Patents Issued in March 5, 1996
  • Patent number: H1519
    Abstract: Transparent ceramic armor consisting of a light weight composite formed by tilizing a face plate of transparent aluminum oxide or transparent magnesium oxide with a back-up plate of transparent plastic and the two plates bonded together with a transparent adhesive. This composite on test affords complete ballistic protection against 0.30 AP M2 projectiles at 0.degree. obliquity with a muzzle velocity of 2770 ft. per sec.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1966
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Charles W. Semple
  • Patent number: H1520
    Abstract: A device for forcing fluid along a collapsible conduit is described which comprises a yoke including a web and first and second projecting leg members, a first roller supported between the first and second leg members for rotation about a first axis, a block member supporting an axle and a second roller for rotation about a second axis substantially parallel to the first axis, the second leg member and block member each having one or more holes therethrough for receiving bolts connecting the block and second leg member, a spring interconnecting each bolt and the second leg member for resiliently holding the block member and second roller in a substantially parallel juxtaposed position near the second leg member and the first roller, overcenter locking means interconnecting the second leg member and block member for selectively locking the block and second roller into resilient engagement with the second leg member and first roller with a collapsible conduit disposed between the first and second rollers, and a
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air Force
    Inventor: Anthony E. Hannula
  • Patent number: PP9461
    Abstract: A new and distinct variety of Berberis thunbergii is distinguishable from the closest known variety and from its parent due to the color of its leaves and by its ability to grow in full sun and with midday waterings without suffering sunburn or scald. Newly formed leaves have a rich blush burgundy color and are covered with a velvety pubescence that beads water like a freshly waxed car. As the leaves mature, they darken to a reddish-black satin patina.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventor: Leo E. Gentry
  • Patent number: PP9462
    Abstract: A new variety of Hydrangea macrophylla `Hobella` producing clusters of flowers that pass through three phases of different coloration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventors: J. G. Hofstede, W. J. G. Hofstede
  • Patent number: PP9463
    Abstract: A new and distinct Chrysanthemum cultivar named `Chalecat` is provided. The new cultivar was the result of a controlled breeding program. Attractive very large double incurved blossoms of the pompon type are formed that are cherry pink on the inner surface and light pastel pink on the outer surface. The incurving is particularly pronounced at the tips of the ray florets. The blossoms are long lasting and keep their form for approximately three weeks. The response period of the flowers is approximately nine weeks. Recurrent profuse flower production throughout the year is possible. The plant possesses strong stems, forms large dark green leaves, and commonly assumes a height of approximately 45 to 50 cm. The blossom coloration contrasts nicely with the dark green foliage. The new cultiver is particularly suited for use in the production of a decorative pot Chrysanthemum that grows well single stem or disbudded. No growth regulator is necessary to achieve the short to medium plant height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Selection New Plant Sarl
    Inventor: Jean-Pierre Challet
  • Patent number: PP9464
    Abstract: A new and distinct chrysanthemum cultivar named `Chaplou` is provided. The new cultivar is a mutation of the `Chakara` cultivar (U.S. Plant patent application Ser. No. 8/273,994, filed Jul. 12, 1994) that was created through gamma irradiation. Attractive red bronze anemone blossoms are formed in profusion (as illustrated). The response period of the flowers is approximately eight weeks. Recurrent flower production throughout the year is possible. The plant possesses soft and thin stems, forms attractive leaves, and commonly assumes a height of approximately 30 to 35 cm. The new cultivar is particularly suited for use in the production of a decorative pot chrysanthemum. No growth regular is required to achieve the short plant height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Selection New Plant Sarl
    Inventor: Jean-Pierre Challet
  • Patent number: PP9465
    Abstract: A new and distinct Chrysanthemum cultivar named `Chakara` is provided. The new cultivar was the result of a controlled breeding program. Attractive bright bronze anemone blossoms are formed in profusion (as illustrated). The response period of the flowers is approximately eight weeks. Recurrent flower production throughout the year is possible. The plant possesses soft and thin stems, forms attractive leaves, and commonly assumes a height of approximately 30 to 35 cm. The new cultivar is particularly suited for use in the production of a decorative pot Chrysanthemum. No growth regulator is required to achieve the short plant height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Selection New Plant Sarl
    Inventor: Jean-Pierre Challet
  • Patent number: PP9466
    Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of Alstroemeria named `Redcoat` is characterized by large rose-red blossoms which have numerous longitudinal maroon/brown streaks on its inner circle of tepals; the top two tepals of this inner group of three also have white and yellow on their lower portions. The individual florets are produced in large numbers on short peduncles. The plant is also distinguished by its short (approximately 55 cm. when grown in full sun), but strong, stems and its upright and vigorous growth habit. There is a continuous production of flowers on its umbel arrangement of branches during each of its blooming seasons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: University of Connecticut
    Inventor: Mark P. Bridgen
  • Patent number: PP9467
    Abstract: A bromeliad Guzmania having large floral bracts, the lower bracts being light green stained with cream, ruby red obverse and reverse gradually less creamy and ruby red to upper part of the inflorescence, after anthesis the bracts darkening to buff, the cream color being retained for as much as two months.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Kent's Bromeliad Nursery Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey C. Kent
  • Patent number: RE35164
    Abstract: A medical device for enclosing an internal bodily organ or tissue during surgery comprising a filamentary strand with noose and free end portions, the free end portion enclosed within a cannula; a surgical bag with an opening, the bag attached to the noose portion at the open end of the bag; and a means for pulling the free end portion proximally to reduce the diameter of the noose portion so as to close the open end of the surgical bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard C. Kindberg, Chao Chen, Lyn Freeman, Constance E. Roshdy, Alastair W. Hunter
  • Patent number: RE35165
    Abstract: A pile driving apparatus comprises a base frame (1) having a platform (3) for supporting ballast (5). The base frame (1) is equipped with a leveling device (7). The pile driving apparatus comprises a column (11) positioned perpendicular with respect to the base frame and supported by steel supports (13). At the top of the column (11) is provided a lifting point (17). A pile loading device consists of a cradle arm (19) which is pivotally mounted at point (21) to the base frame (1) at the lower end of the column (11). A hydraulic jack (23) is operative for moving the cradle arm for loading piles to the device. A hydraulic piston (29) bears a load onto a jack thrust plate (33), which plate is connected to a transmission plate (35) by means of a shaped plate (77). The higher end of the transmission plate is ridgedly connected to a pile thrust plate (39) means of another shaped (41 ).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: V-Pile Technology Luxembourg
    Inventor: Kong S. Seng
  • Patent number: RE35166
    Abstract: The invention provides a catalyst composition useful in treating hydrocarbons contaminated with vanadium residues, the catalyst comprising a zeolite, a matrix and certain heavier alkaline earth metal oxides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Unilever Patent Holdings B.V.
    Inventor: Paul Chapple
  • Patent number: RE35167
    Abstract: According to the present invention, a vial cap is provided which has two openings, one for receiving the neck of a syringe and allowing medicine to flow into the syringe, and another for allowing air to flow into the vial as medicine is extracted. A safety lid to the vial cap is preferably provided for assuring sterility. A membrane may also be provided to cover the interior surface of the vial cap so that no medicine leaks into the region between the vial cap and its safety lid while the medicine is being transported and stored.The shape and size of the two openings may be varied according to the application, in particular according to the material used for the cap and the medicine being stored in the vial.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventors: Marvin L. Mouchawar, Alan E. Mouchawar
  • Patent number: RE35168
    Abstract: A suspension assembly for a wheel of a motor vehicle, includes a suspension assembly, an axle beam, an elongated spring, and a radius arm. The radius arm has an extended length for attachment at a mid-region suspension connection point on the vehicle frame. The suspension bracket has multiple surfaces adapted for flush mounting to the chassis of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Monroe Auto Equipment Company
    Inventor: William Golpe
  • Patent number: RE35169
    Abstract: A method for determining orthodontic bracket placement on a malocclused tooth to correct the malocclusion includes the steps of generating digital information which defines the shape and location of the malocclused tooth in the patient's jaw, from which digital information a mathematical model of the tooth and jaw is generated. The correct placement position of a bracket is then calculated from the digitized information. A standard bracket is thereafter modified, if desired, individually for the patient, in view of the patient's physical deviations from the statistical averages. The shape of a bracket positioning jig is calculated and formed. Another step is forming an archwire for the brackets. The method may be used on one or more teeth in the same dental arch, as well as for both dental arches with respect to malocclusion therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Ormco Corporation
    Inventors: Marc S. Lemchen, Craig A. Andreiko
  • Patent number: RE35170
    Abstract: A removable orthodontic palatal expansion arch having a generally "M"-shaped configuration, the arch having a center segment composed of a near-stoichiometric alloy of nickel and titanium which possesses memory-retaining characteristics to simultaneously expand the bicuspids and expand, rotate, intrude and/or torque the maxillary molars, and end segments composed of an alloy of stainless steel or another biocompatible material configured for securing the archwire to lingual sheaths attached to molar bands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventors: Wendell V. Arndt, Carl J. Berendt
  • Patent number: RE35171
    Abstract: Compositions useful for detecting ras gene proteins are described consisting of GTP and a protein having an apparent reduced molecular weight of about 115,000-120,000 daltons, or fragments derived therefrom, that stimulate ras protein guanosine triphosphatase activity. Also described are methods whereby the compositions are used to identify cancer therapeutics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Cetus Oncology Corporation
    Inventors: Francis P. McCormick, Kirston E. Koths, Robert F. Halenbeck, Mary M. Trahey
  • Patent number: 5495620
    Abstract: A ballistic panel carrier vest with front and rear ballistic panel carrying pockets and a trauma plate pocket has front, rear and side portions, as well as epaulets, breast pockets with flap closures and buttoned placket front opening that look like the same elements of an underlying shirt so that the fact of wearing the vest is concealed. The vest is made from a shirt of the type over which it will be worn by cutting off the collar and sleeves, and either cutting the shirt tail off at the waist or folding it under. Loose edges of epaulets, breast pocket flaps and placket are sewn down.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventors: Richard W. Schoenweiss, Cheryl K. Allen
  • Patent number: 5495621
    Abstract: A body armor vest is anchored at the waist of a wearer by providing an elastic lower garment, preferably in the form of a legged brief type undergarment, that snugly fits the lower torso of the wearer. The lower garment anchors the vest in place by attaching along a strip across the front and back of the vest at the waist. The lower garment distributes an elastic force that horizontally and vertically returns the vest, when pulled out of position by the movement of the wearer, to its intended position, with the waist level thereof centered at the front and back of the wearer's waist. Detachable fasteners are provided to allow the easy putting on, adjustment and removal of the vest and lower garment combination. With the legged brief version of the lower garment, the fasteners preferably include strips of hook and loop material sets at the front and back of the waist on the vest shell and lower garment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventor: Rick E. Kibbee
  • Patent number: 5495622
    Abstract: Disclosed is an all weather runner's hat, the design of which promotes airflow around the head and hair of a person while, at the same time, deflecting rain which comprises a generally hemispherical shell, a brim which is attached at an angle of about 15.degree. from horizontal and varies in width around the circumference, a number of vents positioned in the crown for ventilation, and a means of attaching the headband with spacers to create a novel air gap to allow air flow around the head and hair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventor: Harold C. Kaufman
  • Patent number: 5495623
    Abstract: A sports pad for substantially covering certain exposed areas of an eyewear frame to prevent facial cutting from the hard, rigid eyewear frame. The sports pad is preferably formed of a resilient, flexible elastomeric material. The sports pad is removably coupled to the eyewear frame by stretching the sports pad relative the eyewear frame. Preferably, the sports pad includes a pair of temple cushions and a nose cushion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Halo Sports and Safety, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter F. Leonardi
  • Patent number: 5495624
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for conserving the volume of water consumed during the flushing of waste deposited in the bowl of a toilet. A secondary water reservoir is mounted externally on the primary water reservoir of a conventional toilet. The primary water reservoir holds a first body of water whose volume is greater than a second body of water held by the secondary water reservoir. The first body of water may be discharged from the primary water reservoir directly into the bowl. Alternatively, the second body of water may be discharged from said second water reservoir into a water feed member which is mounted externally on the rim of the bowl and which directs said second body of water into said bowl along its perimeter in a slight downwardly direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventors: Ira M. Lisook, Edward Lombardi
  • Patent number: 5495625
    Abstract: An attachment for rinsing the genital area of an individual. The device includes a water supply assembly couplable to hot and cold water supply lines and positionable in adjacency relative to a toilet. A nozzle conduit in fluid communication with the water supply assembly extends through an aperture in the toilet bowl to direct water onto the genital area of a user. The water supply assembly includes a pair of valves for hot and cold water. Each of the valves having a body with a hollow portion which receives respective toilet seat mounting bolts on opposing sides of the toilet bowl, and a handle extending from the valve body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventor: Thayard A. McGuire
  • Patent number: 5495626
    Abstract: A vacuum sewer toilet system comprises a toilet compartment, a toilet bowl installed in the toilet compartment, a vacuum sewer, at least one electrically operated device for initiating an emptying and rinsing operation of the toilet bowl, and electrical components for controlling supply of operating current to the electrically operated device. The electrical components are incorporated in a control unit that is sealed against humidity and is protected against unauthorized human access. The control unit is mounted in the toilet compartment at a location that is spaced from the toilet bowl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Evac AB
    Inventors: Gunnar Lindroos, Paul Wallstro/ m
  • Patent number: 5495627
    Abstract: A combination adjustable jet valve for use in a spa, tub or the like, having a valve body and nozzle assembly which can be easily manipulated to adjust the water jet flow, aeration of the water jet and direction of the discharging water jet. A flush mounted control grip on the spa valve body can be rotated to vary the water jet from off to full flow positions. The valve nozzle can be pulled to an on position, allowing the valves venturi effect to draw air into the water flow and aerate the discharging water jet. Alternatively, the nozzle can be pushed into the off position such that air is no longer drawn into the water flow and the discharging water jet is no longer aerated. The nozzle is mounted into a ball socket type arrangement within the valve, allowing directional adjustment of the discharging water jet. Also disclosed is an embodiment where both the water and air are controlled through manipulation of the spa valve nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventors: Gregg Leaverton, Steve Rork
  • Patent number: 5495628
    Abstract: A shower curtain which is slidable in relation to a suspension rod, and yet the lower portion thereof is selectively raisable for cleaning operations in and about the bathtub, as well as for other reasons such as for example aesthetic reasons. The selectively raisable shower curtain is composed of a flexible sheet of shower curtain material to which is affixed a plurality of rows of releasable fastener components. Each row is provided with a plurality of releasable fastener components, a predetermined spacing therebetween being provided. Accordingly, the shower curtain material may be raised to selected levels by being progressively folded horizontally and corresponding first and second components of the releasable fastener will hold the shower curtain in the at each raised level until the releasable fastener is released by a user. A shower curtain liner having the selectively raisable lower portion feature may be included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventor: Kim Logan
  • Patent number: 5495629
    Abstract: The support grid for a lying, reclining or sitting furniture, particularly for a bed, according to the present invention comprises a plurality of support elements (1), e.g., laths, and at least two spring bodies (2), the latter being positioned transversely to the laths, the laths rest on the spring bodies and are fastened thereto. The laths have in cross-section a curved support under surface and are so fixed to the spring bodies that they can be pivoted to a limited extent with respect to the spring bodies about an axis running parallel to the longitudinal lath axis. As a result of this pivoting possibility each lath is given a further degree of freedom making it possible for it to adapt further to the shape of a body resting on the lath grid than is possible through the elasticity of the spring body. This increases the lying of sitting comfort of the support grid according to the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Studio Hu/ sler AG
    Inventor: Balthasar Hu/ sler
  • Patent number: 5495630
    Abstract: A dart tool useful in tournament darts and other games using thrown darts. This unitary dart tool efficiently combines many useful elements and functions, including: extracting a broken dart tip from a dart target by providing, on a thin nub, a tapered slot for grabbing such broken dart; adjusting a dart assembly having a flight shaft, a barrel, and a dart tip; tightening or loosening a threaded connection between a dart tip and a dart barrel by providing a slot for holding the opposed flat portions of a dart tip; tightening or loosening a threaded connection between a flight shaft and a dart barrel by providing a protuberance, which comprises part of the described slot, for holding the hole in the flight shaft; loosening a flight lock of the dart by providing a safe recessed wedge therefor; tightening a flight lock by providing a cylindrical hole therefor; and also permitting keychain attachment and bottle-opening, and providing advertising areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventors: Kevin M. Estein, Michael F. Nauroth
  • Patent number: 5495631
    Abstract: A module for constructing a modular bridge suitable for use in both a dry span and a floating role comprising a buoyant structure having interconnection apparatus for connecting the module end to end to an adjacent similar module to form a bridge and having one or more link members which are releasably securable to the underside of the bridge module by link securing apparatus. Each link is provided at one end with a double limb connection member and at the other with a complementary single limb connection member, both provided with holes for insertion of a pin to connect two links from adjacent bridge modules together. The releasably securable link members are removed from a bridge assembled for a floating role to reduce redundant weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: The Secretary of State for Defence in Her Britannic Majesty's Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
    Inventors: Richard C. Connor, Keith J. Mitchell
  • Patent number: 5495632
    Abstract: An elongated hand held scrubbing device has a pair of motor-driven rotary hubs, onto which a variety of easily replaceable cleaning heads can be temporarily mounted. Different types and styles of cleaning heads can be used based on the type of scrubbing, buffing, wiping or cleaning required. The elongated device has a pivot making it easier to scrub hard to reach locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventor: Rhonda Baker
  • Patent number: 5495633
    Abstract: This describes a portable non-pressurized anti-static device for eliminating static cling on clothes on which static electricity has built up. An absorbent material impregnated with an anti-static solution is supported by a frame. A cover, when in place, prevents the anti-static solution from being rubbed off or otherwise removed from the absorbent material until it is ready to be used. When static cling occurs, the wearer removes the cover and rubs the impregnated material against the area of the clothes affected, thereby removing the static electricity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventor: Kandi L. Speer
  • Patent number: 5495634
    Abstract: The invention is directed toward a vacuum sweeper roller brush having an integrally formed stiffener bar. The roller brush includes a plurality of brush tufts which fixedly reside in recesses. The brush tufts and stiffener bars are arranged helically on the exterior of a generally cylindrical roller member. The stiffener bars support the brush tufts to provide improved sweeping performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Bruns Brush Inc. (Ohio Corporation)
    Inventors: Rudolph F. Brundula, William P. Brundula
  • Patent number: 5495635
    Abstract: A paint trimming device is provided for applying paint to a first surface closely adjacent to an adjoining surface. The device comprises a base having opposing faces and a body portion extending between the faces, a a handle projecting outwardly from one face and having extension capability (such as being connectable to an extension pole), a paint pad having a peripheral edge and being secured to the base upon the other face, and a spacer which extends outwardly from the body portion and has its outermost points defining a closed linear boundary whose perpendicular projection, in a plane in which the paint pad lies, completely surrounds and is spaced from the peripheral edge of the paint pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventor: Thomas A. Williams
  • Patent number: 5495636
    Abstract: Vacuum cleaner is provided with independently operating on/off switches on the handle and the motor housing. A vacuum cleaner comprises a motor housing (2), which accommodates a suction motor (10) and a control unit (12) for controlling the suction motor (10), a hose 4, which can be coupled to the motor housing (2) and has a handle 8, a command switch (14) on the handle (8), for supplying a first on/standby command signal to the control unit (12), and a main switch (16) on the motor housing (2) for supplying a second on/standby command signal to the control unit (12). The command switch (14) and the main switch (16) operate independently of one another. As a result, the suction motor (10) can be switched on and off both at the handle (8) and at the motor (2) regardless of the position of the main switch (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: U.S. Philips Corporation
    Inventors: Jan H. Dekker, Bert P. Bultena
  • Patent number: 5495637
    Abstract: The description relates to a windshield wiper system of a motor vehicle including a wider arm with an articulated member and wiper rod. The articulated member and the wiper rod have a curvature along their length substantially parallel to the windshield surface adjacent a lower edge of the windshield and a rear edge of the hood, resulting in a minimized overall height and providing for a minimized gap between the rear edge of the hood and the windshield surface adjacent the lower edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: SWF Auto-Electric GmbH
    Inventor: Bruno Egner-Walter
  • Patent number: 5495638
    Abstract: A sweeping unit for a sweeping machine to clean a floor area, has a driven pair of closed loop sweeping belts for engaging the floor, the driven sweeping belts including a first portion fixed in position relative to a mounting platform and a second movable portion. First rollers constrain the first portions of the driven sweeping belts relative to the mounting platform, and second guide rollers, which are movable relative to the mounting platform, constrain the second portions of the belts, respectively. The width of the floor area that is swept when the sweeping machine moves in a working direction, is variable as the second guide rollers are moved manually or automatically. The sweeping unit may be combined with a scrubber device having similar width adjustment features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventor: Kurt Zachhuber
  • Patent number: 5495639
    Abstract: A door closing apparatus for closing a hinged door in which a door closer is attached to a spring unit which in turn is mounted on the door frame by a bracket. The spring unit has a torsion spring within a housing which rotates on the bracket. One end of the spring is affixed to the housing and the other end of the spring is held from rotating by a ratchet type mechanism. The ratchet mechanism may be rotated to adjust the spring. The door closer is capable of adjustment by rotating the closer cylinder. In order to rotate the cylinder, it must be disconnected from the door. A stop on the bracket engages an abutment on the housing to prevent the closer from snapping back when it is disconnected from the door. The stop and abutment are also of assistance when adjusting the tension of the spring on the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventor: George Wartian
  • Patent number: 5495640
    Abstract: A sectional door (20) having a plurality of panels (21, 22, 23, 24) including, a body portion (25) of the panels spacing and joining longitudinal edges (40, 50), one of the edges (40) between adjacent panels on a first panel having a substantially concave curvilinear surface (45) in vertical cross-section, the other of the edges (50) between adjacent panels on a second panel having a substantially planar surface (52) in vertical cross-section, longitudinally-spaced hinges (65) interconnecting the first and second panels for pivotal movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Wayne-Dalton Corp.
    Inventors: Willis J. Mullet, Albert W. Mitchell, Thomas B. Bennett, III
  • Patent number: 5495641
    Abstract: A method of turning typical doorknobs and other knobs without having to grasp the knob enables persons with hand debilities to open doors. The method involves installation of a knob cover which is round and made of a resilient material which can be slipped over the knob without tools, and will snugly remain around the knob. Multiple levers protrude from the knob cover, so that pushing any of the levers will cause the knob to be turned. Each lever is substantially U-shaped with a rounded apex, to avoid discomfort which might be caused by pointed levers. Furthermore, each lever is made of a resilient, soft material to facilitate movement of the levers by sensitive hands. Each lever extends from the cover a sufficient distance to allow a closed fist to engage and push the lever, while each lever is short enough to avoid contact with a door jam or adjacent wall when the knob cover is installed on a doorknob.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventors: Patrick E. Going, William R. Youmans
  • Patent number: 5495642
    Abstract: A method of detaching fiber tufts from an upper surface of fiber bales by a detaching device. Each fiber bale has, prior to performing a detaching operation thereon, a height portion defining an upper zone in which a fiber density increases downwardly; a height portion defining a lower zone in which the fiber density decreases downwardly; and a height portion defining a middle zone in which the fiber density is at a maximum, constant value as viewed vertically. The method includes the steps of propelling the detaching device at a travelling speed above the fiber bales in forward and return passes; detaching fiber tufts from the upper bale surface during the passes; periodically displacing the detaching device with a vertical feed as the bales are consumed; advancing the removed fiber tufts to a fiber tuft advancing device; and varying the travelling speed as a function of the decreasing actual height of the fiber bales.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Tru/ tzschler GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Hans Tru/ tzschler
  • Patent number: 5495643
    Abstract: A camless lap nipping mechanism for use in a comber is disclosed. A nipper frame (3) is provided above a combing cylinder (1). A cushion plate (4) is mounted on a distal end of the nipper frame (3). The cushion plate (4) nips a lap (Lp) in cooperation with a nipper member (7). Two stationary pivots (14,15) are provided, one above and one below the nipper frame (3). A four-node link mechanism, having two movable pivots (20,21) with a following lever (19) located therebetween, is provided between the stationary pivots (14,15). The front portion of the nipper frame (3) is pivotably linked to the following lever (19). A nipper shaft (11), and the four-node link mechanism (17,18,19) cooperate in rocking the nipper frame (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Hara Shokki Seisakusho
    Inventor: Mutsuhiko Katori
  • Patent number: 5495644
    Abstract: A combination ornamental and gripping device (30), designed especially to allow a novel and improved method for securely holding a flat object (10) such as a gift card or the like to a gift package (20) while providing ornamentation for the gift package (20). The gripping device (30) is preferably a single piece of molded or extruded resilient plastic material and is essentially U-shaped with two side members (32 and 34) that are of similar size and shape and that are essentially planar. The outside face of the ornamental side member (32) typically has a multi-colored design and/or message bonded to it as an ornamental member (46), or integrally molded with it, or printed on it. The outside face of the attaching side member (34) has applied to it an adhesive layer (38) with a peelable, protective liner (40), and is used to attach the gripping device (30) to the gift package (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventors: James A. Mesher, Ofra R. Haviv-Levy
  • Patent number: 5495645
    Abstract: This is an object of the present invention to provide a tying method and member which has strong tying force and restrains itself from vertically shifting on a bag once the neck portion of the bag is tied up therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Max Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Seiichi Suzuki, Yutaka Kamura
  • Patent number: 5495646
    Abstract: A seat belt comfort clamp provides a vehicle occupant protection from injury and enhanced comfort and convenience and includes a clamp assembly having first and second arms and a pivot member. The pivot member defines an axis extending substantially parallel to the seat belt and pivotally couples the first and second arms together. The first arm pivots between an open position and a closed or clamping position. A spring member biases the first arm from its open position to its clamping position. The first and second arms engage opposite sides of the seat belt and secure the seat belt in a comfortable position when the first arm is in its closed position. The second arm includes a guide member for slidably and adjustably coupling the comfort clamp to the seat belt when the first arm is in its open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Edward D. Schrutchfield
    Inventors: Edward D. Scrutchfield, Drake L. Koch
  • Patent number: 5495647
    Abstract: Apparatus for longitudinal compressive treatment of a continuous web of material. The apparatus comprises a cylindrical drive roll for advancing the web, a smooth-surfaced primary member to press the web against the drive roll, and a generally-stationary retarder downstream of the primary member to engage and retard the web before the web has left the drive roll. The retarder surface has a large multiplicity of parallel ridges and grooves set on a diagonal, and effective to cause longitudinal compression of the web and to cause the web to flow at an angle to the original direction of drive. The retarder surface also has a reorienting retarding surface, effective after the web advances incrementally at the angle, to effect further compression and to reorient the travel of the web to be generally parallel to the original direction of drive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Richard C. Walton
    Inventors: Richard R. Walton, George E. Munchbach, Richard C. Walton
  • Patent number: 5495648
    Abstract: A snap-in, recessed insert removably attaches to a casket lid, and a dish removably attaches to the recessed insert, to facilitate the display of different decorative interiors for the casket lid. The recessed insert has a shape which spans the interior of the casket lid and conforms substantially in depth to the inside of the casket lid. The insert snap connects to an internal flange of the casket lid for accurate and repeatable mounting to the lid, without requiring tools. The insert also includes internal structure for retaining a dish inside thereof, including a center depression formed therein for positively seating the middle of the dish to the insert and the casket lid. This recessed insert minimizes the cost and complexity associated with dish changeover and assures accuracy in mounting a dish to the casket lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Batesville Casket Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Ilija Rojdev, Will Schebler
  • Patent number: 5495649
    Abstract: In a process for separating overlapping sheet metal panels, which are welded together by a series of spot-welds, the portion of each spot-weld in one of the panels is removed by drilling or milling after which pressure is applied by means of a tool, driven by a pneumatic hammer device, to the remaining portion of the spot-weld in the other panel forcing the other panel away from the one panel and separating of the panels without substantial damage to the panels. Alternatively, a hole saw may be used to separate the spot-weld from the one panel before pressure is applied to the spot-weld to separate the panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventor: James A. Long
  • Patent number: 5495650
    Abstract: The tubular support for installing a contractable elastic sleeve comprises a rigid tube covered on its outside by a film having a low coefficient of friction. It also includes guide and drive means for the film which is mounted so as to be completely free relative to the tube, which means guide and drive the film around a front end and against the inside surface of the tube. The support is applicable to installing a elastic sleeve on a cylindrical element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Euromold
    Inventors: Denis Crepel, Jozef Cardinaels
  • Patent number: 5495651
    Abstract: A hand held tool for the removal of vacuum hoses includes a removable grasping handle portion. An elongated slender shaft portion has a free end connected to the removable handle portion and a working end. A sharp edged, tapered, U-shaped slot is disposed on the working end of the elongated slender shaft portion. The working end has a taper for working the tool behind a hose which has its end pressed against a flush wall. A double fulcrum is provided to give a large mechanical advantage during early part of the pry to break a rubber hose free and then a smaller mechanical advantage during a later part of the pry to remove the hose more rapidly. Sharp edged, non-chamfered edges increase the surface contact area of the end of a hose and has a removable grasping handle. The sharp edged U-shaped slot for surrounds a significant portion of an exposed end of a hose so as to apply shear-type removal stress as near as possible to a frictionally resistive tube inserted in the hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventor: Kurtis K. Tsuha
  • Patent number: 5495652
    Abstract: For serving as an insertion mechanism M1, a pressure member 12 is supported in a vertically swingable manner through swing arms 51 to tip ends of vertically swingable push arms 13, and the pressure member 12 is adapted to push a corner piece in an inclining nose-up position. For serving as a caulking mechanism M2, an opening angle of a tip end caulking claw 40 of a caulking plate 15 is made larger than the right angle. For serving as an insertion/caulking device, a drive force transmitting mechanism M3 is installed, which actuates the insertion mechanism M1 interlocking with a former period stroke of one hydraulic cylinder 26 and actuates the caulking mechanism M2 interlocking with its latter period stroke. Thereby, an assembly accuracy and a work efficiency can be improved when assembling the corner piece. Further, the insertion mechanism and the caulking mechanism can be operated in sequence according to a work stroke by one stretching operation of one drive actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Nawaseikiseisakusho Corporation
    Inventors: Masatoshi Kitamura, Eitarou Sakurai