstract: A sliding door apparatus for opening and closing an opening in a wall. A sliding door apparatus including a longitudinally extending track member mountable along an upper edge of an opening and a door movably mountable on the track member for sliding movement thereon between opened and closed positions. A damping structure is disposed within the track member and is actuatable in response to the sliding movement of the door to break the door's movement as it approaches its opened and closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Dirtt environmental solutions Ltd.
    Inventors: Geoff Gosling, Mogens Smed
  • Patent number: 8215062
    Abstract: An air-floating-type base isolation system having a plurality of air chambers defined and surrounded by a sliding expanding pipe shielding material. A groove in one plate receives a sliding expanding pipe of shielding material made of airtight material. A plurality of air pressure chambers are defined by placement of the grooves and shielding material at selected locations in the plate, so that the top plate can be allowed to float horizontally by adjustment of the pressure in the air pressure chambers, regardless of the position of the center of gravity of the building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Menshin Jyutaku Limited
    Inventor: Shoichi Sakamoto
  • Patent number: 8215063
    Abstract: This performance stage frame member has a shaped cross-section. The frame member comprises a vertically extending back surface and an outwardly extending shape defining a multifaceted cavity therebetween. The invention also includes a lock assembly comprising an interlocking shape is configured to engage the multifaceted cavity of the outwardly extending shape of the frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: biljax, inc.
    Inventor: Einstein B. Francis
  • Patent number: 8215064
    Abstract: A shower vanity for use with a wall having spaced apart framing members. The vanity includes a housing dimensioned to be recessed between two adjacent framing members in the wall and the housing is attached to the framing members by fasteners. The housing includes an open front forming a cavity dimensioned to contain bathing products. Two mirrored doors are slidably mounted to the housing which cover the housing front when closed and provide access to the bathing products when opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: Dewain J. Diacono
  • Patent number: 8215065
    Abstract: A modular patient room includes a plurality of modular wall panels or units having various configurations. In some embodiments, the modular wall units have at least one shelf and a flip-down work surface. The modular wall unit optionally may include an integrated computer monitor and a keyboard attached to the flip-down work surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis J. Gallant
  • Patent number: 8215066
    Abstract: A revolving canopy roof for a stadium includes a fixed half dome and revolving half dome. The fixed half dome has an outer layer clad with a plurality of shading tents, the plurality of shading tents comprising a plurality of triangular shading panels, an inner layer clad with a plurality of triangular ethylene tetraflouroethylene panels, and a plurality of bracing elements connecting the outer layer to the inner layer. The revolving half dome includes an outer layer clad with a plurality of shading tents, the plurality of shading tents comprising a plurality of triangular shading panels, an inner layer clad with a plurality of triangular ethylene tetraflouroethylene panels, and a plurality of bracing elements connecting the outer layer to the inner layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Qatar Football Association
    Inventors: Lee Hosking, Michael Edward Beaven
  • Patent number: 8215067
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a flower vase for a cemetery memorial that can be stored within a compartment on the memorial when it is not in use. The cylindrical and hollow flower identification vase includes two photographs, two bronze engraving tags with personal data of the deceased people, a container for water and flowers when in an upright position, a serial number and exactly identification of the place where the vase is located in the cemetery property and a connection system between the vase and the compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: Armando F. Segura
  • Patent number: 8215068
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, the energy dissipation of a structural element is increased by inserting one or more resisting elements into the structural element at any time during or after construction of the structural element. The continuous resisting elements are rigidly attached to the structural at one end and connected to the structural element by and through a damping material over at least a portion of its length. When a dynamic force is applied to the structural elements, such as may result from wind or earthquakes, there will be a strain in the structure, in a direction parallel with the longitudinal direction of the resisting elements. In this way, the forces and deformations within the structure will result in a relative motion between the structural element and resisting element, a substantial portion of which is ultimately transmitted by and through the damping material layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: Steven James Bongiorno
  • Patent number: 8215069
    Abstract: A swimming pool assembly having a plurality of side wall panels certain adjacent ones of which have juxtaposed apertured edge flanges joined together by compression plates each having planar blade and a first plurality of pre-alignment fasteners extending away from the plane of the blade through aligned apertures in each juxtaposed flange and engaging a flange plate surface opposite the blade to temporarily align the side wall panels. Each compression plate further includes a second plurality of alignment towers passing through additional aligned apertures in each juxtaposed flange terminating in wedge receiving slots. Wedges, upon being forced into respective slots, clamp the flanges tightly together. Adjacent panel flanges may further include FML flat surfaces oriented to compensate for panel flange draft angle whereby adjacent panels when clamped together present generally coplanar pool surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Separation LLC
    Inventor: Tom Epple
  • Patent number: 8215070
    Abstract: A roofing system includes battens and hangers for installing slate roofing shingles on a roof. Electrical conductors and other electronics are incorporated into the battens and the battens are connected together to form an electrical transmission grid beneath the shingles. Solar panels are installed in place of slate shingles in some locations on the roof and are configured to match or complement the surrounding slate shingles. Each solar panel includes a connector that connects the solar panel to the electrical transmission grid. The grid thus collects the electrical energy generated by all of the solar panels and delivers it for storage or use in a home. Microinverters may be coupled to smaller groups of the solar panels for converting their DC voltage to AC voltage and the outputs of the microinverters connected to a remote location for use or storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Building Materials Investment Corporation
    Inventors: Sudhir Railkar, Adem Chich, Douglas Beck
  • Patent number: 8215071
    Abstract: An integrated composition shingle PV system is interengageable with composition shingles, the composition shingles being arranged in overlapping rows on an inclined support surface. The system comprises a carrier mountable on the support surface. The carrier has flashing along its peripheral edge. The rear flashing is positionable under a first row of overlapping rows of composition shingles. The left side and right side flashing are interengageable with second and third rows of overlapping rows of composition shingles. The front flashing is positionable on top of another row of overlapping rows of composite shingles. A PV laminate is secured to and supported by the carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: SunPower Corporation
    Inventor: Carl J. S. Lenox
  • Patent number: 8215072
    Abstract: Weather protection systems, for use in protecting structures and structural elements during severe weather events, are disclosed. Also disclosed are methods of assembling and installing weather protection systems. Weather protection systems of this invention provide fabric to cover a structural element; the fabric is connected to the structure via a clip. A clip of is invention may include features such as fastening points, anchor points, and engaging members; a clip may also introduce a desirable point of flexibility into a system of this invention. Other features of weather protection systems of this invention may include resin and straps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Hurricane Fabric, LLC
    Inventor: Robert Gorman
  • Patent number: 8215073
    Abstract: Weather protection systems, for use in protecting structures and structural elements during severe weather events, are disclosed. Also disclosed are methods of assembling and installing weather protection systems. Weather protection systems of this invention provide fabric to cover a structural element; the fabric is connected to the structure via a clip. A clip of is invention may include features such as fastening points, anchor points, and engaging members; a clip may also introduce a desirable point of flexibility into a system of the invention. Other features of weather protection systems of this invention may include resin and straps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Hurricane Fabric, LLC
    Inventors: Robert Gorman, Yehuda Ozari, Aaron Belmont
  • Patent number: 8215074
    Abstract: In one embodiment, Hexagonal tiles encompassing a large are divided into three groups, each containing ? of all hexagonal tiles that are disjoined among one another. Openings for the hexagonal tiles in each group are formed in a template layer, and a set of self-assembling block copolymers is applied and patterned within each opening. This process is repeated three times to encompass all three groups, resulting in a self-aligned pattern extending over a wide area. In another embodiment, the large area is divided into rectangular tiles of two non-overlapping and complementary groups. Each rectangular area has a width less than the range of order of self-assembling block copolymers. Self-assembled self-aligned line and space structures are formed in each group in a sequential manner so that a line and space pattern is formed over a large area extending beyond the range of order.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Charles T. Black, Timothy J. Dalton, Bruce B. Doris, Carl Radens
  • Patent number: 8215075
    Abstract: An up-tight surface covering system for attaching a facing of a panel member to a support structure comprises an adjustable hanger bracket for attaching a grid member to the support structure and a clip for attaching the panel member to the grid member. The adjustable hanger bracket comprises an arm rotatably attached to a support. The arm includes a first section extending substantially parallel to the support and a second section extending substantially perpendicular to the support. The second section has at least one slot for receiving a mechanical fixing member. The clip comprises a main body portion having an attachment member extending from a substantial center thereof. The main body portion has engagement members extending from opposing sides of the main body portion and substantially perpendicular thereto. The engaging members have abutment members extending from side surfaces thereof substantially perpendicular to the main body portion and the engaging members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: AWI Licensing Company
    Inventor: Todd M. Bergman
  • Patent number: 8215076
    Abstract: A locking system for mechanical joining of floorboards constructed from a body, a rear balancing layer and an upper surface layer. A strip, which is integrally formed with the body of the floorboard and which projects from a joint plane and under an adjoining board has a locking element which engages a locking groove in the rear side of the adjoining board. The joint edge provided with the strip is modified with respect to the balancing layer, for example by means of machining of the balancing layer under the strip, in order to prevent deflection of the strip caused by changes in relative humidity. Also, a floorboard provided with such a locking system, as well as a method for making floorboards with such a locking system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Välinge Innovation AB
    Inventors: Darko Pervan, Tony Pervan
  • Patent number: 8215077
    Abstract: A floor tile has a rectangular, wear resistant, decorated upper portion. A rectangular lower portion is affixed to the upper portion by pressure sensitive adhesive on the underside of the upper portion. The lower portion has laterally projecting tongues extending outwardly from two adjacent sides. The other two adjacent sides have inwardly directed pockets. The pockets are adapted to receive the tongues of adjacent tiles to form a continuous upper portion floor covering with minimal spacing between tiles. Certain edges of the tongues and pockets are close fitting to ensure correct positioning of adjacent upper portions. The pressure sensitive adhesive above each pocket is adapted to bond with a tongue when the tiles are connected after positioning by the tongues and pockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: Steven I. Dreyer
  • Patent number: 8215078
    Abstract: Floorboards comprising a core and a surface layer with curved edge portions, which are formed by a compression of the core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Välinge Innovation Belgium BVBA
    Inventor: Darko Pervan
  • Patent number: 8215079
    Abstract: A compressed building block formed of a pre-mix of fly ash, Class C type, are combined with various aggregates either ground wood and/or chips, having maybe a small amount of Portland cement added thereto, moisturized, and then either molded, extruded or compressed in a press into the configuration of a block. A plasticizer, wetting agent and surfactant solution may be added to the composition. Boron as a mold retardant and an insecticide, may be added to the composition, to provide the formed block with further beneficial attributes. The blocks may be formed by a system for extruding such blocks from the formulation, or they may be formed by means of a mold or hydraulic or other press and pressed into the configuration of the desired block, needed for the construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Encore Building Solutions, Inc
    Inventor: Robert F. Sinclair
  • Patent number: 8215080
    Abstract: A gutter assembly for collecting and channelling rainwater run-off from a roof structure, including: one or more elongate gutter members; at lease one mounting bracket for pivotably mounting each gutter member at the roof structure such that each gutter member is movable between an in-use collecting and channelling position and a substantially inverted cleaning position; and, at least one actuator which acts on one or more gutter members to move the gutter member by generating a pushing force to pivot the gutter member about the mounting bracket to the cleaning position and pulling force to cause the gutter member to return to the in-use position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: No-Sweat Gutters P/L
    Inventors: Raibeart W. McNeish, Liem Rossney
  • Patent number: 8215081
    Abstract: A system and method to attach and retain panel tiles and a top cap to a support frame of a modular wall panel system. The top cap attached to the support frame includes an elongated body having a one or more attachment clips removably attached to the elongated body at desired locations along the length of the elongated body. The attachment clips and elongated body are formed separately and assembled prior to attachment to the modular panel. The elongated body includes a pair of receiving cavities that receive spring arms formed on each of the attachment clips. The attachment clips are rotated into position such that the spring arms engage the elongated body and hold the attachment clips in position. Each panel includes a stiffener bracket having engagement tabs. The engagement tabs are received within notches formed in the vertical posts to secure the tiles to the support frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Krueger International, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel R. Cummings, David D. Liegeois, Steven C. Gevaert
  • Patent number: 8215082
    Abstract: A substantially flat roof has elongated log-shaped members arranged horizontally in adjacent, side-by-side relation. Each log-shaped member has a contoured upper surface, and the contoured upper surfaces of adjacent members define a space between them that tapers from a maximum width at the highest elevation of the contoured surfaces to a minimum width where the contoured surfaces of adjacent log-shaped members are closest together. Elongated inserts are arranged between the contoured upper surfaces. Each insert has a wide portion that abuts an adjacent pair of the contoured upper surfaces at a relatively high elevation, and tapers to a narrow portion that abuts the contoured surfaces at a relatively low elevation substantially at the ends of the adjacent pair of log-shaped members. Rain falling on the roof drains by gravity from the contoured upper surfaces to the inserts and along the inserts towards their narrow portions and falls from the roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: Alejandro Stein
  • Patent number: 8215083
    Abstract: A previously formed unitary building exterior envelope product is provided, comprising: a mineral fiber insulation board including a binder having a hydrophobic agent and is resistant to liquid water-penetration and has first and second major surfaces, an exterior facing material, which resists air infiltration and liquid water penetration, laminated to the first major surface, the exterior facing material being permeable to water vapor, and a continuous interior facing laminated to the second major surface, so that the second major surface is resistant to liquid water-penetration and is permeable to water vapor. The section of product is mounted to an exterior side of a plurality of framing members of an exterior wall of a building, so that the interior facing faces the framing members. An exterior layer is mounted to the framing members using a connection device that passes through the section of product, with the facing material facing the exterior layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Certainteed Corporation
    Inventors: Murray S. Toas, Stephen O. Barefoot, Michael J. Lembo
  • Patent number: 8215084
    Abstract: An embeddable breakaway utility pole comprises separate upper and lower aluminum pole pieces, wherein the lower pole piece is to be embedded below ground surface. The upper and lower pole pieces are interconnected by a weld which defines a breakaway zone enabling the upper pole piece to break off the lower pole piece in response to vehicular impact. The weld can be connected to a backer ring which provides a guide surface that axially aligns the pole pieces. Alternatively, the pole can be formed of a single pole piece which is welded between its ends to form a weakened region that defines the breakaway zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Kearney-National, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph M. Bowman, Greg D. Mercier
  • Patent number: 8215085
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method of preparing a web of flexible material for production of receptacles for packaging. The method comprises the steps of feeding a web of flexible material past a succession of stations in which operations are carried out on the web including defining blanks for receptacles having walls and tabs by creating fold lines in the web, and then laminating a film of heat-sealable plastics materials to a face of the web of the flexible material. The film of heat-sealable plastics provides a heat-sealable surface on the web for bonding tabs of each blank together to form seams between adjacent walls whereby the blanks, when severed from the web, can be erected to form receptacles having openings to receive items to be packaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Rapid Action Packaging Limited
    Inventors: Quang Tien Phung, Fernanda Costa Pereira, Julian David Kyrle Money
  • Patent number: 8215086
    Abstract: A rewinder machine for the production of rolls of web material is described, comprising: a winder unit (3, 5, 7); a path for delivering the web material (N) to said winder unit; a system for continuously feeding said web material into said winder unit; a distributor (31) of a sheet material (F) for wrapping the rolls formed by said winder unit, installed and operated so as to deliver a length of sheet material to said winder unit on completion of the winding of each roll without stopping the forward feed of the web material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Fabio Perini S.p.A.
    Inventors: Romano Maddaleni, Mauro Gelli
  • Patent number: 8215087
    Abstract: An apparatus for forming a stack of food products in a storage container, and a method therefor. The apparatus comprises a first gate moveable between an open and a closed position that drops a row of food products onto a second gate moveable between an open and a closed position. The second gate receives multiple rows of food products and once a predetermined number of rows have been received, the second gate opens to release the rows of food products into the storage container below it. As the first gate shifts from the open to the closed position, it can advance, at least in part, a subsequent row of food products onto the first gate for later release onto the second gate. The area defined by the second gate and the first gate is a temporary staging area which can increase in height after receiving subsequent rows of food products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Kraft Foods Global Brands LLC
    Inventors: Mark Ervin Malenke, Scott Adler, Tod Heleniak, Dave Hess
  • Patent number: 8215088
    Abstract: A process for manufacturing an individual packaging for a liquid or solid product includes uninterruptedly unwinding a lower film while simultaneously unwinding an upper film with regard to the lower film. The process further includes continuously dispensing, between the two films, the product which is to be packaged and simultaneously forming and sealing the contour of each packaging by ultrasonic welding. This welding is carried out so that the ultrasound ejects the product from the zones being welded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Cryolog S.A.
    Inventors: Renaud Vaillant, Pierre Peteuil
  • Patent number: 8215089
    Abstract: Waste disposal device including a container defining a waste chamber for receiving waste, a support member arranged in the container for supporting tubing having a closed or closable front end to thereby enable formation of a bag in the container and a twisting assembly arranged in the container and defining an aperture through which the tubing passes while the twisting assembly engages with the tubing. A rotation mechanism is arranged in the container and when actuated, rotates the twisting assembly relative to the stationary support member while the twisting assembly engages with the tubing to thereby form a twist in the tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: David Stravitz
  • Patent number: 8215090
    Abstract: A walk-behind work machine in which vibration produced by the driving of an engine is not readily transmitted to an operating handle. The work machine includes a work-machine body having a plurality of mounting parts to which an engine is joined. The mounting parts include a high-rigidity mounting part positioned at a maximally rigid part on the work-machine body, and other mounting parts exclusive of the high-rigidity mounting part. The engine is joined securely to the other mounting parts and is joined more loosely to the high-rigidity mounting part than to the other mounting parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Tomoaki Ishikawa, Mai Ohba, Shuhei Maruyama, Jitsumi Hanafusa
  • Patent number: 8215091
    Abstract: This gearbox assembly (50) for a lawnmower (10) includes a gearbox housing (56) having a horizontal input shaft (62) and a vertical output shaft (64). A lawnmower deck (12) is disposed below the gearbox housing (56) and a spindle housing (55) is mounted to the lawnmower deck (12) and the spindle housing includes a passage (57) communicating with the gearbox housing (56). The output shaft (64) extends below the gearbox housing (56) and into the spindle housing (55). The input shaft (62) has a bevel gear (76) which meshes with a bevel gear (78) on the output shaft for driving (74). The output shaft (64) includes spaced bearings (70 and 72) within the gearbox housing (56) and a bearing (74) within the spindle housing (55). Brackets (28 and 30) are attached between the gearbox housing (56) and the lawnmower deck (12) and the spindle housing (55) is attached to the lawnmower deck (12) separately from the gearbox housing (56).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Superior Gearbox Company
    Inventor: Charles A. Fox
  • Patent number: 8215092
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided to make composite yarns having a filamentary core with at least one elastic performance filament and at least one inelastic control filament. A fibrous sheath, preferably formed from spun staple fibers, surrounds the filamentary core, preferably substantially along the entire length thereof. The at least one elastic performance filament most preferably includes a spandex and/or a lastol filament. The at least one inelastic control filament is most preferably formed of a textured polymer or copolymer of a polyamide, a polyester, a polyolefin and mixtures thereof. Preferably, the fibrous sheath is formed of synthetic and/or natural staple fibers, most preferably staple cotton fibers. The elastic composite fibers find particular utility as a component part of a woven textile fabric, especially as a stretch denim fabric, which exhibits advantageous elastic recovery of at least about 95.0% (ASTM D3107).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Cone Denim LLC
    Inventors: Ralph B. Tharpe, Jr., John L. Allen, Jr., Fulton A. Little, Reuben E. Hart
  • Patent number: 8215093
    Abstract: A sliver for spinning having a deodorizing and/or heat-generating moisture absorption function is provided, where a sliver for spinning formed as a bundle, in which staple fibers are aligned in one direction, is irradiated with an electron beam to provide an activating group and/or produce a radical on a surface of the fibers, and a compound including an ethylenic unsaturated double bond is chemically bonded to the surface of the fibers. A spun yarn of the invention is a spun yarn having a deodorizing and/or heat-generating moisture absorption function, including the above-described sliver for spinning that has been spun, or including the above-described sliver for spinning and a sliver other than the sliver for spinning that have been blended and spun. A fiber product of the invention has a deodorizing and/or heat-generating moisture absorption function, including the above-described spun yarn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Kurashiki Boseki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kunihiro Ohshima, Susumu Katsuen, Ippei Yamauchi, Masahide Shinohara
  • Patent number: 8215094
    Abstract: The invention relates to a chain suitable to moor or anchor boats, to lash cargo in road, rail, water and air transportation or for conveying, hoisting, suspending or lifting applications, said chain comprising a plurality of interconnected links. More in particular the invention relates to a chain suitable for the above stated uses comprising a plurality of interconnected links, at least part of the links comprising polyolefin fibers and in particular ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibers. The invention also relates to a method for enhancing the strength of such a chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: DSM IP Assets B.V.
    Inventors: Dietrich D. Wienke, Christiaan Henri Peter Dirks, Martinus Johannes Nicolaas Jacobs
  • Patent number: 8215095
    Abstract: A fuel controller, and associated method, provides a fuel control output signal to a fuel control actuator to control operations. The fuel controller determines the fuel control output signal based on rotational speed error. A combustion air controller provides a combustion air control output signal to a combustion air control actuator to control operations. A cross channel controller is in communication with the fuel controller and the combustion air controller. The cross channel controller provides a combustion air control modification signal to the combustion air controller. The combustion air control modification signal is determined from the fuel control output signal using an air versus fuel model. The combustion air controller determines a preliminary combustion air control signal based on an exhaust temperature error, and further determines the combustion air control output signal based on both of the preliminary combustion air control signal and the combustion air control modification signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Matthew John Mosley