Patents Issued in March 27, 2001
  • Patent number: 6205983
    Abstract: A fuel injector for a spark-ignition, internal combustion engine includes a fuel injector body having inlet and discharge ends. The discharge end includes a fuel swirl disk for inwardly directing a plurality of fuel streams to provide a turbulent swirling stream of fuel directed axially outwardly. A valve regulates the outward axial flow of the turbulent swirling fuel stream. A mixing chamber having an air supply provides a flow of assist air and a discharge passageway. The mixing chamber receives the turbulent swirling fuel stream which is atomized as it enters the mixing chamber and the atomized fuel mixed with the assist air is directed outwardly through a discharge passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Siemens Automotive Corporation
    Inventor: Lisa Johnenne Egizi
  • Patent number: 6205984
    Abstract: A fuel treatment device, comprises a housing defining a fuel flow passage, the housing having a fuel inlet and a fuel outlet which communicate with the fuel flow passage, and the fuel inlet and the fuel outlet each having a fuel line connector, and a catalyst located in the fuel flow passage, the catalyst comprising a bismuth alloy. The catalyst comprises an elongate element of cruciform cross-section extending longitudinally of the fuel flow passage and the elongate element comprises a pair of elongate components formed with a slot extending longitudinally thereof to allow longitudinal interengagement of the elongate components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: Regis E. Renard
  • Patent number: 6205985
    Abstract: The object of the present invention is to provide a catalyst, by which it is possible to decrease both black smoke content and NOx content in exhaust gas. The present invention provides a catalyst, which is placed between a fossil fuel tank and a combustion chamber of engine, and the catalyst comprises clay, cerium and thorium as main components, ceramic catalyst produced from the main components by reduction sintering and used for decomposing fossil fuel by catalytic cracking, a platinum catalyst or a catalyst containing platinum, and a magnet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Japan Environmental System Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Niro Funagayama
  • Patent number: 6205986
    Abstract: A V-type engine has front (first) and rear (second) cylinders being offset to sides opposite from each other. The front (first) and rear (second) carburetors are mounted in alignment with the centers of the front and rear cylinders, respectively. The body of the front carburetor and the body of the rear carburetor are coupled to each other by linkage plates arranged in parallel with the line that joins the center of the front carburetor and that of the rear carburetor. The throttle shaft of the front carburetor and the throttle shaft of the rear carburetor are laid out perpendicular to the linkage plates and coupled to each other by means of a coupling linkage which is in parallel with the linkage plates. A throttle cable is connected to the throttle shaft of the front carburetor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Suzuki Motor Corporation
    Inventors: Tetsuo Nojima, Yuji Sonoda
  • Patent number: 6205987
    Abstract: A small-sized boat of the present invention includes a plurality of diaphragm type carburetors corresponding to each cylinder of a multicylinder engine. A crankshaft axis extends along a line extending through a bow and a stern of a hull. The carburetors include a plurality of shafts for throttle valves extending vertically in correspondence thereto, one throttle link connected to upper parts of the shafts for the throttle valves, and a plurality of diaphragm mechanisms having operating surfaces perpendicular to the crankshaft axis. By linking a plurality of the carburetors together to form an assembly of the carburetors, an overall size of carburetors is made small. Therefore, each carburetor can be mounted in a small engine room in correspondence to each cylinder of the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hideo Shigedomi, Hiroshi Funai, Yasushi Fujita
  • Patent number: 6205988
    Abstract: A method for controlling spark energy from a spark plug of a combustion engine. The method includes determining a spark energy intensity based on at least one engine operating condition, determining a period of time to supply current to an ignition coil connected to the spark plug to achieve the determined spark energy intensity from the spark plug as a function of a voltage supplied from a power supply to the ignition coil, and connecting the power supply to the ignition coil for the determined period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Teledyne Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Jabe R. Luttrelll, David Thibodeau, Stephen Santoro
  • Patent number: 6205989
    Abstract: A control device for an air-fuel ratio sensor for detecting, from an oxygen concentration detecting device, a current corresponding to a concentration of oxygen contained in a gas by applying a voltage to the oxygen concentration detecting device. The control device detects an alternating impedance of the oxygen concentration detecting device corresponding to each frequency by applying alternating voltages of a plurality of frequencies to the oxygen concentration detecting device and analyzing each of the alternating impedances detected by the impedance detecting means so as to calculate a parameter indicating a change in the characteristic of the oxygen concentration detecting device, and thereby achieve control of the air-fuel ratio sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Keiichiro Aoki
  • Patent number: 6205990
    Abstract: A dry fire prevention safety mechanism for crossbows having a trigger mechanism which releases a bowstring to discharge an arrow. A spring-loaded catch arm is pivotally connected to the crossbow and has a hook at one end and a ramp portion at the opposite end which extends into an arrow seating well. When an arrow is positioned to be discharged, the ramp portion is abutted by the arrow which disengages the hook from the trigger and enables operation of the crossbow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: Daniel K. Adkins
  • Patent number: 6205991
    Abstract: A bowstring release includes a release body having a pair of jaws actuated by an adjustable trigger; and a wrist strap operatively connected to the release body by an elongated link threadably connected at one end to the release body and at an opposite end to the wrist strap. A connector extends between the link and the wrist strap, and is pivotally mounted to the wrist strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventors: Gregory E. Summers, Randy V. Summers, Marc T. Rentz
  • Patent number: 6205992
    Abstract: An adjustable archery bow stand to support a bow in a vertical position, allowing an effective support system on all types of terrain, including uneven ground; the disclosed invention has at least two legs that extend out from the front of a bow and independently adjust to keep the bow in a vertical position; in one embodiment, the legs are radially mounted to swivels that independently rotate about an axis directed out from the bow; in other embodiments the legs are adjustable in all azimuths, either by forming the legs' upper portions of a bendable material, or by multiple mechanical joints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventors: Randy Meeks, Bob Holzer
  • Patent number: 6205993
    Abstract: A method for fabricating elongate structural members from a unitary blank of crystalline material is provided. The blank has a predetermined length, width, and depth. A first substantially planar cut is made in the blank, the cut extending substantially along the entire length of the blank and substantially less than the entire width of the blank. At east one additional cut is made in the blank, the at least one additional cut extending in the same plane as the first cut, to cut the blank into two pieces. The step of making at least one additional cut can include making a plurality of additional cuts, in one embodiment at least three additional cuts. The cuts can be made using a rotary saw with a blade having diamond-coated cutting surfaces. The saw can be operated with the blade rotating at between 50 rpm and 50,000 rpm, preferably at approximately 4,000 rpm. The blank of crystalline material can be provided as a unitary blank of silicon material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Integrated Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Raanan Zehavi, Robert Davis
  • Patent number: 6205994
    Abstract: A scribing machine adapter plate is configured to receive and couple a hoop assembly to a chuck on a scribing machine. The adapter plate includes an upper surface and an inner annular vacuum groove and an outer annular vacuum groove formed in the upper surface. A third vacuum groove extends radially between, and communicates with, the inner and outer grooves. The outer vacuum groove includes a vacuum inlet hole that extends from the groove through the adapter plate to provide communication between a vacuum channel in the chuck and the vacuum grooves in the plate. The polymer film of the hoop assembly is disposed on the upper surface to seal the vacuum grooves to hold the film in place during scribing of materials placed on the film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Lucent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Michael Freund, George John Przybylek, Dennis Mark Romero, Raymond Frank Gruszka
  • Patent number: 6205995
    Abstract: A portable cooking apparatus for allowing the user to conveniently cook any types of foods anywhere including outdoors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: Joseph A. Odenwald
  • Patent number: 6205996
    Abstract: A barbecue grill includes a fire grate to allow cooking by radiant heat only, having no holes large enough for convection flow. The grate is one piece of heat resistant steel for economy, and to vaporize grease. Peripheral flanges catch grease drips. The flanges direct convection of hot gases along the housing inside surface to vaporize grease. A small hole is for visual confirmation of flame ignition. The grate has ridges and valleys to distribute heat evenly and to radiate heat to the food from several directions. A divider wall separates the grate into two heat zones. Used with one burner of a dual-burner grill, the wall confines the hot gases and radiant energy to half of the grate to conserve fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: John Patrick Ryan
  • Patent number: 6205997
    Abstract: An oven rack has a notch along its periphery. Flat items placed on the rack traversing the notch can be easily removed from the oven without having to first slide the rack from the oven.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: Robert J. Bartley
  • Patent number: 6205998
    Abstract: A gap between absorber and reflector of a solar concentrator. A gap is required in a solar concentrator for thermal isolation reasons and the position of the receiver relative to reflector and a notch are optimized for best solar collection efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Solar Enterprises International, LLC
    Inventor: Roland Winston
  • Patent number: 6205999
    Abstract: The invention provides exemplary aerosolization apparatus and methods for aerosolizing a substance. According to one exemplary method, a liquid is transferred from a first chamber into a second chamber having a substance that is in a dry state to form a solution. The solution is then transferred from the second chamber and onto an atomization member. The atomization member is operated to aerosolize the solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Aerogen, Inc.
    Inventors: Yehuda Ivri, Linda R. De Young, Cheng H. Wu, Miro S. Cater, Vijay Kumar, Markus Flierl
  • Patent number: 6206000
    Abstract: The invention is a special modified scuba diving apparatus intended for use by an animal, and more specifically the famous diving dog “Shadow.” The invention includes a helmet, a harness for supporting the helmet and a source of breathable gas, a special regulator providing a supply of breathable gas to the interior of the helmet, an exhaust for withdrawing exhaled air and residue water from the helmet without depressurizing the helmet, and a system of weights to compensate for the buoyancy of the user, and to counteract a net moment created about the center of buoyancy. The breathing system includes a muffler. An intercom system for providing voice instructions to Shadow can also be included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: Dwane L. Folsom
  • Patent number: 6206001
    Abstract: A respirator selection program contains a database and a non-standards based engine. The database includes at least a chemicals database, a health effects database, a standards database, and a respirator database. The chemicals database contains data on chemicals which may require the use of respirators. The chemicals database also contains pointers to the health effects database. The health effects database contains health effects resulting from exposure to the chemicals in the chemical database. The non-standards based engine, when executed, performs the steps of (a) accepting first and second chemicals which are entered by a user, (b) accepting corresponding first and second exposure amounts which are entered by the user, and (c) selecting a respirator based upon the chemicals database, the health effects database, the standards database, the respirator database, the first and second chemicals which are entered by the user, and the first and second exposure amounts which are entered by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Sharon R. Garber, Craig E. Colton, Larry L. Janssen
  • Patent number: 6206002
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device and method for recovering anaesthetic during the use of inhaled anaesthetics. An anaesthetic reflector (5) is used which absorbs anaesthetic medium from the gas exhaled by the patient and desorbs anaesthetic medium to the gas inhaled by the patient. According to the invention a moisture-heat exchanger (12) is arranged in the system which, in an equivalent manner, recovers water vapor from the gas exhaled to the gas inhaled. The moisture-heat exchanger (12) is preferably located between the anaesthetic reflector (5) and the patient (1). The device and the method according to the invention enable the gas inhaled to be moistened to prevent dehydration, as well as increasing the efficiency of the reflector (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Hudson RCI AB
    Inventor: Hans Lambert
  • Patent number: 6206003
    Abstract: A mask for transmitting gases to and from a patient or other user includes a valve which selectively blocks or enables the flow of gases through a port. In one embodiment, the state of the valve is automatically controlled in response to whether the mask is in contact with the patient. In another embodiment, the valve on the mask is manually controlled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: John M. Burch
  • Patent number: 6206004
    Abstract: A method for treating the heart and associated vessels and tissues, by controlling the temperature of the pericardial space and/or introducing therapeutic agents, drugs or the like thereto, includes providing a fluid, liquid(s), gas(es) or mixtures thereof, with or without therapeutic agents, drugs or the like, and heating and/or cooling, this fluid. At a time proximate to the heating and/or cooling of the fluid, the pericardial space is accessed by pericardiocentesis, such that the pericardium is punctured and the pericardial space is instrumentized at a location, and in particular, a location where treatment is desired. The heated and/or cooled fluid is then delivered to the pericardial space. At a time after delivery, the fluid is withdrawn from the pericardium, through either the same catheter, or through another catheter at different point along the pericardium, that was also instrumentized (catheterized) by standard pericardiocentesis procedures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Comedicus Incorporated
    Inventors: Cecil C. Schmidt, Robert A. Kloner
  • Patent number: 6206005
    Abstract: Birthwear is provided comprising a top (shirt) and a bottom (pants) wherein the bottom has a front cloth layer and back cloth layer and an inner (crouch) seam (inseam) having a plurality of releasably coupled elements (snaps) releasably attaching the front layer to the back layer. The top also preferably has a pocket on the front layer containing a hole for insertion of monitoring wires. The top preferably has an upper seam which runs along the shoulder and arms of the garment which has a plurality of coupling elements (snaps) for releasably coupling the upper end of a front layer of the shirt with a upper end of a back layer of the shirt. The shirt preferably also has a back seam which runs from the neck of the shirt to the waist of the shirt along the center of the back providing the back with two back portions which are releasably coupled with coupling elements (snaps) for permitting selective access to the back of the wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: V. Carolyn Keyes
  • Patent number: 6206006
    Abstract: Hand filling device for cigarette tubes, particularly for filter cigarette tubes, with a tobacco press chamber extending in the longitudinal direction thereof, which is formed by a casing (12) located in the base portion (14), a press head (16) provided on a lid (18) covering the casing (12) and hinged to the casing (12), an ejector slide (22) for ejecting a tobacco skein pressed in a tobacco chamber via an opening (24) provided in the casing (12) into a (filter) cigarette tube, of a clamp device (59), which holds the (filter) cigarette tube in a clamping manner on a socket (50) located at the outlet of the tobacco press chamber, and of a resiliently-engaging, snap-in or the like device (60) for detachable connection of casing (12) and lid (18).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: EFKA-Werke Fritz Kiehn GmbH
    Inventors: Gunter Schütze, Klaus Gätschmann
  • Patent number: 6206007
    Abstract: A cigarette with a dual-structure filter includes a dual-structure filter having a first filter element and a second filter element arranged downstream of the first filter element, a tobacco rod arranged upstream of the filter, and a tip paper covering a downstream end portion of the tobacco rod and a circumferential surface of the filter. At least one row of a plurality of holes are formed in the tip paper in a circumferential direction of the filter. An air-permeation resistance per unit length of the second filter element is at least twice that of the first filter element. An air inflow rate from the tip paper is at least 20%.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Japan Tobacco Inc.
    Inventors: Takaichi Yoshida, Hayato Hasebe, Kazuyo Kaneki, Shinichiro Tanaka
  • Patent number: 6206008
    Abstract: A non-smokable tobacco product comprises a rod-shaped element of cigarette tobacco with a filter element at one end and both enclosed by a tubular wrapper. The product is rendered unsmokable by a perforation extending through the wrapper of the tobacco or the filter element so that when air is drawn through the filter substantially all of the air enters through those perforations, there being insufficient air flow through the tip end to propagate normal cigarette combustion of the tobacco at that location or to permit any appreciable amount of smoke reaching the smoker's mouth. The product is rendered smokable by the user covering the perforated region of the wrapper by means of a strip, a sliding band, or a ring which blocks air flow through the perforations and thus converts the product into a self-made cigarette that can be smoked in the manner of a regular cigarette.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Imperial Tobacco Canada Limited
    Inventors: Robert Matteau, Luc Gaetan Duplessis, Michael Cardone, Marcel Champagne
  • Patent number: 6206009
    Abstract: A fingernail apparatus includes a base supporting a nail press station and a sprue cutting station in a spaced apart relationship. A sprue support is movably supported between the press station and the sprue cutting station. The sprue support receives one or more arcuate sprues having pluralities of radially extending artificial fingernails supported thereby. The sprue support also receives a nail cap sprue having an arcuate shape and supporting a corresponding plurality of radially extending nail caps. Each artificial nail is constructed to receive a corresponding nail cap in a snap-fit attachment. A space is created between the nail and its nail cap which receives a plurality of ornament objects. The sprue support is movable to the pressing station to snap-fit each nail cap within its underlying artificial nail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventor: Patricia Paxson
  • Patent number: 6206010
    Abstract: The present grooming device is comprised of a flexible sheet generally in the size and shape of a credit card for being carried in a pocket or wallet. The sheet is formed into a comb, a mirror, a nail file, and a nail pick. The comb includes staggered teeth of two different lengths for combing through dry or wet hair equally well. The mirror is a metal foil applied to one side of the sheet. The nail file is an abrasive material applied along a strip on one side of the sheet. The nail pick is claw shaped, and is positioned at a corner of the sheet for being easily maneuvered around nails. A magnetic strip is arranged on an opposite side of the sheet for operating an electronic card reader. Graphics, such as advertising or other information, are displayed on the back of the sheet near the magnetic strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: Abdo Malki
  • Patent number: 6206011
    Abstract: A hair accessory formed of a claw-type hair clip and a ribbon=like strip of natural or synthetic cut hair. The clip has two movable parts, each having comb-like tines with spaces therebetween. In the closed condition of the clip, the tines of one part are received in spaces of the other. One end margin of the ribbon-like strip of cut hair is fixed to an inside surface of one of the clip parts, and individual groups of hair strands of the ribbon-like strip are lead through a plurality of between-tines spaces of the same clip part. The groups may be braided individually or combined on the outside of the clip to form a fewer number of braids than groups. Beads or other eye-catching embellishments may be attached to the braids for enhanced fashion effects. The individual hair groups may also be draped loosely from the clip. By securing the cut hair on the inside of the clip part and leading the hair out between the tines, the cut hair has the appearance of natural hair of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Hair Blast, Inc.
    Inventor: Stacey Eve Sartena
  • Patent number: 6206012
    Abstract: A method of avoiding deposition of particles from a film deposited on a wall of a film deposition apparatus, onto a film deposited in the apparatus, the method including directly heating a wall of a reaction chamber, before placing a wafer on a susceptor in the reaction chamber, to at least a wall film peeling temperature at which a wall film does not peel from the wall; placing a wafer in the reaction chamber, heating the wafer, and depositing a film on the wafer without directly heating the wall; ending heating of the wafer after deposition of the film and directly heating the reaction wall of the reaction chamber to at least the wall film peeling temperature; and removing the wafer from the reaction while the wall of the reaction chamber is maintained at a temperature at least equal to the wall film peeling temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Daisuke Suzuki, Kenichi Ono, Yasuki Morino
  • Patent number: 6206013
    Abstract: A method and device for cleaning vertically suspended lamellar blinds in collapsed state, is provided having a supply unit with a moveable supply container and functional elements for generating a fluid stream as well as a suspended spay device which is supported by the lamellae and comprises a spray head and a jacket foil enclosing the lamellar blind. The supply container is designed to be used separately with a washing solution or a rinse solution and is equipped with a pump, a pressurized line leading to the spray head and a return line. The pressurized line comprises a dual manifold disposed at the top and the return line has a connection at the top as well as a connection at the bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: Wolfgang Hörmann
  • Patent number: 6206014
    Abstract: A rinse system for a medical fluid line. The rinse system may include a pump that is coupled to a reservoir. The pump may pressurize a gas within the reservoir. The pressurized gas also pressurizes a liquid within the reservoir. The rinse system may further have an electronically controlled valve assembly that allows both the liquid and the gas to sequentially flow from the reservoir to rinse the fluid line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: American Optisurgical Incorporated
    Inventors: Herbert Cameron, III, Brent R. Wiltshire
  • Patent number: 6206015
    Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning the interior of tanks or the like, the apparatus has high pressure rotary fluid distribution nozzles on rotating arms that adjustably extend from a movable platform to follow the varying dimensions of a tapered interior surface of a tank to be cleaned. The apparatus is self-centering within the enclosure with high pressure fluid swivels and quick disconnect air and fluid supply fittings associated therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: Donald Ramsey
  • Patent number: 6206016
    Abstract: This application discloses an automated apparatus for cleaning the interior surface of a pipe. The device includes a vehicle which propels itself down the inside of the pipe. A cleaning system is fixed to the vehicle and uses arms to reach the walls of the pipe. At the end of each arm sits a spray nozzle assembly equipped with spray nozzles. The spray nozzle assembly rotates or oscillates to spray clean the pipe surface. The arms and spray nozzle assembly interchange with other such cleaning systems depending on the shape or type of pipe and the desired cleaning technique. The apparatus is tethered to a source of fluid under pressure and a power source both of which are located off-board the apparatus at a remote location. An operator supervises the device's operation, controlling the speed and direction of travel of the vehicle, the speed and direction of oscillation and rotation of the cleaning system, and the fluid pressure delivered by the spray nozzles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Mac & Mac Hydrodemolition Inc.
    Inventors: Gerard MacNeil, David MacNeil, Gordon MacNeil, Vernon Bose
  • Patent number: 6206017
    Abstract: A foldable umbrella includes a post; a stationary hub secured to an upper end of the post; a canopy centrally secured to the stationary hub; a sleeve slidably mounted on the post; a plurality of radially oriented ribs secured to the canopy in equiangularly spaced relation, each rib having a radially inner end and a radially outward end; a plurality of foldable strut assemblies, each strut assembly connected between the sleeve and a respective one of the ribs, each strut assembly including a first strut having one end pivotally connected at a first pivot point to the sleeve and a second end pivotally connected to a respective one of the ribs at a second pivot point spaced radially outwardly from the radially inner end of the rib, a second strut having one end pivotally connected at a third pivot point to the stationary hub and a second end pivotally connected at a fourth pivot point to an intermediate point of the first strut, and a third strut having one end pivotally connected at a fifth pivot point to an in
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Innoventions Enterprises, Ltd.
    Inventors: Gary D. Johnson, Stanley Hochfeld, Alfonso Murcia, Frank Holloway
  • Patent number: 6206018
    Abstract: A crutchless leg support system for providing an adjustable, lightweight, and efficient prosthetic device that supports a leg while leaving the user's arms free for use. The crutchless leg support system includes a cushioned arcuate member formed to fit between a user's legs, an adjustable support assembly secured at one end to the cushioned arcuate member, a foot support plate removably secured to the lower portion of the adjustable support means, and a waist securing strap secured to the upper portion of the adjustable support means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: Thomas S. Daniels, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6206019
    Abstract: A convertible cane construction 10 including a pair of cane members 20, 20 connected to one another by a pair of collapsible arm members 30, 30′. Each collapsible arm member 30, 30′ is movable between a fully extended mode which widely separates the cane members 20 and a fully collapsed mode which joins the pair of cane members 20, 20 into a quasi-single cane configuration. Each collapsible arm member 30, 30′ includes a pair of lever arms 31, 32 pivotally connected to one another on one end and pivotally connected to one of the cane members 20, 20 on the other end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: Michele Horvitz
  • Patent number: 6206020
    Abstract: An expandable framework is used with a flexible covering to provide a portable shelter. The framework includes a plurality of upright support members, adjacent ones of which are interconnected by an edge scissor assembly. Each edge scissor assembly includes a plurality of scissor arms, and at least two of the scissor arms of each edge scissor assembly is formed by at least two articulating sections that move between a folded state when the framework is collapsed and an aligned state when the framework is expanded. The ends of the scissor assemblies are pivotally mounted to an upper and a lower fixed mount on the respective support member. As a result of the articulation, the mounts do not need to slide on the support members but rather can remain fixed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: James P. Lynch
  • Patent number: 6206021
    Abstract: A sleeve valve comprises a sleeve and a gate. The sleeve includes an intake, a discharge nozzle section, and a clean-out section. The discharge nozzle section includes a plurality of nozzles. The sleeve is adapted for fluid flow from the intake through a fluid passage and out the nozzles. The clean-out section includes at least one access port. The gate is adapted for sliding within the sleeve in sliding sealing engagement with the interior surface of the sleeve between closed, throttling, open, and clean positions. The gate and sleeve are configured so that the gate, when in the closed position, prevents fluid within the fluid passage from flowing out the nozzles and the access port. The gate and sleeve, when in the throttling position, permits fluid within the fluid passage to flow out some of the nozzles but prevents fluid within the fluid passage from flowing out the access port of the clean-out section and others of the nozzles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventors: Thomas A. Hartman, Brian T. Hartman
  • Patent number: 6206022
    Abstract: A flow controller module comprising at least one micro flow sensor and a microvalve, integrated in a micro flow channel, is disclosed. The micro flow sensor comprises a pressure sensitive flow sensor. At the position of the micro flow sensor, the micro flow channel is provided with an orifice so that pressure of a flow may be enlarged to facilitate measurement of the flow speed. The microvalve comprises a silicon microbridge with a mesa structure and is driven by a voltage. The microvalve may operate under a normally closed mode or a normally open mode. Disclosed in this invention is also a flow sensor suited in the integrated flow controller module. Methods for preparing the flow sensor and the flow controller module are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventors: Ming-Jye Tsai, Yue-Min Wan, Chun-Hsu Ke, Ruei-Hung Jang, Ching-Yi Wu, Raey-Shing Huang, Cheng-Jien Peng
  • Patent number: 6206023
    Abstract: A valve includes a valve body defining a cavity and including a flange having an outer surface and a first element. The first element includes at least one of a recess defined in the outer surface of the flange and a projection extending from the outer surface of the flange. A seat retainer is mounted on the flange and has an inner surface. The seat retainer includes a second element including at least one of a recess defined in the inner surface of the seat retainer and a projection extending from the inner surface of the seat retainer. A valve seat is retained on the flange by the seat retainer. The seat retainer is secured to the flange by a cooperative snap fit engagement between the first and second elements. A valve member may be rotatably mounted in the cavity and engage the valve seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Nordstrom Valves, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry J. Landers
  • Patent number: 6206024
    Abstract: An improved valve disc assembly that can be easily and conveniently disassembled and reassembled with accurate positioning of the valve disc within the through bore of the valve body. A split clamp ring is provided for securing the seat retaining ring and valve seat onto the valve body for sealing engagement with the valve disc. The shaft through which movement of the valve disc to and between open and closed positions is accomplished, also includes a detent that automatically positions the valve disc within the bore upon reassembly of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: E. Paul Naberhaus
  • Patent number: 6206025
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for removing condensate from gas pressure systems, especially dry-pipe systems having a condensate collector in which condensate accumulates when the gas pressure system is in operation, the collector being provided with an outlet. The collector also has a gauge containing a tubular body which is sized in relation to the outlet and designed to be secured thereto and which, when mounted, is located inside the collector and includes an electronic sensor, preferably a capacitive sensor, which is supported by the tubular body and of which at least one element, i.e., a preamplifier, is located therein and borne thereby, and is capable of functioning as a control for an external valve system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: BEKO Technologies GmbH
    Inventors: Berthold Koch, Rainer Wärzelberger
  • Patent number: 6206026
    Abstract: A valve for a gas cylinder consisting essentially of a valve body provided with a valve chamber containing a valving element which opens and closes an annular valve seat, and a gas cylinder plugging end portion and a pipe-connecting port both formed on the valve body. The gas cylinder plugging end portion contains an upstream side gas channel communicating at one extremity to an end thereof and at the other extremity to an internal circumference of the valve seat. The port contains two downstream side gas channels each opening to an end thereof and at the other extremity to an external circumference of the valve seat. A metal connector can be fitted in the port. The metal connector contains two channels connected to the two downstream side gas channels respectively. Valve chamber openings of the downstream side gas channels are located to oppose each other across the valve seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Nippon Sanso Corporation
    Inventors: Ryuichiro Isaki, Takuya Ikeda, Satoshi Hasaka, Hideharu Hasegawa
  • Patent number: 6206027
    Abstract: The tank is made up of a plurality of elementary tanks such as tubes (20) connected in parallel to at least one manifold device (30, 32), and it includes closure valves enabling any one of the elementary tanks to be isolated in response to a drop in the pressure contained therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Societe Nationale d'Etude et de Construction de Moteurs d'Aviation - S.N.E.C.M.A.
    Inventors: Lionel Ponnet, Patrick Jacquier, Jean-Louis Charles
  • Patent number: 6206028
    Abstract: A universal multi-path control valve system includes at least two sets of outlets controlled by a single on/off operator. A compact design allows the control valve system to save space in the compact areas where plumbing fixtures are typically installed. The control valve system is constructed entirely of molded plastic components. Fittings supplied with the control valve system allow for customized installation according to the needs of the installer. Appliances may be easily added or removed using threaded connections on the valve and fittings supplied as part of the control valve system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: The Keeney Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: R. Stuart Holden, Richard E. Marzec, Frank Pieters
  • Patent number: 6206029
    Abstract: A valve of a vacuum apparatus with a valve seat body having left and right communicating openings opposed to the two vacuum chambers, respectively, a valve body movable in the axial direction of the valve seat body and rotatable around the center axis thereof, and a driving section for moving the valve body in the axial direction of the valve seat body and for rotating it around the center axis thereof, the valve being so disposed between the left and right vacuum chambers that the driving section of the valve is projected outwardly in the horizontal (lateral) direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Shinkuseiko Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Koichi Onodera
  • Patent number: 6206030
    Abstract: A thermal insulating bag, with a waterproof outside surface and a heat-reflecting inside surface, is installed, open end downward, over a backflow prevention valve and the associated above-ground water pipes, to cover them. The bag has ballast contained in a hem around the perimeter of the open end, enabling the open end of the bag to conform to and seal against an irregular ground surface. The bag is flexible and can be rolled up or folded flat or in any desired configuration for storage. The ballast material, being heavy, holds the bag down on the ground and, being fluid-like, enables the perimeter of the open end to engage the contour of the ground throughout the perimeter to provide an effective cover-to-ground seal. Tabs extend outward at the open end and have holes in them to enable installation of anchor stakes, to anchor the lower end of the bag to the ground, desired. One embodiment electrically heated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Barthuly Irrigation, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry D. Barthuly
  • Patent number: 6206031
    Abstract: A reduced length, pressure compensating liquid flow regulator includes a poppet defining a longitudinally extending hollow cylinder having a front sense orifice and a rear orifice. A retainer maintains a biasing spring disposed at least partially within the cylinder, the retainer including a front sidewall defining a central aperture and a rear sidewall surface defining rear side slots, the retainer front sidewall forming an annular space between the cylinder rear orifice and the retainer front sidewalls. A seat has a closed front face spaced from and facing the cylinder, side passages rearwardly of the seat front face, and a downstream passage. The biasing spring biases the cylinder rear orifice longitudinally away from the seat. A hollow housing slidably receives the cylinder and fixedly receives the retainer means and the seat, the housing directing liquid flow from the retainer side slots into the seat side passages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: NMB (USA), Inc.
    Inventor: Russell Dean Wilfert
  • Patent number: 6206032
    Abstract: High pressure check valves and fittings, including button head fittings, sealant fittings, and lubrication adapters, that are equipped with dynamically self-centering plungers. Each metallic fitting comprises a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The inlet end of each may be configured to be mechanically engaged by high pressure hoses, grease guns, or the like. The outlet end is configured, as by threading, for coupling to the desired application. The inlet and outlet are in fluid flow communication, and meet at an internal valve seat. A steel ball forms the check valve element. The ball is dynamically controlled and centered by a dynamic plunger coaxially and slidably disposed in the fitting. A return spring coaxially mounted on the plunger normally urges the ball and the plunger towards the valve seat to close the fitting. A plunger crown is integral with an elongated, dual-diameter shaft. A conical depression in the crown seats the ball for centering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: James H. Hill