Patents Issued in May 8, 2001
  • Patent number: 6226856
    Abstract: A stator core which assures a favorable workability for coupling core segments and has favorable magnetic characteristics even when made by coupling core segments that are formed by laminating core division sheets. A method of manufacturing a core for rotary electric machines includes forming a coupling convexity having an arc-like planar shape and a coupling concavity engageable with the coupling convexity on core segments, forming a serial core segment assembly by engaging the coupling convexity on one of the core segments with the coupling concavity formed on an adjacent core segment so as to be rotatable by more than 180 degrees, and forming a magnetic circuit by bending the serial core segment assembly into an annular form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Katsutoshi Kazama, Hisataka Kato, Kadai Takinami, Manabu Okamoto
  • Patent number: 6226857
    Abstract: The balancing of rotors for dynamo-electric machines (e.g., electric motor armatures) is achieved by attaching a balancing strip to the rotor after an impregnation resin has been applied to the wire coils, and the unbalance of the rotor has been measured. To create the balancing strip, a material supply selectively and incrementally delivers a predetermined quantity of material, such that the quantity of material has a mass sufficient to compensate for the measured unbalance of the rotor. The predetermined quantity of material is separated from the material supply to form a balancing mass, and the balancing mass attached to the rotor to compensate for the measured unbalance. A mounting member having a recess may be preliminarily attached to the rotor for subsequent attachment of the balancing mass thereto. A second material supply may be provided such that a controller can select between the first and second material supplies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Axis USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Raffaele Becherucci
  • Patent number: 6226858
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a superconductor wire which comprises: rolling a polycrystalline metallic substrate; heating the rolled polycrystalline metallic substrate at a temperature of 900° C. or more in a non-oxidizing atmosphere, whereby obtaining a rolled textured structure which is oriented such that the [100] plane thereof is parallel with a rolled plane and the <001> axis thereof is parallel with a rolled direction; heating the polycrystalline metallic substrate of the rolled textured structure at a temperature of 1,000° C. or more in an oxidizing atmosphere, whereby forming an oxide crystal layer consisting essentially of an oxide of the polycrystalline metal; and forming an oxide superconductor layer on the oxide crystal layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignees: The Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd., International Superconductivity Technology Center
    Inventors: Kaname Matsumoto, Naoki Koshizuka, Yasuzo Tanaka
  • Patent number: 6226859
    Abstract: A slider air bearing surface design which significantly reduces the fly height sensitivity to contamination in the crossbar area. A structural feature at the leading edge provides contamination protection to the air bearing surface. The slider includes a slider body having an air bearing surface formed on a lower surface, wherein the air bearing surface comprises a crossrail and a central rail extending from the crossrail toward a leading edge for diverting debris from the air bearing surface to prevent accumulation thereon. The leading central rail includes a flared edge connecting the central rail to the crossrail, wherein the flared edge expands the width of the central rail toward the crossrail. A trailing center rail extends from the crossbar toward the trailing edge, and is narrower than the leading central rail. Further, the trailing center rail may be skewed relative to the sides of the slider body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Lee Kevin Dorius, Paul R. Peck
  • Patent number: 6226860
    Abstract: A method of fabricating a coil structure for use in a writer portion of a recording head is disclosed. The method comprises fabricating a bottom pole. A bottom insulating layer is fabricated on the bottom pole, while a seed layer is fabricated on the bottom insulator layer. Alternating third and fourth coil conductors are spacially positioned on the seed layer. A first plurality of insulating barriers are fabricated on the seed layer between the alternating third and fourth coil conductors. A middle insulating layer is fabricated on the third coil conductor, the second coil conductor, and the first plurality of insulating barriers. The A alternating third and fourth coil conductors are spacially positioned on the middle insulating layer. A second plurality of insulating barriers are fabricated on the middle insulating layer between the alternating third and fourth conductors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Seagate Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Paul Burbank
  • Patent number: 6226861
    Abstract: An A/F sensor generates a current signal corresponding to an air-fuel ratio in response to a voltage applied by a bias control circuit. After a sensor current is received as a voltage signal via a voltage follower, it is outputted to an A/D converter having a predetermined input voltage range, 0 to 5V. A sensor current detection circuit has a plurality of current detection resistors. In order to variably set the resistance value by the sensor current detection circuit, a switch circuit is switched in accordance with the sensor current depending on whether the A/F value to be detected is in the zone near the stoichiometric ratio or in other air-fuel ratio zones.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Eiichi Kurokawa, Satoshi Hada, Tomoo Kawase, Toshiyuki Suzuki, Satoshi Haseda
  • Patent number: 6226862
    Abstract: Disclosed is a new process for electrically and mechanically joining arrays of conductors on flexible printed circuits and other flexible conductors including collated flat, flexible cables (FFCs). An array of flat copper conductors on a flexible dielectric sheet is electroplated with tin-lead solder. Surface insulation is locally omitted or removed from conductor surfaces. A second circuit or cable is overlapped in competent electrical communication and the solder plating fused by inductively heating the copper to join the two conductor arrays. An adhesive placed between conductors is also thermally activated to bond the film on the two cable arrays together. This insulates the electrical connections and seals them from attack by moisture and chemical pollutants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Sheldahl, Inc.
    Inventor: David Neuman
  • Patent number: 6226863
    Abstract: A device and method for enabling the reworkability of an integrated circuit comprising a wirebond chip having a bottom surface and a carrier substrate having a first surface and a second surface. The first surface and second surface of the carrier substrate are electrically connected through a series of vias. A bonding agent is used to mechanically attach the wirebond chip to the carrier substrate in addition to wirebonds for electrically connecting the wirebond chip to the substrate. The substrate is attached to a multi-chip module (MCM) by ball grid array (BGA) or controlled collapse chip connection (C4) attaching process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Mukta Shaji Farooq, Raymond Alan Jackson, Sudipta Kumar Ray
  • Patent number: 6226864
    Abstract: A printed circuit board has a conductor path applied to a substrate having an electrically insulating surface, the conductor path preferably being constructed in the shape of a meander and containing connection areas with holes to which small contact plates are applied for the purpose of later bonding with connection leads. The small contact plates are applied in a hard soldering process with the aid of solder paste to the connection areas of the conductor paths and to the surface area of the substrate surface which is made of ceramic and exposed by the holes. It is consequently possible, dispensing with so-called bonding wires, to directly connect connection leads or bonding lugs electrically with the conductor path and mechanically with the printed circuit board. The printed circuit board is preferably designed as a measuring resistor, wherein the conductor path is applied as a resistance layer of platinum or platinum group metal in a thin film process to a small ceramic plate of aluminum oxide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Heraeus Electro-Nite International N.V.
    Inventors: Matthias Muziol, Karlheinz Wienand
  • Patent number: 6226865
    Abstract: In this method, a ground wire 2 is overlaid on a shield wire 1 in cross. Next, overlapping portions of the shield wire 1 and the ground wire 2 are interposed between an upper resin tip 13 and a lower resin tip 14. By executing a first ultrasonic oscillation while inserting a projection 7a of an ultrasonic horn 7 into a through hole 13b of the tip 13, outside rinds 1d, 2b of the wires 1, 2 are removed in the vicinity of the overlapping portions. Next, by arranging a low-melting metal 15 and a resin piece 16 on a contact between the braided wire 1c and the core line 2a and executing a second ultrasonic oscillation, the contact can be brazed with the mutual welding of the tips 13, 14.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Satoshi Tanikawa, Takashi Ishii
  • Patent number: 6226866
    Abstract: The present invention provides a carbon-carbon (C/C) composite valve structure useful for high temperature internal combustion engines comprising (a) a carbon-carbon (C/C) composite valve stem having a flared end and a non-flared end opposite the flared end; and (b) a carbon-carbon (C/C) composite valve head applied onto the flared end of the valve stem, wherein at least one of the carbon-carbon (C/C) composite valve stem and head is coated with a high temperature resistant coating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Hitco Carbon Composites, Inc.
    Inventors: Doug Wilson, Sam Lee, Raj Mathur
  • Patent number: 6226867
    Abstract: A method for producing a honeycomb body having a plurality of at least partially structured sheet metal layers and formed with a plurality of channels through which a fluid can pass, comprises the steps of forming a stack by layering a plurality of at least partially structured sheet metal layers such that the channels are formed and then introducing the stack into a mould. The stack is held in the mould with a wrapping device and with positioning elements, which at least partially reach into the channels in a central region of the stack. The wrapping device is pivotable around a winding axis and has at least two winding bars located essentially parallel to the winding axis and extending along a longitudinal direction of the channels. The at least two winding bars engage the stack at a respective exterior surface at the central region of the stack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Emitec Gesellschaft fuer Emissionstechnologie mbH
    Inventors: Rolf Brück, Robert Diewald
  • Patent number: 6226868
    Abstract: A method for producing a connector for a fuel injection nozzle of an internal combustion engine and a method of producing the connector at a reduced cost are disclosed wherein the connector has light weight and exhibits excellent dimensional accuracy. The connector 20 includes a cylindrical fuel injection nozzle fitting portion 21 of which one end is designed to have a flared peripheral surface 23 and of which the other end includes a delivery pipe connecting portion 22 having a diameter smaller than that of the cylindrical fuel injection nozzle fitting portion 21. A plate-shaped position determining portion 24 is formed integral with the flared peripheral surface 23 of the cylindrical fuel injection nozzle fitting portion 21 at a predetermined position. The position determining portion 24 is for determining the position of the connector relative to the fuel injection nozzle and is angularly bent relatively to the injection nozzle fitting portion. The connector is made entirely of a sheet metal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Sanoh Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Hitoshi Fujino
  • Patent number: 6226869
    Abstract: The invention is directed to an electrically operable shaving apparatus (1) including at least one short-hair cutter (3) and a long-hair trimmer unit (2) disposed on a housing, with at least one cutting edge formed by cutting teeth of an outer cutter and an inner cutter, in which a component (4), which acts as a guard protecting the skin, is associated with the cutting edge in at least one operating position, said component (4) ceasing to act as a guard protecting the skin in at least one further operating position, wherein said component (4) is displaceable in conjunction with the long-hair trimmer unit (2) into at least one operating position in which said component (4) acts as a guard protecting the skin, and wherein on displacement into a further operating position the long-hair trimmer unit (2) is released by relative opposing movements of the long-hair trimmer unit (2) and the component (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Braun GmbH
    Inventors: Hans-Eberhard Heintke, Peter Hilfinger, Klaus Oprach, Roland Ullmann, Matthias Wetzel
  • Patent number: 6226870
    Abstract: An electrical shaver includes a sealing end wall blocking the passage of liquid from the cutter head (preferably a plurality of cutter heads) to the electrical motor within the housing, and a magnetic coupling coupling the cutter head to the electrical motor by a magnetic field which penetrates the sealing end wall, thereby enabling the shaver also to be used for a wet shave as well as for a dry shave. In one described embodiment, the cutter head includes a rotary cutter member, a static cutter member enclosing the rotary cutter member, and a scraper member having a thin, hard, scraper edge at least partially enclosing the static cutter member and spaced radially from its outer edge so as to erect the hairs, and to taughten the skin as the static cutter member is moved over the skin while pressed against it to cut the hairs. Further described is an auxiliary device for cleaning and/or drying the shaver head after use in a wet shave or dry shave.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: Benjamin J. Barish
  • Patent number: 6226871
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a dry shaving apparatus with a housing (1) in which an electric drive mechanism (2) is provided having a drive element (3) for the transmission of a driving motion to at least one reciprocatory cutting element (4), and with at least one shaving head (6) oscillating in a horizontal direction and formed by a shaving head frame (7, 55) in which at least two cooperating cutting elements (4, 5) are provided, wherein the electric drive mechanism (2) is mounted for oscillation in the housing (1) and is adapted to be set in oscillation by the inner forces necessarily occurring in operation of the dry shaving apparatus, and wherein the oscillatory motions of the electric drive mechanism (2) are transmitted to the shaving head (6) in order to set said shaving head in oscillation as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Braun GmbH
    Inventors: Reinhold Eichhorn, Michael Harms, Sebastian Hottenrott, Peter Junk, Michael Odemer, Jürgen Wolf, Roland Ullmann
  • Patent number: 6226872
    Abstract: A snipper tool device is disclosed for snipping J-channel. The device includes a first member having a first and a second end and a second member having a first and a second extremity. The first and second members are pivotally secured to each other about a first axis which is disposed between the ends of the first member and between the extremities of the second member. The first end of the first member defines a shearing edge and the first extremity of the second member defines a cutting edge, the shearing and cutting edges cooperating together for snipping the J-channel. Also, the second end of the first member defines a hand grip and the second extremity of the second member defines a finger grip, the hand grip and the finger grip being arranged such that when the hand grip and the finger grip move towards each other, the shearing edge and the cutting edge move towards each other for snipping the J-channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: Keith Kline
  • Patent number: 6226873
    Abstract: To provide a cutter knife which can be stepwise automatically locked while preventing a leaf spring from being unusably deformed. A holder 1 has engaging recesses 1b of an isosceles trapezoid formed in its upper face, and a slider is so inserted in a slide groove as to move back and forth. In a center recess 2g formed in a body member 2 of the slider, there is inserted a leaf spring 4. In an opening 2d into and out of which the protruding portion of the leaf spring 4 is to go, there is disposed a boss 2e which is erected on the body member to regulating the movement of the leaf spring. An operation member 3, as movably supported by the body member, is provided with an engaging groove 3b and a movable stopper 3c. As the operation member is moved forward or backward, the movable stopper allows the backward movement of the protruding portion, and the engaging groove can depress the protruding portion of the leaf spring out of engagement from the engaging recess so that the slider can be moved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Kyoto Doki, K.K..
    Inventor: Kazuyoshi Okumura
  • Patent number: 6226874
    Abstract: A tool for the cutting or coining of metal, including two jaws connected to parallel links by two jaw joint bolts. Two handles are connected to each other by a handle bolt and are connected to respective jaws by two middle bolts. Each jaw joint bolt is provided with an eccentric bearing surface situated between two coaxial bearing surfaces. The distance and parallelism of the jaws can be adjusted by producing rotating of the eccentric bearing surface by rotating one or more of the jaw joint bolts. The angular motion of the jaws is synchronized by a cylindrical roller retained axially between the links, and guided in a slot formed by overlapped fingers of the jaws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Kapman AB
    Inventor: Conny Jansson
  • Patent number: 6226875
    Abstract: A pair of grass shears includes a base blade having a handle secured to one end, and a movable blade rotatably secured to the base blade. A follower is rotatably received in the handle and has an eccentric shaft slidably engaged in a slot of the movable blade. The movable blade may be rotated relative to the base blade when the follower is rotated to move the eccentric shaft along the slot of the movable blade. Two gears are rotatably received in the handle and engaged with each other. One of the gears is secured to the follower. The other gear may be coupled to and driven by the power tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventors: Sheau Pyng Lii, Kuo Chen Liu
  • Patent number: 6226876
    Abstract: Multiple embodiments of a string trimmer debris shield are disclosed. In one embodiment, an L-shaped bracket having a clamp at one end is fitted to a string trimmer so that the bracket may be located to either side of a string head of the trimmer and either above or below a mounting point of the bracket. The bracket is mounted to the shaft near the rotating string, and supports a debris shield between a side of the string head from which debris is shown and legs and feet of a user. In another embodiment the bracket extends horizontally straight from the shaft to either side of the trimmer, and supports a debris shield. In a third embodiment the bracket is mounted to a shaft of a string trimmer and supports a perpendicular debris shield support member which in turn supports a debris shield on a side of the string head from which debris is thrown toward the user. In this embodiment, the debris shield may be rotated about the shaft to either side of the trimmer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: Thomas E. Ezell
  • Patent number: 6226877
    Abstract: A reciprocating saw includes a structure for sealing a chamber (2a) which is defined by a gear housing (3) and a gear housing cover (4) fitted over the gear housing. The sealing structure includes a rubber packing (18) mounted along the entire length of the seam between the gear housing (3) and the gear housing cover (4). The rubber packing (18) is integrally formed with a V-shaped valve (19) such that a protrusion (20) at the bottom bend of the valve selectively opens and closes an air vent (21) formed in a partition wall (3a) of the gear housing (3). The sealing structure further includes a seal retainer (22) and a dust seal (24) provided between the gear housing (3) and the gear housing cover (4) and penetrated by a reciprocating slider (12). The seal retainer (22) and the dust seal (24) lubricate the slider and seal the chamber (2a) where the slider 12 penetrates the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Makita Corporation
    Inventor: Masahiko Ono
  • Patent number: 6226878
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming decorative patterns in floor coverings. The preferred form of the apparatus includes a marking device having a body member. The body member includes a channel for receiving a guide member. The apparatus further includes a guide member to guide movement of the marking device along a predetermined path. The guide member is flexible so that it can be positioned on floor coverings in various configurations. The marking device includes a marking implement to mark floor coverings as the marking device is moved along the guide member. The preferred method is performed on site, i.e. at the site of the installation. Further, the preferred method is such that it can be performed relatively expeditiously and with great precision. Moreover, the preferred method can be performed with great accuracy without the need for a highly trained artisan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: Steve Shannon
  • Patent number: 6226879
    Abstract: A device for establishing a reference datum of a wheeled vehicle comprises a first element operably rotatably mounted to a hub of an axle of the vehicle, the first element having a first axis of rotation, a second element having one end rotatably mounted to the first element so as to have a second axis of rotation perpendicular to the first axis of rotation of the first element, and a laser mounted to the other end of the second element. The laser is oriented relative to the second element so as to project a laser plane either parallel to a longitudinal axis of the second element to thereby establish a vertical datum for the vehicle, or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second element to thereby establish a horizontal datum for the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Saturn Machine & Welding Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Billy Carr Baird
  • Patent number: 6226880
    Abstract: A quick focusing firearm scope includes an elongated tubular scope housing mounted to the upper surface of the firearm barrel. A focusing gear is provided in place of the conventional rotating focusing ring found on conventional scopes. Mounted adjacent to and engaging the focusing gear is a drive gear having a cable attached thereto. The opposing end of the cable extends through a support member that is mounted to the firearm trigger guard. Pivotally attached to the support member is a trigger member having an arcuate gear attached to the upper end thereof that engages a rotary gear on the cable. The lower end of the trigger member includes a loop that receives a shooter's trigger finger. Accordingly, a shooter may quickly focus the scope by pivoting the trigger member with the index finger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: Rhett Pitre
  • Patent number: 6226881
    Abstract: The height-measuring device of the present invention is foldable, or collapsible, on itself, in order to provide an easier and less-costly method of packaging and shipping. The height-measuring device of the present invention is also provided with an inherent, slidable or extensible leg or setup section that is slidably mounted in the rear of the sale-part, which extensible leg has a length equal to the lowest measurement-reading of the scale-section, whereby the bottom edge surface of the scale-part may be readily located during installation of the height-measuring device the proper distance above the floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Clover Global Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Konrad S. Landauer
  • Patent number: 6226882
    Abstract: An easy to use and accurate marking device enables the placement of an indicator mark on one side of a sheet of material to mark the periphery of an object. A marking line located within the base transfers a marking substance to the material upon contact. A recess within the base contains a contact pad that is moveable within the recess. The pad is maintained a predetermined distance from the base plate, when not under pressure, by a spring between the contact pad and the recess. At least one retaining member prevents removal of the contact pad from the base plate while permitting contact pad movement within the recess. At least one holding member, such as flanges forming a friction fit, is used to secure the base plate to the stationary object. A portion of the body of the marking device can be notched, giving a thinner cross-sectional thickness and placing at least a portion of the recess into the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: William A. Barr
  • Patent number: 6226883
    Abstract: Gauging head and apparatus for the linear dimension checking of mechanical pieces comprising an integral element (1) that defined an arm (5) carrying a feeler (25), a reference portion (3), and a fulcrum (13) that enables rotations of arm (5) with respect to the reference portion (3), and a differential transformer position transducer with a cylindrical shaped casing (35; 82), carrying the windings (34; 83), fixed to the reference portion (3), and a ferromagnetic core (32; 84) movable together with the arm (5). The integral element (1) is locked in an adjustable way to a support (67), by means of the cylindrical casing (35; 82). The integral fulcrum is achieved by work hardening the material and subsequently grinding it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Marposs Societa' per Azioni
    Inventor: Guido Golinelli
  • Patent number: 6226884
    Abstract: Apparatus which can be used to calibrate, or provide measurement data on, a machine. The apparatus comprises two structures each with three spherical supports spaced in a triangular array thereon. The supports may be balls or sockets. The structures are interconnected by six members and each support has the ends of two members connected to it. The members are passive extensible measuring bars and the structures are respectively connected to fixed and movable parts of a machine so that movement of the machine parts causes relative movement between the structures and varies the lengths of the measuring bars. From measurements of the lengths of the measuring bars the actual movement of the machine part can be determined. Calibration of the spherical supports is carried out using a measuring bar which is pre-calibrated in a Zerodur jig.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Renishaw PLC
    Inventor: David R McMurtry
  • Patent number: 6226885
    Abstract: A measuring jig preferably comprising an end engaging member for engaging a mitered end of a work piece, a mechanism for retaining a distal end of a measuring device adjacent to a reference point on a work piece, and member for retaining a measuring device. The invention may be supplemented by a measuring device such as a tape measure. The end engaging member is founded upon a base member with an end face engaging surface and a rear longitudinal face engaging surface coupled thereto to define a V-shaped angular alcove. The end face engaging surface may be fixed relative to the rear longitudinal face engaging surface, or it may be pivotally coupled for selective angular adjustability. The mechanism for retaining a distal end of a measuring device may be slidably retained along an elongate end face engaging surface. There may be a plurality of spaced-apart mechanisms, each comprising a slot, for retaining a distal end of a measuring device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: George P. Korich
  • Patent number: 6226886
    Abstract: A tape measure having a housing that encloses a coiled tape rule retractably mounted therein. The housing is constructed with an outer coating of a generally soft, resilient, pliant material that extends over a substantial portion of the housing. The tape measure further provides a locking button that is slidably attached to the housing and is adapted to selectively prevent the tape rule from moving with respect to the opening in the housing. The locking button generally includes a central portion that is located adjacent to the peripheral wall and at least one side portion located adjacent to a side wall of the housing. The locking button further includes an outer surface with an outer coating thereon of a relatively soft, skid-resistant material. The tape measure further provides a tape clip attached to a terminal end of the tape rule that includes a friction member made of a generally soft, non-skid material attached to a clip portion of the tape clip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: General Housewares Corporation
    Inventors: Donald R. Lamond, Bert D. Heinzelman, Dylan Akinrele, Walter Stoeckmann, Richard Whitehall
  • Patent number: 6226887
    Abstract: Freeze drying apparatus and associated lyophilization procedures are provided employing vapor flow detection and/or vacuum control for monitoring and control of the lyophilization process. The vapor flow detector, such as a windmill sensor, is disposed to monitor vapor flow from product undergoing lyophilization. In a batch process, vapor flow is collectively monitored with the vapor flow detector between the process chamber and condenser chamber, while in a manifold configuration separate vapor flow detectors are employed at each flask attachment port. A windmill sensor provides visual feedback to an operator and/or electronic feedback to a system controller. A vacuum control system is also provided for use with or independent of vapor flow detection. This vacuum control disconnects the vacuum source from the process chamber when pressure within the process chamber falls below a first predefined set point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: S.P. Industries, Inc., The Virtis division
    Inventors: Kenneth J. Tenedini, Siegfried G. Bart, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6226888
    Abstract: A method and device for drying a gas by means of adsorption on a desiccant able to be regenerated (11), whereby a portion of the dried gas is used for regenerating the desiccant. The gas portion used for the regeneration is heated in at least two successive steps, said steps being performed in different zones (30,31 or 33-36) situated successively in the flow direction of the gas portion through the regenerating desiccant (11) and by stopping the heating in a zone (30,31 or 33-36) as soon as the desiccant (11) in this zone (30,31 or 33-36) is regenerated, so that this zone (30,31 or 33-36) may already cool down by the gas portion for regeneration while a successive zone (30,31 or 33-36) is still regenerated by the heated gas. In each vessel (7, 8) at least two individually controllable heating elements (25-26; 27-28; 38-41) are present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Atlas Copco Airpower, naamloze vennootschap
    Inventor: Kristian Karl Henrik Lang
  • Patent number: 6226889
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for use in removing at least one volatile contaminant from contaminated material by using a rotary vacuum retort during high temperature and vacuum processing. The loading and unloading are performed in a manner that minimizes the introduction of low boiling point gases. The apparatus employs, in one preferred embodiment, elastomeric pinch valve airlocks to isolate the entire system between the airlocks and a vacuum generator. The apparatus employs, in another preferred embodiment, at least one material transfer element. Furthermore, the contaminated material may be dried in a dryer prior to introduction into the retort. Moreover, the decontaminated material can be cooled through a heat exchanger prior to discharge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: SepraDyne Corporation
    Inventors: Randy A. Aulbaugh, Gregory G. Hawk
  • Patent number: 6226890
    Abstract: A method of desiccating an environment surrounding a moisture-sensitive electronic device sealed within an enclosure, includes selecting a desiccant comprised of solid particles having a particle size range 0.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Michael L. Boroson, Jeffrey P. Serbicki, Peter G. Bessey
  • Patent number: 6226891
    Abstract: In the present method of drying iron ore pellets, e.g., magnetite pellets, moisture-containing iron ore pellets are formed into a bed comprising a multiplicity of the pellets. A current of drying gas is forced upwardly through the bed of pellets to at least partially dry some of the pellets. Radiant heat reflectors above the bed reflect heat back onto the pellets with air jets simultaneously directing air downwardly onto the top surface of the bed. Air is forced between the reflectors are placed and onto the bed to, especially below the firebrick wall between the end of the updraft drying zone and the downdraft drying zone. Water is applied to the hot pellets to produce steam as well as water vapor which is added to a current of air to produce a stream of hot, humid air that is passed through the bed to improve pellet characteristics and recover waste heat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: Daniel R. Chapman
  • Patent number: 6226892
    Abstract: A dryer module for drying filter supports in DNA preparation comprises a receiving member for receiving the filter support and at least one blower member, the blower member being arranged below the receiving member for receiving the filter support so that the filter support is blown on an dried from below. The dryer module also has a heating system for warming the air blown from below against the filter support, the heating system being arranged above the blower member, of which there is at least one. The dryer module is electronically controlled by a control means as a function of the measured temperature of the drying air. The dryer module can be used as a stand-along apparatus or in an automated environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Gesellschaft fuer Biotechnologische Forschung mbH (GBF)
    Inventors: Helmut Bloecker, Gerhard Kauer
  • Patent number: 6226893
    Abstract: A pedicure sandal (10) fabricated from a spongy foot form includes a base portion (12) having an outer perimeter shaped to accommodate a human foot and an integrally connected toe separating portion (18) selectively attached (20) to the base portion to form a plurality of toe-receiving loops (18a-e) for engaging and separating the wearers toes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventors: Lori A. Schlamp, Steven K. Schlamp
  • Patent number: 6226894
    Abstract: A slipper and a method of manufacturing a slipper is described where the slipper includes an outsole having a sidewall extending along a perimeter of the outsole. The outsole also includes a supporting sole structure including a platform surface. The supporting sole may include lattice walls defining open cells. The slipper also includes an insole and a vamp. The insole covers the platform of the outsole and fits within the sidewall. The method of manufacture includes the steps of providing the outsole, providing the vamp, and attaching a lower perimeter of the vamp to at least a portion of the sidewall extending along a perimeter of the outsole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: R. G. Barry Corporation
    Inventors: Walter Thomas Bray, Jr., Theresa Stewart
  • Patent number: 6226895
    Abstract: A shoe construction having a sole with an outsole shell that is filled with a filling material, such as polyurethane foam, and secured to the upper by a welt. The sole includes an insole having a downwardly extending rib, an outer shell defining a void containing the filling material, and a welt that interconnects the outsole shell and the insole with the upper. To assemble the construction, the upper is lasted and either stitched or stapled to the insole. The welt is then stitched or stapled to the insole/upper combination. Next, the filling material is poured into the void in the outsole shell and the shell is directly attached by the filling material to the upper/insole/welt assembly. The outsole welt is stitched to the shell around the entire periphery of the sole. The stitch extends between a stitch groove in the welt and a stitch groove in the outsole shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Wolverine World Wide, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry W. McClelland
  • Patent number: 6226896
    Abstract: Footwear intended primarily for outdoor use, wherein a variety of ground conditions are likely to be encountered, has a sole with traction elements inspired by the hoof of a mountain goat. In several embodiments, an interior region of the sole is provided with a plurality of pairs of relatively soft protruding pods, while a perimetric region surrounding the interior region includes a plurality of relatively hard lugs provided on opposite sides of the pod pairs. The pods extend downwardly below the lugs such that they will make initial ground contact and compress. The compression cushions initial impact and increases the area of ground contact to improve traction on firm smooth surfaces. The compression also brings the lugs into ground engagement, following initial contact, to improve stability and traction on irregular and soft ground surfaces. Other embodiments of the invention implement similar principles, in soles having a more conventional (less goat hoof-like) appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Nike, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Ray Friton
  • Patent number: 6226897
    Abstract: A structural interface for a sports shoe is described. An implementation of the structural interface includes a lateral beam member and a medial beam member connected together by a bridge member. The lateral and medial beam members may each include at least one mounting location for connection means and/or attachment devices. The connection means or attachment devices mate with sports apparatus, for example, snowboard bindings or bike pedals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Vans, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeff W. Sand
  • Patent number: 6226898
    Abstract: A downhill ski boot (10) includes an inner shell (14) that is secured within a substantially rigid outer shell (12). The outer shell has a base (18) and an ankle cuff (20). The base includes a sidewall portion (24) having medial and lateral sides, with a longitudinal gap (32) being defined therebetween which exposes the inner shell. The inner shell also receives a removable liner (16). The outer shell may be secured by fasteners to closely conform the inner shell and liner about the foot. The ankle cuff and base are reinforced by a segmented strut to aid in transfer of force from the lower leg to the ski.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: K-2 Corporation
    Inventors: Alan M. Trimble, James A. Vandergrift
  • Patent number: 6226899
    Abstract: A snowshoe is constructed of molded plastic nose and tail pieces, both connected to a pair of rigid rails to complete the snowshoe frame. A stretched deck membrane, in an area over the heel of a user's shoe or boot, has left and right sides secured to the rails, and preferably is also supported on the tail piece and on aft portions of the nose piece. In one embodiment the rails are of tubular metal, secured to aft portions of the nose piece and forward portions of the tail piece via reinforced, shaped cavities in the molded plastic, contoured to receive the rails. The snowshoe construction is efficient in assembly and cost because there is no need for bends in the rails, the molded plastic components are relatively inexpensive, and snowshoes of different lengths may be produced simply by changing the lengths of the rails and of the deck membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Atlas Snow-Shoe Company
    Inventors: Perry A. Klebahn, Daniel T. Emerson
  • Patent number: 6226900
    Abstract: A grind shoe including a sole provided on its lower surface with a transverse gliding and wear reinforcement arranged in the sole central zone. The transverse reinforcement has the shape of a portion of a cylinder arranged transversely to the sole longitudinal axis, with a concave curvature oriented downwardly. The shoe also includes a longitudinal reinforcement arranged on either side of the transverse reinforcement and defining a longitudinal groove on either side of the transverse reinforcement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Salomon S.A.
    Inventor: Sébastien Mazars
  • Patent number: 6226901
    Abstract: A shoe bottom assembly is described in which the transverse angle of the foot-supporting surface is manually adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: Henri E. Rosen
  • Patent number: 6226902
    Abstract: A work vehicle includes a frame, an excavating apparatus movably secured to the frame, an operator's station, and a control system. The excavating apparatus includes a material engaging member and a plurality of actuators having positions for positioning the material engaging member with respect to the frame. The control system controls the positions of the plurality of actuators and thereby the position of the material engaging member. The controls system includes a plurality of manual operator input devices, an operator presence sensor, a control circuit, and an override device. The plurality of manual operator input devices are located at the operator station for providing material engaging member position commands. The operator presence sensor is configured to generate an operator presence signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Case Corporation
    Inventor: Dennis J. Heyne
  • Patent number: 6226903
    Abstract: A ditch digging and cleaning system includes a frame having a hitch and a pair of support arms with wheels, a front blade, a pair of side blades, a dispersing member rotatably attached to the frame, a power train mechanically connected to the dispersing member, and an adjustable deflector assembly attached to the rear portion of the frame. The dispersing member is comprised of a circular base, and a plurality of fan blades orthogonally attached to an upper surface of the circular base. The dispersing member is juxtaposed behind a pan attached to the front blade. The dispersing member is also less than 45 degrees with respect to the ground surface. The blade preferably is V-shaped for penetrating hardened soil. Coulters may be added in front of the front blade for loosening the ground. In operation, the front blade severs the dirt from the ground surface at a desired depth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: Edwin A. Erickson
  • Patent number: 6226904
    Abstract: An iron guard for holding, cooling, and storing an electric iron after use thereof. The iron guard includes a base member and upwardly extending side members. A plurality of flanges extend inwardly from the side members and are capable of slidable engagement with the electric iron to support the soleplate in spaced relation to the base member, thereby providing a gap between the soleplate and the base member to minimize heat transfer from the soleplate to the iron guard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Hamilton Beach/Proctor-Silex, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin Brady, Ramon R. Rodriquez
  • Patent number: 6226905
    Abstract: The badge holder includes a plate member with a retainer secured to its back side for securing the badge holder to a garment. Indicia on the face of the badge holder indicates the profession of the person wearing the badge holder. One or more apertures can be provided for the attachment of pins to the badge holder. A slot in the plate member adjacent to a plate member edge receives an end member of a clamp secured to an identification badge that identifies the person wearing the badge holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: Maria M. Osuna