Patents Represented by Attorney Isaf, Vaughan & Kerr
  • Patent number: 5829509
    Abstract: Provided is a five-in-one process/integrated furnace system that (i) receives and heat treats a casting, (ii) removes sand core materials from the casting, (iii) actively reclaims sand from the sand core materials, (iv) substantially cools the reclaimed sand, and (v) removes fines from the reclaimed sand. The furnace system includes a heating chamber disposed above and contiguous with a cooling chamber. The heating chamber and cooling chamber are preferably constructed so that heat and gasses pass therebetween. The heating chamber is preferably in the general form of a heat treating furnace. The heating chamber receives and heat treats metal castings. During the heat treating process, sand core materials are dislodged from the castings and enter into a sand reclaiming region. A hot fluidized bed functions to reclaim sand from the sand core materials within the heating chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: Consolidated Engineering Co, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott P. Crafton
  • Patent number: 5826870
    Abstract: A planar article or sheet, such as a divider sheet for stacked products, and the method of supplying substantially planar articles from a supply magazine to an article transfer device, which then transfers the article to a desired location for further processing. The planar article itself can be a divider sheet for stacked beverage containers, folded paperboard cartons for carriers, or any other substantially planar article which is adapted to be consecutively arranged with other such articles in a group, and placed in a supply magazine for singular delivery to an article transfer device. The method of the present invention is specifically designed to insure that only one sheet at a time is removed from the group by the article transfer device. The sheets or articles themselves, are designed to cooperate with the supply magazine to facilitate singular delivery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
    Assignee: Riverwood International Corporation
    Inventors: Gary Vulgamore, Kevin T. May
  • Patent number: 5820185
    Abstract: A paperboard carrier device for retaining a plurality of containers is disclosed. The carrier device is made from a paperboard blank (10) and has a base (16) with apertures defined therein for receiving the necks of the respective containers, two side walls (19,20) hingedly connected to opposed side edges of the base, the side walls being angled with respect to the base and extending toward one another, and two handle panels (23,24) hingedly connected to each one of the respective side walls. A plurality of reinforcing flaps (34) are defined in the side walls and the handle panels, the reinforcing flaps being hingedly attached to each one of the side walls along an edge (32), respectively. The reinforcing flaps are folded against the side walls in use, and have a length greater than half of the width of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Assignee: Riverwood International Corporation
    Inventor: Jean-Manuel Gomes
  • Patent number: 5816817
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for simultaneously training multiple trainees in the use of simulated weapons, which method defines a set of image shapes and assigns each image shape to a different simulated weapon capable of generating a light beam, at a selected wavelength, having the assigned image shape. By collecting data under control conditions and evaluating a set of parameters that uniquely identifies each image shape and by comparing the resulting "control parameters" to the same set of parameters evaluated under training conditions (thereby, producing "on-line parameters") each image shape produced during a training session is identified and associated with a simulated weapon. The method enables an expanded number of trainees to be simultaneously trained, by employing the same set of image shapes produced and detected at different wavelengths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Assignee: FATS, Inc.
    Inventors: Wenlong Tsang, Bobby Hsiang-Hua Chung, Christopher Alan Bailey
  • Patent number: 5815974
    Abstract: A bipod mounting assembly for attaching a bipod to the forearm stock portion of a firearm, which includes a mounting yoke adapted to quickly and easily attach to the swivel stud connector mounted to the forearm stock portion of the firearm. The mounting yoke is adapted to receive a mounting block thereover, with the mounting block being attached to the mounting yoke to thus attach the mounting block to the forearm stock portion of the fire arm. A bipod mounting frame that includes a pair of extensible telescoping legs is releasably attachable to the mounting block by a quick-release locking catch to enable the quick attachment/detachment of the legs of the bipod from the mounting block, and thus the firearm. In one embodiment the mounting yoke has a threaded stud that extends through the mounting block and receives a securing bolt to secure the mounting block to the firearm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Inventor: Da Keng
  • Patent number: 5815995
    Abstract: A slip-resistant floor covering system comprising, in accordance with preferred embodiments of apparatus of the present invention, a slip-resistant tile having a plurality of pyramidal-shaped ridges which support an individual's foot at an elevation above liquid and other slip-inducing substances which flow through a network of drainage troughs (each trough being defined between adjacent ridges) and channels in the upper surface of the tile. The ridges of the plurality of ridges are directionally oriented relative to the channels to encourage rapid flow of spilled liquid and other substances away from a spill site. The orientation of the ridges relative to the channels also induces air flow through the troughs and channels in order to reduce foot and leg fatigue which may be experienced by an individual standing on the tile for long periods of time. Protruding members, extending from the lower surface of the tile, contact a floor surface and limit relative movement between the tile and the floor surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Assignee: Diversified Industrial Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: John M. Adam
  • Patent number: 5813833
    Abstract: A centrifugal slurry pump is disclosed which includes a specifically designed impeller having three circumferentially spaced vanes mounted between a back disc shaped shroud and a front open annular shroud. The vanes are thick in cross-section for wear-resistance and channels formed between adjacent ones of the vanes permit a relatively large sphere, or sphere-like objects, to pass therethrough, the sphere having a diameter of in excess of 14 inches, while maintaining an efficiency in excess of 80% and a head in excess of 30 feet. The vanes have a mixed pitch and a negative overlap, with quite large channels formed between adjacent vanes so as to pass the large spheres which are encountered during dredging operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1998
    Assignee: GIW Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Graeme R. Addie, Robert J. Visintainer
  • Patent number: 5815315
    Abstract: An improve method and apparatus for removing beaded water from the reflective surface of a vehicle mirror is provided. The apparatus comprises a metal wind scoop assembly that is mounted to the mirror. The wind scoop assembly, together with the structure of the mirror, defines a windward facing intake scoop and an exhaust slot located adjacent the surface of the mirror. The inlet scoop intercepts an air stream created by movement of the vehicle and the stream is redirected and exhausted through the exhaust slot along the surface of the mirror. The exhausted stream blows beaded water from the mirror to clear and dry the mirror for better vision.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1998
    Inventors: Drew P. Garland, Brian P. Garland, Tony Abee
  • Patent number: 5807320
    Abstract: A receptacle receives and at least partially contains a container that contains fluid. The receptacle, or the receptacle in combination with the container, defines an inflation device. The inflation device is associated with the container so that when the inflation device is inflated the fluid is forced from the container. Subsequent to the proper positioning of the container relative to a human cavity, the inflation device is inflated by operating an activation device such as a switch or a valve. The activation device is preferably distant from the container and receptacle such that the activation device can be easily accessed and operated. Alternatively a spring is associated with the receptacle. The spring is compressed and a retention device operates to maintain the spring in the compressed configuration. Once the container and receptacle are properly positioned relative to a cavity, the retention device is acted upon to release the spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventor: K. Scott Kammerer
  • Patent number: 5806510
    Abstract: A tray for use with a barbecue having one or more griddles partly or wholly outlying or able to outlie the base of the barbecue wherein the tray is locatable beneath the griddles or the parts of griddles outlying the base to direct fat falling therefrom to the base is described. The tray is particularly suitable for use with multi-level hooded barbecues.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventors: Klaus Fischer, Peter Casey
  • Patent number: 5806382
    Abstract: A wire end connector tool designed for use with a standard wire connector cap for crimping the ends of wires together. The tool consists of a cylindrical handle of a thickness to fit comfortably in a user's hand and an axial member, longer than the handle, rotationally captured in and extending through the cylindrical handle and able to rotate therein. One or both ends of the axial member protrude from the end(s) of the cylindrical handle. Each protruding end is formed into a helical coil with its axis parallel to, but spaced from, the axis of the handle. Each coil is designed to securely accept standard wire connector caps such as those described above and to prevent it from rotating. This allows wires to be connected with a simple wrist rotation rather than requiring manual twisting with the fingers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventor: Wayman Hall, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5802893
    Abstract: An anti-theft device for use with tractors having hydraulically released braking mechanisms comprises a two-way valve having a handle that can be rotated to a secure position directing hydraulic fluid back to the reservoir and an operating position directing hydraulic fluid to the brake release mechanism. Locking means is provided to lock the handle in its secure position when the tractor is unattended to prevent the brakes from being released and thus to prevent theft of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Inventor: Mike Avery
  • Patent number: 5801628
    Abstract: An inventoriable-object control and tracking system comprising, in accordance with its preferred embodiments, an object identification assembly having an electronic device, with a unique electronically-readable identification code, which is connected to an inventoriable-object to enable control over access to the object and tracking of the object to identify a user in possession of the object. The system further includes a row and column matrix of electrical connectors located offset from a panel defining a corresponding row and column matrix of polarized slots for receipt of a plurality of object identification assemblies in a single orientation. Each connector of a matrix of electrical connectors comprises a pair of opposed, spring contacts having independently-deflectable portions to insure proper electrical contact with an electronic device of each object identification assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1998
    Assignee: Key-Trak, Inc.
    Inventor: William C. Maloney
  • Patent number: 5798832
    Abstract: The invention pertains to a process and a device for determining the composition and concentration of elements in material samples using laser-based plasma emission spectroscopy. The process comprises the following steps: a) transformation of a portion of the material sample (20) to be analysed to a plasma-like state (46) by means of a pulsed high-power laser (12) focussed on the material sample (20); b) spectral analysis of the radiation emitted by the plasma (46) using a spectrometer (26); c) measurement of the total emission spectrum (44) of the plasma (46) changing per laser pulse in one or more spectral ranges typical of the element, using a detector (40); and d) calculation of the composition and concentration of the elements based on the entire spectrum (44) of measured emissions, i.e. the sum of a number of measured individual spectra (42). The claimed device (10) comprises a high-power laser (12), a spectrometer (26) and at least one measuring head (14) with integrated radiation optics (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Assignee: NIS Ingenieurgesselschaft MBH
    Inventors: Klaus D. Hnilica, Klaus Schneider
  • Patent number: 5794400
    Abstract: A composite frame member that includes a longitudinally extending external member that defines a longitudinally extending internal cavity within which a longitudinally extending internal member is disposed. The internal member and external member, while being distinct components, are constructed and arranged to cooperate in a substantially synergistic fashion that seeks to provide a frame member having superior strength characteristics. Further, the internal member and the external member cooperate to define an accessible stapling channel that is capable of being readily stapled into. The external member includes walls that at least partially bound the internal cavity. The internal member is disposed within the internal cavity and defines the stapling channel, wherein the stapling channel receives a cover sheet and staples through an opening defined by the external member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Assignee: Larry M. Fisher
    Inventors: Larry M. Fisher, Henry W. Gordon
  • Patent number: 5794887
    Abstract: Means are described for controlling the asymmetry of the leeside vortices developing over a pointed object placed at an angle of attack in a flowing fluid. Unlike prior art, the stagnation point controller biases the vortices at their point of origin. Resulting devices enable rapid and precise control of vortex asymmetry. The amplitude and rate of such motion is used to control the amplitude and rate of the asymmetry. Complex types of variations in asymmetry are demonstrated. The stagnation point controller is used in inventing means of controlling the yawing and rolling moments of aircraft and other solid objects at high angle of attack in fluid flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Inventors: Narayanan M. Komerath, Leigh Ann Darden, John C. Magill, Kevin G. Peterson
  • Patent number: 5791634
    Abstract: A support rail assembly (5) for a use on a motor vehicle is disclosed. The support rail assembly has at least one elongate rigid member (7) having a first bent end (8) and a spaced second, end (9). A first elongate flexible member (14) is fastened to the first bent end of the rigid member so that the first flexible member extends co-linear from the first bend end of the rigid member toward a mounting bracket 22 to which the first flexible member is fastened at its other end. A second elongate flexible member 18 is fastened to the second bent end of the rigid member and extends co-linearly from the second bent end of the rigid member and parallel to the first elongate flexible member, the second flexible member being connected at its other end to a second mounting bracket (23).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Inventor: S. Scott Brown
  • Patent number: D397496
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Inventor: Carol S. Luedecke
  • Patent number: D397606
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1998
    Inventor: John H. Tameling
  • Patent number: RE35918
    Abstract: A stem load determining system comprises a method and apparatus for determining the load developed on a threaded stem, including a valve stem driven by a valve operator. An integral component of the apparatus is a stem strain transducer uniquely designed to girp a threaded stem to define a guage length on the threaded stem and to detect and measure deformation of the stem at the guage length when subjected to a compressive or tensile load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Paul Gene Anderson, John A. McMennamy