Patents Represented by Attorney, Agent or Law Firm Kathleen A. Ryan
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Patent number: 6491215Abstract: Determination of the authenticity and integrity of various types of documents such as lottery tickets is accomplished by using an electronic verification machine to compare data contained in electronic circuits printed on the document to document data printed on the document. The electronic circuits are printed on the document in conductive or semiconductive ink using, for example, the gravure printing process, and the presence and status of the circuits can be used to verify or authenticate the document. Data can be represented in the electronic circuits by the electrical signature of the circuit which is measured by the electronic verification machine. In the case of lottery tickets, a ticket can be validated by having the electronic verification machine determine which play spots have been removed from the ticket and comparing data on the ticket with the removed play spots to determine a play redemption value for the ticket.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 1999Date of Patent: December 10, 2002Assignee: Panda Eng., IncInventors: Kenneth E. Irwin, Jr., Gary R. Streeter, Steven J. Daigle, Mark Bofill, Mark Tevis
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Patent number: 6435408Abstract: Determination of the authenticity and integrity of various types of documents such as lottery tickets is accomplished by using an electronic verification machine to compare data contained in electronic circuits printed on the document to document data printed on the document. The electronic circuits are printed on the document in conductive or semiconductive ink using, for example, the gravure printing process, and the presence and status of the circuits can be used to verify or authenticate the document. Data can be represented in the electronic circuits by the electrical signature of the circuit which is measured by the electronic verification machine. In the case of lottery tickets, a ticket can be validated by having the electronic verification machine determine which play spots have been removed from the ticket and comparing data on the ticket with the removed play spots to determine a play redemption value for the ticket.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2000Date of Patent: August 20, 2002Assignee: Panda Eng., IncInventors: Kenneth E. Irwin, Jr., Gary R. Streeter, Steven J. Daigle
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Patent number: 6379742Abstract: A method for forming a document includes the steps of (1) selecting a marking medium that has a pre-determined machine-readable characteristic, and (2) selecting a document substrate that is compatible with the pre-determined machine-readable characteristic of the selected marking medium. An information symbol is secured to the selected document substrate. A security layer which includes the selected marking medium is also affixed to the document substrate so that the security layer is in at least partial register with the information symbol. The method can further include the step of affixing a blocking layer to the document substrate in at least partial register with the information symbol. The blocking layer can be affixed to the document substrate so that blocking layer is intermediate the information symbol and the security layer or so that the security layer is intermediate the information symbol and the blocking layer.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 1999Date of Patent: April 30, 2002Assignee: Scientific Games Inc.Inventors: William F. Behm, Kenneth E. Irwin, Jr., Mark Tevis
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Patent number: 6217486Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame that is adapted for placement on the floor, a pivot axle supported by the frame, a bent pedal lever, a pedal that is secured to the bent pedal lever and a variety of pedal actuation assemblies. These pedal actuation assemblies include components which cooperate to provide an elliptical path and provide the desired foot flexure and weight distribution on the pedal. Consequently, as the pedal moves in its elliptical path, the angular orientation of the pedal, relative to a fixed, horizontal plane, such as the floor, varies in a manner that simulates a natural heel to toe flexure.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 1999Date of Patent: April 17, 2001Assignee: Brunswick CorporationInventor: Charles J. Rosenow
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Patent number: 6176814Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame that is adapted for placement on the floor, a pivot axis supported by the frame, a pedal bar which has first and second ends, a pedal that is secured to the pedal bar, an ellipse generator, and a track. The ellipse generator is secured to both the pivot axis and to the first end of the pedal bar such that the first end of said pedal bar moves in an elliptical path around the pivot axis. The track is secured to the frame and engages the second end of said pedal bar such that the second end moves in a linear reciprocating path as the first end of the pedal bar moves in the elliptical path around said pivot axis. Consequently, the pedal also moves in a generally elliptical path. As the pedal moves in its elliptical path, the angular orientation of the pedal, relative to a fixed, horizontal plane, such as the floor, varies in a manner that simulates a natural heel to toe flexure. The apparatus can also include a resistance member, a data input member, and a control member.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 1997Date of Patent: January 23, 2001Assignee: Brunswick CorporationInventors: Allen L. Ryan, Paul W. Eschenbach, Steven M. Lenz, Clifford F. Mueller, Gary E. Oglesby, Charles J. Rosenow, Mark C. Termion
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Patent number: 6095951Abstract: To improve tracking, an exercise treadmill is provided with a frame including molded plastic pulleys, having an integral gear belt sprocket, an endless belt extending around the pulleys and a motor operatively connected to the rear pulley to drive the belt. The pulleys are molded out of plastic and have a diameter of approximately nine inches. A mold and method for producing large diameter treadmill pulleys having an integrally molded sprocket are also disclosed. A deck underneath the running surface of the belt is supported by resilient members. A positive lateral belt tracking mechanism is used to correct the lateral position of the belt. A belt position sensor mechanism is used in combination with a front pulley pivoting mechanism to maintain the belt in the desired lateral position on the pulleys. The exercise treadmill also includes a lift mechanism with an internally threaded sleeve engaged to vertically aligned nonrotating screws. A user display of foot impact force on the belt is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 1998Date of Patent: August 1, 2000Assignee: Brunswick CorporationInventors: Richard E. Skowronski, Kenneth F. Lantz, Tomas F. Leon, deceased, Donald James Alexander, George Kolomayets, Vincent C. Adams, Eugene B. Szymczak, Edward W. Minnich, Wade K. Totzke
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Patent number: 6053405Abstract: Determination of the authenticity and integrity of various types of documents such as lottery tickets is accomplished by using an electronic verification machine to compare data contained in electronic circuits printed on the document to document data printed on the document. The electronic circuits are printed on the document in conductive or semiconductive ink using, for example, the gravure printing process, and the presence and status of the circuits can be used to verify or authenticate the document. Data can be represented in the electronic circuits by the electrical signature of the circuit which is measured by the electronic verification machine. In the case of lottery tickets, a ticket can be validated by having the electronic verification machine determine which play spots have been removed from the ticket and comparing data on the ticket with the removed play spots to determine a play redemption value for the ticket.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 1998Date of Patent: April 25, 2000Assignee: Panda Eng., Inc.Inventors: Kenneth E. Irwin, Jr., Gary R. Streeter, Steven J. Daigle
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Patent number: 5997044Abstract: Information can be retrieved from documents such as game cards and document security can be improved by printing electronic circuits or circuit elements on the ticket. Conductive or semiconductive ink can be printed on the document by using gravure, relief, planographic, letter press or flexographic methods to form the circuit elements. In one lottery ticket embodiment the circuit elements are printed over play indica and under a scratch-off coating so that they are removed when the ticket is played. An electronic verification machine can then be used to determine which portions of the scratch-off coatings covering the play indicia have been removed. A second group of circuit elements can also be printed under the play indicia which improves security by blocking light that may be shined through the ticket and by being tested, along with the first group of circuit elements, for integrity by the electronic verification machine.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 1997Date of Patent: December 7, 1999Assignee: Scientific Games Inc.Inventors: William F. Behm, Kenneth E. Irwin, Jr., Mark C. Tevis
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Patent number: 5947872Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame that is adapted for placement on the floor, a pivot axle or axis supported by the frame, a pedal bar which has first and second ends, a pedal that is secured to the pedal bar, an ellipse generator, and a track. The ellipse generator is secured to both the pivot axis and to the first end of the pedal bar such that the first end of the pedal bar moves in an elliptical path around the pivot axis. The track is secured to the frame and engages the second end of said pedal bar such that the second end moves in a linear reciprocating path as the first end of the pedal bar moves in the elliptical path around the pivot axis. Consequently, the pedal also moves in a generally elliptical path. As the pedal moves in its elliptical path, the angular orientation of the pedal, relative to a fixed, horizontal plane, such as the floor, varies in a manner that simulates a natural heel to toe flexure.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 1997Date of Patent: September 7, 1999Assignee: Brunswick CorporationInventors: Allen L. Ryan, Paul W. Eschenbach, Steven M. Lenz, Clifford F. Mueller, Gary E. Oglesby, Charles J. Rosenow, Mark C. Termion
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Patent number: 5818019Abstract: Determination of the authenticity and integrity of various types of documents such as lottery tickets is accomplished by using an electronic validation machine to compare data contained in electronic circuits printed on the document to document data printed on the document. The electronic circuits are printed on the document in conductive or semi-conductive ink using, for example the gravure printing process, and the presence or status of the circuits can be used to verify or authenticate the document. Data can be represented in the electronic circuits by the electrical signature of the circuit which is measured by the electronic validation machine. In the case of lottery tickets, a ticket can be validated by having the electronic validation machine determine which play spots have been removed from the ticket and comparing data on the ticket with the removed play spots to determine a play redemption for the ticket.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 1997Date of Patent: October 6, 1998Assignee: Panda Eng., Inc.Inventors: Kenneth E. Irwin, Jr., Gary R. Streeter, Steven J. Daigle
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Patent number: 5791839Abstract: The invention relates to a tool holder with a base part, which has a base plate and a tool-receiving chamber enclosed by side walls, and with a cover. At least one tool-receiving box for elongate tools, in particular drill bits, is arranged in the tool-receiving chamber. The tool-receiving box is arranged for swing action in the tool-receiving chamber such that tools which are located in the tool-receiving box can be pivoted, when the cover is open, from an at least approximately horizontal position into an at least approximately vertical position. At least one curved handle is fastened in an articulated manner on the tool-receiving box for the purpose of executing the swing action of the latter, and a securing device for fixing the tool-receiving box in an at least approximately vertical position is provided on a side wall of the base part.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1997Date of Patent: August 11, 1998Assignee: Georg KnoblauchInventor: Guenter H. Budert
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Patent number: 5752897Abstract: To improve tracking, an exercise treadmill is provided with a frame including molded plastic pulleys, having an integral gear belt sprocket, an endless belt extending around the pulleys and a motor operatively connected to the rear pulley to drive the belt. The pulleys are molded out of plastic and have a diameter of approximately nine inches. A mold and method for producing large diameter treadmill pulleys having an integrally molded sprocket are also disclosed. A deck underneath the running surface of the belt is supported by resilient members. A positive lateral belt tracking mechanism is used to correct the lateral position of the belt. A belt position sensor mechanism is used in combination with a front pulley pivoting mechanism to maintain the belt in the desired lateral position on the pulleys. The exercise treadmill also includes a lift mechanism with an internally threaded sleeve engaged to vertically aligned nonrotating screws. A user display of foot impact force on the belt is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 1995Date of Patent: May 19, 1998Assignee: Brunswick CorporationInventors: Richard E. Skowronski, Kenneth F. Lantz, Tomas F. Leon, deceased, Donald James Alexander, George Kolomayets, Vincent C. Adams, Eugene B. Szymczak, Edward W. Minnich, Wade K. Totzke
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Patent number: 5741205Abstract: In a simulated stairclimbing apparatus having a pair of pedal members rotatably attached at one end to the frame of the apparatus and having a foot pedal rotatably attached to the other end of each pedal member, a pulley is attached to each pedal and another pair of pulleys is attached to the frame where flexible members such as cables are engaged with the pedal and frame pulleys for each pedal member so as to keep the pedals level through the vertical motion of the pedals. In another arrangement, a pair of flexible members are rotatably attached to each pedal and to the frame where the pedal member is located between each of the two flexible members so as to keep the pedals level through the vertical motion of the pedals.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 1995Date of Patent: April 21, 1998Assignee: Life FitnessInventors: James W. Doll, David J. Thum, Michael A. Niemotka, Steven M. Lenz, Mark C. Termion
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Patent number: 5621200Abstract: Determination of the authenticity and integrity of various types of documents such as lottery tickets is accomplished by using an electronic verification machine to compare data contained in electronic circuits printed on the document to document data printed on the document. The electronic circuits are printed on the document in conductive or semi-conductive ink using, for example the gravure printing process, and the presence of status of the circuits can be used to verify or authenticate the document. Data can be represented in the electronic circuits by the electrical signature of the circuit which is measured by the electronic verification machine. In the case of lottery tickets, a ticket can be validated by having the electronic verification machine determine which play spots have been removed from the ticket and comparing data on the ticket with the removed play spots to determine a play redemption value for the ticket.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 1995Date of Patent: April 15, 1997Assignee: Panda Eng., Inc.Inventors: Kenneth E. Irwin, Jr., Gary R. Streeter, Steven J. Daigle
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Patent number: 5599046Abstract: Information can be retrieved from lottery tickets and lottery ticket security can be improved by printing electronic circuits or circuit elements on the ticket. Conductive or semiconductive ink can be printed on the ticket by using gravure, relief, planographic, letter press or flexographic methods to form the circuit elements. In one embodiment the circuit elements are printed over play indica and under a scratch-off coating so that they are removed when the ticket is played. An electronic verification machine can then be used to determine which portions of the scratch-off coatings coveting the play indicia have been removed. A second group of circuit elements can also be printed under the play indicia which improves security by blocking light that may be shined through the ticket and by being tested, along with the first group of circuit elements, for integrity by the electronic verification machine.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 1994Date of Patent: February 4, 1997Assignee: Scientific Games Inc.Inventors: William F. Behm, Kenneth E. Irwin, Jr., Mark C. Tevis
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Patent number: 5599259Abstract: To improve tracking, an exercise treadmill is provided with a frame including molded plastic pulleys, having an integral gear belt sprocket, an endless belt extending around the pulleys and a motor operatively connected to the rear pulley to drive the belt. The pulleys are molded out of plastic and have a diameter of approximately nine inches. A mold and method for producing large diameter treadmill pulleys having an integrally molded sprocket are also disclosed. A deck underneath the running surface of the belt is supported by resilient members. A positive lateral belt tracking mechanism is used to correct the lateral position of the belt. A belt position sensor mechanism is used in combination with a front pulley pivoting mechanism to maintain the belt in the desired lateral position on the pulleys. The exercise treadmill also includes a lift mechanism with an internally threaded sleeve engaged to vertically aligned nonrotating screws. A user display of foot impact force on the belt is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 1995Date of Patent: February 4, 1997Assignee: Life FitnessInventors: Richard E. Skowronski, Kenneth F. Lantz, Tomas F. Leon, deceased, Donald J. Alexander, George Kolomayets, Vincent C. Adams, Eugene B. Szymczak, Edward V. Minnich, Wade K. Totzke
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Patent number: 5560610Abstract: The playability of an instant bingo game card or similar type game cards can be enhanced by providing for improved marking of numbers on a player card portion of the bingo card. In one approach, a space is provided along side each number in which a mark is printed and a scratch-off coating is applied over the mark. In a second approach, a microencapsulated pressure sensitive dye is applied over each number and by simply rubbing a particular number can be marked.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 1995Date of Patent: October 1, 1996Assignee: Scientific Games Inc.Inventors: William F. Behm, Mark C. Tevis
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Patent number: 5484362Abstract: To improve tracking, an exercise treadmill is provided with a frame including molded plastic pulleys, having an integral gear belt sprocket, an endless belt extending around the pulleys and a motor operatively connected to the rear pulley to drive the belt. The pulleys are molded out of plastic and have a diameter of approximately nine inches. A mold and method for producing large diameter treadmill pulleys having an integrally molded sprocket are also disclosed. A deck underneath the running surface of the belt is supported by resilient members. A positive lateral belt tracking mechanism is used to correct the lateral position of the belt. A belt position sensor mechanism is used in combination with a front pulley pivoting mechanism to maintain the belt in the desired lateral position on the pulleys. The exercise treadmill also includes a lift mechanism with an internally threaded sleeve engaged to vertically aligned nonrotating screws. A user display of foot impact force on the belt is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 1994Date of Patent: January 16, 1996Assignee: Life FitnessInventors: Richard E. Skowronski, Kenneth F. Lantz, Tomas F. Leon, deceased, Donald J. Alexander, George Kolomayets, Vincent C. Adams, Eugene B. Szymczak, Edward V. Minnich, Wade K. Totzke
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Patent number: 5475205Abstract: Determination of the authenticity and integrity of various types of documents such as lottery tickets is accomplished by using an electronic verification machine to compare data contained in electronic circuits printed on the document to document data printed on the document. The electronic circuits are printed on the document in conductive or semiconductive ink using, for example the gravure printing process, and the presence or status of the circuits can be used to verify or authenticate the document. Data can be represented in the electronic circuits by the electrical signature of the circuit which is measured by the electronic verification machine. In the case of lottery tickets, a ticket can be validated by having the electronic verification machine determine which play spots have been removed from the ticket and comparing data on the ticket with the removed play spots to determine a play redemption value for the ticket.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 1994Date of Patent: December 12, 1995Assignee: Scientific Games Inc.Inventors: William F. Behm, Bert Levy, Kenneth E. Irwin, Jr.
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Patent number: 5471039Abstract: Information can be obtained from a document having printed electronic circuits by using an electronic verification machine that determines the electrical characteristics or signatures of the circuits printed on the document. The electronic verification machine electronically couples with the circuit and applies an excitation signal such as an AC signal having a predetermined frequency to the circuit. A detection circuit in the electronic verification machine then generates a detection signal in response to the excitation signal which represents the characteristics of the circuit printed on the document. The electronic verification machine can also be used to stigmatize the document by applying a signal to the electronic circuits having sufficient strength to alter the electronic circuit.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 1994Date of Patent: November 28, 1995Assignee: Panda Eng. Inc.Inventors: Kenneth E. Irwin, Jr., Gary R. Streeter, Steven J. Daigle