Patents Represented by Attorney John C. Smith
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Patent number: 8235591Abstract: An intelligent corkscrew device which determines the temperature of the bottle and informs the consumer as to what type of wine is suitable for that temperature. In a preferred embodiment, the corkscrew provides a temperature readout. Alternative embodiments provide entertainment features such as voice or other audio indications related to the temperature. Still other embodiments include visual indication such as lamps which indicate what type of wine would be proper for the temperature of the bottle being measured. The corkscrew uses thermal measurement of the exterior of the wine bottle to measure the temperature. The measurement is made by a temperature sensing device, such as a thermistor or infrared detector on the end of the lever arm or other suitable location.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2004Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Inventor: Debra Fogel Harris
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Patent number: 8207835Abstract: A vehicle safety system that provides an improved line of sight for oncoming traffic as the vehicle is backed out of a parking space. A set of rear side looking cameras input video information to a display used by the vehicle driver. The cameras are positioned on the rear side portion of the vehicle and are directed generally to traffic coming from the rear left or right side of the vehicle. The camera is automatically activated when the transmission is placed in reverse. The camera video is input to a driver display that allows the driver to view oncoming traffic before the vehicle backs into the traffic lane. The system can also be used to monitor blind spots when a turn signal is activated prior to a lane change.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2009Date of Patent: June 26, 2012Inventors: Micha Schwartz, Sharon Schwartz
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Patent number: 8177602Abstract: A brassiere with floating cups which are independently positionable in relation to the brassiere body. Depending on the point of attachment to the brassiere, the floating brassiere cups control the support, position, cleavage, and separation of individual breasts. The floating cups are partially or fully detached from the brassiere at various selectable locations. It is not just rotational motion, but also lifting the breasts upward and toward the center of the chest. The brassiere has floating cups that apply rotational pressure to move the breasts closer together if rotated in one direction, and will move the breasts apart if rotated in the other direction. The cup positioning mechanism can be implemented by an adjustable clip, by integral hook and loop strips, buttons, ornamental clasps, straps, string ties, or other suitable devices.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2008Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Inventor: Seka Kaytes
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Patent number: 8176028Abstract: A multimedia administration system with a central media data repository. The system repository contains metadata utilized for various queries including search, channels of distribution and account information. The system organizes and distributes media over an area wide broadcast network. The system uses custom meta tags to selectively update media files and metadata on a scheduled basis automatically without having to manually update this data in the system. The system spiders these meta tags on a scheduled basis to automate the programming of the media content over the broadcast network Platform System. The system also groups, associates, and affiliates various networks into nodes for broadcast over networks. Clients can communicate with users who are watching their videos. The clients can upon demand present content to viewers with more content related to the original video content in the form of another video, web links URLs, PDF literature, and/or voice files.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2007Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Inventor: Alex O. Rodriguez
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Patent number: 8060498Abstract: A commercial search engine for searchmercials. The system manages and searches advertising media video and audio files and associating the media with one or more calls to action. The system contains Metadata utilized for various queries including search, channels of distribution and account information. The system uses a manually data entry interface or a custom retrieval system to selectively update media files and Metadata from Meta tags or feeds on a scheduled basis automatically without having to manually update this data in the system. The system spiders these custom Meta tags or feeds for new Metadata on a scheduled basis to automate the submission and programming of the searchmercials content over the search engine. The system provides videos tailored for search in the results list in order to better inform users as to the contents of a link URL. The system can also provide users with other call to action options such as click to call, literature, order forms, etc.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2010Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Inventor: Alex Fiero
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Patent number: 8037836Abstract: A self-contained boat cleaning system that dispenses water, soap, wax and/or spot-free rinse chemicals. Cleaning fluids are distributed via conduits which can be concealed inside the rub rail, mounted near the rub rails or other surfaces of the boat, or alternatively can be installed inside the bulkheads of the vessel. Fluid apertures direct the spray of water and/or cleaning fluids to predetermined surfaces of the boat. A pump and associated reservoir system (containing built in reservoirs for cleaning fluids, chemicals, waxes, spot-free chemicals, etc) can be mounted anywhere inside the vessel. The water supply used by the system can be supplied either from shore water or from a fresh water holding tank on board and fed into the onboard water filtration system. An optional timer which can be used to start the process at predetermined times. In addition, the boat washing system can be activated via remote control.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2008Date of Patent: October 18, 2011Inventors: Ian M. Carmichael, Ian F. Carmichael
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Patent number: 8031045Abstract: An A/B RF automatic-set-up redundant sensing switch that monitors the relative differences in signal strength of the A and B paths and processes it according to a predetermined logic setting with no manual adjustment. When one of the paths is determined not to match the logic setting, it will switch to the other.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2009Date of Patent: October 4, 2011Assignee: Viewteq Corp.Inventor: Gennadiy Tsvey
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Patent number: 7938970Abstract: An apparatus and method of producing and using aluminum slurry containing aluminum particles having an extremely small size. In particular, a particle size that is small enough to freely flow through water filtration filters. Once the aluminum particles react with phosphorus, phosphates, and other contaminants, the resulting particles are large enough to be trapped by filters such that the contaminants can be easily removed. The aluminum slurry is created by the use of a unique process which rapidly transforms electrically charged aluminum plates into slurry. The resulting slurry is then added to the body of water where it disperses throughout the water and flocculates with the contaminants. The resulting clumps produced by the reaction are large enough to be trapped by filters in the water treatment facility.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2008Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Inventor: John J. Murray, Jr.
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Patent number: 7916020Abstract: An audible anti-theft tag that has a multiple ways to activate an audible alarm under predetermined conditions. When the pin assembly is forcibly detached from an EAS tag, a high decibel alarm is automatically activated. The audible alarm in the anti-theft tag uses a thyristor control circuit which does not use power while the anti-theft tag alarm is inactive. Once activated, the alarm cannot be turned off. An optional multi-wire lanyard is available which is not susceptible to defeat by a shunt, and also activates the audible alarm when severed.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2008Date of Patent: March 29, 2011Inventor: Stuart T. Seidel
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Patent number: 7865498Abstract: A multimedia search system that provides search results which may be in the form of multiple data types, including text, icon, audio, video, and/or multimedia. The system also provides the ability to preview data video associated with a potentially linkable Web site listed in the search results screen, without linking directly to the Web site, by previewing a video file from that linkable Web site on the search results screen. The searcher then has the option of linking to that Web site based on information delivered by the previewed video file. The user also has the ability to search using the numerical system in which a numerical index is used to access data which is hierarchically categorized and sub categorized in a station/channel/program structured environment. The user can directly access stations, channels, or programs using predefined numerical index numbers.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2002Date of Patent: January 4, 2011Assignee: Worldwide Broadcast Network, Inc.Inventor: Alex O. Rodriguez
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Patent number: 7753184Abstract: A bidirectional clutch with opposing output drives mounted over an internal support shaft, and a bidirectional clutch jaw positioned between them. The clutch jaw has opposing cam surfaces which cooperate with cam surfaces on the inside edge of the output drives. The clutch jaw further has forward and reverse driving surfaces which are associated with forward and reverse driving surfaces on the output drives. The clutch jaw moves between the output drives and engages only one output drive at a time. When the clutch is reversed, the cam surface on the output drive which was being driven imparts lateral force to the clutch jaw which moves it away from the active output drive to the inactive output drive. The clutch jaw disengages from the active output drive and then begins rotating the inactive output drive in the reverse direction.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2005Date of Patent: July 13, 2010Inventor: Michael Traner
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Patent number: 7413441Abstract: A three-dimensional sarcomere muscle cell teaching model which contracts and extends. A slide mechanism and support base allows opposing rigid walls which represent sarcomere cell Z-Band structures to slide in relation to one another. A rigid wall representing the sarcomere cell M-Line structure is positioned between the Z-Band structures. A plurality of rods representing Myosin Rods extends outward on each side of the M-Line structure toward the Z-Band opposing structures. Other rods, representing Actin Rods, extend from each of the Z-Band structures toward the M-Line structure. Each Actin Rod corresponds to one or more Myosin Rods, is positioned between the M-Line and Z-Band structures, and slide past one another when the Z-Band structures are moved. Opposing tension is applied to the Myosin Rods to maintain them in position between the Z-Band structures. Filaments extend from the Actin and Myosin Rods to simulate the interaction between the Actin and Myosin Rods.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2005Date of Patent: August 19, 2008Inventor: Mark J. Bigelow
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Patent number: 7347068Abstract: An anti-theft tag that uses single or dual detacher arms. A first detacher arm moves a locking arm aside such that a release arm can rotate to separate the arms of a C-clip that secures the pin on the securing member. Either the first detacher arm, or an alternative second detacher arm then presses the release arm to rotate it. When the release arm is rotated, a wedge on the release arm exerts pressure against the arms of the C-clip to force them apart which causes the securing member pin to be released. The securing member pin cannot be released by the anti-theft tag unless the detacher arms are inserted in sequence. An alternative anti-theft tag provides spring loaded door button at the entrance to the detacher arm chamber. The door button guides an unauthorized tag pick away from the entrance to the detacher arm chamber and routes it toward a dead-end. The detacher arm will press a spring loaded door button to an open position and allow access of the detacher arm into the detacher arm chamber.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2004Date of Patent: March 25, 2008Inventor: Stuart Seidel
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Patent number: 7343709Abstract: A spring loaded line recoil device which automatically rewinds the line which secures the release clip on a telescoping outrigger when the telescoping outrigger pole is collapsed. Balanced spring assemblies automatically recoil the fishing line on outrigger release clip onto a spool. As one spring assembly increases pressure, the other spring assembly produces pressure to maintain uniform tension on the line holding release clip. The retraction device attaches to the base of an outrigger. When the telescoping outrigger pole is collapsed, the spring assemblies recoil the outrigger line onto a spool. When the telescoping outrigger pole is extended, the position of release clip arm on the outrigger can be moved without changing the overall tension on the line securing the release clip arm due to the counter balanced spring pressure.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2004Date of Patent: March 18, 2008Inventor: Edgar R. van Weenen
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Patent number: 7340786Abstract: A leg stretching apparatus includes an elevation mechanism resting; an elevation structure mounted to the elevation mechanism for lifting and lowering the elevation structure; a first leg support member pivotally connected to the elevation structure and extending from the elevation structure to a support structure in a first direction; and a second leg support member pivotally connected to the elevation structure and extending from the elevation structure to a support means in a second direction; so that operation of the elevation mechanism in one direction lifts the elevation structure so that the first leg support member and the second leg support member pivot progressively downwardly from the elevation structure, and operation of the elevation mechanism in another direction lowers the elevation structure so that the first leg support member and the second leg support member pivot progressively upwardly from the elevation structure.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2006Date of Patent: March 11, 2008Inventor: Oliver A. Smith
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Patent number: 7219464Abstract: A locking storage system for fishing rods includes a retention base, a sliding lock plate and a plurality of rod collars. A plurality of openings are formed through the retention base. A rod collar is inserted through the openings. The rod collar is sized to receive the end of a fishing rod. The sliding lock plate captures the reel pedestal of a reel of a fishing rod. The sliding lock plate is secured to the retention base with a padlock. A rod retention plate may be used in conjunction with the locking storage system for fishing rods. A second embodiment includes a contoured rod base and a sliding lock plate engaged with the contoured rod base. A third embodiment includes a rod tray, a rod support and a swinging lock plate.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2005Date of Patent: May 22, 2007Inventor: John Kujawa
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Patent number: 7207407Abstract: A collapsible three wheeled vehicle for personal transportation which has a removable support bracket that secures the distal ends of two independent foldable side rails at either end of the support bracket. The support bracket also provides a mounting base for a passenger seat. The rear support bracket, when removed, allows the side rails to fold together with the steering column for convenient storage. A removable front wheel, a removable seat, and removable steering handles allow the vehicle to further reduce the required amount of space for storage and transport. The vehicle uses a battery operated electric drive motor. A second optional battery power supply may be attached to the vehicle to extend its range. A storage bag is provided to hold the components of the vehicle when not in use.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2005Date of Patent: April 24, 2007Inventor: Hartmut Huber
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Patent number: 7201764Abstract: A hand-held laser device that stimulates hair growth. The device provides distributed laser light to the scalp while simultaneously parting the individual's hair to ensure that the laser light contacts the individual's scalp. A unique beam splitting reflector splits a single laser beam to ensure that energy from the laser beam is evenly distributed. The reflector is mechanically aligned with the laser source and has a zigzag structure which mechanically deflects portions of the beam as it passes over the peaks of the reflector. The portions of the laser beam form a line of laser beams that project toward the individual's scalp. Parallel rows of teeth are aligned with a central row of individual laser beams and part the individual's hair to form furrows in the individual's hair as the device is combed through the individual's hair. The furrows create an unobstructed path for the laser beam to reach the scalp of the individual.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2002Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Lexington Lasercomb IP AGInventors: Henry Pearl, David Sinofsky
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Patent number: 7201683Abstract: A resilient elastic bat grip for baseball and softball bats that covers the knob on the bat handle. The grip has a bulbous shape which is wider then the knob of the baseball bat, and fits snugly in the batter's palm such that the bat is controlled by one or more fingers and swung with the batter's wrist below the end of the bat. The grip does not require all five fingers to hold the bat, and as a result, increases the maneuverability of the wrist which allows greater bat speed and whipping motion. A rounded base enables a single, double or triple finger drop for more bat speed and less wrist rigidity. This also allows added finger support for better control of the head of the bat during the swing as it passes through the power zone.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2003Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Inventors: Roberto Estape, Frank Acosta
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Patent number: 7162847Abstract: A foam wall panel system with a unique Z-shaped wall panel connection device. The Z-shape of the wall panel connection device provides cavities on each side which accept the angled edges of foam wall panels that fit within the cavities. Adjacent foam cores having angled edges are secured into the cavities on opposite sides of Z-shaped wall panel connection devices to form a continuous foam wall. The Z-shaped wall panel connection device can be fabricated from a single sheet of material, or other suitable materials, and can replace metal wall studs. The folded corner edges of the Z-shaped wall panel connection device, and the edges of the foam cores, are rounded to avoid damage to the foam wall panel during the installation process.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2002Date of Patent: January 16, 2007Inventor: Marko Gigiakos