Patents Issued in May 1, 2001
  • Patent number: 6223433
    Abstract: A dual-fluid heat-exchanging system (20) incorporating a primary heat exchanger (22) and a secondary heat exchanger (24) is provided. The primary heat exchanger (22) incorporates a core (40) configured to extract heat (32) from a primary fluid (34). An input tank (30) and an output tank (28) are coupled to the primary-exchanger core (40) and function as reservoirs of the primary fluid (34) and as manifolds routing the primary fluid (34) through the core (40). The secondary heat exchanger (24) incorporates an extruded metal core (26) coupled to the primary-exchanger input tank (30) or the primary-exchanger output tank (28) and configured to transfer heat (32) from a secondary fluid (52) into the primary fluid (34) within the primary-exchanger input tank (30) or output tank (28). An input manifold (62) and an output manifold (64) are coupled to the secondary-exchanger core (26) and route the secondary fluid (52) through the core (26).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Calsonic N.A. Inc.
    Inventor: John W. Knecht
  • Patent number: 6223434
    Abstract: A muffler is constructed by inner and outer pipes, in which opposite end portions of the outer pipe are reduced in diameter, a welding portion of the inner pipe is accurately formed, and in this muffler, in order that a welding portion of the inner pipe can be accurately formed and that the outer pipe can be reduced in diameter uniformly over an entire periphery thereof to compress a buffer member uniformly over an entire periphery thereof, the inner pipe (2), having the buffer member (8) fitted on one end portion 2a thereof, is held within the outer pipe (1), held in position, in such a manner that a predetermined gap is formed between the inner and outer pipes (2) and (1). Subsequently, a diameter of the other end portion (1b) of the outer pipe (1) remote from the buffer member (8) is reduced, thereby fixedly securing this other end portion to the other end portion 1b of the inner pipe (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Sango Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Akinobu Morikawa
  • Patent number: 6223435
    Abstract: An improved design and process for manufacturing a valve housing for an existing filling machine. The improved design is an annular lip protruding downwardly at the outlet end and flaring outwardly for directing liquid into the container being filled, and a plurality of liquid discharge openings circumscribed by the annular lip at the outlet end for evenly dispersing liquid down and around the lip and against the sides of the container for accumulation therein without foaming. This design replaces existing press-fit tips which are expensive and unwieldy. Moreover, the above-described design facilitates formation of the entire valve housing from a single unitary piece of stainless bar stock, and the present invention encompasses the process for manufacture. This reduces manufacturing costs and eliminates weld lines and the associated risk of bacterial contamination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Demetrios Stavrakis
  • Patent number: 6223436
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for supporting a seat back in a vehicle comprising an aluminum I-beam formed in a generally U-shaped configuration, and having opposing ends supported with respect to the vehicle for forming a seat back frame. Also provided is a method of manufacturing a vehicle seat back frame, comprising: a) extruding an aluminum I-beam; b) cutting the I-beam to a desired length; c) age-hardening the I-beam; and d) bending the I-beam into a substantially U-shaped configuration to form a vehicle seat back frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Eugene S. Dudash, Mark Stanisz, Eric A. Smitterberg, L. Keith Hensley, Sanford E. Cook, Kevin J. Fudale
  • Patent number: 6223437
    Abstract: Methods for fabricating a friction bearing, in particular for ceramic shafts, made of metallic hardenable sintered material having an open pore volume of at least 15%, wherein the sintered material is brought into a predetermined shape and is subsequently sintered. For improving the known friction bearings in that a local wear and tear of shaft and bearing is avoided or at least considerably reduced in the region of mixed friction with high lateral forces, it is provided to harden the friction bearing after the sintering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Maxon Motor GmbH
    Inventor: Bodo Fütterer
  • Patent number: 6223438
    Abstract: Dry shaving apparatus comprises a first individual shaving unit (111) having at least two first cutters cooperating together, including a first outer cutter and a first undercutter; at least a second individual shaving unit (112, 113) having at least two second cutters cooperating together including a second outer cutter and a second undercutter; biasing element for the cooperation of the cutters; and at least one drive source coupled with at least one cutter of each individual shaving unit. All cutters of at least the first (111) of the individual shaving units are coupled to the drive source to be driven for cutting and skin agitating purposes and the outer cutter of at least a further one (112, 113) of the individual shaving units is inactive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Braun GmbH
    Inventors: Ray Parsonage, Terry Royle, Peter Soul, Andre Nauber, Michael Harms, Michael Odemer
  • Patent number: 6223439
    Abstract: In order to permit two halves of a hand tool to be quickly separated and then reconnected following an operation such as gaining access to, storing or exchanging a cutting blade, tool or the like, a connector is arranged to require rotation only through about 90° to achieve disconnection/connection. The connector has an engagement/locking feature which can pass through an elongate/shaped opening on one of the two halves, and then be prevented from passing back therethrough when the rotational angle of the connector is changed with respect to the opening and rotates the engaging/locking feature into engagement with an external surface surrounding the elongate/shaped opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: American Safety Razor
    Inventor: Jeffrey W. Wonderley
  • Patent number: 6223440
    Abstract: Improved autoclavable medical instruments are manufactured with colored synthetic handles of sufficient heat resistance to allow autoclaving. This color coding assists in the segregation of instruments by ward or medical facility. The ready identification of the color-coded instruments reduces the risk of transmission of infectious diseases, as well as reducing the probability of theft or loss.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Richard Rashman
  • Patent number: 6223441
    Abstract: An emergency window-breaking tool is carried in a quick-release rigid, tubular carrying case. A pivoting locking mechanism or “safety” incorporated into the end of the carrying case secures the window-breaking tool in the carrying case when not in use, permitting the window-breaking tool and carrying case to be worn on the person without risk of injury. When the window-breaking tool is needed, the locking mechanism is moved to an open position, permitting the window-breaking tool to be quickly withdrawn from the carrying case. The tip of the tool comprises a reciprocating punch that is pressed against the glass. Inward movement of the punch activates a compressing spring driving mechanism for a hammer inside the tool. Upon sufficient compression of the driving mechanism, the hammer is tripped, imparting a sharp blow to the punch, causing the punch to shatter the glass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Armament Systems and Procedures, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin L. Parsons
  • Patent number: 6223442
    Abstract: A non-motorized razor has a rigid handle, a thin resilient leaf spring of flat cross section supported at a first end on the handle having a free end portion extending outwardly therefrom, and a generally rectangular blade-carrying razor head attached transversely at its approximate center on the free end portion of the spring in a plane approximately tangent to the plane of the spring with its lateral ends extending laterally outwardly therefrom. The spring free end portion is resiliently flexible in vertical and horizontal planes and capable of twisting along its central longitudinal axis to enable spring-biased movement of the razor head with the free end portion in arcuate vertical and horizontal paths relative to the handle, and spring-biased twisting movement of the razor head lateral ends in diametrically opposed arcuate paths about the central longitudinal axis of the spring and axis of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: William Alvarez Pina
  • Patent number: 6223443
    Abstract: A pattern developing tool comprising an axial pilot, pivotal bracket, and marker holder used with a retractable tape measure having a tab affixed to the zero end thereof a measured scale retractively coiled within a housing disposing a belt clip and means for locking the scale at predetermined measurements, wherein the marker holder cooperates with the tape measure belt clip, housing, and scale providing improved means for fastening a marking instrument to the tape measure housing. Said axial pilot is affixable to ferrous or non ferrous surfaces and operates to recieve the pivotal bracket adapted to fit the tape measure tab and scale, thus providing improved means for rotating the tape measure housing and marking instrument about an axis defined on the surface underlying the tape measure, permitting the user to draw accurate circles, arcs, and intersecting arcs for developing patterns on ferrous or non ferrous surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Danny L Jacobs
  • Patent number: 6223444
    Abstract: The present invention comprises an arrangement for the remote sensing and recordation of information about a body component. The arrangement includes a stylus held within a support head. The support head has an electrode therein for the detection and recordation of stylus contact with a body component. A plurality of parallelogram linkages articulably support the stylus. The linkages have a first or input end and a second or output end. A motion tracking generator is attached to the output end of linkages. A sensor is arranged to receive and record signals from the tracking generator in a plurality of orthogonal planes, so as to permit the generation and recordation of contours, location and domain of the body component being sensed by the stylus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventors: David R. Mushabac, Stanislaw A. Policht
  • Patent number: 6223445
    Abstract: A device and method for installing and supporting an electrical remodel box from a section of gypsum board, the remodel box being of the type having a rectangular perimeter having a pair of substantially parallel sides spaced apart at a distance “w” and a pair of sides spaced apart at a distance “h”. The method involves using the device, which is a template tool which includes a base with a perimeter defined by at least one pair of substantially parallel sides, a level indicator extends between the substantially parallel sides, substantially parallel end sides between the substantially parallel sides, an upper surface and a flat lower surface, the lower surface being substantially flat. The user first locates an area on the gypsum board which is unsupported by a stud, and then places the template tool over the unsupported area. The parallel sides are then aligned the by using the level on the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventors: Walter R. Schuette, Jr., Terry L. Schuette
  • Patent number: 6223446
    Abstract: The present invention provides a small, simple and easy-to-use elevation checking and measuring device that can also be used to measure points to the same level as a known point. The invention comprises a primary housing and secondary casing which contain tape measuring blades. The primary housing has opposing sidewalls each of which may include a vertical slot. The slots are designed to mate with projections extending from the secondary casing. The slots and projections provide alternative angular orientations of the housing and casing when connected together. The primary housing contains level indicators to determine when it is held level. It also includes a light source that illuminates a target at the end of the primary housing blade. Maintaining the beam on the target while using the level indicators to achieve a horizontal orientation of the primary assembly, thereby permits a user to make quick and accurate grade or height measurements with the tape measure blades.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Mark A. Potter
  • Patent number: 6223447
    Abstract: A fastening device which prevents rotational and vertical displacement of a purge ring caused by purge gas exiting the purge ring or caused by other processing conditions. The fastening device comprises a clamp which releasably holds the purge ring together with the wafer support. A pin is inserted into a bore through the purge ring, wafer support and the clamp to releasably secure the clamp in place. Slots may be formed in the purge ring to guide placement of the clamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Yudovsky, Salvador Umotoy, Lawrence C. Lei, Ronald Rose
  • Patent number: 6223448
    Abstract: In a device for conditioning a preferably freshly printed paper web (2) with a dryer (1) and a remoistening device, wherein the dryer (1) exhibits a heating zone (3), a temperature maintenance zone (4) and a cooling zone (5) and the remoistening device exhibits spray jets (10), arrayed above and below the transport surface of the said paper web (2), through which moisturizing agents can be admitted, and spray chambers (9) containing the same, a particularly compact form of construction is achieved, in that the cooling zone (5) of the dryer (1) contains a moisturizing device (8) for the purpose of remoistening and cooling the said paper web (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Baldwin Grafotec GmbH
    Inventors: Michael Motzke, Bruno Brischler
  • Patent number: 6223449
    Abstract: An apparatus for extracting plasticizer from polymer structures includes, in one embodiment, a evacuation chamber, a heat source and a cooling chamber are all coupled to a conduit having a motorized fan for cycling gases through the components. The plasticizer is evaporated within the evacuation chamber by the heat source and entrained in a gaseous stream passing through the evacuation chamber. The plasticizer enriched gases are then passed through the cooling chamber wherein the plasticizer is condensed prior to being cycled back to the evacuation chamber. A gas heater aid in maintaining a constant gas flow temperature within the evacuation chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Johnson Research & Development Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Lonnie G. Johnson, John M. Baxley, Scott Shankle, Jeffrey Shane Matthews
  • Patent number: 6223450
    Abstract: A continuous process for the dewatering of a wide variety of solid-liquid matrices, including primary and secondary sludge, involves the simultaneous application of pressure and heat to solid-liquid matrices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Institute of Paper Science and Technology
    Inventor: Sujit Banerjee
  • Patent number: 6223451
    Abstract: An apparatus for drying granular objects comprises, from the top of the apparatus, a holding section; a heating section for heating the granular objects flowing down from the holding section, the heating section being provided beneath the holding section and having a plurality of air ducts to which heated air is introduced; a drying air producing section connected to the air ducts, in which the heated air from the air ducts is mixed with air taken-in from the outside of the apparatus to produce a drying air; and a drying section for drying the granular objects by directly exposing the granular objects to the drying air. The dried granular objects are taken out from a taking-out section and returned to the holding section through a bucket elevator. The apparatus further comprises a detector for detecting the temperature of the drying air. Based on the detected temperature, a control device controls the temperature of the heated air so as to keep the temperature of the drying air to a predetermined temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Satake Corporation
    Inventors: Satoru Satake, Hou Qing Liu, Makoto Kuninobu, Keisuke Orihashi
  • Patent number: 6223452
    Abstract: An improved clothes dryer has a rotatable drum with an emissive coating on the drum to reflect energy from a heat source, such as a radiant infrared lamp, inside the dryer. By reflecting the energy inside the rotatable drum, the rate of heat transfer is increased, thus increasing drying rate and increasing the energy efficiency of the dryer. Convection air can be used in combination with the infrared heat to further enhance drying.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Maytag Corporation
    Inventor: Michael A. Hamand
  • Patent number: 6223453
    Abstract: A curing apparatus comprises a curing chamber for accommodating a controlled atmosphere for a product being treated and an irradiator for providing radiation directed at the product. The curing chamber has spaced inlet and outlet openings for the product establishing a path of travel underneath the irradiator. First and second nozzle assemblies are disposed adjacent respective inlet and outlet openings for supplying inert gas into the chamber and maintaining an inert atmosphere within the chamber. The nozzle assemblies are removably secured to the chamber. A pre-chamber is provided in the nozzle assemblies to moderate the pressure distribution of the gas within the nozzle assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Fusion UV Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Derek S. Matheson, Andrew G. Moulthrop
  • Patent number: 6223454
    Abstract: A method for drying a moist organic material which is continuously supplied in a stream includes passing hot air through the moist organic material in a part of the stream to absorb an amount of moisture, whereby the moist organic material cools the hot air into warm air. The warm air is reheated after it exits the moist organic material to form reheated air with increased capability of absorbing moisture, and the reheated air is passed through the moist organic material further upstream, which has a greater moisture content. The drying can preferably be performed in five minutes or less. A method for drying moist organic material using hot air includes providing the moist organic material in a continuous material stream, and providing the hot air in a continuous air stream. The air stream flows in a direction generally opposite to that of the material stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Heartland Forage, Inc.
    Inventors: Conrad F. Fingerson, Donald W. Eickhoff
  • Patent number: 6223455
    Abstract: Improved spray drying apparati, and methods of use thereof, have been developed. The spray drying equipment includes a primary drying chamber and a secondary drying apparatus which includes tubing having a length sufficient to increase the contact time between the drying gas and the droplets/particles to dry the particles to the extent desired, at a drying rate and temperature which would be too low to provide adequate drying without the secondary drying apparatus. The secondary drying apparatus increases the drying efficiency of the spray dryer system without increasing the drying rate, while minimizing loss in yield The ratio of the length of tubing to the length of the primary drying chamber is at least 2:1. The tubing diameter is substantially smaller than the diameter of the primary drying chamber, such that the particles move at higher velocity through the tubing to minimize product losses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Acusphere, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald E. Chickering, III, Howard Bernstein, Mark Keegan, Greg Randall, Julie Straub
  • Patent number: 6223456
    Abstract: A device that aids in the aeration of a lawn is provided that attaches to the bottom of ones shoes and provides for core aeration while performing other yard care tasks. A metal plate which is adjustable for various size shoes is provided with attachment straps for attachment to conventional outdoor footwear. Steel tubes approximately 2 inches long will protrude from the bottom of the plates, and are spring biased against the bottom plate such that the soil core is ejected during the natural stride of the wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Melanie Ann Hawkins
  • Patent number: 6223457
    Abstract: At a skate boot a headpiece is foreseen at the cap area of the boot which headpiece protects the foot of an ice-hockey player, specifically the goaltender against impacts and blows stemming from the puck. This headpiece prevents, furthermore, a lateral sliding off of a leg pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Graf Skates AG
    Inventor: Karl Graf
  • Patent number: 6223458
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus or apparatus system for vibration control, by harmonic optimization technology, of vibrations in the cantilever or barrel, portion of a device from which a projectile is fired or launched along the centerline of the cantilever. More particularly this invention relates to rifles, where the rifle barrel is a cantilever portion, and methods and apparatus for increasing the accuracy of firing projectiles. The invention is principally directed to a method and apparatus including a mass device affixed to a flexible cylinder extension at the muzzle end, inertial mass devices, having combustion pressure reduction features, affixed intermediate the muzzle end and the cartridge chamber, and a spring suspension system between barrel and rifle stock affixed proximal to the cartridge chamber. This system decreases the angular dispersion of barrel vibrations at the muzzle resulting from the firing of projectiles through such barrels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventors: Kevin Schwinkendorf, Steven P. Roblyer
  • Patent number: 6223459
    Abstract: A safety mechanism for a muzzleloading rifle has a firing hammer pivotally mounted on the rifle and is movable between a rearward cocked position and a forward firing position, and is releasably held by a trigger mechanism in the cocked position when manually moved to the cocked position. The firing hammer includes an arm portion extending away from the pivotal connection between the hammer and the rifle. An elongated safety bolt is slidably mounted in a transverse direction in the rifle and is movable between an outer safety position and an inner non-safety position, and is located within a pivotal path of the arm portion of the hammer to engage the arm to prevent the forward rotation of the hammer to move to the firing position if the hammer is released for forward pivotal movement by the trigger mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Ebsco Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric T. Hengstenberg
  • Patent number: 6223460
    Abstract: A trigger safety for a pistol includes a laterally slidable plug incorporated into the trigger that, when slid laterally to extend beyond the confines of the trigger, will prevent rearward movement of the trigger by the plug's interference with the pistol frame. A spring internal to the trigger, imparts a force on plug to retain it positioned in either the safety position or the fire position and resist movement. The plug can be reversed for left-handed users so that the pistol can be placed in a “safe” or a “fire” position with the trigger finger of either hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventors: Edward P. Schmitter, Zdenek Prisovsky, Gary A. Sniezak, Frank A. Spaniel
  • Patent number: 6223461
    Abstract: A safety system and method for remotely activating and/or deactivating firearm(s). In certain embodiments, at least one processor or chip may be provided in the firearm. In order to remotely activate a firearm and allow it to be discharged, a controller (located remotely from the firearm) causes an activation signal to be sent to a satellite. The satellite redirects the activation signal toward a particular geographical area. When the firearm to be activated is in that geographical area, it receives the activation signal from the satellite. Upon determining that a match is found between a code in the received activation signal and a predetermined activation code stored in a memory of the firearm, the processor in the firearm causes a trigger lock in the firearm to open thereby enabling the firearm to be discharged whenever a user should decide to load the weapon and pull the trigger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Technology Patents, LLC
    Inventor: Aris Mardirossian
  • Patent number: 6223462
    Abstract: The invention concern device placed in a fishing trawl for sorting out marine species not to be caught. The device is inserted in the after part of the trawl, near the trawl bag. The device is a venturi-type narrowing (2) comprising outslip unit (11) being placed in front end of the narrowing, forming a part of the trawl. The outslip unit allows selection of marine species not to be caught. The fish to escape is directed towards the outslip unit (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: EX-IT EHF.
    Inventor: Johannes Johannesson
  • Patent number: 6223463
    Abstract: The system and method for preventing the passage of crawling insects upon the exterior surface of an object includes a member having an inner surface, adapted to be disposed adjacent to the exterior surface of the object, an opposed outer surface that has a low coefficient of friction for preventing the insects from traversing the outer surface since the crawling insects are unable to obtain sufficient traction with the outer surface of the member, a means for affixing the member to the exterior surface of the object so that the insects are forced to attempt to traverse the outer surface of the member in order to reach the exterior surface of the object above the member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture
    Inventors: David A. Carlson, Christopher J. Geden
  • Patent number: 6223464
    Abstract: An apparatus for repelling ground termites from an area surrounding a structure. The apparatus is connected to a power source and includes first second sets of electrodes positioned in a ground area on opposing sides of the structure. A first lead line is connected between the first set of electrodes and the power source for supplying an electrical current to the first set of electrodes and a second lead line is connected between the second set of electrodes and the power source for supplying an electrical current to the second set of electrodes. The electrical current supplied to the first and second sets of electrodes is delivered to the ground in which the first and second sets of electrodes is positioned and flows through the ground between the first and second sets of electrodes forming a barrier region within which any termites will be electrocuted. The first and second sets of electrodes preferably include at least four electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventors: Nelson M Nekomoto, Jerry S Chang
  • Patent number: 6223465
    Abstract: An insect bait-and-switch liquid delivery apparatus for the control of flying insects, especially wasps. The apparatus includes a container for holding liquid bait, a feed station assembly mounted on the container for making the liquid bait available to an insect, and a cover enclosing the feed station assembly. The feed station assembly includes a tubular core which extends into the interior of the container for supporting a capsule containing liquid active toxic to the insect in an upright orientation so that it floats on the liquid bait. As the liquid bait is depleted due to the feeding action of insects, the capsule moves downwardly until it clears the lower end of the tubular core whereupon it tips and releases the liquid active to admix with the liquid bait. Thereafter, as the insects continue to feed they ingest a mixture of the liquid active and liquid bait.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas A. Soller, Cory J. Nelson
  • Patent number: 6223466
    Abstract: A planting system comprising two containers, an inner container and a complementary outer container. The outer container is placed permanently into the ground or in any desired location. The inner container is then placed into the outer container. Thereafter, the inner container can be placed into and removed from the outer container whenever desired. Flowers, plants and the like are planted into the inner container either before or after the inner container is placed into the outer container. In this manner, flowers and plants can easily be planted into inner containers while the gardener is sitting, standing or in any other comfortable position. The gardener may then easily place and replace any desired inner container into any desired complementary outer container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Daniel T. Billings
  • Patent number: 6223467
    Abstract: A motor vehicle sensor arrangement which is used to detect jamming, i.e, an obstruction, at a movable vehicle part which can be moved into an end position, such as an electric window, a sliding and tilting roof, a convertible top, or a servo-actuated door. A cavity defined by opposing resilient walls is located proximate, but outside, the path of movement of the movable vehicle part and at a selected distance from the end position. A distance sensor, for example a pressure transducer, is arranged in the cavity between the resilient walls. When an object obstructs the path of movement of the movable vehicle part toward the end position, the resilient walls are moved toward each other. When the distance sensor contacts a portion of the opposing resilient wall, the distance sensor actuates a response signal indicating a jam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Josef Mahalek, Bogdan Serban, Michel Witte
  • Patent number: 6223468
    Abstract: An electric door closure comprises a rotation lever connected to a first rotation shaft of a latch plate to rotate therewith. An electric door actuator is mounted in a lock proper. An arm member is pivotally connected to the lock proper through a second rotation shaft which is angled relative to the first rotation shaft. The arm member is pivoted by an electric actuator between the arm member being pivoted by an electric actuator between an operative position and an inoperative position. A connecting lever pivotally connects the arm member through a third rotation shaft which extends in parallel with the second rotation shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Ohi Seisakusho Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Fumio Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 6223469
    Abstract: Pivot-hung door drive system with an electronic control system that contains at least one memory and one microprocessor, for an at least single-panel door, the door panel of which is driven by an electro-mechanical drive unit that acts in the opening and closing directions. The drive unit consists essentially of a drive motor with a transmission and a power transmission unit for the door connected to it, whereby the power transmission unit consists of a drive shaft which is connected with one end of an actuator lever and the pivot-hung door drive system is installed inside a door panel or inside a door frame or casing. The power transmission unit consists of a screw with a nut that partly surrounds it, which nut is positively and non-positively connected to a toothed rack, whereby the drive shaft is engaged with its gear teeth in the gear teeth of the toothed rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: DORMA GmbH + Co. KG
    Inventor: Oliver Moll
  • Patent number: 6223470
    Abstract: A dropglass window module having a sliding pane between a first fixed pane and a second fixed pane, and a skeletal framework comprising left and right division bars, a header and a beltline support where the header and beltline support are each connected to the division bars. The skeletal framework and the fixed panes are bonded together by a plastic encapsulation frame which is preferably injection molded. The fixed panes are positioned entirely within the circumference of the frame. The division bars cooperate with top and bottom segments of the frame to define a central opening, and the sliding pane is movable by a motor between a full open position and a closed position where the sliding pane closes the central opening. In at least some preferred embodiments the beltline support is entirely encapsulated by the plastic frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Dura Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin R. Millard, William T. DuFour, Ricky J. Mason, William D. Ray, II, Travis H. Briggs, James J. Denison
  • Patent number: 6223471
    Abstract: A repair kit for a sliding glass patio door having worn original wheel assemblies includes an edge bracket with an associated edge wheel for installation on a leading edge of the door and a side bracket with an associated side wheel for installation on a side of the door near a trailing edge. The edge wheel and the side wheel support the weight of the door, while the worn original wheel assemblies are left in place for guiding the door. An original track for the door provides a guideway on which the door and the original wheel assemblies travel. The edge bracket includes an edge plate that can be fastened to the leading edge, and a frame is attached to the edge plate. An axle is mounted in the frame, and the edge wheel is mounted on the axle. The side bracket has a side plate and a frame. The frame has legs mounted parallel to the side plate for holding an axle perpendicular to the side plate. The side wheel is mounted on the axle located within the frame on the side plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Jerry Keith Barber
  • Patent number: 6223472
    Abstract: A vehicle door including a window regulator, a first sash, a second sash, and a metallic elongated member which are incorporated with a base plate as a module which is to be mounted to a door main body. The main body is provided under the window opening of the door and has a housing space configured to house a windowpane. The window regulator is configured to move the windowpane between the window opening and the housing space. Each of the first and second sashes are configured to guide a respective one of the sides of the windowpane when the windowpane is moved by the window regulator. The first and second sashes are provided in parallel with each other. The base plate extends between the first sash and the second sash and is made of a resin material in a plate-shaped form. The metallic elongated member extends between the first sash and the second sash. The window regulator is provided on the elongated member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Asahi Glass Company Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenichi Ishikawa, Hideyuki Hashimoto
  • Patent number: 6223473
    Abstract: An explosion relief system for a building having a wall includes an explosion relief panel substantially covering an opening in the wall and a blast shaft mounted adjacent to the explosion relief panel. The blast shaft includes a first opening and a second opening. The first opening is adapted to permit at least a portion of a force of an explosion to escape therefrom and the second opening allows rain, snow and the like to pass through the blast shaft when the explosion relief panel substantially covers the opening in the wall. The second opening is substantially covered when the explosion relief panel is forced away from the opening in the wall when the explosion occurs. A blast shaft substantially as described above and a building including the explosion relief system described above are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: CID Associates, Inc.
    Inventor: Frederick W. Romig
  • Patent number: 6223474
    Abstract: A gutter drainer assembly comprising an elongated flat flexible strip that is dimensioned for installation in a rain gutter to prevent clogging of the rain gutter and downspouts. The strip includes two grooves formed therein and extending longitudinally along the length of the strip in parallel spaced relation for folding the strip into an inverted U-shaped channel which is installed in the gutter. The folded strip includes a top portion and two side members with a plurality of scalloped openings formed along the outer edges of the side members to allow water to flow through the openings and into an open channel created by the folded strip installed within the gutter. Pieces of the flexible strip may be connected together to cover the entire length of the gutter including inlet openings for downspouts. The gutter drainer assembly further comprising end members for covering the open ends of the folded strip at the ends of the gutter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: John A. Kafton
  • Patent number: 6223475
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing a liner for manholes, drainage systems, sewer system and the like, wherein multiple layers of liner material are sprayed onto the mandrel and outer shell engaging particles are embedded in and partially covered with the liner material. The liner is then placed into a mold and concrete or other suitable material is poured around the liner. The outer shell engaging particles form a mechanical bond between the liner and the concrete, thereby preventing future separation and failure of the liner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Jamie Hume
  • Patent number: 6223476
    Abstract: A retractable ceiling assembly for a poultry house, characterized by a ceiling which can be selectively raised from a flat to a pitched configuration in order to accommodate high-profile equipment or materials in the poultry house for cleaning, maintenance or storage purposes. In a preferred embodiment the retractable ceiling assembly is characterized by at least one ceiling unit including multiple rafter units which span the width of the poultry house in parallel, spaced-apart relationship with respect to each other. Each of the rafter units includes a pair of cross members pivotally attached to each other at substantially the middle of the rafter unit. A flexible ceiling typically constructed of overlapping sheets of fabric material is mounted on the bottom surfaces of the rafter units. A typically manually-operated winch, mounted on the interior of the poultry house roof at substantially the center of the ceiling unit, is connected to each rafter unit at the pivoting midpoint thereof by means of cables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: William C. Lemoine
  • Patent number: 6223477
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a block having a first and a second exterior side wall, a base and a top. A groove is located in the base of the block, the groove defining a first and a second interior side wall and a top interior surface. The block is locatable on a metal roof by placement of the groove about a segment of the seam formed by overlapping adjacent roofing panels. A hole is located in the block between the top of the block and the groove, and a locking device is locatable in the hole. Initially locating the locking device into the hole causes the locking device to be positioned between a portion of the seam of the metal roof and a portion of the first interior side wall of the block. Further translocation of the locking device into the hole causes the locking device to engage the portion of the seam of the metal roof and the portion of the first interior side wall of the block, thereby securing the block to the metal roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: F. William Alley
  • Patent number: 6223478
    Abstract: A wall panel includes two vertical channels and a horizontal channel communicating with the vertical channels. Race ways are provided on the top and bottom edges of the panel. Multiple wall panels may be arranged to form office work stations. A power/communications junction assembly is provided at least partially within the horizontal channel. The assembly may extend into one of the vertical channels. Communications ports, fiber optics ports and/or electrical outlets are provided in the assembly. Power lines, communications lines and fiber optics cables may be attached to the outlets and ports and fed through the channels and race ways. In this manner, power and communications may be provided to the work stations as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: DO Groups Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth L. Wheeler
  • Patent number: 6223479
    Abstract: An extendable and retractable building includes floor and roof assemblies, each having a number of components movable between respective stowed and extended positions. A support structure may be provided to couple the floor assembly and the roof assembly. A cable coupling a component of the floor assembly and a component of the roof assembly preferably extends through at least two pullies in order to at least partially balance the weights associated with the respective components of the floor and roof assemblies. In one embodiment, the floor and roof assemblies may each include first, second, and third sections. A first cable may be coupled with support beams associated with the second floor section and a support beam connected with the third roof section. A second cable may also be provided coupled with a support beam connected with a third floor section and a support beam connected with the second roof section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Jakob Stöckli
  • Patent number: 6223480
    Abstract: A building made substantially of pre-cast components is disclosed. The building comprises of pre-cast concrete walls, floors and columns; the walls and columns being made of pre-cast concrete wall panels; and floors being made of pre-cast concrete slabs. The panels have one of ‘L’, ‘T’, cross or ‘I’ cross-sectional shapes, wherein the ‘L’, ‘T’ and cross-shaped panels are joints between ‘I’ shaped panels and slabs and panels being interlocked together to form an enclosure. At least some of the ‘L’, ‘T’ or cross-shaped or ‘I’ have a door or window opening. ‘I’ shaped panels are of varying lengths. Columns are reinforced with steel bars and additional concrete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: O-Stable Panel Sdn Bhd
    Inventor: Tian Khoo
  • Patent number: 6223481
    Abstract: The invention relates to a roof construction, assembled from aluminium alloy extrusions and sections which may be cut on site to the appropriate dimensions. There is a ring beam, made from a channel and a ridge member in the form of a central extruded aluminium alloy central box member, the channel and member being essentially of the same section. Thus a relatively small number of different extrusions are required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Rickmans Limited
    Inventor: Paul Douglas Rickman
  • Patent number: 6223482
    Abstract: A portable, easily composable supporting skeleton which serves as a supporting structure of buildings composable in situ. The skeleton comprises a pipe-like spacer. Two dismountable node plates can be fixed to the spacer by way of clamping assemblies. Each node plate includes an eye having a through-hole. A joint assembly which comprises a crosswise tie-piece can be interconnected pivotably to the through-hole of the eye of one of the node plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Herman Zohar