Patents Examined by Son T. Nguyen
  • Raised border bracket arrangement
    Patent number: 8955251
    Abstract: A raised border system is disclosed. The system includes one or more brackets that secures at least one beam in position using at least one anchor stake to create a variety of edging systems. The brackets include nubs that can be inserted into the brackets without the use of tools and are sized and shaped to securely engage a beam in a manner such that the force required to assemble the beams is relatively small and is well exceeded by the force required to disengage the beam from the bracket. While the nubs obviate the need for traditional fasteners or tools, the border system is still compatible with traditional fasteners affording the user a wide variety of options during construction. The system is also universally compatible with a variety of beam materials and sizes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Vegherb, LLC
    Inventor: Anthony Topping
  • Foldable planter or holder
    Patent number: 8950110
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a foldable planter or holder. The planter or holder of the present invention includes one or more foldable compartments defined by an array of panels. Each compartment includes one or more upright panels to form an upright core; one or more movable panels to form a trough used for planting or storing belongings; and one or more fold lines, wherein at least one fold line is between the one or more upright panels and the one or more movable panels. In an embodiment, each panel is attached to at least one adjacent panel along a fold line. When the planter or holder is not in use, the movable panel pair folds at a fold line between the upright panel and the movable panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Inventor: Joseph F Fula
  • Impact action cat toy
    Patent number: 8944011
    Abstract: An impact action cat toy with a rigid tube, an elastic cord, an elastic cord retainer, an elastic and non-elastic cord retainer and a cat toy play member. The elastic cord is retained inside the rigid tube and terminates on one side in the elastic cord retaining member and on the opposite side in the elastic and non-elastic cord retaining member. The non-elastic cord terminates on one side in the elastic and non-elastic cord retaining member and on the opposite side in the cat toy play member. The cat toy play member quickly and erratically flies into the air when a user holds onto the rigid tube with one hand and stretches the elastic cord member from the elastic and non-elastic cord retaining member with the other hand and releases the retaining member causing it to snap back and impact the end of the rigid tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Inventor: Phillip Graham Kirschbaum
  • Handheld pollen sifter device
    Patent number: 8943745
    Abstract: A handheld, vibrating pollen sifter device is disclosed having a handle portion, a vibrating motor, an enclosure for storing pollen generating plants and a screen for dispensing the liberated pollen therefrom onto a target plant. The vibrating motor disturbs the pollen grains from the stamen of flowers placed within the enclosure. The pollen is then liberated into the air through the screen at the base of the enclosure, providing a means to fertilize a plant abiotically. The motor is electrically driven by a power means, preferably a battery pack to allow improved mobility outdoors. An embodiment of the device utilizes a vibratory wand attached to a fine-mesh sifter bowl at its distal end that supports the flower stamen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Inventors: David Sexton, Jason Bruce
  • Hoof medical device and method
    Patent number: 8939224
    Abstract: A hoof medical device comprises two attaching plates, two clamp bands, each clamp band attached to one of the two attaching plates, a band adjustor comprising a band adjustor screw and configured to connect and slidably adjust the two clamp bands relative to each other by rotating the band adjustor screw, a strap folded over at least one of the clamp bands so that the at least one of the clamp bands is movable within a fold of the strap, and a plurality of screws configured to attach the two attaching plates and the strap to a hoof of an animal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Inventor: Charles Spencer Potter
  • Plant cage kit
    Patent number: 8935879
    Abstract: A plant cage kit includes a wire grid, a bottom ring, and a top ring. The wire grid has a plurality of first and second spaced-apart wires. Each of the second wires is coupled to each of the first wires to form the wire grid. The first end of each second wire is formed into a loop and the second end of each second wire is formed into a hook. The hook of each second wire engages the loop of the same second wire when the plant cage kit is in the assembled configuration. When the plant cage kit is in the shipping configuration, the plurality of first wires is generally positioned in a first plane such that wire grid has a generally flat shape. The bottom and top rings have a generally U-shaped cross-section portion forming respective channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Inventor: Alexander J. Falk
  • Plant trellis system
    Patent number: 8925246
    Abstract: A plant trellis system for growing plants on hard surfaces such as patios or decks is disclosed. The system comprises a trellis base having a plurality of cutouts, a pot having a plurality of legs protruding from the bottom surface, and a plurality of wire mesh panels supported on the trellis base. The plurality of legs is inserted into the plurality of cutouts forming a firm connection between the trellis base and the pot. The trellis base further comprises a groove on each side where a base wire of the plurality of wire mesh panels is inserted. The trellis base also comprises a plurality of notches on each side to receive the vertical wires coming from the base wire. Clips are used to attach each wire mesh panel to the adjacent wire mesh panel. The system is portable and stable beyond the boundaries of the pot to support larger plants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: This Town, LLC
    Inventor: Donald J. Stewart, Jr.
  • Edible animal chew and method of using the same
    Patent number: 8925494
    Abstract: Edible animal chew and method of using the animal chew. The animal chew is edible and is configured to clean laniaries and gum tissue of an animal as the animal chews and eats the animal chew. The animal chew comprises all-natural ingredients and is, therefore, free of synthetic ingredients and unhealthy added ingredients, such as added sugars. The animal chew may further contain all-natural vitamins for improving health of the animal. A plurality of first projections and second projections on a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, respectively, are provided to clean laniaries and gum tissue for reducing risk of tooth decay and periodontal disease. A plurality of raised nodules is also provided on the distal end portion for massaging gum tissue to reduce risk of periodontal disease.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Inventors: David Pang, Jing Zhang
  • Agricultural applications of a double helix conductor
    Patent number: 8919035
    Abstract: An electrical system having an underlying structure resembling the double helix most commonly associated with DNA is used to produce useful electromagnetic fields for agricultural applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Medical Energetics Ltd
    Inventor: David G. Schmidt
  • Universal farrier's hoof and cradle support stand
    Patent number: 8915306
    Abstract: The present invention is a combination of a hoof support stand and a cradle support stand that is to be used by a farrier. A hoof support and a cradle support are both attached to a multipurpose pivot mechanism. The multipurpose pivot mechanism is rotatably attached to an adjustable height stand. The rotatable capability allows a farrier to immediately switch between either the hoof support or the cradle support without needing to remove or attach additional components. The adjustable height stand is removably attached to a base support that is conical to provide optimal stability. A padded support is attached to the multipurpose pivot mechanism so that a horse's fetlock can comfortably and securely rest within the cradle support. The padded support is an improvement to slings used with conventional cradle support stands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Inventors: Rozanne E Adams, Alan Dale
  • Leash with dual trigger
    Patent number: 8904969
    Abstract: Retractable leashes use a braking mechanism to stop a dog from movement. A mechanism is provided for smoothly or gradually braking the unreeling of the line, and can include a brake with a pad or pads for stopping the dog much like a bicycle. The brake and pads allow the user to squeeze the trigger lightly or more aggressively to slow and stop the dog's movement without the sudden jerk of traditional retractable leashes. The consumer may ultimately clamp down on the trigger to clamp the pads to the reel instantly for an aggressive stop if needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Coastal Pet Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Nathan S. Chefetz
  • Locking headplate for adjustable saddle tree
    Patent number: 8899004
    Abstract: A locking headplate for an adjustable saddle tree includes opposed, hingedly connected plates for securing to a saddle tree head portion, a rotatable displacing element for displacing the hingedly connected plates inwardly or outwardly, and at least one supplemental locking mechanism for selectively preventing rotation of the rotatable displacing element. The hingedly connected plates include apertures for receiving a portion of the rotatable displacing element therethrough, the apertures defining at least one cross-sectional dimension that is greater than a corresponding cross-sectional dimension of the rotatable displacing element. Saddle trees and saddles incorporating the locking headplate are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Intec Corporation
    Inventors: Isidore Strauss, Lynnda Scears
  • Method of folding substantially smaller a disposable cat litter holding means
    Patent number: 8869744
    Abstract: A combination structural addition for folding a disposable cat box smaller for packaging. In addition to the prior art die-cuts and fold-line creases enabling the box structures to be folded smaller for packaging, a new embodiment of fold-line creases is added comprising the combination of folding in both directions along at least one longitudinal and transversal fold-line crease across a length and width of the paperboard blank; the fold-line creases being located in the approximate center of the blank and intersecting in the approximate center of the bottom means of the blank. This new embodiment enables the folded box when combined with prior art folds to be further book folded approximately in-half in both directions along said longitudinal and transversal fold-line creases to enable the folded box to occupy a cubic area about one-tenth the area of the erected box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Inventor: Wallace E. Noonan
  • Mooring structure with habitat features for marine animals
    Patent number: 8869746
    Abstract: A structure for underwater placement on a sea, lake or river bottom. The structure has tunnels to allow water and water currents, as well as marine organisms, to pass freely therethrough and infiltrate and colonize the openings. One or more hitch points are provided on the structure for attaching mooring lines to ships, boats, floating wind turbines or other floating objects, thereby allowing the structure to serve as a mooring to anchor such objects. The hitch points can be recessed within a depression in the surface of the structure and the hitch bar ends can also be recessed, providing an exterior surface free of protuberances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Inventor: Stewart Hardison
  • Adjustable saddle
    Patent number: 8863482
    Abstract: An adjustable equestrian saddle and adjusting and reinforcing system for adjusting an equestrian saddle to permit the saddle fit several sizes of the back and withers of one or more horses, wherein the adjusting system comprises a plurality of reinforcing members having different angular dimensions with the saddle having a headplate for interchangeably receiving the reinforcing members and a lid to have access to the reinforcing members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Inventor: Pedro Ruiz Diaz
  • Mask for analyzed mammals
    Patent number: 8851018
    Abstract: An encapsulatable life support mechanism (ELSM) for an analyzed animal, including: a cradle or bed adapted by means of size and shape to accommodate the animal; an anesthetization gas mask (AGM) characterized by a cup with conic cross section, comprising a plurality of apertures located at the outer circumference of the cup; a fluid supplying mechanism (FSM) in which the AGM is placed, the FSM is in a continuous fluid communication with (i) an anesthetization gas inlet positioned outside the ELSM and an outlet located within the ELSM; (ii) an air suction scavenging device positioned outside the ELSM and a mask and an air suction outlet located within the ELSM; and a plurality of (iii) air conditioning tubes; and an airtight shell enveloping the same. The airtight ELSM prevent leakage of anesthetization gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Aspect Imaging Ltd
    Inventors: Uri Rapoport, Itzchak Rabinovitz
  • Western safety stirrup
    Patent number: 8850781
    Abstract: A western safety stirrup is disclosed having an elastic band forming the outer side of the portion of the stirrup wherein a boot is to be placed, held at top and bottom by studs. The upper stud is recessed below the outer side of the stirrup so as not to catch on clothing or brush. The lower stud has a flattened head and protrudes at an angle downwardly, and is attached to the elastic band by means of a leather wrap having holes in each end to place over the lower stud. When outward pressure is placed on the elastic band, it pops off and the boot is released from the stirrup. A leather keeper flap over the band attached at its upper end allows for the elastic to break away while protecting against snagging and provides a more western aesthetic appearance to the stirrup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Inventors: Timothy J. Harvey, Robert Oaks
  • Leash caddy system
    Patent number: 8839745
    Abstract: A leash caddy system for use with a retractable leash is provided. The retractable leash has a handle. The system comprises a cover with an attachment mechanism secured to the cover for releasably securing the cover around the retractable leash through the handle of the retractable leash. A plurality of guide hoops is mounted to the cover. A first securement mechanism associated with a first guide hoop and a fourth guide hoop secures the cover about the retractable leash. A second securement mechanism associated with the second guide hoop and the fourth guide hoop secures the cover about the retractable leash. Upon securing the cover about the retractable leash, the cover forms a pocket for receiving the cover therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Inventor: Kenny A. Johnston
  • Animal drinker
    Patent number: 8826859
    Abstract: An animal drinker includes a base tray that is defined by an exterior drinking trough connected to an interior fluid reservoir by a passageway. The trough and the interior fluid reservoir are maintained at a consistent fluid level. An upper reservoir stores fluid above the interior reservoir and is in fluid communication therewith by an outlet positioned at the bottom. A buoyant float pan is positioned in the interior fluid reservoir of the base tray. A float stop is positioned between the float pan and the outlet of the upper reservoir to stop the flow of fluid from the upper reservoir to the interior fluid reservoir at a predetermined level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Harris Farms, LLC
    Inventor: Paul H. Slinkard
  • Horseshoe and balancing method
    Patent number: 8826996
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for applying novel horseshoes to the hoof of a horse comprising the steps of, establishing the apex of the hoof wall curve that defines each lateral side of the hoof wall, and applying a horseshoe to the hoof by aligning the longitudinal mid line of each arm of the horseshoe with the respective apex on each lateral side of the hoof wall and aligning the heels of the horseshoe arms with the caudal part of the central sulcus of the hoof's frog.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Inventors: Eugene D. Ovnicek, David J. Nicholls, Mark S. Spriggs, Michael J. Williams, Tfm Head