Patents Issued in February 29, 2000
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Patent number: 6029537Abstract: This invention relates to a shift lever mechanism used in driving a simulative running machine. The shift lever mechanism has a first shaft extending along a first axis and a second shaft extending along a second axis orthogonal to the first axis. An operation lever is pivotable about the first axis and the second axis. The shift lever mechanism further includes a speed zone setter for variably setting a speed of the running machine among a plurality of speed zones including a neutral zone by shifting the operation lever, and a torsion spring for applying a biasing force to bias the operation lever toward the neutral zone. It is set such that the biasing force exerted by the torsion spring is transmitted to a pivotal movement of the operation lever about the first shaft and the second shaft.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Konami Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hirofumi Nagao
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Patent number: 6029538Abstract: A replaceable bearing cartridge assembly for use in a flywheel energy system and methods and apparatus for installing and removing the assembly are provided. The assembly includes a hollow bearing cartridge, an annular bearing, and an annular bearing retaining ring. The cartridge has an outer surface which is mounted at a port of a flywheel housing end plate. The annular bearing is mounted in the cartridge and held in place by the annular bearing retaining ring. The retaining ring acts as a backup bushing if the primary bearing fails.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 1997Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Active Power, Inc.Inventors: Scott R. Little, Joseph F. Pinkerton
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Patent number: 6029539Abstract: A twin flywheel (210) comprising first (211) and second (212) co-axially arranged flywheel masses which are mounted for limited angular rotation relative to each other. The flywheel masses (211, 212) are interconnected by at least one linkage arrangement (240), comprising a multi-link linkage (240) having two or more circumferentially spaced main links (242, 251) pivotally mounted on the second flywheel masses with the or each circumferentially adjacent pair of main links interconnect via a generally circumferentially extending connecting linkage, and an anchor link (242) which connects the multi-linkage (240) with the first flywheel mass. Relative rotation of the flywheel masses (211, 212) causes the multi-link linkage (240) to be pivoted relative to the second flywheel mass by the anchor link, so that when the twin mass flywheel is rotating, relative rotation of the flywheel masses (211, 212) is resisted by centripetal forces acting on the linkage arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Automotive Products, PLCInventor: Alastair John Young
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Patent number: 6029540Abstract: A flange portion formed on an inner periphery of a flywheel is facet-fitted to an end of a crankshaft. A spline piece is facet-fitted to an inner peripheral surface of the flywheel. The flange portion of the flywheel and a flange portion of the spline piece are commonly fastened to the end of the crankshaft by bolts. An upper end of a driving shaft is spline-fitted at a point into a driving shaft coupled portion of the spline piece which is accommodated in an internal hole in the crankshaft. Thus, in coaxially coupling the flywheel and the driving shaft to the end of the crankshaft, it is possible to make such a coupled area compact and to reduce vibration by an accurate centering thereof.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Masaki Tsunoda, Koji Koishikawa
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Patent number: 6029541Abstract: In a reciprocating machine having piston/cylinder units arranged in line, a cam member having diametrically opposed cams is fixed to a crankshaft with the cam member arranged in a central transverse plane. A balancing mass is in contact with the cam member by way of a cam roller. The cam roller is maintained in permanent contact with the cam member by a compression spring which is seated against the machine. The cams are identical and neutralize second order free inertial forces.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 1996Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Dr. Schrick GmbHInventors: Peter Schrick, Barna Hanula
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Patent number: 6029542Abstract: A power-split gear consists of a hydrostatic unit and of a mechanical gear unit which are accommodated in a common case with a cover. So that the components can be easily mounted and exchanged, a distributor shaft coupled to an engine is mounted in the case, a gearwheel for driving the hydrostatic unit and the mechanical gear unit being in each case arranged fixedly in terms of rotation on the distributor shaft, the hydrostatic unit is fastened to the inside of the cover, the cover has, on the inside, a fitting face which cooperates with at least one counterface of a bearing pedestal of the mechanical gear unit, fluid ducts provided in the cover opening out in the fitting face, and control elements connected to the fluid ducts are arranged on the outer face of the cover.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Steyr-Daimler-Puch AktiengesellschaftInventor: Gebhard Wontner
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Patent number: 6029543Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and a method of rotatively empowering a harmonic drive transmission. The steps of the method include arranging a primary and a secondary cup-shaped flexspline co-axially within a rotatable rigid circular spline, and forming pivotable fingers in the secondary flexspline, biasing radially outwardly the pivotable fingers so as to contact and bias radially outwardly the primary flexspline in a sequential manner. The array of teeth between the primary flexspline and the circular spline engage one another to effect relative rotation therebetween. An array of piezo-electric elements is arranged in contact with the secondary flexspline and an adjacent non-rotating component. An electric current is sequenced through the piezo-electric elements to effect a dimensional change therein, thus to effect the biasing of the primary flexspline by the secondary flexspline.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 1999Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Harmonic Drive TechnologiesInventors: Robert P. Lascelles, Carmine Gabriel Tortora, Erlendur Kristjansson, Oliver Barth
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Patent number: 6029544Abstract: A drill bit for cutting hard and abrasive materials has cutting lips formed from sintered polycrystalline diamond (PCD) or polycrystalline cubic boron nitride (PCBN) contained in one or more inserts installed in a drill bit blank. The inserts are made by forming depressions in the upper surface of a matrix slab of tungsten carbide, filling the depressions with fine mesh grains of diamonds or cubic born nitride, subjecting the slab to heat and pressure sufficient to fuse the grains to one another and to the surrounding matrix walls, and then cutting the matrix slab to remove individual inserts containing an elongated vein having an exposed PCD or PCBN surface supported by at least one and preferably two or more side walls of tungsten carbide. A rectangular slot having side walls parallel to one another and equidistant from the diameter of a cylindrical drill bit blank is cut into one transverse end wall of the blank, and one or more inserts placed in the slot.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 1996Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Inventor: Ichiro Katayama
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Patent number: 6029545Abstract: A roofing tool having a handle with an attached thin blade. The blade has a relatively short, tapered, front portion with a leading edge. The blade has a straight top surface with the back portion of the blade having a straight bottom surface parallel to the top surface and with the front portion having a straight bottom surface extending from the bottom surface of the back portion upwardly at a slight angle to the top surface to form the leading edge of the blade. The front section of the front portion can be slightly rolled up to locate the leading edge above the top surface of the blade. The blade can have slots extending rearwardly from the leading edge of the blade. The front portion of the blade is at least as long as the slots.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Inventor: William Harpell
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Patent number: 6029546Abstract: A reaction system for use in combination with a fluid-powered wrench tool in assembling or disassembling large size tube fittings of a variety including a fastener or nut which is threadably engagable with a port end of the fitting body. The system includes a reaction member attachable to the tool as extending along a central longitudinal axis disposed general parallel to the line of action of the cylinder assembly of the tool from a forward end face positionable in confrontation with the fastener to an opposite rearward end face. The system also includes an associated wrench member which is provided as having a rearward shank end mountable to the reaction member and a forward jaw end configured to receive the external surface of the fitting body in an engagement which delimits the rotation of the fitting body in a first direction about the axis of rotation of the fitting fastener.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Parker-Hannifin CorporationInventors: James D. Gibson, Richard J. Joye
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Patent number: 6029547Abstract: A socket tool has an elongated body with driving and driven inserts, respectively, embedded in the opposite ends thereof, the inserts being flush with or recessed inwardly from the ends of the body. The inserts may be knurled around all or a portion of the outer surfaces thereof. Metal or non-metallic annular reinforcing members encircle at least one of the inserts. In one embodiment the reinforcement is a non-metallic sleeve which encircles the body along its entire length, and which may have end flanges overlapping the ends of the body. In other embodiments the reinforcement is entirely embedded in the body and in contact with the inner end surface and/or the peripheral side surface of at least one insert. In one embodiment the reinforcement extends from the insert to the outer surface of the body.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Snap-ons Tools CompanyInventors: Daniel M. Eggert, Marco E. DeVecchis, Michael Q. Thompson, Stacy T. Spracklin, William T. Pagac, Robert C. Gibson
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Patent number: 6029548Abstract: An adjustment wrench includes a movable pawl device mounted in an oval head of a wrench body thereof, and an adjustment nut rotated to move the pawl device in and out of a work hole in the oval head so as to hold down or release the workpiece to be turned with the wrench, wherein the oval head of the wrench body has alternatively arranged flat wall portions and teeth within the work hole, the pawl device has a V-shaped chucking head with a V-shaped chuck face for acting with the flat wall portions and teeth on the inside of the oval head of the wrench body to hold down the workpiece to be turned, the V-shaped chucking head having both ends slidably supported on two opposite side walls of the oval head of the wrench body by spring-supported steel balls.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Inventor: Chih-Ching Hsieh
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Patent number: 6029549Abstract: A screwdriver has a handle having a storage area for storing bits used with the screwdriver. The storage area consists of races formed in the handle that securely hold the extra bits so that they do not rattle and can be seen without removing them from the handle. The screwdriver also has an adjustable or multi-position shank so that the length of the shank can be increased or decreased as desired.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 1997Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: David Baker, Inc.Inventor: David R. Baker
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Patent number: 6029550Abstract: A rear disc brake piston tool for use in combination with a drive ratchet to rotate a piston associated with a brake caliper is comprised of a cast metal cube with throughbores to receive the drive ratchet and projecting pins on each cube face to engage with piston cavities of various configuration.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: The Lisle CorporationInventor: Danny L. Williams
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Patent number: 6029551Abstract: A screwdriver is composed of a handle, a magnetic member, a shank, and an adjusting device. The handle is provided with an axial hole in which the magnetic member is disposed. The shank is pivotally disposed in the axial hole such that the shank is fastened at one end thereof with a blade, and that another end of the shank is capable of a mutual attraction with the magnetic member. The magnitude of the mutual attraction is adjusted by the adjusting device to determine a pre-set desired torsional moment. The handle and the shank are capable of turning relative to each other at the time when a torsional moment exerting on the screwdriver is greater than the pre-set desired torsional moment.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Inventor: Chin-Long Wu
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Patent number: 6029552Abstract: Inside-out cutter apparatus for cutting fiber tow into predetermined lengths including rotatable cylindrical member defining an axially extending passageway for receiving fiber tow therethrough and an outlet opening on periphery of cylindrical member through which fiber tow emerges onto work surface formed around periphery, work surface including at least one guide shoulder and a base surface bordering along length of guide shoulder with guide shoulder and base surface angled to position fiber tow on work surface at acute angle to axis of rotation and away from alignment with direct circumferential path leading from outlet opening, and an array of knives extending around work surface with cutting edges facing toward and spaced from work surface; and method of cutting fiber tow inside-out into predetermined lengths including steps of rotating circumferential work surface around an axis, feeding fiber tow within work surface through opening in periphery of work surface onto work surface, positioning fiber tow aType: GrantFiled: June 5, 1997Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Inventor: Lowell D. Harris
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Patent number: 6029553Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for providing a plurality of sequentially arranged edged contoured slats for use in a blind. A strip of material 10 is provided lengthwise into the slat making machine. It passes through a forming unit 6 where it is cambered, into an accumulator 8 where any excess is held, through a position encoder 12 and over a collision detector 14. Edge contours are then cut into the strip material if they are not already pre-provided. The positions of any edge contours are detected by a sensor 18 which provides relevant information to a CPU 40. On the basis of this information and other pre-provided information on the type of blind being made guide holes and notches and the ends of the slats are cut ensuring that the contouring and the guide holes and ends do not interfere with each other.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 1996Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Hunter Douglas International N.V.Inventors: Peter Berntsson, Peter Gawell
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Patent number: 6029554Abstract: An apparatus for trimming the edges of a fabric panel. The apparatus includes a holding fixture for holding the panel such that the edges to be trimmed hang freely in the holding fixture. A trimming apparatus is insertable into the holding fixture for trimming the edges of the panels together while the panels are held in the holding fixture. The trimming apparatus includes a frame having a movable slide and at least one trimming assembly attached to the slide. A fixture drive engages the holding fixture holding the edges of the panels to be trimmed and repositions the holding fixture prior to trimming the edges of the panel.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 1997Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Design Technology CorporationInventors: Jeffrey T. Boot, Matthew D. Bouche, James R. Mazur
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Patent number: 6029555Abstract: A machine for cutting flat bodies, wherein a fixed first table supports flat bodies to be cut into strips; a straight cutting line, located between an input station and an output station, being travelled by a rotary tool for cutting the flat bodies in a given cutting pattern; and a movable second table being connectable to the first table by connecting means, so as to be rotatable selectively about at least one vertical axis, and so as to slide parallel to the cutting line.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Selco SPAInventor: Valter Naldi
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Patent number: 6029556Abstract: A system for connecting a panel to a support comprises a mesh panel defined by at least one length portion and has a border connected to the length portion of the mesh panel. The border has a first end capable of being connected to a support and a second end adjustably connectable to an opposite support. A tensioning means is associated with the border second end for pulling the border in tension between the supports. The second end of the web is connectable to the tensioning means for tensioning the mesh panel material.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 1999Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Pacuda Inc. /Leading Edge Safety SystemsInventor: John Rexroad
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Patent number: 6029557Abstract: A physically economic apparatus which is insensitive to defects for feeding belted ammunition by means of starwheels is driven by a spring energy store which comprises a helical spring and a closed chain loop. The chain loop is formed by four sprocket wheels which are mounted in a housing and one of which is connected for drive purposes to the starwheel shaft. One end of the helical springs is supported on shoulders in the housing, and the other end is supported on pressure pieces which are fitted to the chain loop.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Steyr-Daimler-Puch AktiengesellschaftInventors: Gunter Sulm, Karl Brichta
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Patent number: 6029558Abstract: A counter-terrorism, reactive personnel protection system which detects the presence of a concussive shock wave or ballistic projectile as it approaches a designated personnel target. Before impact, an air bag is rapidly inflated and interposed between the destructive force and the target so as to provide a protective barrier. The air bag is constructed from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene material, and serves to halt or redirect the detected destructive force and thereby protect the designated target from attack.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 1997Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Southwest Research InstituteInventors: David J. Stevens, Kirk A. Marchand, Thomas J. Warnagiris
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Patent number: 6029559Abstract: The telescoping system includes a first fluid motor and a second fluid motor. The first fluid motor includes a first extension chamber and a first retraction chamber, and the second fluid motor includes a second extension chamber and a second retraction chamber. A hydraulic control system in the telescoping system controls the supply of hydraulic fluid to the first fluid motor and between the first fluid motor and the second fluid motor such that the first and second fluid motors operate independently.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Grove U.S. L.L.C.Inventors: Henry D. Barthalow, Claude R. Zimmerman
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Patent number: 6029560Abstract: A compact and inexpensive fluid pressure operated torque amplifier and a power steering system incorporating such torque amplifier to eliminate the need for a separate return fluid conduit. The power steering system (10) includes a fluid pressure operated torque amplifier (12), a reduction gear unit (16) disposed within a cavity (53) of a transmission casing (14), and a steering linkage (20) for wheels. The torque amplifier includes a control valve assembly (24) disposed in a housing (22), a torque amplifier unit (32), a high torque drive shaft (58) and an output shaft (54). The output shaft of the torque amplifier serves as an input member of the reduction gear unit. The torque amplifier also includes a pressurized fluid inlet (78) provided in the housing and a return fluid outlet (61) provided in the output shaft (54), both the inlet and outlet being in communication with the cavity of the transmission casing.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventor: Masayoshi Yamaguchi
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Patent number: 6029561Abstract: A fluid pressure cylinder (1) includes two cylinder end walls (6',6"), a cylinder tube (2) and a piston (3), which is axially movable inside the cylinder tube, wherein at least one of the cylinder end walls is provided with an outward housing portion (7;60) and, located therein, an inward insert portion (8;61) which comprises a portion of at least one fluid channel belonging to the cylinder. The cylinder is distinguished in that the housing portion axially contacts the cylinder tube under force transmission, and that the insert portion includes an integral valve seat (12,16,22") of a fluid valve which is located in said fluid channel.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 1997Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: AB Rexroth MecmanInventors: Peter Naslund, Bo G. Disbo
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Patent number: 6029562Abstract: A modular beverage brewing apparatus includes a frame having at least a first pair of inwardly directed flanges. A joiner plate is connected to the frame. The joiner plate and the pair of inwardly directed flanges define a first channel and a second channel therebetween so that the modular brewing apparatus is selectively engageable with a pair of inwardly directed flanges of a companion modular unit. An electrical connection is made between the modular beverage brewing apparatus and the companion modular unit. The electrical connection includes a first electrical power connection comprising an electrical output receptacle on the modular beverage brewing apparatus coupled to an electrical input receptacle on the companion modular unit for delivering electrical power from the modular brewing apparatus to the companion modular unit.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 1997Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignees: Kevin O'Donnell, Hamilton Beach & Proctor Silex, Inc.Inventor: Ivan Sintchak
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Patent number: 6029563Abstract: A cooking machine which has: a cooking vessel removably provided in a case cavity and having an open top; a rotary shaft extending through a bottom of the cooking vessel and having an upper end to be fitted with an agitator blade; a driving mechanism provided below the cooking vessel for rotatively driving the rotary shaft of the cooking vessel; a heater provided in the case cavity for adjusting an ambient temperature within the case cavity; and a steam generating mechanism for supplying steam into the cooking vessel. The cooking machine selectively performs a kneading process for kneading an ingredient put in the cooking vessel, a shaping/fermenting process for allowing an ingredient to expand to a predetermined level in the cooking vessel, a baking process for baking an ingredient, and a steaming process for steaming an ingredient in the cooking vessel.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 1999Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignees: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd., Sanyo Home Tech Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yoshiyuki Nakagawa, Shunji Shiono, Tatsuhisa Fukuda
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Patent number: 6029564Abstract: A combined baker and ice cream maker includes a base plate, a barrel-receiving container, and a bread baking unit and an ice cream making unit which are to be selectively received in the container. Each of the bread baking unit and the ice cream making unit has a bottom mounting portion. A heater is disposed inside the container. A barrel seat is mounted on the base plate for selectively seating the bread baking unit and the ice cream making unit thereon. A shaft extends through the base plate into the barrel seat. A driving unit is mounted on the base plate, and is connected to the shaft. A switch is mounted on the base plate, and is connected to the heater. A lever is pivotally mounted on the base plate and has opposite first and second ends. The first end extends to the switch, while the second end extends to the barrel seat.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 1999Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Inventor: Olivia Huang
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Patent number: 6029565Abstract: A grill which can be used to cook a variety of items with chicken being the preferred item. The grill has a rotating cooking surface in the shape of a wheel and the items to be cooked are placed around the circumference of the wheel. The heat source is positioned along the axis of the wheel and there is a grease shield positioned to catch grease drippings from food items on the wheel. In addition a supply of barbecue sauce is positioned adjacent the lowest portion of the wheel so the food items to be cooked will pass through the sauce as the wheel rotates.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Inventor: Howard D. Plymale
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Patent number: 6029566Abstract: An apparatus for improved heat circulation and containment when smoking or grilling using electric, gas, or charcoal as the heat source. The base design enhances heat containment, and offers a channel design in the bottom of the base pan. The strategically placed openings and legs add additional ventilation for improved air circulation.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Inventor: John C McLemore
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Patent number: 6029567Abstract: The present invention concerns an article for releasing smoke in conjunction with preparation of smoked food, the article comprising an outer shell (1) having at least one hole (2) made thereto, and a material (3) with heat-reacting and smoke-generating properties (3) placed inside the outer shell. According to the invention the article incorporates a heat-generating material (4) placed in the immediate vicinity of the smoke-releasing material (3) for heating the smoke-releasing material.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 1997Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Tapani Tirkkonen OyInventor: Tapani Tirkkonen
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Patent number: 6029568Abstract: A juice extractor is provided that includes an induction motor supported by a housing and having a rotatable shaft that is operably interconnected with comminuting basket adapted to pulverize food products, e.g., fruit and/or vegetables, into juice bearing pulp. The comminuting basket extracts the juice from the pulp and ejects the juiceless pulp. A servo-control mechanism is arranged in electrical and controlling cooperation with the induction motor, and is responsive to the rate of rotation of the shaft for maintaining the shaft at a substantially constant rate of rotation when the induction motor is in a power-on state and the comminuting basket is comminuting the food products. A bowl is positioned in substantially surrounding relation to the comminuting basket so as to (i) collect the juice and (ii) direct the juice to an exit opening in the bowel.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 1999Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: L'Equip, Inc.Inventors: James Pascotti, B. S. Kim
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Patent number: 6029569Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for the removal of solid contaminants which utilizes at least one rotating mesh screen container designed to pass the food therethrough while trapping the solid contaminant. The rotation of the cylindrically-shaped mesh screen causes the food to pass through because of the centrifugal force. The addition of a second mesh or membrane-like placed around the first screen but rotated in the opposite direction is also utilized to trap solid contaminants which are large enough to be trapped by the mesh screen when it is not oriented so as to pass through the screens along its length. Different spacings in mesh and different rotation velocities are utilized to change contaminant screen characteristics.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 1999Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Inventor: Scott Packer
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Patent number: 6029570Abstract: Press jacket for a press device that drains a material web in a press nip having a press nip length. The press jacket includes blind holes for water absorption that open to a jacket surface of the press jacket and channels extending at least sectionally in a web run direction being coupled to the blind holes. The channels have a length in the web run direction greater than a length of the press nip.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Voith Sulzer Papiermaschinen GmbHInventor: Uwe Matuschczyk
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Patent number: 6029571Abstract: Dampening-unit roller for a dampening unit of a printing machine includes a roller body having an outer cylindrical surface, and a coating on the outer cylindrical surface, the coating including or consisting of an oxide of zirconium and/or an oxide of yttrium.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 1996Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignees: Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG, Coatec Gesellschaft fuer Oberflaechenveredelung mbHInventors: Gerhard Johner, Stefan Hasenzahl, Jurgen Kern
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Patent number: 6029572Abstract: Method of controlling a printing device of a printing press wherein substrates to be printed are conveyed on a conveying path to the printing device, the conveyed substrates being detected by a sensor disposed along the conveying path, upstream of the printing device, as viewed in a conveying direction of the substrate, includes starting a printing operation whenever a leading edge of a respective substrate is detected, and stopping a printing operation whenever a trailing edge of the substrate is detected.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 1996Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Inventor: Anton Rodi
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Patent number: 6029573Abstract: The disclosed multifunctional inking station comprises a plate cylinder (2), a textured cylinder (3) and means for supplying a determined quantity of ink to the textured cylinder (3). The means for supplying a determined quantity of ink to the textured cylinder (3) comprises at least two chambered doctor blade units (4,5), placed facing one another on either side of the textured cylinder (3). The textured cylinder (3) in use is always the same whatever kind of printing work to be performed may be. Use of one or the other of said chambered doctor blade units (4,5) can be selected in accordance with the kind of printing work to be performed without having to replace the textured cylinder (3).Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Bobst, S.A.Inventor: Bernard Capdeboscq
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Patent number: 6029574Abstract: The present invention is directed to preventing image damage caused by pressure applied to print media during a folding process, by using pressure and abrasion resistant inks only on those sections of print media that are subjected to pressures that would otherwise damage the images printed on those sections. Images on other sections of the print media are printed using less expensive or general purpose inks.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AGInventor: John Sheridan Richards
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Patent number: 6029575Abstract: A device for cleaning a cylinder in a printing press, having a cleaner engageable and disengageable with the cylinder, the cleaner being disposed in a housing formed with an opening, includes a device for closing the opening of the housing, the closing device being actuatable for moving the housing relative to a covering so as to bring the opening of the housing into alignment with the covering.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AGInventor: Mathias Bischer
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Patent number: 6029576Abstract: A method for controlling the formation of an image on a printing form carrier for a printing machine, wherein image signals serving to generate a printing form are taken from a storage memory of a computer and fed to an imaging device, includes storing, in one region of the storage memory, image data for reproducing a subject to be evaluated after printing; storing, in another region, image data for reproducing a multiplicity of digital print control elements for use in printing machines in a printing plant; assigning a job for a selected printing machine and making a selection of image data for digital print control elements with which the job is optimally monitorable on the machine for performing the assigned job; and combining the image data for the selected print control elements with the image data for reproducing the subject in a further region in the storage memory, with the aid of the computer, to produce an image data set for forming an image on the printing form carrier.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 1996Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AGInventors: Gerhard Fischer, Roland Pudimat
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Patent number: 6029577Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to provide a dampening volume control apparatus capable of shortening a period of time for adjusting a desired value of characteristics. A switch SW1 is a switch for switching the apparatus either in an automatic control mode or a manual control mode. A dampening volume of the dampening solution being stored in a manual dampening volume storing means 21 is varied by adjusting a switch SW21 and/or a switch 22. Revolution speed of a motor 25 is controlled by a controller 23 in accordance with the dampening volume thus varied. The switch SW1 is turned to the automatic control mode when the operator judges that quality of printing done on the printed papers is qualified to the criteria. The revolution speed of the motor 25 is controlled so as to make the dampening volume on the plate surface coincide with the volume corresponding to the desired value during the automatic control condition.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Ryobi Ltd.Inventors: Shigeki Fukuoka, Tetsuya Nakai
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Patent number: 6029578Abstract: A method and a device for starting a machine, in particular, a printing press, using a sensor or sensor field which emits a start signal during the approach of a part of the body of a machine operator. According to the method, the machine is automatically started if the start signal appears twice consecutively and if the following additional conditions, automatically checked by a machine controller, are met: No start signal is present within a first predefined time period following the instant of the first appearance of the start signal in a predefined time interval, and the start signal reappears within a second predefined time period following the first predefined time period. The device includes a proximity- or touch-sensitive operating surface, which has a first partial surface having the function of a machine starter and second partial surface, which blocks the function of the first partial surface for a predefined period of time in response to proximity or contact.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AGInventors: Stefan Weil, Michael Pritschow, Manfred Gaeng
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Patent number: 6029579Abstract: The guide system, for a guided road vehicle, having a front directional assembly formed of two pivoting guide arms (2) and (3) which are coupled as well as vertically constrained, each equipped with an inclined guide wheel (12, 13) engaging at least one guide rail on the ground (16). At the rear, a follower-limiter module (47) designed to limit lateral clearance by the axle to a maximum value, in the form of a device following the guide rail, is pivotably attached to the axle (8) and laterally displaceable to a limited extent. The front directional unit and the follower-limiter module (47) are laterally connected to either side of the axle through a lateral temporary immobilizing device (43, 44) which controls change of position.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Lohr IndustrieInventors: Jean-Luc Andre, Martin Koerber
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Patent number: 6029580Abstract: A computer user station includes a support member. A monitor and a keyboard are supported on a first surface of the support member. A computer chassis is mounted in a frame. The frame includes a mounting portion attached for mounting the computer chassis to a second surface of the support member in a suspended position. A security portion of the frame secures the frame to the computer chassis. The security portion also functions as a back support for a back surface of the computer chassis which is cradled in the frame in a tilted-back position.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Dell USA, L.P.Inventors: Pedro Alfonso, Bryan Byle
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Patent number: 6029581Abstract: A pivotable work table for use with an electrical junction box is disclosed. The work table has a table member which is pivotally movable between a retracted position within the junction box and an extended position in which the table is oriented perpendicular to the box. The table member is hingedly connected to one or more retention pins which extend from the table member and slidably engage one or more respective bosses attached to the junction box. Coil springs coaxially disposed around the retention pins provide biasing forces which draw the table member toward the bosses and maintain the table member in either the retracted or extended positions.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Lucent Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Bassel H. Daoud
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Patent number: 6029582Abstract: The present invention is a force resisting corrugated assembly, and can be constructed into a pallet or dunnage support made from corrugated paperboard that minimizes adverse environmental impact, occupies little space before it is configured, and effectively saves production, storage and transportation costs. The present corrugated paperboard assembly can be shipped and stored as either one or more die-cut and scored corrugated paperboard pieces, thereby eliminating excess volume, with the pieces being readily interconnectable to form a complete pallet or dunnage support assembly. Preferably, the paperboard of the present invention further has a low moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR), excellent glueability and recyclability. The present invention incorporates a lower and upper frame member foldably constructed from corrugated paperboard blanks. Each frame member has ribs having locking slots.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 1999Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Inventors: Morgan O. Ogilvie, Jr., Paul M. Whatley, Michael W. Olvey
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Patent number: 6029583Abstract: A pallet comprising a lower member and an upper member. The lower member includes a base, a plurality of protrusions extending upwardly from the base, and a plurality of holding fingers extending laterally from the protrusions. The upper member is configured for attachment to the lower member. The upper member includes a deck and a plurality of legs extending down from the deck. Each leg has at least one side wall and a notch in the side wall engageable with one of the laterally extending holding fingers of the lower member. The legs are sized and configured to space the deck of the upper member above the base of the lower member when the upper member is attached to the lower member to define tine-receiving channels between the deck and base for receiving the tines of a fork-lift truck.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 1996Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Allibert-Contico, L.L.C.Inventor: Stephane F. LeTrudet
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Patent number: 6029584Abstract: A furniture assembly is made up of a base member, an intermediate member, an upper member and several flexible connectors which join the base, intermediate and upper member. The base can have a central opening provided therein having a continuous inner surface and the intermediate member can have a continuous outer surface which corresponds to the continuous inner surface of the base. The flexible connectors pass through openings provided in the intermediate member and fixes the relative positions of the base member, upper member and intermediate member by resilient forces.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: The Board of Trustees of Western Michigan UniversityInventors: Steven Cochrane, Roman Rabiej, Dmitry Azrikan
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Patent number: 6029585Abstract: A lift mechanism is provided with a lower bracket to be attached to a base, a lower support arm and a lower drive arm each pivoted at one end thereof to the lower bracket, an intermediate bracket for pivotally supporting free ends of the two arms at respective positions at equal distances from the pivoted positions of the arms on the lower bracket with the arms in parallel to each other, a lift control apparatus disposed on the intermediate bracket and having a movable member retractably projectable in a direction parallel to the base, an upper support arm and an upper drive arm pivoted each at one end thereof to the intermediate bracket at respective positions symmetric with the pivoted positions of the lower support and drive arms with respect to the lift control apparatus, an upper bracket for pivotally supporting the other ends of the upper support arm and the upper drive arm, and a pair of traction members attached each at one end thereof to an outer end of the movable member of the lift control apparatuType: GrantFiled: September 30, 1997Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Osaka Taiyu Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yoshikazu Tabayashi
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Patent number: 6029586Abstract: A desk, table or workstation having a worktop member is provided with an incremental height adjustment system comprising at least one height adjustable leg having an upper leg part fixed to the worktop member, a lower leg part and one or more removable intermediate leg parts. The or each leg is disposed adjacent to a rear or side edge of the desk, table or workstation with the worktop member supported in a cantilever arrangement from the leg or legs. A vertically extending cable duct is attached to the lower leg part and for a desk, table or workstation having a plurality of legs, a cable tray is provided extending horizontally between adjacent legs. A hinged duct cover is also provided to cover the duct and cable tray.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 1997Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Schiavello Commercial Interiors (Vic) Pty LtdInventor: Antonino Schiavello