Patents Represented by Attorney, Agent or Law Firm Jeffrey G. Degenfelder
  • Patent number: 6801231
    Abstract: The present invention provides for an enhanced mouthstick device that allows. disabled individuals, having limited or no use of their hands, to independently, effectively and efficiently simulate computer mouse manipulation and input data in computer software applications. The present invention also allows disabled individuals, having limited or no use of their hands, to effectively utilize standard, commercially available, off-the-shelf GUI or windows-based software applications without requiring modification to the actual software application. The invention is comprised of three functional components mounted on a traditional mouthstick and a reception unit which is fitted to a computer display screen. The user manipulates the position of the cursor on the display screen by moving the StickMouse towards the desired position on the display screen. A signal transmitter unit transmits constant position signals which are received by the sensors on the reception unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Inventor: William M. Beltz
  • Patent number: 6783787
    Abstract: The present invention comprises an improved extruder die assembly and method for using same to improve the quality of dimensional design aspects of extruded, complexly shaped, direct expanded food products. The improved system includes an improved extruder die assembly comprising an imprinting insert element having a first aperture defined therethrough and at least one prong extending into the first aperture, and a forming insert element having a second aperture defined therethrough and positioned downstream from the imprinting insert element, wherein the shape of the second aperture is defined by at least one projection extending into the second aperture, and wherein each of the at least one projection aligns with a prong when the first and second apertures are coaxially aligned. The improved extruder die assembly of the present invention is designed for adaptation to a wide variety of commercial-grade extrusion devices common in the food industry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: Frito-Lay North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Eugenio Bortone
  • Patent number: 6671974
    Abstract: A line guide for enabling a single person to complete the installation of refrigeration lines in a pre-built structure. The line guide is adaptable to both wood and metal frame construction. In one embodiment, the line guide has a unitary body comprised of an attachment bracket with a guide tube formed therein. The guide tube's axial orientation changes over its length. The guide tube's change in axial orientation may be fixed or variable. In addition, the guide tube may be detachable from the bracket enabling guide tubes of different fixed orientations to be used in combination with the same bracket. In another embodiment, the line guide is adapted for use in retrofit building applications. A guide tube is positioned through a hole formed in the soffit of the structure thereby allowing access to the overhead space. Annular bracket fittings help secure the guide tube in the soffit hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: Vess E. Polk, Jr.