Display In Frame Or Transparent Casing; Or Diorama Including Or Imitative Of A Real Object Patents (Class 428/13)
  • Patent number: 11588163
    Abstract: A fuel cell mount apparatus includes a plurality of fuel cell stacks, a pipe arrangement, a fluid adjustment part, a pressure detection part, and a control device. The pipe arrangement is individually connected to each of the fuel cell stacks. The fluid adjustment part adjusts a pressure or a flow rate of a fluid which flows through the pipe arrangement. The pressure detection part is disposed on a portion which requires a desired pressure or flow rate of the fluid in the pipe arrangement and detects the pressure of the fluid. The control device controls the fluid adjustment part on the basis of a detection result of the pressure detection part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Takanori Mori, Kenji Taruya, Daishi Igarashi
  • Patent number: 11053154
    Abstract: An additive manufacturing process includes forming an object material stack using sheet materials without use of binder material between the sheet materials and forming features of the cross-sectional layers of a 3D object in the corresponding sheet materials. Another process involves forming features of the cross-sectional layers of a 3D object in soot layers of a laminated soot sheet. A manufactured article includes three or more glass layers laminated together without any binder material between the glass layers. At least one of the glass layers is composed of silica or doped silica, and at least one feature is formed in at least one of the glass layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2021
    Assignee: CORNING INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Xinghua Li, Richard Curwood Peterson, Christopher Clark Thompson, Ezra Morgan Yarnell
  • Patent number: 10993514
    Abstract: The present teachings provide for a fashion accessory, a kit comprising components of the fashion accessory, and method for constructing the fashion accessory utilizing adhesive decorations for the imaginative configuration of wearable articles. The adhesive decorations are combined to form charms, which are capable of being affixed to wearable articles. The fashion accessory includes one or more first adhesive decorations and one or more second adhesive decorations, which provide for one or more charms, which affix to wearable articles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2021
    Assignee: ANN WILLIAMS GROUP LLC
    Inventors: Sheila A. Wright, Jeannine Joyce Caesar, Colleen Elliott
  • Patent number: 10941376
    Abstract: A method for producing a chip for cell culture that enables production of a microchannel structure, enables mass production at low cost, and also has functions suited to cell culture. The method includes forming a photosensitive adhesive layer by applying a photosensitive adhesive to a first substrate having transparency, thus obtaining a 3D printing substrate, 3D printing steps that employ vat photopolymerization, forming a first adhesive layer by depositing a first adhesive on a second substrate having transparency, thus obtaining a cell culture channel top plate, and bonding the cell culture channel and the cell culture channel top plate together via the first adhesive layer, and then performing thermocompression bonding to obtain a microchannel structural body having a hollow structure, wherein the first adhesive is a polyester-based resin having a Tg value of 5° C. or higher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2021
    Assignees: Tokyo Ohka Kogyo Co., Ltd., National institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology
    Inventors: Takashi Fujimoto, Hidenori Miyamoto, Shinji Sugiura, Kazumi Shin, Fumiki Yanagawa, Toshiyuki Kanamori
  • Patent number: 10899655
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are floor tiles comprising, for instance, a substrate and a surface coating, wherein the surface coating comprises (i) a base formula comprising a glaze and (ii) particles comprising alumina trihydrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2021
    Assignee: Daltile Corporation
    Inventors: Aaron C. Dilbeck, David A. Earl, Terry Adams, Norman Elias, Linda Robledo
  • Patent number: 10532684
    Abstract: A method for applying an image to a floor mat or floor liner including applying a layer of ink to a first side of a clear applique; bonding, with a bonding agent, the first side of the clear applique to a surface of a substrate; and heating the applique and substrate to a first temperature such that the adhesive cures; heating the bonded substrate to a second temperature, such that the surface of the substrate becomes malleable; and forming a scene into the surface of the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2020
    Inventor: Martin J. Beckenbach
  • Patent number: 10508480
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a method and system for unlocking vehicle engine cover. Method comprising: acquiring an action signal transmitted from an action sensor, and executing an action signal judging step; executing an unlocking step if the received action signal matches a preset unlock action signal, otherwise not executing the unlocking step, the unlock action signal is a combination of a signal or a plurality of consecutive signals; unlocking step: sending an unlock signal to an engine cover lock, wherein the unlock signal is used to control the engine cover lock to perform an unlock operation on a vehicle engine cover. The present invention detects an action signal from an action sensor, and controls whether or not to unlock the vehicle engine cover by matching the action signal with a preset unlock action signal. So users do not need to enter into the passenger compartment for unlocking. The operation is both convenient and rich sense of technology.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2019
    Assignees: Saic General Motors Corporation Limited, Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center Company Limited
    Inventors: Junqiao Peng, Mu Qian, Yan Hao, Tao Li, Zhankui He, Qiang Zhou
  • Patent number: 10350483
    Abstract: A puzzle including a background puzzle surface having printed thereon a background puzzle image including image areas and blank areas, and at least one puzzle piece formed of a transparent material having printed thereon a puzzle piece image including image areas and blank transparent areas. When solving the puzzle, the at least one puzzle piece is superimposed over the background puzzle surface, and is moved thereon to a correct location in which the image areas of the background puzzle image together with the image areas of the puzzle piece image match and form a cohesive image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Inventor: Simon Basyuk
  • Patent number: 10301740
    Abstract: A two piece electroplating frame or electroplating frame is disclosed that is suitable for holding multiple solar cells during an electroplating operation. The electroplating frame can be formed from or at least covered with non-conductive material to reduce the collection of plating material on the electroplating frame. The two pieces of the electroplating frame can be coupled together around the solar cells by magnets distributed throughout the electroplating frame. The electroplating frame can include alignment features for self-aligning the assembly of the two pieces without requiring precise pre-alignment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: SolarCity Corporation
    Inventors: Pablo Gonzalez, Ming-Du Kang
  • Patent number: 10118436
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to an apparatus and method for creating pixelated artwork composed of coloring element pixels. In some embodiments, a system converts the millions of pixels and colors of a digital image to a simplified color template with numbers assigned to particular colors. In one embodiment, a plastic grid is configured to cover the color template and receives crayons whose arrangement is determined by the numbers/colors of the color template.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2018
    Assignee: Crayola, LLC
    Inventor: Craig Skinner
  • Patent number: 10043413
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a method and system for using oral sensory stimulation with models for educating visually impaired students. The oral senses through the mouth using a three-dimensional model of a structure offer an improved approach to educating such students. A student can insert a 3-D model in the mouth and use oral senses to feel the model and learn the shape that a non-visually impaired student can see on a computer. The model can have a reference guide for orientation that can also be used to hold the model. Further, model indicia, such as Braille, can be printed on the reference guide or model to help guide the student. The student can use other senses, such as tactile or hearing senses, to understand supplemental educational information related to the model using the oral senses to feel the model and relate such feel to the educational information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: Baylor University
    Inventor: Bryan F. Shaw
  • Patent number: 9978299
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a transparent display, comprising a first display, comprising a plurality of first display regions and a plurality of transparent regions alternately arranged along a first direction; a second display, comprising a plurality of second display regions and a plurality of second transparent regions which are alternately located along the first direction, and the second display is laminated with the first display and located at one side of the first display in an image display direction, and the vertical projections of the second display regions on the first display completely coincide with the first transparent regions, and the vertical projections of the second transparent regions on the first display completely coincide with the first transparent regions; a camera shooting module; a signal process module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2018
    Assignee: Wuhan China Star Optoelectronics Technology Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Yuejun Tang
  • Patent number: 9931817
    Abstract: A method of cold forming a glass laminate structure. The method includes assembling a multi-layer structure having two buffer plates and a glass laminate structure intermediate the two buffer plates, wherein one or both of the two buffer plates includes a pattern formed thereon or therein or the multi-layer structure includes non-deformable materials forming a pattern. The method further includes cold forming the glass laminate structure in the autoclave by heating the assembled structure to a temperature about 5 to 10 degrees above the softening point of the polymer interlayer for a predetermined period of time at a predetermined pressure. After processing the glass laminate structure can be removed from between the buffer plates wherein the pattern formed in or on the one or both buffer plates or non-deformable materials has been transferred to the glass laminate structure as a function of variances of thicknesses in the glass laminate structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: CORNING INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Paul George Rickerl
  • Patent number: 9693422
    Abstract: A curved display device comprises a display panel which includes a display area portion having a curved shape and a plurality of corner portions located on the outside of the display area portion where the plurality of corner portions is curved towards the display area portion in a plan view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Seki Park, Jooyoung Kim, Dong-cheol Lee
  • Patent number: 9643377
    Abstract: The floor member has a closed-cell foam core that constitutes approximately 50% of the overall thickness of the floor member. All constituents of the floor member, including a design layer, wear layer and resilient foam plastic underlayer, are highly water resistant and essentially water repellant. The closed-cell foam core is relatively lightweight and the floor member is also relatively lightweight compared to equally dimensioned floor planks formed exclusively of solid laminated plastic materials or wood-based laminated materials. The floor member has edge connecting means for convenient floating floor installation without the need to adhere the floor member to a floor base. The floor member is also easy to handle to permit a do-it-yourselfer to install a floor covering with the floor member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Assignee: Tower IPCO Company Limited
    Inventor: Jincheng Song
  • Patent number: 9630365
    Abstract: One variation of a method for manufacturing a physical volumetric representation of a virtual three-dimensional object includes: slicing the virtual three-dimensional object into a set of virtual layers of discrete virtual thickness; for each virtual layer in the set of virtual layers, selecting a set of cross-sections of a portion of the virtual three-dimensional object within the virtual layer, setting an opacity level for each cross-section, combining the set of cross-sections into a composite cross-section based on an opacity level set for each cross-section, and printing the composite cross-section onto a dominant face of a substrate in a set of substrates; and assembling the set of substrates into a stack, each substrate in the set of substrates positioned within the stack according to a position within the virtual three-dimensional object of a cross-section printed on the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Looking Glass Factory, Inc.
    Inventors: Shawn Frayne, Shiu Pong Lee, Tung Yiu Fok, Alexis Hornstein
  • Patent number: 9566527
    Abstract: A method of fabricating an amusement park ride track utilizing stock, planar materials, namely comprising of creating elongated, curved structures from planar materials. A roller coaster track capable of being fabricated from multiple planar pieces without heating or bending. Other embodiments are described which utilize elongated, curved structures such as ski lifts, people movers, staircases and architectural structures. A jig is disclosed for providing for ease of manufacture of the elongated, curved structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2017
    Assignee: Rocky Mountain Coasters, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan Schilke, Fred Grubb, Dody Bachtar
  • Patent number: 9453341
    Abstract: A wall system comprising: a plurality of core blocks, each core block having: a front face; a rear face; a top face; a bottom face; a left side face; and a right side face, each core block having protrusions and grooves in one of the top and bottom faces for interlocking together an assembly of core blocks in stacked rows with abutting side faces, each core block having a slip molding axis and a substantially uniform cross-sectional profile transverse to the slip molding axis, wherein the front, rear, top and bottom faces define the cross-sectional profile; a plurality of fascia blocks, each fascia block having: a decorative exposed front face; a rear face; a top face; a bottom face; a left side face; and a right side face; and a plurality of connectors for mounting the fascia blocks to the assembly of core blocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2016
    Assignee: HENGESTONE HOLDINGS, INC.
    Inventors: Scott Swierad, Ray Rodenburgh, Aaron Bailey
  • Patent number: 9397065
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to a fixture design for pre-attachment package on package component assembly. The fixture design includes a plurality of pockets arranged in a N×M array. The plurality of pockets is sized to receive bottom packages. The fixture design includes global fiducials that are used to locate positions of the pockets on the fixture, and sets of local fiducials, with each set being specific to one of the pockets and used to refine the position of the location of a corresponding pocket. Each of the pockets can include one or more ear cuts for easy component placement and component removal. The fixture design can include a vacuum port for coupling with a vacuum source for drawing a vacuum to hold the bottom packages down. The fixture design can also include a cover that is used with the fixture to keep the components from being disturbed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Assignee: Flextronics AP, LLC
    Inventors: Jennifer Nguyen, David Geiger, Ranilo Aranda, Jonas Sjoberg, Anwar Mohammed, Murad Kurwa
  • Publication number: 20150147491
    Abstract: A frame web assembly for securing a label to an apparel item is provided. The assembly includes a substrate, a label, and a frame web. The frame web includes a carrier web having first and second faces, the first face having an adhesive, and at least one frame element with the first side having an adhesive and the second side in contact with the first face of the carrier web. The present invention also includes a method for branding the apparel item which includes applying a frame element over the woven label and then adhering the woven label and frame element to an apparel item.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2013
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Applicant: Avery Dennison Corporation
    Inventor: Mathieu DE BACKER
  • Publication number: 20150020745
    Abstract: Provided is a cover member for an exhibit or display element which makes an exhibit or display element visible as if nothing existed between the exhibit or display element and the viewer and can protect the exhibit or display element. The cover member (3) for an exhibit or display element includes a transparent substrate (31a) and an antireflection film (31b) formed on at least one surface of the transparent substrate. The cover member (3) for an exhibit or display element has a luminous reflectance of 0.5% or less.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2013
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventors: Tsutomu Imamura, Takayoshi Saitoh, Koji Ikegami, Toshiyuki Kajioka
  • Patent number: 8769849
    Abstract: An interchangeable themed system for plates of all types. A race is provided within a plate and member releasably disposed within the race and having a decorative upper visible surface. The groove is arranged as a border for framing or setting off the particular table setting element. Opposed exterior surfaces of the member are decorated so as to establish a predetermined theme. The member is so dimensioned as to fit flush with the exposed surface of the dish in which it is installed to present the appearance of being integrally formed with the dish or other table setting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Inventor: Karen McCombs
  • Publication number: 20140161996
    Abstract: A method of imaging acrylic glass is presented. An image is formed on a transfer sheet or medium, and is heat transferred to the acrylic glass substrate on which the image is to permanently appear. An opaque pass-through coating is applied to one surface of the clear or transparent acrylic glass article. Heat activatable dye forms the image, and the heat activatable dye, when heat activated in close relationship to the opaque pass-through coating, passes through the opaque pass-through coating to the acrylic glass substrate. The image reflects light through the acrylic glass and is visible through the material and from the side opposite the opaque coating. The opaque pass-through coating layer permanently bonds to the acrylic glass surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2013
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Inventors: Ming Xu, Zhenrong Guo, Sukun Zhang, Paul Hirst
  • Publication number: 20140072732
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing the biopolymer panel may include positioning a plurality of biopolymer sheets adjacent to one another, and subjecting them to a laminating temperature that exceeds the glass-transition temperature of the sheets for a time period sufficient to achieve lamination. The laminate panel is then quenched at a quenching temperature that is below the glass-transition temperature. The time period during lamination, as well as any “rest” period between lamination and quenching, is sufficiently short so as to prevent clouding or hazing as a result of crystallization of the biopolymer resin materials. In addition, the panel exhibits sufficient flame retardency to meet applicable building codes, exhibits sufficient impact resistance for use as a decorative or structural panel building material, and exhibits no substantial thermally induced degradation as a result of subjection to the laminating temperature. The panels may be used as decorative or structural building materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2012
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicant: 3form, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles H. Moore, John E.C. Willham
  • Publication number: 20140047866
    Abstract: A system and method for exhibiting granular material in an ornamental assembly. The sand represents a tangible embodiment of memories and emotional ties to a specific region. A transparent, flexible inner chamber holds the sand, and joins at two ends via a mating portion and a fastener. A similarly transparent, flexible outer portion encloses and contours to the shape of the inner chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2012
    Publication date: February 20, 2014
    Inventor: MARK VAUGHAN
  • Patent number: 8617670
    Abstract: An emblem assembly configured for attachment to a vehicle includes a first element configured for attachment to the vehicle and a second element configured for attachment to the first element. The first element has a first surface and a second surface recessed from the first surface. The second element has a third surface, a fourth surface spaced apart from the third surface, and a fifth surface extending between the third and fourth surfaces. The emblem assembly further includes a coating disposed on the third surface, and a molded resin disposed adjacent and in fixed contact with each of the fifth surface and the coating to contiguously encapsulate the coating and at least a portion of the fifth surface, wherein the molded resin is bondable to the first element. A method of forming the emblem assembly is also disclosed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Michael A. Szymberski
  • Patent number: 8617671
    Abstract: An emblem assembly configured for attachment to a vehicle includes a first element and a second element. The first element is configured for attachment to the vehicle and has a first surface and a second surface recessed from the first surface. The second element is configured for attachment to the first element and has a third surface, a fourth surface spaced apart from the third surface, and a fifth surface extending between the third and fourth surfaces, wherein the fifth surface is spaced apart from the second surface to define a channel therebetween. The assembly includes a first coating disposed on the third surface and a tape disposed in contact with at least a portion of each of the second surface, the first coating, and the fifth surface to thereby fill at least a portion of the channel. A method of forming the assembly is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Bruce N. Greve, Kitty L. Gong
  • Publication number: 20130271968
    Abstract: A three dimensional visual element is provided which includes a decal or other device to simulate a crack or break within the wall on which the visual elements is mounted. The visual element also includes a functional feature, such as a light, shelf support, electronic device, or the like, so that the visual element also provides some utility. In one example, a three dimensional representation of a soccer ball is provided wherein the soccer ball is surrounded by a clear plastic decal having a cracking so as to represent cracks within the wall on which the device is mounted. Within the shell of the soccer ball in this exemplary embodiment, are lighting elements which allow the device to be used as a nightlight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2011
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Applicant: 3D LIGHTING FX INC.
    Inventor: Tom P. Wegrzyn
  • Publication number: 20130266745
    Abstract: A case is disclosed. The case includes a main body and a container housing tank. The main body includes a surface, and the container housing tank is located on the surface and used to accommodate a nameplate. The container housing tank includes a main tank and a margin tank, wherein the main tank has a first depth; the margin tank is located on the edge of the main tank and connects with the main tank. The margin tank has a second depth that is greater than the first depth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2012
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Inventors: Shan-Gen Du, Zhong-Hui Mao, Hung-Ming Chang
  • Patent number: 8529057
    Abstract: The invention is related to a cost-effective method for making a silicone hydrogel contact lens having a crosslinked hydrophilic coating thereon. A method of the invention involves heating a silicone hydrogel contact lens in an aqueous solution in the presence of a water-soluble, highly branched, thermally-crosslinkable hydrophilic polymeric material having positively-charged azetidinium groups, to and at a temperature from about 40° C. to about 140° C. for a period of time sufficient to covalently attach the thermally-crosslinkable hydrophilic polymeric material onto the surface of the silicone hydrogel contact lens through covalent linkages each formed between one azetidinium group and one of the reactive functional groups on and/or near the surface of the silicone hydrogel contact lens, thereby forming a crosslinked hydrophilic coating on the silicone hydrogel contact lens. Such method can be advantageously implemented directly in a sealed lens package during autoclave.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Novartis AG
    Inventors: Yongxing Qiu, Newton T. Samuel, John Dallas Pruitt, Chandana Kolluru, Arturo N. Medina, Lynn Cook Winterton, Daqing Wu, Xinming Qian, Jared Nelson
  • Patent number: 8479427
    Abstract: A multi-planar image display system includes an insert having sheets being held in alignment at opposite edges. The sheets have particularly predetermined widths such that when aligned and affixed to each other, the sheets form predetermined curve profiles with equal spacing between the sheets, allowing a sharp, realistic 3D image to be produced from 2D images printed on the sheets. The system may further include a frame to securely hold the insert in tension without requiring additional fasteners. The frame may hold one or more inserts and allow easy insertion and removal of each insert. The frame may accommodate a cover, a board, a light panel, a cap, a casing, and/or other feature(s) to protect or otherwise accompany the 3D image produced by the insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Pops3d, Inc.
    Inventors: Ivan Verheye, Fred B. Weiner
  • Patent number: 8475928
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a mix to manufacture a rock sheet on a solid base useful for decorating purposes. The mix includes a binding composition of an agglutinating agent comprising volcanic rock particles having a particle size of 1 to 5 microns and a polymer mixture in a combined amount sufficient to act as a binder for other components of the laminate; a silicate compound in an amount sufficient to stabilize the composition; and water in an amount to moisten and fluidize the composition. The mix can contain other components for forming laminates or shapes, and can be formed as or on a plate useful for building and decorating buildings made-up by a rock sheet manufactured with the aforementioned mix and a solid base. The methods for preparing the aforementioned mix and plates useful for the construction and decoration of construction surfaces are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Neocantera Board S.A. De C.V.
    Inventor: Jesùs Federico Arroyo-Bernal
  • Publication number: 20130129942
    Abstract: A method of making mixed media artwork includes cutting a metal sheet; applying an adhesive layer to an outer surface of the metal sheet; applying one or more polymer layers to the adhesive layer, wherein the one or more polymer layers create an image on the outer surface; and deforming the metal sheet to create a three-dimensional outer surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2012
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Inventor: Simon Raab
  • Patent number: 8420205
    Abstract: A method of making mixed media artwork includes cutting a metal sheet; applying an adhesive layer to an outer surface of the metal sheet; applying one or more polymer layers to the adhesive layer, wherein the one or more polymer layers create an image on the outer surface; and deforming the metal sheet to create a three-dimensional outer surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Inventor: Simon Raab
  • Patent number: 8413807
    Abstract: A ball display case has base and a cover that is securable to the base. When the cover is secured to the base, the cover and base at least partially enclose a space for holding a ball. The case has a pedestal for supporting a ball in the enclosed space. The elevation of the pedestal relative to the base is optionally adjustable. An irreversible lock is adapted for selective application to at least one of the base and the cover such that the lock assumes a locking position that prevents non-destructive removal of the cover from the base. One suitable lock includes a plate having a plurality of recessed areas spaced radially about the plate and a plurality of posts extending away from the plate. Each post is in general radial alignment with one of the recessed areas of the plate and spaced radially inward from the recessed area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: INDUCOMP Corporation
    Inventor: John T. Weldon
  • Patent number: 8415001
    Abstract: A decorative member composing a casing includes: a resin layer (2) having a front surface (2b) and a back surface (2a); and a reflective layer (3) formed on the back surface (2a) of the resin layer (2). The back surface (2a) of the resin layer (2) includes a receding surface (21) formed therein. The receding surface recedes gradually toward the front surface (2b) to change a thickness of the resin layer (2). The receding surface (21) is a concave surface forming a depression that opens while broadening. The back surface (2a) of the resin layer (2) has a reference surface (22) around the receding surface (21), and a portion of the reference surface (22) facing an internal space of the casing is a roughened area (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Shuji Yamashita, Suguru Nakao, Takehiko Yamashita, Takashi Nagashima
  • Publication number: 20130045341
    Abstract: A photographic print media comprising: a transparent synthetic organic polymeric layer adjacent and affixed to an opaque or semi-transparent translucent synthetic organic polymeric layer host to light scattering whitening particulate and diffused dyestuff. The invention as disclosed provides for a novel new method of creating and displaying digital images in a media that provides for photographic quality full color images to be printed with translucency and the ability to view the image from both sides.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2012
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventor: Paul Ramsden
  • Patent number: 8372493
    Abstract: An emblem assembly configured for attachment to a vehicle includes a first element having a first surface and a second surface recessed from the first surface, wherein the first element defines at least one void therethrough extending through the second surface. The emblem assembly includes a second element having a third surface, a fourth surface spaced apart from the third surface, and a fifth surface extending between the third surface and the fourth surface, wherein the second surface is spaced apart from the fifth surface to define a channel therebetween. The emblem assembly includes a coating disposed on the third surface and a sealant disposed adjacent and in contact with at least a portion of each of the void, the second surface, the coating, and the fifth surface to thereby fill at least a portion of the channel. A method of forming the emblem assembly is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Bruce N. Greve
  • Patent number: 8347534
    Abstract: A display apparatus (20) includes a blower (44) which provides a pressurized flow of air to lower air inlet openings of tubular nozzles (35) which protrude upwardly from a collection platform (21) to thus propel lightweight beads (56) from an upper bead discharge opening of a bore (41) through each nozzle into arc-shaped trajectories which simulate flowing water. Each nozzle (35) has a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart openings (58) through the cylindrical wall (57) of the nozzle, adjacent to the platform, for drawing into the bore of the nozzle by a venturi effect beads (56) which have fallen onto the platform. One or more illumination sources (63) spaced radially apart from the nozzles (35) illuminate the airborne beads (56).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Inventor: Iraldo F. Ruiz
  • Patent number: 8343405
    Abstract: The invention relates to a production method for incorporating an object into a multi-part, transparent casing. According to the method, an object is aligned on a first joint surface of a first casing part and is pressed into said part using a second casing part with a second joint surface. The first joint surface of the first casing part and the second joint surface of the second casing part are then fused by pressure and temperature, forming a region between the casing parts that is devoid of a visible seam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Montblanc-Simplo GmbH
    Inventors: Dietmar Podszuweit, Manfred Martens, Holger Wuttke
  • Patent number: 8247518
    Abstract: A multi-layer polymer film for printing and copying of the present invention comprising a two-layer polymer base film composed of layer A and layer B laminated on one side of the layer A, the layer B containing a filler in an amount of 50 to 3000 ppm and the layer A containing no filler or a filler in an amount of at least 1000 ppm and less than the B layer; an image receiving layer coated on the exposed surface of the layer A; and an antistatic layer coated on the exposed surface of the layer B, wherein the layer A having the image receiving coating layer and the layer B having the antistatic coating layer have average degrees of surface roughness (Ra) ranging from 10 to 60 nm and 50 to 150 nm, respectively, exhibits improved properties in terms of runnability, printing, optical (haze), antistatic, friction coefficient and anti-blocking properties, which can be advantageously used as an OHP film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: SKC Inc.
    Inventors: Taehoung Jeong, Kwang Soo Choi, Mary Elizabeth Klima
  • Patent number: 8241727
    Abstract: Decorated three-dimensional articles (64, 78, 82, 86) may be produced having wall structure (66-72) with distortion-free images (40a, 40b) appearing through the inner and outer surfaces of the wall structure (66-72). Preferably, a sheet of paper stock (38) is imprinted on both faces with mirror images (40a, 40b), and the stock (38) is applied to a light-transmitting substrate (44) so that the image (40b) appears through the substrate (44), thereby yielding a blank (50). A plurality of lines of weakness (54) are formed in the blank (50) by laser ablation extending through the image (40a) and stock (38), but not through the image (40b), in order to define spaced apart bend areas (56). The substrate (44) is then heated along the bend areas (56), and the blank (50) is formed about a mandrel (62). If desired, the formed blank (50) may be completed by addition of a base (74).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Barton Nelson, Inc.
    Inventor: Gunnard Nelson
  • Patent number: 8241714
    Abstract: A decorative architectural glass panel comprises a two or more glass sheets separated by a resin in which one or more decorative objects are suspended. A method of making the glass panel comprises positioning one or more spacers and one or more decorative objects on a first glass sheet, placing a second glass sheet about the first glass sheet, sealing the edges of the first glass sheet and second glass sheet, and filling the space between the first and second glass sheets with a curable liquid resin. The resin can be poured using a substantially horizontal pour in order to keep the decorative objects from substantially shifting when pouring the liquid resin. The resin can also be poured in combination with a vacuum force. In some implementations, the glass panel may also be substituted with a resin panel using polymeric resin sheets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: 3form, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric M. Adickes
  • Patent number: 8230649
    Abstract: A construction panel includes a pane, a construction substrate, and a frame that form an air gap there between. An electrical generator, a water circulator, and an air venting system are in the air gap. First and second reflective coatings are respectively on first surfaces of the pane and the construction substrate. The first surfaces face the air gap. The reflective coatings reflect IR to heat water in the water circulator and heat air in the air gap. First and second antireflective coatings are respectively on a second surface of the pane and on the first reflective coating. The second surface faces away from the air gap. The antireflective coatings transmit electromagnetic radiation to the electrical generator for electricity generation. The heated water, heated air, and electricity may be used in a building to which the construction panel is attached. The solar-construction panel includes a multiple-pane window integrally formed therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: SolarPath, Inc.
    Inventor: Narinder Singh Kapany
  • Publication number: 20120148766
    Abstract: A panel has at least one viewing window cut made in a front sheet to view illustrations and/or texts or cover them. It has a support sheet glued behind the front sheet; a booklet is fixed on the support sheet, in correspondence to the window, and being smaller than the window so that it can be leafed through via that window, and a sliding shutter is placed between the support sheet and the front sheet, to close the window, in its covering position, and hide the booklet, with the sliding shutter being held in parallel guides situated between the front sheet and the support sheet very close to two opposite sides of the window. Application in particular to making books formed by assembly of several panels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2010
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Inventor: Francois Massol
  • Patent number: 8158252
    Abstract: The invention concerns a stamping film for the production of tamper-proof license plates and a license plate produced using a stamping film. The stamping film includes a carrier film and a transfer layer which is detachable from the carrier film and which can be fixed on a substrate of the license plate. Starting from the carrier film, the transfer layer includes a transparent release layer, an opaque decoration layer, a transparent protection layer, an optically variable layer, a reflection layer, a colored layer and an adhesive layer. The decoration layer has mutually spaced areal interruptions where the transparent protection layer adjoins the release layer. The adhesive layer is provided for fixing the transfer layer to the substrate of the license plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Leonhard Kurz Stiftung & Co. KG
    Inventors: Hubert Süssner, Wolfgang Bilger
  • Patent number: 8122626
    Abstract: An optical illusion device such as a drinking glass/cup for providing a multi-dimensional visual display. The device includes a body with tubular sidewalls extending from an opening at a first end to an opening at a second end. A base assembly is provided at the second end. The base assembly includes a top wall, a bottom wall, and a sidewall that together form or define an inner chamber. A visual display assembly is provided with a mirror element with a convex reflective surface or mirror positioned within the chamber with the reflective surface facing the top wall of the base assembly. A primary image element is provided proximate to the reflective surface such that the primary image and mirror element can be observed via the opening in the body. A framing element is included proximate to the top wall of the base assembly including background images facing the reflective surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary W. Schnuckle
  • Patent number: 8091258
    Abstract: A device incorporating an erectile member that becomes erect upon being partially immersed in water. The erectile member is formed from a flexible tube that contains a hydrophilic material. The hydrophilic material swells when hydrated, pressurizing the tube and causing it to become erect. A decorative feature may be added to one end of the erectile member, such as a simulated flower blossom, and the device may be displayed in a vase. The device may be designed to return to its original drooping state once it has consumed all the water in the vase. Other features and embodiments are described herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Inventor: Randall A. Davidson
  • Patent number: 8088457
    Abstract: A decorative architectural glass panel comprises a two or more glass sheets separated by a resin in which one or more decorative objects are suspended. A method of making the glass panel comprises positioning one or more spacers and one or more decorative objects on a first glass sheet, placing a second glass sheet about the first glass sheet, sealing the edges of the first glass sheet and second glass sheet, and filling the space between the first and second glass sheets with a curable liquid resin. The resin can be poured using a substantially horizontal pour in order to keep the decorative objects from substantially shifting when pouring the liquid resin. The resin can also be poured in combination with a vacuum force. In some implementations, the glass panel may also be substituted with a resin panel using polymeric resin sheets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: 3form, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric M. Adickes
  • Publication number: 20110300314
    Abstract: Multipurpose decoration consisting in filling and retention of different materials between two or more transparent layers consisting of glass or plastic. The most important fill material is crushed glass or frit in various colours, grades and shapes. Decoration is characterized by filling materials in its appearance being separated by means of one or more sheets of different materials with holes for specific fill materials according to the specific pattern, which is located between the two outer transparent layers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Inventor: Poyan Taherloo