Patents Issued in February 29, 2000
  • Patent number: 6029387
    Abstract: A fishing accessory is provided for temporarily parking a fishing implement having a pointed end, for cutting tackle from fishing line, and for cutting fishing line. The fishing accessory includes a generally planar base and a support structure affixed atop the base. At least a portion of the support structure's bottom surface is supported in spaced relation from the base top surface to form a notch therebetween. A perforable material is affixed atop the support structure and is adapted to park a pointed end of a fishing implement thereupon. A cutter is affixed to the support structure, so that at least a portion of its cutting surface is exposed within the notch, for cutting fishing line thereagainst.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: G. Michael Swor
  • Patent number: 6029388
    Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to provide a lure (A) which does not require batteries to be changed, and a lure (B) wherein the changing of batteries has been simplified. Lure (A) is structured in such a manner that a solar battery (10) housed within a fish-shaped case (1) serves to charge a secondary battery (11), thus rendering it unnecessary to change batteries. Meanwhile, lure (B) is structured in such a manner that a lid unit (23) holding a battery (24) and a light-emitting body (25) can be inserted into and released from an aperture within a fish-shaped case (21), it being possible to remove the battery (24) when the lid unit (23) is released, thus permitting the easy changing of batteries without the need for exaggerated action and without any risk of injuring the fingers on hooks (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Seiji Yokogawa, Isamu Kawata, Junichi Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 6029389
    Abstract: A fishing rod handle is gripped in the palm of a hand with the third, fourth and fifth phalange being wrapped around an outwardly diverging part of a handle and with the second phalange being located alongside those phalanges. The thumb extends along the handle such that the rod can be cast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventors: John Reginald Newton, David Stocker
  • Patent number: 6029390
    Abstract: A fishing lure and method for producing the lure having a body formed from a metal from the group of titanium, niobium, tantalum, vanadium, zirconium and hafnium. The metal is colored by thermal oxidation or anodizing and formed into a desired body shape, such as a blade, spoon, or spinner. The hook and filament for attaching the hook to the lure body are formed of the same metal which the body is formed from.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: Mark Kaminsky
  • Patent number: 6029391
    Abstract: A hands-free fishing system is provided including at least one fishing unit. Each fishing unit includes a float and a string having a first end connected to the float adjacent to one of a pair of ends thereof. A weight is mounted to a second end of the string. At least one hook is coupled between the first end and second end of the string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventors: Randal Holley, Lisa Holley
  • Patent number: 6029392
    Abstract: A trap for an animal having an elongate hollow body defining an elongate cavity, a closure at each end of the cavity, wherein the closures are adapted to permit entry by an animal to the cavity and to close behind the animal to prevent rearwards egress of the animal from the cavity, and an obturator which is able to move from end to end within the cavity and to restrict access by the animal to the closure remote from the point of entry of the animal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: David H. Relf
  • Patent number: 6029393
    Abstract: A rodent trap comprised of two members movable relative to one another such that the enclosure has an open position for permitting access into the interior of the enclosure by a rodent and a closed position for retaining the rodent. The relative movement is imposed by a biasing device, selectively positionable for rendering the trap operable in a rodent suffocating mode for killing an entrapped rodent or in a non-suffocating mode for releasing the entrapped rodent. Movement is activated by a biased triggering device which detects the pressure of the rodent. The rodent traps include locking members permitting two or more traps to be selectively and removably engageable with each other in a side-to-side configuration, a back-to-back configuration, or a combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: Ronald J. Stewart
  • Patent number: 6029394
    Abstract: A mushroom spawn-supplement comprising a mixture of: (a) at least one proteinaceous ingredient in an amount to provide at least 3.5% nitrogen on a dry weight basis; (b) 2 to 30 wt % based on dry weight of paper pellets (c) 5 to 60 wt % based on dry weight of at least one particulate material, (d) a buffer in an amount effective to provide a pH of about 6 to 7.8, and (e) water; and colonized with Agaricus bisporus mycelium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Vlasic Farms, Inc.
    Inventors: David L. Kananen, Randy Funchion, Dena Lapolt, Jack A. McDaniel
  • Patent number: 6029395
    Abstract: Biodegradable mulch mat comprising an air and water-permeable, light-impermeable, open celled, composite of granules and fibers in a binder matrix prepared from a foam precursor. Biodegradable fibers include cellulosic fibers such as shredded wood, straw, paper, corn stalks, cotton fiber and mosses; protein fibers such as hair; and synthetic polymer fibers such as vinyl polymer fibers and polyamide fibers. Granules include milled hard vegetation such as corn cob, nut shells, seed hulls, seeds, gourds and bark. The mulch mats can also comprise pigments, fungicides, soil builders such as vermiculite, perlite, sand, diatomaceous earth and gypsum; nutrients such as nitrate, potassium and phosphorus compounds; soil conditioners such as limestone, sulfur and iron sulfate. Useful binders include polysaccharides, glycosides, vegetable gums, vinyl polymers, waxes and crosslinkable oils. Useful surfactants include saponins, e.g. extract of Yucca shidigera, and amine surfactants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: Albert W. Morgan
  • Patent number: 6029396
    Abstract: A device for supporting plant pots on a floor surface so as to permit evaporation of moisture from therefrom and which is easily manually adjustable to fit plant pots of varying size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: Robert Gillingham
  • Patent number: 6029397
    Abstract: A stabilized natural turf surface particularly suitable for athletic fields includes a mat interposed between upper and lower layers of growth media, the mat having a woven biodegradable backing and upwardly extending artificial fibers secured thereto, wherein the fibers extend well above the top of the upper layer. Natural grass plants grow in the upper layer, with the crowns being located in the upper layer of growth media and the roots extending down through the backing and into the lower layer. The mat helps to stabilize root growth, particularly during the first few years. The biodegradability of the backing results in its eventual decomposition, so that after a predetermined time the turf surface may be aerated all the way down to the lower layer without adversely affecting the mat and the mat can be top dressed beginning immediately after turf growth occurs. The biodegradability also prevents the creation of an agronomic barrier between the upper and lower layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Technology Licensing Corp.
    Inventors: Joseph E. Motz, Mark A. Heinlein
  • Patent number: 6029398
    Abstract: An integrated plant device is illustrated and described that has a multiplicity of compartments for storing plant propagating equipment, for storing gardening tools, and for storing plant flats. The compartmentalized plant device assembles into a transportable storage chest on wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: Michael B. Sporer
  • Patent number: 6029399
    Abstract: Vertically stackable benches and pallets for holding three inch and four inch diameter planting pots, wherein the benches can be entirely formed from wire. Each of the benches has a center portion formed from a planar shaped wire grid. Support members on opposite ends of the wire grid allow the benches to be stacked on top of one another while maintaining an airspace therebetween. Each support member has an upper bent tip extending upwardly from the surface of the grid, and a lower legs that form a downwardly opening slot opening, the legs extending below the undersurface of the grid. The bent tips of a first bench interlock into the slot in the legs of a second bench that is stacked on top of the first bench. Airspaces between each of the stacked pallets allows for seedlings in the pots to grow regardless of whether the pots are arranged in every grid opening or in staggered grid openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: Wayne A. Mercer
  • Patent number: 6029400
    Abstract: A method for providing a decorative cover for a floral grouping wherein the decorative cover is provided with a design indicia bearing portion which extends above the remainder of the decorative cover and thereby enhances the visual aesthetic effect of the decorative cover. The decorative cover is formed from a sheet of material having a design indicia and an opening extending therethrough wherein the opening is offset from a central portion of the sheet of material in a direction generally away from the indicia bearing portion of the sheet of material. A lower portion of a stem end of a floral grouping is inserted through the opening in the sheet of material and the sheet of material is wrapped about the floral grouping to provide a decorative cover having a design indicia bearing portion which extends above the remainder of the decorative cover and thereby enhances the visual aesthetic effect of the decorative cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Southpac Trust International, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald E. Weder
  • Patent number: 6029401
    Abstract: A mounting assembly for mounting a panel, such as a shutter, adjacent and in parallel, spaced relation to a window set into a window frame that has first and second opposing walls includes a biased mount and a fixed mount attached to the panel in opposing relation to one another. The biased mount has a body fixedly attached to a surface of the panel at about an edge thereof. A reciprocating biasing assembly is carried by the body and includes a shaft operably connected to the body by a biasing element. The shaft has a first engaging element mounted to an end thereof that is movable away from and toward a selected one of the first and second walls of the window frame. The biasing assembly biases the engaging element toward the selected wall. The fixed mount has a body fixedly attached to the surface of the panel in opposing, spaced relation to the biased mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: Donald H. Gale
  • Patent number: 6029402
    Abstract: A door structure includes a frame defining glazing channels in which a glazing panel is mounted, and a plurality of hinge lugs which project outwardly from a major planar surface of the frame, with each of the lugs including an aperture for receiving a vertically arranged pivot pin and each of the lugs having a thickness which is less than a horizontal dimension of the lug which passes through the aperture. The door structure includes an extremely compact hinge which provides an aesthetically desirable appearance in which the structural support for the door is visually minimized. Also, there is a door structure including a frame having confronting glazing channels which define a vertical glazing plane which is oblique to a vertical plane defined by the frame, and a glazing panel secured within the glazing channels with the glazing panel being located in a vertical plane which is oblique to the vertical plane defined by the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: Brian J. Carney, Jonathan B. Hadley
  • Patent number: 6029403
    Abstract: A method for mounting a carrier for a window-lifter mechanism in a shell of a vehicle door, the window lifter including at least one rail for guiding the window and the shell having an opening through which the carrier is introduced as well as, at its top, a well for the passage of the window; a) the rail is secured to its carrier with a mutual separation (d1) which is greater than the normal separation in the service position of the window lifter; b) the upper end of the rail is introduced into the shell; c) the upper end of the rail is made to enter the window well by raising the carrier and the window lifter; d) the lower end of the rail is passed over the lower rim of the opening; e) the carrier is pressed against a sealing border around the opening by lowering the assembly back down so that the lower end of the rail positions itself in the shell below the lower rim; f) and the rail is moved from its position of separation (d1) from the carrier into its normal service position (d2) by bringing it closer t
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Meritor Light Vehicle Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Carlo Bertolini, Thierry Pebre, Laurent Arquevaux
  • Patent number: 6029404
    Abstract: An inflatable structure which includes a plurality of interconnected vertical and horizontal inflatable seamed baffled support members forming a frame structure for the inflatable structure with continuous canvas panels extending over all exterior surfaces of the inflatable structure including the structure's floor and further including a sealable door which is sealed by the use of magnets which not only seal the door but also act as a tripping device for an alarm which is electrically connected to the magnets on the door and further wherein the alarm system is tripped by variations of air pressure on the interior of the interior of the sealed inflatable structure. The inflatable frame support member are all inflated by a single air valve located in an interior of the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: Edward F. Lewis
  • Patent number: 6029405
    Abstract: A barrier for inhibiting water from entering a structure. The barrier being coupled with the structure and movable between a collapsed orientation and an extended orientation overlying and encircling the structure for inhibiting water from entering the structure. A mechanism is included for moving the barrier between the collapsed orientation and the extended orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: Barbara A. Wood
  • Patent number: 6029406
    Abstract: The seating arrangement of the present invention comprises a series of hingedly connected rigid platforms with a series of folding seats affixed to selected platforms. Beneath each series of folding seats are a series of hingedly connected folding panels connected to front and rear support frames. When collapsing the seating arrangement for storage, the seats are folded to their closed position and the folding panels fold inwardly, pulling the front and rear frames towards each other. The folding panels may be simultaneously folded by utilizing a member connecting one or more of these folding panels. Additionally, means may be provided for facilitating the collapsing of the seating arrangement from its use position to its compact, folded configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Volunteers for Medical Engineering
    Inventor: John H. Staehlin
  • Patent number: 6029407
    Abstract: An apparatus for holding a metal stud during wall construction comprises a frame including a pair of spaced-apart longitudinal members generally parallel to each other, a first cross member extending between the longitudinal members, a second cross member located at an intermediate position between the longitudinal members, and at least one stud magnet magnetically engageable with a metal stud. A base member adapted to engage a stud track is connected to the frame. The frame is disposable relative to the base member to position the metal stud substantially orthogonal to the stud track. The longitudinal members and the first cross member can comprise a unitary U-shaped member. The base member can be comprised of a pair of spaced-apart arms pivotably connected to the second cross member. The base member can further comprise a third arm pivotably connected to the pair of arms which pivots between a storage position and a working position. A method for erecting a metal wall partition is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: S&S Interiors, Inc.
    Inventor: Samuel L. Schillero, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6029408
    Abstract: The present invention is a prefabricated step and stairway system, where the prefabricated step is preferably a precast concrete step having an elongate body substantially triangular in cross-section having a first side as a tread, a second side as a riser adjacent the first side, and a third side, and the step further has a first and second end which preferably include an attachment member to attach the step between a pair of stringers. The attachment member is preferably integrated metal plates proximate to the first end and second end to facilitate attachment between a pair of stringers, and preferably includes one or more reinforcing members attached to the metal plates and integrated throughout the length of the body to strengthen the step. The prefabricated steps are rigidly secured either to intermediate runners between a pair of stringers, upon a brace, or directly to stringers to form a stairway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Cavaness Investment Corporation
    Inventor: Joseph A. Cavaness
  • Patent number: 6029409
    Abstract: Embodiments of a door and doorway shield system are shown and described, each including at least one hook for hanging or gripping onto a portion of the door or the doorway. The shield preferably hangs on the door by a J-shaped hook portion that extends substantially along the entire top edge of the shield. The shield includes a protective portion which extends across the space between a door and a doorway and across the trim molding of the doorway to substantially cover, or hook on, the front trim molding of the doorway. In embodiments which hook on the trim molding, the trim hook holds the shield in place to provide resistance to impacts pushing the shield off of the door. A J-shaped hook portion may also be provided on the bottom of the shield, to allow for connection to the bottom of the door or for turning the shield up-side-down for use both left-hinged and right-hinged doors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: Roger D. Wilson
  • Patent number: 6029410
    Abstract: A door guard for protecting a door assembly including a door frame and moldings positioned about a door. Guide channels are provided on the base of the door guard for receiving tightening straps to secure the door guard to the door assembly. Raised ridges are provided on the outer side panels of the door guard to receive the tightening straps and communicate tightening pressure to the door guard. A raised block is provided on an inside surface of the door guard to maintain separation of the moldings in response to the tightening pressure. A pad is provided on an outside surface of the door guard to cushion the end of the door assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Tenneco Packaging Inc.
    Inventors: John K. Westberg, II, Richard Sweeney, Bernie P. Kimball
  • Patent number: 6029411
    Abstract: A swing door is described having a door frame, hinge assembly, transparent panels supported by the door frame and a glazing strip surrounding the panel edges. The door frame is formed from pultruded rail elements wherein each rail element is defined by a rail profile including a channel for accepting the panel and forming seal with the glazing strip. The channel has a base defined by a first wall in the profile and the profile further includes second, third and fourth continuous walls having outside surfaces and defining with the first wall and enclosure adjacent to channel for receiving the hinge assembly and wherein the outside surfaces are substantially free of projections from their surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Anthony, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard J. Richardson
  • Patent number: 6029412
    Abstract: An interlocking intumescent collar is disclosed. The collar may be fitted around a pipe at the point where the pipe penetrates a wall or floor. The collar comprises a strip of intumescent material disposed on a collar body. Anchor tabs extend outward from the collar body and are adapted to be fastened to the wall or floor. The collar includes an interlock integral with the anchor tabs. The interlock holds the tabs in overlapping relationship when the collar is placed around a pipe. The interlock integral with the anchor tabs decreases manufacturing costs and facilitates the field installation of the collar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: RectorSeal Corp.
    Inventor: Henry J. Gohlke
  • Patent number: 6029413
    Abstract: A support frame for a dropped ceiling includes a plurality of elongated primary rails disposed substantially parallel to one another, with a plurality of elongated secondary rails disposed parallel to one another and transversely between a pair of primary rails to form a grid system. A ceiling panel is positioned with its edges supported on a pair of primary and secondary rails to form the dropped ceiling. Each primary rail includes an elongated generally inverted U-shaped support member connected to an upper face thereof to support and suspend the primary rails. Each secondary rail includes an elongated ridge with projecting ends connected to the primary rail support member to support the secondary rail from the primary rail support members. An insert extends the length of the primary rail and has a lower edge slidably engaged in a slot in the primary rail upper face, to support the primary rail therefrom. The insert is journaled between the legs of the primary rail support member and secured with fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: Albert W. Compas, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6029414
    Abstract: A seismic fixture clamp enables light fixtures and the like to be securely affixed to the T-bars of a suspended ceiling system, thereby ensuring that the fixtures do not separate from the T-bars in the event of an earthquake generating seismic shocks to the suspended ceiling system. The seismic fixture clamp, although easily and quickly installed, adds structural strength to the overall T-bar framework to reduce or prevent twisting and separating of the T-bars, and includes support lips configured to securely affix light fixtures to the T-bars, thereby strengthening the suspended ceiling system against seismic shocks without requiring additional wires or chains to secure the fixtures directly to an overhead structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: Frank A. MacLeod
  • Patent number: 6029415
    Abstract: A composite interlocking vinyl or other veneer siding having an elongated insulating member bonded to a vinyl panel with a permanently flexible adhesive that is compatible with both vinyl and insulation material and does not harden. The insulating member is configured such that a front face of the insulating material exactly coincides with the profile of the front face of the vinyl member. The insulating member forms a shallow shelf at an upper edge of the insulating member and an adjacent insulating member forms another shelf to overlap the adjacent shallow shelf to form a shiplap seal when assembled. Horizontal and vertical edges of the vinyl siding and insulating member are configured to overlap when mounted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: ABCO, Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick M. Culpepper, Richard C. Wilson
  • Patent number: 6029416
    Abstract: In a system for jointing together of adjacent pieces of flooring material by means of grooves (3) and tongues (4), at least one of the opposing surfaces on the tongues (4) and the grooves (3) of the pieces display flocked surface portions (10-13). The flocked surface portions (10-13) extend along the tongues (4) and/or the grooves (3) and cover substantially their entire length. The fiber length (9) of the flocked surface portions (10-13) exceeds the difference between the width of the grooves (3) and the thickness of the tongues (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Golvabia AB
    Inventor: Kjell Andersson
  • Patent number: 6029417
    Abstract: An anchor rod for an attachment anchor including a trailing region (1) provided with a load application element (2), and an anchoring region (4) submergeable in a hardenable inorganic and/or organic mortar mass and having a mixing section formed of a head portion (5) provided at its free end (6) with a cutter (7) extending substantially transverse to the axis (A) of the anchor rod, a transporting section (10) adjoining the mixing section, and a compression section (13) adjoining the transporting section (10), with the head portion (5) having a region (53), the outer diameter (c) of which is larger than the largest diameter (d) of the transporting and compression sections (10,13) of the anchoring region (4), and provided with a mortar mass transporting arrangement (9).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Erich Leibhard, Wolfgang Ludwig
  • Patent number: 6029418
    Abstract: For mounting a structural panel to a wall, a wire clip is provided having a bail portion formed in an annular shape for insertion of a fastener element and fastening into an anchor member of the wall, and an arm portion extending from the bail portion having a linear shape for insertion into the inner core of the panel at an exposed lateral edge. The bail portion is offset from the arm portion both in a lateral direction and in a thickness direction of the panel so as to position the bail portion toward the wall anchor member when the arm portion is inserted into the inner core of the panel. The invention also includes the related method for mounting a structural panel to a wall using the wire clip device. In the preferred method, the panel is of the type having outer metal face sheets adhesively bonded to an inner plastic corrugated core formed with undulating corrugation spaces into which the arm portions of the wire clips are inserted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: John T. Wright
  • Patent number: 6029419
    Abstract: With a structural laminated wood (L.V.L) made up by laminating and bonding a plurality of wood laminas, the wood laminas are respectively formed in an approximate L-shape or U-shape in one plane, and the structural laminated wood is formed in an approximate L-shape or U-shape having two side portions of predetermined lengths approximately at right angles to each other. Moreover, with a construction member for a framework structure for buildings, where the construction member uses the structural laminated wood, one side portion of the structural laminated wood is made at least a part of a vertical construction member, and the other side portion is made at least a part of a transverse construction member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: Kazuyoshi Kimura
  • Patent number: 6029420
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a round baler for agricultural crop material having a press chamber for pressing the crop material and a wrapping device for wrapping the fully pressed round bales of crop material, wherein the wrapping material is secured on a web roll. The web roll is provided with a brake rod acting on the outside diameter of the bale. The essential characteristics of the invention are that a brake rod is affixed to one lever arm of a two-armed pivot lever and the effective linkage point of a plurality of tension springs is positioned the other lever arm. The linkage point's position is automatically variable relation to a stationary pivot point of the pivot lever as a function of the respective diameter of the web roll.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Usines Claas France
    Inventors: Werner Tertilt, Dirk Esken
  • Patent number: 6029421
    Abstract: A method of carrying out quality control of a packaging container or packaging container blank comprises providing a package or blank having one or more poles (12) for interconnection with electric quality control equipment (24). The packaged product (20) will be directly or indirectly electrically accessible, whereby both the quality of the packed product and the tightness of the surrounding packaging container (1) may be determined in a rational and partly automated manner. This is of particular importance in the production of aseptic packaging containers for, for instance, ready-made, heat-treated soups or similar foods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance S. A.
    Inventors: Paul Mellbin, Paolo Benedetti
  • Patent number: 6029422
    Abstract: A method of preventing or reducing the incidence of staphylococci and other infections as a result of surgical or medical treatment procedures is implemented by inserting into or attaching to each sterile package containing a tool, implement, or implantable for use in such a procedure at least one impregnable swab containing a solution of H.sub.2 O.sub.2 packaged in a separate sterile pack, for use by the surgeon, therapist, or assistant in wiping down the tool, implement, or implantable, as the case may be, before use to maintain the sterility thereof in such procedure. The solution of H.sub.2 O.sub.2 is in a concentration of about 3% by volume. A plurality of separate sterile packs may be inserted in or attached to the sterile package, in which each of the sterile packs contains at least one swab impregnated with a solution of H.sub.2 O.sub.2 in such concentration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Sulzermedica USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Eckhard Alt
  • Patent number: 6029423
    Abstract: In order to improve a process for producing plastic packaging, particularly using plastic sheets, lateral sections (14) projecting beyond goods to be packaged being at least partly shrunk by heat supply, so that heat-sensitive goods also can be packaged in an economical and visually attractive way, it is proposed that the heat supply be interrupted as soon as the shrinking process starts in an area of plastic packaging subjected to heat, and that mechanical pressure be exerted on the heated areas of plastic immediately afterwards. An apparatus for carrying out the process for producing plastic packaging has an uptake area, a heat supply device and pressure members (15).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: FAS Converting Machinery AB
    Inventor: Willy Bartels
  • Patent number: 6029424
    Abstract: An apparatus for conveying, cleaning, drying, oiling, candling, grading and packing eggs and high speeds. A main conveyor assembly, which includes two or more conveyors, transfers eggs continuously in spaced-apart, aligned relationship to transfer at which eggs are packaged according to their previously-determined individual physical characteristics, such as weight, cracks, dirt, etc. The conveyors can run in the same direction, or may run in opposite directions. The transfers accommodate the at least two conveyors, and include a section which gathers ejected eggs and may convey them to a packing station in a manner which prevents egg collisions. The eject mechanism for ejecting eggs from the conveyors ensures proper distribution of the eggs across a transfer so as to prevent egg collisions and to ensure that the packers are filled equally across their widths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Diamond Automations, Inc.
    Inventors: John Christie McEvoy, James M. Nield, George Nelson Bliss
  • Patent number: 6029425
    Abstract: A bin loader package and method for shipping, storing and dispensing cut paper directly into the paper supply bin of a machine which uses the paper. The package includes a box enclosure having opposite side walls, opposite end walls, a top wall and a bottom wall, enclosing a stack of paper sheets to be used in the machine. The enclosure is defined by telescopically interengaged tubular members which form the side and end walls, the top wall, and the bottom wall. The entire package is placed in the paper supply bin of the machine, and one of the members is then moved horizontally away from the other member and the stack of paper, after which the other member is lifted vertically away from the stack of paper and out of the paper supply bin to expose the paper and deposit it directly from the package into the paper supply bin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Union Camp Corporation
    Inventor: George D. Dunn
  • Patent number: 6029426
    Abstract: A method and means of detecting the seals of a package is disclosed herein. The invention includes coloring the inner coating of a laminated material that is used to create a package on a form, fill and seal packaging machine. The invention also discloses coloring the longitudinal strip of the package. The coloring of the inner coating allows an operator to distinguish between an acceptable seal and a defective seal since a delamination, which is acceptable, may appear to be a defective seal without the inner coating coloring. The colored longitudinal strip also allows one to distinguish between a defective longitudinal seal and a delamination of the longitudinal strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance, SA
    Inventors: Benny Heide, B. A. Arnspong
  • Patent number: 6029427
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for receiving and transporting semiconductor chips. The chips are placed in pockets on a top surface of a first carrier. A similar carrier has an adhesive sheet placed on its top surface, and it is inverted and placed on the first carrier. A vacuum is pulled on orifices leading to the pockets. The vacuum pulls the flexible sheet into contact with the chips. The second carrier is then removed from the first carrier. Air pressure may be introduced to assist in the removal. A cover may be placed over the second carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Lucent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Michael Freund, George John Przybylek, Dennis Mark Romero
  • Patent number: 6029428
    Abstract: A convertible, vertical form, fill and seal packaging machine and method for making a variety of types and styles of bags and seals is disclosed. The machine produces durable, substantially air-tight bags at high speed and provides for the production of different size and make of bags and different amounts and types of product in the bags. The machine includes a film drive and pinch roll pair, a pair of film pull belts, and a pair of zipper driver rollers for pulling plastic film and zipper strip through the machine. The machine is convertible from one for producing reclosable edge fin seal bags to another for producing nonreclosable midline seal pillow type bags. The pinch seal assembly can be pulled out of the machine, indexed 90.degree., and pushed back into the machine. The film pull belts are part of a self-contained pull belt unit which can be adjusted or removed from the machine, inverted and placed back into the machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Pacmac, Inc.
    Inventors: Emanuele Terminella, Frank Terminella, Joseph Terminella
  • Patent number: 6029429
    Abstract: A header includes a substantially rigid header frame having a main longitudinal rear tube and a plurality of beams extending downwardly and forwardly from the main tube to a cutter bar which is maintained substantially straight and parallel to the main tube. Adjustment of the longitudinal shape of the cutter bar is effected after the header is assembled by operating screwjacks on two inner beams which cause plastic bending of the beams to raise or lower a center portion of the cutter bar so that when assembled the cutter bar is longitudinally straight or slightly upwardly concave. This adjustment after the assembly is complete allows the cutter bar to be adjusted to the required longitudinal shape for optimum cooperation with the reel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: MacDon Industries Ltd.
    Inventors: Thomas R. Fox, Francois Talbot
  • Patent number: 6029430
    Abstract: A self-propelled forager can accumulate dust, dirt or crop material particles in its maintenance and/or engine compartment. To avoid such accumulations, suction devices are provided in the engine and/or maintenance compartment which extract dust, dirt or crop material particles. The suction is provided by the post-accelerator which conveys the chopped crop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Claas Selbstfahrende Erntemaschinen GmbH
    Inventors: Heinrich Isfort, Karl Landwehr
  • Patent number: 6029431
    Abstract: A vehicle comprises a structure 10 including an elongate section 11 connected to chassis sections 12,13 at its ends. Each chassis section 12,13 carries two steerable drive wheels 18,20. Two engines 16 are provided, one carried by each chassis section 12, 13 to drive the wheels 18,20 of that chassis section 12,13. The vehicle can be driven transverse to or longitudinally of the elongate section 11. The elongate section 11 is offset in relation to the chassis sections 12,13. Each wheel 18,20 is mounted by an arm 22, each arm 22, being connected to each respective wheel 18,20 within the height of the wheel and at each side of the vehicle. On each chassis section 12,13 one arm 22 is connected to one side of its respective wheel 18,20 and the other arm 22 is connected to the other side of its respective wheel 18, 20. Each arm 22 is connected to two pivot points within the wheel 18,20 on the upright diametrical axis of the wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventors: David Dowler, David John Thomson, Lawrence G. Watts
  • Patent number: 6029432
    Abstract: Self propelled harvesting apparatus for processing plant material. The apparatus comprises a pair of cylindrical crushing rolls for crushing plant material and a rotor with radial fins operably associated with the rolls for impacting the crushed plant material. A hood is associated with the impact rotor for redirecting impacted plant material back to the rotor for reimpacting the plant material and to provide severely conditioned plant material. A press assembly presses the severely conditioned plant material and subsequently discharges a cohesive mat of compressed plant material from the harvesting apparatus onto the stubble in the field over which the apparatus is being operated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: New Holland North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy J. Kraus, Peter P. Haldeman, Kevin J. Shinners
  • Patent number: 6029433
    Abstract: A lawn mower roller brush mounting and drive for a reel type lawn mower. The brush extends along the length of the roller and is rotatable and in contact with the roller for removing grass and like debris from the roller. A belt drive of automatic adjustment arrangement extends between the reel and the brush for rotating the brush. A cover completely encloses the pulleys and belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Textron Inc.
    Inventors: Lynn G. Westbrook, Gregory J. Chesack
  • Patent number: 6029434
    Abstract: A round baler has a pickup header that is wider than the baling chamber and its inlet so that over-width windrows can be picked up by the machine in spite of its relatively narrower chamber. In order to reduce the width of the crop stream for introduction into the chamber, the machine is provided with a pair of laterally spaced apart, axially aligned, transverse stub augers that engage opposite outboard margins of the stream and converge them inwardly toward the main body of the flow. At the point where the outboard materials are discharged into the central body of the stream, a stuffer mechanism takes control of the stream and charges the materials up into the baling chamber. The augers are driven in such a direction that their front portions rotate down and under the auger shafts so that the outboard crop materials are likewise fed down and under the augers as they are converged toward the center.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Hay & Forage Industries
    Inventors: Howard J. Ratzlaff, J. Dale Anderson
  • Patent number: 6029435
    Abstract: To provide a threading apparatus that can thread yarn by feeding compressed air when the yearn is fed from a large diameter portion of a spindle member to a small diameter portion of the spindle member preceding the large diameter one. A spindle member is divided and a pipe including of a filter member is installed in the middle of the spindle, so that when compressed air is injected from the rear end of the spindle member having a large diameter toward its tip having a small diameter and preceding the rear end, a suction flow that sucks external air at the rear end is generated while excessive air is discharged to the exterior through the filter member, thereby maintaining a yarn feeding air flow in the center of the spindle member. Thus, the present invention can provide a threading apparatus that can feed compressed air to thread yarn from the rear end having a large diameter toward the preceding small diameter portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Murata Kikai Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Akira Okamoto
  • Patent number: 6029436
    Abstract: In the case of a rotor cup for an open-end spinning aggregate comprising a rough-surfaced fiber collecting groove and a smooth fiber sliding surface it is provided that hard particles are rolled into the fiber collecting groove. The fiber collecting groove is preferably provided with a soft nickel plating before the particles are rolled in, after which the nickel plating is then hardened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignees: Fritz Stahlecker, Hans Stahlecker
    Inventor: Gerd Stahlecker