Patents Issued in May 22, 1984
  • Patent number: 4449501
    Abstract: The timing of delivery of fuel to a compression ignition engine is determined and adjusted by observing the peak pressure attained in a combustion chamber during a fueled working stroke of the engine. This is compared with a derived peak pressure and a timing adjustment made. The condition of the engine is taken into account by comparing an actual pressure ratio with a desired pressure ratio, the actual pressure ratio being determined by obtaining a peak pressure signal when fuel is supplied or a pressure signal at a fixed point in the working stroke before fuel is supplied. The desired pressure ratio is provided by a circuit to which signals representing engine speed and fuel quantity are supplied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Lucas Industries Limited
    Inventor: Godfrey Greeves
  • Patent number: 4449502
    Abstract: A control system for controlling the opening degree of a solenoid valve provided in an air or fuel supplying system for engine to thereby control the air/fuel ratio of the gas mixture being supplied to the engine. This control system includes a device for accumulating the number of revolutions of the engine from the time the engine starts. When the accumulated value reaches a predetermined value, it is decided that the warming-up of engine is completed. Then, the output of the O.sub.2 sensor for detecting the oxygen O.sub.2 concentration in the exhaust gas is fed back to thereby perform the closed loop control for the air/fuel ratio. Before the accumulated value reaches the predetermined value, the closed loop control is performed without use of the output of the O.sub.2 sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventor: Toshio Furuhashi
  • Patent number: 4449503
    Abstract: A fuel injection pump (100) including a plunger (2) and a piston (1) movably disposed in a pumping chamber (17), means for initiating (3, 5) fuel injection and means for terminating (13, 20, 29) fuel injection, the plunger periodically pressurizing fuel in a pressure chamber (44) and the piston (1) spaced from the plunger and allowing a metering chamber (16) to fill with a metered quantity of fuel to be injected to an engine. The means for initiating injection comprises a pilot valve (5) having a solenoid to selectively operate between either of two states and a control valve (3) movable between first and second positions in response to the state of pilot valve (5), the first position filling the metering chamber (16) with the metered quantity of fuel. The pilot valve (5) determines the fuel quantity to be delivered to the engine relative to a signal from an electronic controller. An accumulator (4) is pressurized during each cycle of the plunger (2) to provide pressurized fuel during a metering phase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: The Bendix Corporation
    Inventor: Douglas A. Luscomb
  • Patent number: 4449504
    Abstract: A distributor type fuel injection pump has an accumulator. When an internal combustion engine is in low-speed rotation or in low-load operation, the accumulator accumulates part of the fuel pressurized within a fuel compression chamber, thereby lowering the fuel injection rate. Also, the fuel injection pump is provided with compensator which operates simultaneously with the accumulator. While the injection rate is lowered by operation of the accumulator, the compensator extends the injection period to compensate for the reduction of injection quantity attributed to reduction of the injection rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1983
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Nippondenso Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Furuhashi, Yukinori Miyata, Osamu Hishinuma
  • Patent number: 4449505
    Abstract: Several embodiments of internal combustion engines offering improved performance in the form of improved fuel economy and reduction in the emission of unwanted exhaust gas constituents at idle and low speed operation. In each embodiment, an induction system is employed using a main intake passage and a sub-intake passage, each of which communicates with the combustion chamber through a respective port. The sub-intake passage has a substantially smaller cross-sectional area than the main intake passage so that a given mass flow through this passage will enter the combustion chamber at a higher velocity than that flowing through the main intake passage. Throttle valve means are provided for sequentially controlling the flow into the combustion chamber through the main and sub-intake passages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1978
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Etsuhiro Tezuka, Koichiro Kaji, Toru Ichinose
  • Patent number: 4449506
    Abstract: In a fuel control system for a fuel injected internal combustion engine, fuel is pumped from a tank by a cheek plate unloading pump to the fuel rail which supplies the fuel injectors. The delivery pressure of the pump is controlled by a microprocessor which receives inputs from a number of sensors of engine operating variables. The microprocessor generates a control signal which controls the pump output pressure by actuating a solenoid-type linear actuator. The solenoid has an actuator rod which positions a spool in a control valve which regulates the pressure in a cavity behind the cheek plate in response to the control signal. If there is no control signal from the microprocessor, a spring moves the actuator rod to a position where it partially obstructs a passage through which the pump output flows. The partial obstruction or constriction creates a pressure drop which is proportional to the speed at which the pump is driven by the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: TRW Inc.
    Inventor: Gilbert H. Drutchas
  • Patent number: 4449507
    Abstract: A fuel injection system for a diesel engine having injection and metering modes of operation for delivering fuel to an engine comprising a plurality of fuel injectors wherein each of said fuel injectors comprise a first port, a second port and a metering chamber for storing a premetered quantity of fuel, during the metering mode of operation, prior to the injection of said premetered quantity of fuel into the engine during the injection mode of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1980
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: The Bendix Corporation
    Inventor: Endre A. Mayer
  • Patent number: 4449508
    Abstract: An electronically controlled or regulated fuel metering system for an internal combustion engine having one sensor each for the air flow in the intake tube and for the throttle valve position is proposed. In accordance with the signals of these sensors, influence can be exerted upon at least one of the operating states of lambda regulation, full load and fuel quantity limitation. The fundamental concept is that not only the air flow rate signal or only the signal relating to an opened throttle valve should be evaluated as a full-load signal but that the full-load state is presumed to exist when, with the throttle valve opened, the air throughput in the intake tube simultaneously exceeds a predetermined value as well. The same condition applies to full-load enrichment. The overall result is cleaner exhaust gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Otto Glockler, Dieter Gunther, Michael Horbelt, Ulrich Steinbrenner
  • Patent number: 4449509
    Abstract: In a gaseous fuel carburetion system in which air and gaseous fuel are mixed in a mixer prior to induction into an internal combustion engine, and in which the rate of flow of the induction air is controlled by throttling the intake of the air/fuel mixture, and in which gaseous fuel is supplied to the system from a pressurized source, an improved method and apparatus for regulating the supply of gaseous fuel to the air/fuel mixer is provided. The method comprises the steps of; sensing at least one operating parameter of the engine which is a function of the induction air flow rate and generating a control signal which varies in response to changes in the induction air flow rate, controlling the rate of flow of the gaseous fuel from the source to the mixer by means of said control signal whereby the rate of flow of the gaseous fuel varies in response to the sensed changes in the parameters related to the air flow rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Emco Wheaton (International) Limited
    Inventor: Colin G. Young
  • Patent number: 4449510
    Abstract: A hot air heat exchanger furnace that uses crop residue as a fuel source is provided for producing the heat required for various purposes, such as the drying of grains, peanuts, soybeans and other materials and for the heating of buildings. The furnace includes a combustion chamber, an upper manifold, a lower manifold, a plenum and a number of exhaust tubes. The exhaust tubes direct the flow of combustion gases from the combustion chamber in a serpentine path in the plenum between the upper and lower manifolds and into a stack. Meanwhile, ambient air passes into the plenum, past the heat transfer surfaces of the combustion chamber and the exhaust tubes as heat transfers to it. Then it passes out of the furnace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1983
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Inventor: Eugene G. Sukup
  • Patent number: 4449511
    Abstract: A recuperative furnace and method for heating wherein the recirculation air blower directs the return air upwardly first to a recuperative heat exchanger and then to a second heat exchanger operating from the heat of combustion. The flue gases are routed directly to the recuperative heat exchanger where a portion of the products of combustion condense. Accordingly, the recuperative heat exchanger not only provides sensible heat transfer from the flue gases but also recovers a portion of the latent heat of vaporization. The second heat exchanger transfers heat from a solution to the recirculation air. The solution flows through a closed loop between the second heat exchanger and a heat transfer module which includes the burner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1983
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Amana Refrigeration, Inc.
    Inventors: Herbert G. Hays, Warren W. Kuipers
  • Patent number: 4449512
    Abstract: A damper for sealing and unsealing a vertical furnace flue pipe to minimize the escape of heat when the furnace is not operating, the damper comprising a cylindrical body adapted to form a section of vertical flue pipe, the cylindrical body having a top opening and a bottom opening at least one transverse rod horizontally transversing the body and carried by opposed apertures in opposing wall portion of the body, a pair of oppositely extending gull-wing shaped damper shutters pivotally mounted on the rod and in the closed condition extending upwardly and outwardly to the inner surfaces of the cylindrical walls of the damper section, the lower edges of the wing sections engaging an annular rim mounted on the inner walls, the wings opening to a vertical position when the furnace is operating and closing by gravity when the furnace is not operating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Inventor: Alfred Hebert
  • Patent number: 4449513
    Abstract: A solar heater having a housing having a base and back formed of insulation and a glass disposed between the base and back. A sheet metal plate in contact with the base and back. A heat absorbing conduit in the housing and in contact with the sheet metal plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1983
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Inventor: George Lover
  • Patent number: 4449514
    Abstract: A system is described for use with a solar concentrator such as a parabolic dish type that concentrates solar radiation onto a small opening (18) of a receiver, for protecting the receiver in certain circumstances, including tracking failure wherein the concentrated solar radiation would fall on the face plate (26) surrounding the receiver opening and burn it, or in the event of lack of coolant circulation which could cause burning of the receiver cavity walls (22). The protective system includes a shutter mechanism (30) stored in an open configuration beside the receiver opening and operable in case of failure to close shutters (34) over the opening, while also moving the mechanism away from the opening and closer to the dish concentrator so that only less concentrated solar radiation must be blocked by the shutter mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    Inventor: M. Kudret Selcuk
  • Patent number: 4449515
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for collecting, intensifying and storing solar energy which includes a hollow spherical vessel 10 having a polished reflective interior surface. A window 32 is provided in the wall of the vessel for allowing concentrated rays from the sun to enter into the interior of the vessel and be absorbed by a solar collector 20. The collector includes a substantially black (or a selective coating) heat absorbing surface carried by a spherical member 16 which is centrally located within the spherical vessel. Heat absorbing media 18 such as metal shots are carried within the spherical member and change from a solid state to a liquid state as it absorbs the solar energy. The heat absorbing media 18 cause radiant energy to be radiated radially in a symmetric beam pattern to the reflective vessel wall where the radiation is reflected back to the spherical member 16.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Seige Corporation
    Inventor: Jack E. Nilsson, Sr.
  • Patent number: 4449516
    Abstract: This invention is a method for storing light energy using an indigo derivative. Among indigo derivatives capable of storing light energy by the photoisomerization of the molecule from the trans-form to the cis-form, compounds heretofore obtained have been soluble only in expensive solvents such as benzene, toluene, chloroform, carbon tetrachloride and the like and harmful substances.On the other hand, the indigo derivative of this invention has the form of a pyridinium salt, is soluble in water and/or ethanol, and permits employment of safe and inexpensive water and/or an alcohol as a solvent.The indigo derivative of this invention converted from the trans-form to the cis-form by irradiation with sunlight and storing sunlight energy liberates the aforesaid stored energy as heat on addition of a catalyst and/or a heat trigger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1983
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Teijiro Kitao, Jun-ichiro Setsune, Shoichi Ishihara, Ryoichi Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 4449517
    Abstract: A solar heat plant comprises a first system including a high temperature heat collector for changing solar energy to high temperature heat energy under usual sunshine and to low temperature heat energy under poor sunshine to supply the heat energy to a high temperature heat medium, a high temperature heat load which works under usual sunshine using the heat energy supplied to the high temperature heat medium, a second system including a low temperature heat collector for changing solar energy to low temperature heat energy under usual or poor sunshine to supply the heat energy to a low temperature heat medium, and a low temperature heat load which works under usual sunshine using the heat energy supplied to the low temperature heat medium and also works under poor sunshine using the heat energies supplied to the high and low temperature heat media.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignees: Agency of Industrial Science and Technology, Tokyo Shibaura Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tatsuo Tani, Sinji Sawata, Tadayoshi Tanaka, Koichi Sakuta, Yasunobu Nakamoto, Hideshi Sekiya, Masanobu Morita, Norio Yamagata
  • Patent number: 4449518
    Abstract: A disinfection indicator mounted on medical equipment which is inserted into a channel for forceps and repeatedly used after thermal sterilization, includes a deformable portion, made of a shape memory alloy having a one-way shape memory effect, which is deformed plastically by an external force, from a shape indicating disinfection of the medical equipment to a predetermined original shape when the medical equipment is in use, and which is modified from the original shape to the shape indicating disinfection of the medical equipment when the medical equipment is heated to a temperature higher than a predetermined temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Olympus Optical Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yutaka Konomura, Yasuhiko Omagari
  • Patent number: 4449519
    Abstract: A multi-segmented endoscope (20) includes at least two sections (22), (24) which are detachably coupled together to provide endoscopes of varying lengths and openings for use during different stages of the birth process. The end (26) of the smaller section (22) is angled complementarily with respect to the fetus to insure a good seal to prevent contamination of blood samples taken from the infant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Transidyne General Corporation
    Inventor: Robert J. Sarrine
  • Patent number: 4449520
    Abstract: A pair of inflatable erecting tubes and a pair of inflatable reservoir tubes project from opposite ends of a pump unit including a rigid valve body molded as an insert within a pump body of resilient silicone material. The inflatable tubes are implanted within the right and left corpora cavernosa of the penis with the pump unit located at the base of the penis transecting the medial corporal septum. The valve body has a series of passages and spring biased one way valves which are effective to inflate the erecting tubes in response to the application of a squeezing pressure to opposite sides of the pump body and to delfate the erecting tubes in response to downward pressure on the pump body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Inventors: Juan M. Palomar, Gary M. Bird
  • Patent number: 4449521
    Abstract: A genital splint permitting a male to achieve penetration during sexual intercourse comprises a base adjacent the torso, an adjustable collar compressingly engaging the glans of the penis, and adjustable support column means for maintaining the collar in an adjustable yet fixed position relative to the base. Preferably, a pliable material such as silicon tubing covers each of these elements for comfort and to prevent damage to body tissues during intercourse. Adjustment of the length of the support column means occurs by either the telescopic or the threaded engagement of an inner rod and an outer tube, the rod and tube each being attached to one of the collar and the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Inventor: Jack S. Panzer
  • Patent number: 4449522
    Abstract: A positioning device for use with a tracheal tube which is insertable into a patient's trachea particularly a tube of a type which includes a respiration gas jet discharge which must be accurately positioned in respect to the first bifurcation of the trachea for optimal respiration effects. The positioning device comprises an elastic measuring probe which is insertable into the tracheal tube and has a distal end which may be projected out of the tube and which carries a carina engaging stop end in the form of outwardly foldable elements which may engage over the top of the carina on engaging the carina in a roof-like manner. The measuring probe includes an opposite end which may be manipulated by a person's hand to regulate the amount of extension of the lower end of the probe beyond the end of the tracheal tube which is inserted into the person's trachea.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Dragerwerk A.G.
    Inventor: Marcel Baum
  • Patent number: 4449523
    Abstract: A talking tracheostomy tube according to the teachings of the present invention is shown in the preferred embodiment as including an inner cannula removably received within an outer cannula. The tracheostomy tube further includes, in the preferred embodiment, a first cuff for sealing between the outer cannula and the trachea for substantially preventing air introduced through the inner cannula to escape from the trachea through the larynx. In the preferred embodiment, air is introduced into the trachea above the first cuff by ports directionally drilled through the outer cannula and in fluid communication with a secondary passageway formed by and between the inner and outer cannulas. The inner end of the secondary passageway is formed by a sealing obstruction integrally formed in the inside surface of the outer cannula adjacent the inner end for the sealing receipt of the inner cannula.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Implant Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward H. Szachowicz, John Walsh
  • Patent number: 4449524
    Abstract: Self-contained breathing apparatus comprising a portable tank containing a supply of breathing air under high pressure, a main pressure regulator for reducing the pressure of air from the tank to a moderate level, a face mask having a demand valve mounted thereon which receives air from the main pressure regulator through a main supply hose and which controls the pressure and flow thereof to meet the users requirements, a bypass pressure regulator and flow control means which receives air from the tank and which controls the pressure and flow of air to the mask, through a separate bypass hose, to provide breathing air to the mask in the event of a fault in the main breathing circuit. The bypass hose is attached to the bypass pressure regulator and flow control by means of manually operable quick disconnect fitting, enabling emergency sharing of the air supply by a second, similarly equipped user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Litton Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert E. Gray
  • Patent number: 4449525
    Abstract: A pulmonary resuscitating device designed for single time use and for use with administering cardiopulmonary resuscitation to a heart failure patient. The device includes an endotracheal tube for insertion in the patient's trachea, a mouthpiece for a rescuer, and an air passageway therebetween. Included in the air passageway is a two-way valve which allows exhaled air from a rescuer to pass to the patient's lungs while diverting the patient's exhaled air to the atmosphere. An oxygen tap is provided between the rescuer's mouthpiece and the valve to allow oxygen enriched air to be administered to the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Inventors: Daniel S. White, Jerald L. Nave
  • Patent number: 4449526
    Abstract: A mouth mask includes a unitary member having an inner wall portion and an outer wall portion. The unitary member is adapted to seal about the lips of a patient with the perimeter defined by the intersection of the inner and outer wall portions resting on the perioral area overlying the maxilla and mandible. The mouth mask also includes an opening extending through the unitary member for connecting oxygen and ventilating through a mouthpiece or pharyngeal airway inserted through the opening in the mouth mask. The opening is adapted to receive an airway having a proximal end disposed externally of the patient and a distal end disposed internally of the patient in the region of the lower pharynx. Additionally, the mouth mask may selectively be provided with a nostril occluding balloon or cushion to pneumatically seal and block the nostrils of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Inventor: James O. Elam
  • Patent number: 4449527
    Abstract: An endotracheal tube holder is disclosed for holding an endotracheal tube at a fixed position within a patient's mouth before, during and after surgical procedures while permitting access to and visualization of the mouth. The holder is comprised of a variable diameter clamp made from a cylindrical section which frictionally engages the endotracheal tube at a position external to the patient's mouth and is dimensioned to not obstruct access to or visualization of the interior of the mouth. A strap engages the clamp to secure the endotracheal tube to the patient to minimize longitudinal, rotational, and lateral movement of the endotracheal tube within the patient's mouth. The width of the strap in proximity to the patient's mouth is equal to or less than the outside diameter of the cylindrical section to minimize the obstruction of the patient's mouth by the strap. The annular cross section of the clamp minimizes the obstruction of the mouth by the clamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Inventor: Deborah L. Hinton
  • Patent number: 4449528
    Abstract: A miniaturized, endoscopically deliverable thermal cautery probe for cauterizing internal vessels. The probe is applied to tissues cold, and a large number of electric heating pulses of equal energy are then applied to an internal heating element in the probe. The probe has an internal heating element in direct thermal contact with an active heat-transfer portion that has a low heat capacity to insure quick heating and subsequent cooling, thereby adequately coagulating tissue while minimizing heat penetration and resulting tissue damage. The electrical power applied to the probe is continuously measured and is terminated when the energy delivered reaches a preset value. The number of such pulses applied to the probe (and hence the total energy delivered) may be preset while the duration of the period during which the pulses were applied is displayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: University of Washington
    Inventors: David C. Auth, Dale M. Lawrence, Tim R. Majoch
  • Patent number: 4449529
    Abstract: An automatic retractable lancet assembly includes a housing with a sharp-pointed lancet movably mounted therein. A slidable plunger is mounted in the housing in the end thereof opposite from the lancet for loading the assembly prior to use. An actuating mechanism releases the lancet for outward movement from the housing. After this outward movement is completed, the actuator elements become dissociated from further movement of the lancet. Subsequently, the lancet is automatically retracted back inside the housing by virtue of a spring element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Becton Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: James A. Burns, Edward L. Nugent
  • Patent number: 4449530
    Abstract: Metallic, hemostatic clips providing a reduced gap when closed about a tubular vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Lee P. Bendel, Timothy Sardelis
  • Patent number: 4449531
    Abstract: Sterile, non-metallic, bio-compatible hemostatic clips of absorbable and non-absorbable materials comprising two leg members joined with a resilient hinge. The distal ends of said leg members include latch means to lock the clip in a closed position. Each leg member has a vessel clamping inner face and the latch means includes means for preventing relative lateral movement between the vessel clamping inner faces when the clip is in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Cerwin, Madhusudan Joshi, John R. Menges, Robert W. Mericle, William J. Zwaskis
  • Patent number: 4449532
    Abstract: A dilator for surgical use having a ball on the end of a thin stiff stem. A plurality of telescoping tubes are adapted to be slid along the stem and atop one another so as successively to enlarge the path opened by the dilator. An endoscope shaft can be slid over the set of tubes so as to occupy the region they have enlarged, and to permit them and the probe to be withdrawn so an endoscopic procedure can be performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Inventor: Karl Storz
  • Patent number: 4449533
    Abstract: A brassiere wherein left and right bust cups are fashioned from upper and lower fabric panels with the upper panels being connected to a ring element and the lower marginal edges of the cups being connected by an elastic member. Each cup is provided with an elongated petal shaped opening in the upper portion thereof which extends generally upwardly and outwardly a selected distance from the connector element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Consolidated Foods Corporation
    Inventor: Flavia DiTullio
  • Patent number: 4449534
    Abstract: A liquid-flow measuring device particularly useful as a drip chamber for infusion administration sets includes a housing having an internal chamber for accumulating the liquid dripping thereinto by gravity introduced via an inlet port which terminates in a first bore leading to a second bore. The housing further includes an air return leading to the juncture of the first and second bores, such that the liquid flowing through the first bore forms a liquid column in the second bore which liquid column grows by gravity until it breaks and drops into the chamber, the length and/or rate the liquid columns grow before passing into the chamber thereby providing a measurement of the rate of flow of the liquid through the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Inventor: Leibinsohn Saul
  • Patent number: 4449535
    Abstract: Apparatus having application to surgical operations has an ultra-violet laser pulse generator (1), an infrared laser pulse generator (3), an optical fibre (11) which transmits these pulses in one direction to the organ (13) and returns the fluorescence emitted by the organ together with reflected infrared radiation. Said returned radiation is detected by two receivers (25 and 20) and a circuit (31) for processing the electric signals delivered by said receivers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Compagnie Industrielle des Lasers Cilas Alcatel
    Inventor: Guy Renault
  • Patent number: 4449536
    Abstract: Digital data compression method and means are disclosed which allow for transmission of digital data over a short time period and/or narrow bandwidth transmission line. Also a maximum amount of information may be stored on a movable recording medium using data compression method of this invention. Digital signals to be stored and/or transmitted first are compressed using a finite-impulse response digital compression filter which generates estimated signal values which are subtracted from actual signal values to provide a sequence of difference signals. The difference signals are encoded using a truncated Huffman type encoding method and means, and the encoded signals are transmitted to a remote receiver and/or are recorded. The receiver includes a decoder and digital reconstruction filter for exact reproduction of transmitted digital signals. The invention is well adapted for storage and/or transmission of three lead electrocardiogram (ECG) signals, recording and playback of music, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1980
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: SRI International
    Inventor: Charles S. Weaver
  • Patent number: 4449537
    Abstract: A respiration monitor for detecting effective respiration of a patient includes circuitry for suppressing the indication of unwanted signals due to heart activity, noise and flat breathing. A first threshold circuit is provided for increasing the sensitivity of the respiration monitor in response to a decreasing amplitude of the measured respiration signals. A first comparator circuit provides a fixed amplitude threshold below which detected signals are fully neglected. A second threshold circuit provides an adjustable amplitude threshold for the measured respiration signal, which threshold is raised in response to a decreasing respiration frequency below a predetermined frequency limit. Effective respiration is indicated only if all the aforementioned amplitude thresholds are exceeded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard GmbH
    Inventors: Gerhard Pross, Frank Rochlitzer
  • Patent number: 4449538
    Abstract: A medical-electronic body fluid accounting system for use in surgical procedures and in post-operative and non-surgical care to afford a running account of the fluid intake to a patient and fluid outtake therefrom. The system is provided with a microcomputer to which is applied digital data derived from a plurality of fluid input source channels and fluid output source channels which together represent the prevailing fluid input and output sources associated with the patient. Included in the input source channels are those monitoring the flow of fluids being fed intraveneously into the patient, each such input channel having a sensor which generates a signal representing the volume of a particular fluid, such as a saline solution, being infused into the patient, this signal being converted into a corresponding digital value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Inventors: John Corbitt, Thomas J. Michel
  • Patent number: 4449539
    Abstract: A blood extraction device is disclosed herein, which is an improvement over similar devices having a cylindrical extraction tube enclosing an air-tight piston and sealed with a closure cap having an axial projection which contains a self-sealing puncturable plug and is received within a movable tubular guide sleeve containing a double-ended cannula the rear end of which is enclosed by a deformable but resilient thin hose with a closed self-sealing rear end. The improvement resides in the inclusion of one or more slots on the guide sleeve and cooperating lugs on the projection, or vice versa, each slot having an axially extending portion and a peripherally extending portion, such that rotation of the rear cutting edge of the cannula is prevented during penetration of both the rear end of the hose and the plug, and rotation is possible only when penetration is complete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Walter Sarstedt Kunstoff-Spritzgusswerk
    Inventor: Walter Sarstedt
  • Patent number: 4449540
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for processing baled tobacco leaves to separate the lamina portions of the leaves from the stem portions. The bale is cut symmetrically, crosswise to its length, into three or preferably five separate sections, of different characteristic types. A center section is cut from the middle of the bale. On each side of the center section a second section is cut; and two end sections are preferably cut, one at each end of the bale. The different types of sections have different lamina-to-stem ratios, and are processed differently. The second sections are coarsely threshed, to dislodge the larger lamina portions of the leaves from the stem portions therein, and the coarsely threshed material is separated into a first light fraction (comprising mostly lamina) and a first heavy fraction (enriched in stem content). The center section can be combined with the light fraction and can be dried and packed without the necessity of further threshing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Parker Tobacco Company
    Inventors: Charles W. Marshall, William F. Lineberger, Samuel A. Parker, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4449541
    Abstract: Cut shredded or otherwise comminuted tobacco is treated with a volatile flavoring additive in a continuous process wherein the additive is combined with a polyhydric alcohol carrier and the additive/polyhydric alcohol combination is applied to the tobacco [by gas-atomizing spray nozzle means] under controlled conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company
    Inventors: Charles D. Mays, Max A. Wagoner, Daniel G. Williard
  • Patent number: 4449542
    Abstract: A portable hunting blind assembly having a collapsible umbrella roof structure supported from a central hollow cylinder and extending outwardly for terminating in a polygonal body having sides defined by the ribs of the roof structure, a handle supporting of the umbrella roof structure telescopically connected to an internal sleeve in the cylinder by means of a pivot arrangement, the handle received at its free end in a stake support structure or member having its distal end securely anchored in the ground, and an array of panel screening material sections depending from each of the polygonal sides of the roof structure and held firmly in the ground by anchor devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Inventors: Thad M. McSwain, Elbert A. McCracken
  • Patent number: 4449543
    Abstract: A fluid injector suitable for injecting a fluid into a flowline having a fluid under pressure therein in which a piston divides the interior of a hollow body into a power chamber and a pumping chamber with a piston rod extending through the pumping chamber to the exterior of the body, fluid filling the pumping chamber, a discharge line from the pumping chamber through a valve to the flowline, and a supply line from the flowline to the power chamber, the valve in the supply line being controlled by the timed position of the piston. A method of injecting a fluid into a flowline including the steps of delivering pressure fluid from the flowline to a pressure responsive position displacement pumping means, delivering fluid from the pumping means through a valve to the flowline and controlling the valve to control the amount of fluid pumped responsive to the timed position of the pumping means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Inventor: George J. Greene, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4449544
    Abstract: A ball valve is provided for cleaning out piping systems between steam boilers and turbine generators of electrical power generating plants prior to start up operations. The valve is designed to minimize impingement between foreign substances trapped in the pipelines and the internal valve passages, and to reduce thermal shock to the piping systems when the valve is opened to atmosphere to rid the system of said foreign substances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Crosby Valve & Gage Company
    Inventor: Roy E. Soderberg
  • Patent number: 4449545
    Abstract: A breakaway safety valve comprising interengageable plug and socket components having a fluid flow passage therethrough, and a plurality of breakaway members holding the plug and socket components in assembly. The breakaway members are adapted to break when the valve is subjected to a force of predetermined magnitude tending to pull the plug and socket components apart thereby to permit separation of the components without damage thereto. At the time of separation, a valve member in the flow passage automatically closes to cut off fluid flow through the passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Inventors: Oliver W. Vernor, Arthur M. Brockman
  • Patent number: 4449546
    Abstract: A controller with adjustable proportionality range wherein a ring is acted upon by a pressure differential in measuring unit formed as, for example, pairs of bellows or the like. The measuring units have axes of effectiveness which are perpendicular to each other. The ring cooperates as a baffle ring with a pivotable nozzle. The measuring units are articulated in diametrical opposition to the ring with the axes of effectiveness of one of the measuring units extending radially and the axis of effectiveness of the other measuring unit extending tangentially of the ring or in parallel to the tangential direction.The present invention relates to a controller and, more particularly, to a controller with an adjustable proportionality range wherein a ring is acted upon by pressure differences in measuring units formed as, for example, pairs of bellows or the like, having axes of effectiveness which are perpendicular to each other, with the ring cooperating as a baffle ring with a pivotable nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Eckardt AG
    Inventor: Horst Bader
  • Patent number: 4449547
    Abstract: A gate valve presents on a flat valve seat surface defining a fluid flow path the mating flat surface of a freely rotatable circular disc carried at its center along a longitudinally moving straight line axis. The valve seat defines a fluid flow aperture asymmetrically disposed to the disc center movement line to thereby create a turning moment from pressure and flow of fluid through the valve seat. This serves without ratching mechanisms to rotate the disc periphery randomly thereby presenting different disc edge portions in a wear position from the fluid flow. Accordingly, wear is evenly distributed about the peripheral edge to significantly increase life and reduce sealing problems from chemical or sediment materials coming between the disc and valve seat surfaces. By mounting the disc and valve seat surfaces at an acute angle to the axis of movement, the disc is freely rotatable and subject to the turning moment up until the time they are frictionally wedged together in a sealed valve closure position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1983
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Inventor: Rafael Krakovsky
  • Patent number: 4449548
    Abstract: A flow control device includes a housing (10) having a hollow metering valve element (55) disposed therewithin to control the effective flow area of the device. A pressure regulating valve element (70) is received within the metering valve element and maintains a relatively constant pressure drop so that a desired flow through the device may be set by a single adjustment of the position of the metering valve element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Herbert W. Tutherly
  • Patent number: 4449549
    Abstract: The invention relates to an improved shuttering device for preventing back-flow in air conduits or the like. The device includes an attachment section and a frame section, the latter being provided with a series of elastic lamellae shiftable between blocking and unblocking positions within the frame, the frame having in addition guide plates extending axially of the conduit to prevent transverse currents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1983
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: H. Krantz GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Franz Weck
  • Patent number: 4449550
    Abstract: A control system for an intraocular surgical device has first and second actuatable one-way valves connected in series with a high pressure gas input, with the output of the second valve vented to the atmosphere and each valve being actuatable between a closed state and an open state wherein the input and output are in communication. A five-way actuatable valve has an input connected to the series connection between the first and second valves, two outputs vented to the atmosphere and two outputs connectable to a surgical device. The five-way valve is actuatable between a first state wherein the input is in communication with one device output and the other device output is in communication with one venting output and a second state wherein the input is in communication with the other device output and the one device output is in communication with the other venting output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Optikon Oftalmologia, S.p.A.
    Inventor: Domenico Ranalli