Abstract: A suspended matrix support structure has a perimeter frame which supports a flexible matrix formed with intersecting flexible members, the ends of which are supported by the perimeter frame. Edges of the flexible members are held within channels which form a frame about the flexible matrix. In one embodiment, the perimeter frame is constructed of foam with contoured features which support the frame of the flexible matrix. The flexible members of the flexible matrix extend across the expanse within the perimeter frame to provide a flexible support structure which can be used as a mattress, mattress foundation or both in combination.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
January 24, 2007
Date of Patent:
November 16, 2010
Assignee:
Sealy Technology LLC
Inventors:
Eugen Constantinescu, Bernhard W. Kuchel
Abstract: The present invention relates to near-field scanning optical microscopy (NSOM) and near-field/far-field scanning microscopy methods, systems and devices that permit the imaging of biological samples, including biological samples or structures that are smaller than the wavelength of light. In one embodiment, the present invention permits the production of multi-spectral, polarimetric, near-field microscopy systems that can achieve a spatial resolution of less than 100 nanometers. In another embodiment, the present invention permits the production of a multifunctional, multi-spectral, polarimetric, near-field/far-field microscopy that can achieve enhanced sub-surface and in-depth imaging of biological samples. In still another embodiment, the present invention relates to the use of polar molecules as new optical contrast agents for imaging applications (e.g., cancer detection).
Abstract: The present invention is relates to an apparatus and method for the determination of the oxygen gas permeability of a polymer. In one embodiment, the present invention relates to an apparatus and method for determining the oxygen gas permeability of a polymer membrane (e.g., a polydimethylsiloxane and/or polysiloxane polymer or copolymer). In still another embodiment, the present invention relates to oxygen gas permeable polymer compositions.
Abstract: A high capacity snow melting apparatus has a hopper with one or a plurality of dedicated heater/blower units coupled to a plurality of commingled heat radiant conduits for contact with snow, ice and water, and manifolds connected to the conduits for additional heat exchange and to direct heated air onto snow in the hopper. Terminal sections of the conduits are elevated to an upper region of the hopper and have downwardly directed exhaust ports for substantial and efficient preheating of new snow loads. Heat exchanger passages through the heated air conduits allow water to flow in the path of heated air in the conduits to substantially increase snow and ice melting efficiency of the conduits. A water bath in the bottom of the hopper is level controlled to cover the conduits and drain water from the hopper.
Abstract: A dual spring support structure for mattresses or other reflexive support structures employs a foam spring in combination with an innerspring or foam core, to provide a multi-mode and multi-structural support surface with a multiple, constant, or complimentary spring rate and support characteristics. Foam springs have geometric cross-sectional configurations with mechanical spring properties which work in concert with the spring properties of foam. Foam springs are used in one embodiment about the perimeter of a wire form innerspring or about the perimeter of a foam core. The foam springs may have a spring rate that is complimentary to, greater than or less than the spring rate of the innerspring or core. Foam springs of different configurations and spring rates can be combined with different types of cores, or used alone to provide a spring or cushioning structure.
Abstract: Electronic greeting cards include a greeting card with two or more interconnected panels in combination with a digital multimedia player device which includes an electronic display and an audio output, and circuitry which is operative to receive, store and play digital multimedia files and content. The various greeting card structures cover and encapsulate or otherwise house and adorn the digital multimedia player. Digital files are loaded on to the digital multimedia player by a connection to a network, or directly from a data storage device such as an SD card or USB connection or compact flash which interfaces with a port in the digital multimedia player. Pre-recorded digital multimedia greeting card content is either pre-loaded on a portable data storage device, or selected for purchase and downloaded or transferred for replay by the digital multimedia player of the electronic greeting card.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
May 23, 2008
Date of Patent:
September 28, 2010
Assignee:
American Greetings Corporation
Inventors:
Josef A. Mandelbaum, Rajiv Jain, Allison Marsh, Kimberly Bikowski, Cathy Tasse, David Mayer, Eliza DeVogel, Katalina Speck, Mary McClain, Sharon Bogdanski, Mindy Leeders, Catherine Gruntman
Abstract: The present invention generally relates to synergistic corrosion management systems designed to deliver two or more different types of corrosion inhibiting compounds (e.g., two or more different types of corrosion inhibiting compounds) to an enclosure, and to method for using same. More specifically, the present invention relates to synergistic corrosion management systems designed to eliminate, manage, control and/or mitigate corrosion in containers, enclosures, cisterns and/or storage tanks (e.g., above ground storage tanks). In one embodiment, the present invention utilizes a combination of at least one cathodic-based corrosion prevention or mitigation system, at least one soluble corrosion inhibitor, and at least one volatile or vapor phase corrosion inhibitor.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
April 5, 2007
Date of Patent:
September 14, 2010
Assignee:
Northern Technologies International Corp.
Abstract: A mattress foundation with a perimeter structure has a frame, springs mounted upon the frame, and a grid supported by the springs, and perimeter structure at a perimeter of the frame which extends from the frame to the grid, forming an exterior wall which extends from the frame to a border wire of the grid. When the perimeter structure is made of structural and reflexive material such as closed-cell foam, it co-acts with the grid and springs and provides additional support to the perimeter region of the grid and foundation. The exterior wall of the perimeter structure forms a solid surface over which padding or upholstery is placed.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
April 6, 2007
Date of Patent:
September 7, 2010
Assignee:
Sealy Technology LLC
Inventors:
Bernhard W. Kuchel, Eugen Constantinescu
Abstract: Foot Alignment Socks are a uniquely designed adaptation of regular socks used to alleviate minor foot problems. Foot Alignment Socks differ from traditional socks in that there is no covered toe assembly. Instead the socks have four separators which fit in between the toes. They are cylindrical and sturdy yet soft and yielding as they are constructed from the same fabric as the body of the sock. The separators stretch and align toes into proper position in respect to the rest of the foot. This toe alignment counters the harmful effects of daily foot compression and stress caused by tight and ill-fitting shoes as well as relieving foot pain from excess walking, standing, jogging, or strenuous sports and activities. With consistent use Foot Alignment Socks soothe and straighten crooked and deformed toes. They are ideal as an over-night foot maintenance treatment.
Abstract: A greeting card display has frame-supported rails and card shelves with laterally adjustable dividers which form multiple adjustable card pockets for display and storage of greeting cards and envelopes. The number of card shelves and pockets can be easily set-up and altered by any desired arrangement of the card shelves and dividers. The card shelves can be use in combination with other types of product displays on the same supporting frame.
Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a method for rapidly counting micron and/or submicron particles by passing such particles through any of a plurality of microfluidic channels simultaneously with an ion current and measuring the signal generated thereby. The present invention also generally relates to a device for practicing the method of the present invention. Some embodiments can include methods and/or devices for distinguishing between and counting particles in mixtures. Still other embodiments can include methods and/or devices for identifying and/or counting bioparticles and/or bioactive particles such as pollen.
Abstract: A lighting device comprising: a light emitting diode lighting panel having first and second opposing surfaces; light emitting diodes at a periphery of light emitting diode lighting panel for emitting light through the first surface; a reflective surface at the second surface of the light emitting diode lighting panel; and a power supply unit connected to the light emitting diode panel, the power supply having first and second ends, and electrical circuitry for converting alternating current to direct current between the first and second ends, wherein the first end is for insertion into the a socket.