Patents Issued in December 4, 2001
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Patent number: 6324723Abstract: A wet pickup attachment for vacuum cleaners has a pair of independent float operated valves to close primary and secondary exhaust openings responsive to different water levels in a collection tank and thereby prevent aspiration of water into a vacuum cleaner that powers the attachment.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: The Scott Fetzer CompanyInventors: Diane L. Dodson, William G. Badley, Chris Konstantacos
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Patent number: 6324724Abstract: The caster wheel assembly includes a top plate with downwardly extending walls which terminate in bottom flanges to support the frame of a heavy cabinet. The caster wheel assembly further includes side flanges with eyelets through which screws or bolts pass to threaded apertures in the frame of the heavy cabinet. The top plate is configured to bend elastically and then inelastically in response to a force on the caster wheels, thereby reducing the force transmitted to the cabinet frame.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventor: Earl J. Reilly, Jr.
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Patent number: 6324725Abstract: A furniture glide including a stippled bottom surface. A replacement furniture glide may be formed as a cap to be snapped over the existing glide and having a stippled bottom surface. The stipples allow debris on a floor to pass under the glide without becoming embedded in the contact surface between the glide and the floor, thereby preventing the glide from scratching or marring the floor surface. A method of repairing furniture includes installing a cap over the existing furniture glide, with the cap having a stippled bottom surface, or alternatively, installing a replacement glide having a stippled bottom surface.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 1999Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Inventor: Richard B. Green
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Patent number: 6324726Abstract: The invention relates to a guide skid for a gate drive which is accommodated sliding in a C-profile, with two lateral openings extending over its length to accommodate a drive cord, a locking element for the coupling and disconnecting from the drive cord and a connecting element for the gate to be moved. The guide skid has a symmetrical outline and when installed has no parts projecting beyond the C-profile, and with the guide skid being provided one face thereof with a continuous slot which is bridged by a bolt forming the connecting element.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 1999Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Marantec Antriebs-und Steuerungstechnik GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Michael Hörmann
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Patent number: 6324727Abstract: A system for installing a pair of separate door guiding tracks in a predetermined parallel relation below and to an overhead structure of a door opening comprising applying a series of track spacing members to a pair of separate tracks while the tracks are disposed in predetermined parallel relation at longitudinally spaced positions along the tracks so as to retain the tracks in predetermined parallel relation, fixedly securing the tracks while retained in predetermined parallel relation by a series of spacing members below and to the overhead structure of the door opening, and moving each track spacing member downwardly with respect to the pair of tracks after installation to remove the series of track spacing members from the tracks.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: The Stanley WorksInventors: Joseph Ortoleva, Thomas Pelletier, Susanna Perrett
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Patent number: 6324728Abstract: An ergonomic attachment for inline power tools reduces the forces, stresses, and tensions experienced by operators of inline power tools. The ergonomic attachment includes a removable attachment mechanism, which attaches to the base of the inline power tool. The attachment mechanism includes a bracket and a U-shaped member, which extends around the base of the inline power tool and is fastened to the bracket by fasteners to secure the attachment device to the inline power tool. Pivotally attached to the attachment mechanism is a padded ergonomic support member. The ergonomic support member includes an elongated horizontal portion and an inverted U-shaped portion. The attachment is spring loaded with a helical spring connected between the attachment mechanism and the support member. The spring forces the inverted U-shaped portion downwardly against the top of an operator's forearm.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 1999Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Blankenheim Services, LLCInventor: Eric C. Blankenheim
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Patent number: 6324729Abstract: The invention concerns a sliding element (110) for a wrist band, in particular a wrist-watch band, the sliding element extending along the front face of the wrist band and at least in sections along the rear face of the wrist band. The sliding element comprises a substantially cuboid base element (112) which extends along the front face of the wrist band and has guides (142) projecting from the base element for holder elements (114, 116) which are displaceable relative to the base element and the wrist band and each engage about a longitudinal edge of the wrist band. The sliding element (110) further comprise spring elements (126, 128) which extend in the sliding direction of the holder elements (114, 116) and are supported on sections of the base element and the holder elements.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 1998Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Inventor: Andreas Daubenthaler
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Patent number: 6324730Abstract: A webbing insertion member is formed of a body having a through opening for allowing a webbing to pass therethrough, and a slide portion formed on at least one side of the through opening. The slide portion has a rough portion substantially contacting the webbing to reduce a sliding area with the webbing. A friction reducing material is formed on the rough portion for allowing the webbing to slide easily and smoothly on the rough portion.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Takata CorporationInventor: Hideo Iseki
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Patent number: 6324731Abstract: An isolator fan fastener for securing a cooling fan housing to the interior chassis of a computer is described. The fastener is comprised of a pin made of a hard impact resistant plastic and an isolator grommet made of a soft resiliently flexible plastic. The pin is frictionally engageable with the isolator grommet. In operation the isolator grommet is preinstalled in the fan housing. Insertion of the pin through the chassis and into the isolator grommet completes the mounting. An isolator fan fastener in accordance with the invention yields enhanced acoustical properties when compared to prior art fasteners.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 1998Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventor: Frank V. Pliml, Jr.
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Patent number: 6324732Abstract: A fastener for fixing an article on a board via a through-hole formed thereon has a base that has a top face, side faces opposed to each other, and a rear end. An opening having at least two opposing edges is formed in the base. A pair of first elastic stoppers stands upright from the top face of the base and positioned along the edges of the opening. Each of the first elastic stoppers has an inclined projection extending outward. A pair of second elastic stoppers stands upright from the top face of the base next to the first elastic stoppers. Each of the second elastic stoppers has a leg and a wing extending from the leg, the wings spreading outward so as not to be parallel to each other. A cover plate is attached to the rear end of the base in a pivotable manner, so that the cover plate swings between an open position and a closed position. An insertion is attached to and extends from the inner surface of the cover plate.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Piolax, IncInventors: Oomi Arisaka, Shigeo Okada
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Patent number: 6324733Abstract: A clasp includes a keeper assembly to one end of a belt or strap or the like and an engaging member attached to the other end of the belt or strap. The keeper includes a pair of arms having at least two retaining members mounted thereon. At least one of the retaining members is movably mounted on the arms. One or more springs are positioned so that they operate on the retaining members biasing them against each other. In another embodiment, the keeper assembly includes a housing having a channel for receiving the retaining members. In preferred embodiments, the engaging member includes a locking tab that is disposable between two of the retaining members to engage the engaging member to the keeper. In preferred embodiments, the locking tab has an enlarged tip and is recessed on its sides according to the contour of the retaining members. These two features, together with the action of the springs or biasing members, cooperate to secure the engaging member to the keeper assembly.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 1999Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Inventor: Ryan L. Brown
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Patent number: 6324734Abstract: A safety pin attachment has a contoured longitudinal center channel and at least three retainer members. The contour of the center channel allows for insertion of a wide range of safety pins therein. Once positioned within the center channel, the retainer members may be urged together about the stationary wire of the safety pin, and an adhesive may be used to permanently secure the attachment to the safety pin. The attachment provides a gripping mass for the safety pin thereby facilitating handling of the safety pin. The attachment may have identifying indicia such as letters or numbers, or may have indicia having a tactile characteristic such as braille or a series of raised portions.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Inventor: John Joseph
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Patent number: 6324735Abstract: A buckle device for skate boots includes a U-shaped lock member pivotably connected to a frame on the boot and a head of a toothed belt is pivotably connected to the lock member. A slot is defined in a distal end of the lock member and two recesses defined in a bottom of the lock member. A tongue is retractably received in the slot of the lock member with two resilient legs biased between the tongue and an inside of the recess. The tongue has two limiting pieces movably retained in the two recesses in the lock member and an engaging member extends from a bottom of the tongue so as to be engaged with the hook. The lock member cannot be lifted except that the engaging member is disengaged from the hook by pushing the tongue.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Inventor: Chin-Tsug Chen
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Patent number: 6324736Abstract: A funeral casket which includes a video display unit capable of playing a recording or other message containing visual images, and audio if desired, at a funeral service. The recorded message may portray selected events during the life of the deceased and is intended to be observed by mourners at the casket so as to aid mourners in coping with their sadness by helping them to more vividly recall the deceased, and hopefully, times of happiness in his or her life. In one embodiment a support member is movably connected to the funeral casket and is structured and disposed to support a video display unit thereon. The preferred support member comprises a lid structure sized and configured to be interchangeable with one of two separate lid portions commonly found on most funeral caskets.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 1999Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Inventor: Andy Atrio
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Patent number: 6324737Abstract: A casket or coffin is provided with a drawer to receive an urn or other vessel containing ashes of a decedent.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 1999Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: The York Group, Inc.Inventors: Clarence Chamness, Barry Alvey
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Patent number: 6324738Abstract: A device is known for producing perforated nonwovens by means of hydrodynamic needling, with the perforation consisting primarily of sharply delimited holes in nonwoven of any dimension. The device consists of a smooth drum that supports and transports the nonwoven, said drum being provided with drainage openings to carry away liquid sprayed at high pressure by a nozzle beam from many outlets and having plastic elevations projecting from the plane of the smooth surface for producing the perforations in the nonwoven. The perforated nonwoven that can be produced by this device does not possess uniform strength in all directions. This uniform strength can be achieved simply by distributing the elevations nonuniformly over the drum to produce holes in both dimensions.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 1999Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Fleissner GmbH & Co., MaschinenfabrikInventor: Gerold Fleissner
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Patent number: 6324739Abstract: In the inner ring press-insertion jig for a pipe joint made of resin according to the invention, a diameter-increasing ring member in which the outer diameter can be changed to the maximum outer diameter and to the minimum outer diameter by axial movement is fitted onto a front small-diameter portion of a holder which insertingly holds a sleeve-like inner ring. A fixing structure which, under a state where the outer diameter of the diameter-increasing ring member is changed to the maximum outer diameter, positionally fixes the diameter-increasing ring member is formed between the diameter-increasing ring member and the holder in a manner that the fixation can be canceled.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Nippon Pillar Packing Co., Ltd.Inventors: Makoto Fujii, Takuya Ishida
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Patent number: 6324740Abstract: A simple, compact and lightweight tool for the disassembly of the universal joints used in automobiles, trucks, recreational vehicles, buses, boats, farm machinery, and other machinery. The tool directs pressure specifically to the point where it is needed to remove a bearing cup of the universal joint and will not bend or otherwise damage the universal joint or driveline. The tool can be easily stored in a mechanic's toolbox.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 1999Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Inventor: Richard E. Siedler
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Patent number: 6324741Abstract: An apparatus for removing a fastener includes a main body portion. The fastener secures a first panel and a second panel and includes a retaining portion extending substantially through an aperture in the second panel. The retaining portion has a pair of resilient legs. Each resilient leg has a free end. The main body portion of the apparatus defines a slot. The slot has a open end and a closed end. The slot preferably tapers from the open end to the closed end. The slot is adapted to compress the free ends of the resilient legs together in response to translation of the fastener from the open end toward the closed end.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: DaimlerChrysler CorporationInventor: Michael E. Brown
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Patent number: 6324742Abstract: After a number of optical fibers are inserted into a tubular member of a shape memory alloy, the tubular member is returned to its memorized shape by heating to reduce a cross-sectional area of a reception space of the tubular member, thereby uniting the optical fibers received in the tubular member. In a modified form of the invention, a number of optical fibers are inserted into a reception space between two tubular members at least one of which is made of a shape memory alloy, and then the one tubular member is heated to be returned to its memorized shape to reduce a cross-sectional area of the reception space between the two tubular members, thereby uniting the optical fibers.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Machida Endoscope Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kunio Odanaka
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Patent number: 6324743Abstract: By means of the fastener fixing tool fitted with a fastener-guide (30), the base plate and the end (23) of the fastener-guide (30) are firmly fixed together, by a relative movement of the base plate and the end (23) of the fastener-guide (30), the one in relation to the other, in a plane perpendicular to the axis (21) of the fastener-guide (30), the base plate is pressed against a receiver-support (100) and attached there by means of a fastener. Where the base plate constitutes a female part for firmly uniting with the end (23) of the fastener-guide (30), the fastener-guide (30) is provided with an exterior annular groove (24) to receive a snap fit clamp (11) of the base plate.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 1999Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Societe de Prospection et d'Inventions Techniques SpitInventors: Louis Gonnet, Guy Jaillet
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Patent number: 6324744Abstract: A specialized mounting arrangement for an accessory such as an engine driven air conditioner compressor to an engine is utilized featuring a pair of press fitted bushings in a pair of arms of the mount and a single bolt extending therethrough. The arms of the mount assembly are constructed so that they straddle portions of an anchor member attached to the engine. A connector bolt is inserted through one bushing in one arm of the mount and then thorough a passage in the anchor member, and next into engagement with internal threads carried by the other bushing which his carried by the other arm of the mount. Rotation of the bolt moves the bushings toward one another and against the ends of the anchor member to clamp the anchor and thus the accessory therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: DaimlerChrysler CorporationInventors: Thomas M Banks, Kenneth W Wheat, Vem L Chuang
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Patent number: 6324745Abstract: A rotor assembly for a rotating machine includes a substantially cylindrical main rotor body having an outer surface. A plurality of longitudinal ribs project from the outer surface of the main rotor body. A plurality of primary recesses are defined by adjacent ribs and a secondary recess is defined in the outer surface within at least one primary recess. A magnet is positioned within at least one primary recess, and a layer of adhesive between the magnet and the outer surface of the main rotor body fills the secondary recess. Magnet retaining elements. in the form of either an encapsulation layer, star-shaped retainer or elongated retaining members may also be used. The magnet retaining elements may be used alone or in combination with the adhesive layer between the magnets and the main rotor body.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 1999Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.Inventors: Andrew F. Poag, Joseph L. Tevaarwerk, Ray D. Heilman, Mauro Gavello
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Patent number: 6324746Abstract: A method of manufacturing a stable multifilament multiconductor with reduced losses includes making a billet by the single stacking technique. Conductive matrix rods and/or resistive matrix rods are disposed in the superconductor filament of the billet to form matrix channels between bundles of superconductor filaments. The rods preferably have a polygonal section, preferably square or rectangular, more preferably hexagonal.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1998Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Gec Alsthom Electromecanique S.A.Inventors: Christian Bruzek, Philippe Mocaer
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Patent number: 6324747Abstract: A method of fabricating a magnetoresistive (MR) proximity head slider having substantial immunity to thermal asperities includes providing the head slider having an inductive write transducer and an MR read transducer each extending to a first region of an air bearing surface (ABS) of the head slider. The method further includes removing a portion of the first region of the ABS corresponding to the MR read transducer to form a cavity in the ABS. The cavity in the ABS provides a second region of the ABS such that after removal of the portion of the first region the MR read transducer extends only to the second region of the ABS.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 1999Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Seagate Technology LLCInventors: Zine-Eddine Boutaghou, Dallas Wayne Meyer, Steven Barclay Slade
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Patent number: 6324748Abstract: A MEMS actuator is provided that produces significant forces and displacements while consuming a reasonable amount of power. The MEMS actuator includes a microelectronic substrate, spaced apart supports on the substrate and a metallic arched beam extending between the spaced apart supports. The MEMS actuator also includes a heater for heating the arched beam to cause further arching of the beam. In order to effectively transfer heat from the heater to the metallic arched beam, the metallic arched beam extends over and is spaced, albeit slightly, from the heater. As such, the MEMS actuator effectively converts the heat generated by the heater into mechanical motion of the metallic arched beam. A family of other MEMS devices, such as relays, switching arrays and valves, are also provided that include one or more MEMS actuators in order to take advantage of its efficient operating characteristics. In addition, a method of fabricating a MEMS actuator is further provided.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 1999Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: JDS Uniphase CorporationInventors: Vijayakumar R. Dhuler, Robert L. Wood, Ramaswamy Mahadevan
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Patent number: 6324749Abstract: A vehicle assembly line comprising, laid out in the order mentioned, a wire leading/transfer trimming zone (20) where components for wire leading/transfer trimming are sequentially assembled to a paint-finished vehicle body (11) for inspection and, if needed, repairing, an interior zone (30) where interior components are sequentially assembled for inspection and, if needed, repairing, an under-floor trimming zone (40) where under-floor dress-up components are sequentially assembled for inspection and, if needed, repairing, an exterior zone (50) where exterior components are sequentially assembled for inspection and, if needed, repairing, and a combined guarantee zone (60) where components not repaired in zones (20) to (50) are inspected and repaired, wherein inspection and repair are conducted in inspection sections and repair sections individually attached to individual functional zones.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Norio Katsuura, Hideaki Sasaki
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Patent number: 6324750Abstract: A system for adjustably recreating an interior architecture of a vehicle and a method of constructing the interior architecture. A platform is constructed of a plurality of planar shaped floor plates arrayed in coplanar fashion. A cage is constructed upon the platform and includes first vertically extending and telescoping supports which are secured at selected locations along edges of the platform. Second horizontally extending supports interconnect top ends of the first vertically extending supports and both the first and second supports are axially adjustable in length to define a specified interior volume of the cage. A series of generic form patterns corresponding to interior/exterior components of a vehicle are assembled upon the platform and within the interior volume of the cage and are further capable of being easily and manually repositioned relative one another to ergonomic testing without regard to particular styling or ornamentation.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 1999Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: DMR Investments, LLCInventors: William P. Saunders, Dennis M. Rafferty
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Patent number: 6324751Abstract: An apparatus for loading battery plate groups into a battery box. The apparatus includes a compression frame which includes a number of relative movable walls and stops for gripping and retaining battery groups. The wall carry guide shins for projecting into respective cells in a battery box and guide the groups into the cells as they are pushed by a pusher. The movable nature of the walls allow the groups to be loaded into frame, when it is in released position. The walls can then be drawn together compressing the groups and retaining them in a compressed state as they are loaded.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1998Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: TBS Engineering LimitedInventors: Christopher Stephen Barge, Lawrence Ernest Gardiner
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Patent number: 6324752Abstract: Component placement machine with a frame (1) and a transport device (2) for transporting printed circuit boards (3) in an X-direction, which transport device is provided with a transport belt (9) having an outer surface (13) on which printed circuit boards (3) are positioned. During the transport of printed circuit boards (3) as well as during the placement of components (6) on the printed circuit boards (3) an edge portion (12) of the printed circuit board which extends in the X-direction is retained between the outer surface (13) of the transport belt (9) and a contact surface (11) of the frame (1). The outer surface (13) of the transport belt has a relatively high coefficient of friction in contact with said edge portion (12) of the printed circuit board, whereas said contact surface (11) of the frame has a relatively low coefficient of friction in contact with said edge portion (12) of the printed circuit board.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: U.S. Philips CorporationInventors: Wessel J. Wesseling, Gerardus L. J. Reuvers
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Patent number: 6324753Abstract: A mounting assistance device with which a vibrating device can be efficiently mounted to a tire and wheel assembly. In the mounting assistance device, abutting portions are made to abut against sidewall portions of a tire and then an eccentric disc is pressed against a sliding portion so as to be united therewith by lowering a lever of a handle member in a first direction. In this state, when the lever is rotated 180° about a pin member in a second direction, due to an effect of the eccentric disc, clamping members move in a mutually approaching direction. Accordingly, clamping and fixing to the tire is accomplished by the mounting assistance device. Thus, the mounting assistance device (and vibrating device) can be mounted without using tools, simply by rotating the lever in the two directions.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Bridgestone CorporationInventor: Yutaka Naruse
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Patent number: 6324754Abstract: Solder pads for microelectronic connections are formed with a set of solder-wettable strips extending radially outwardly from a central point. A solid core solder ball is positioned on each pad and reflowed. The pad configuration helps to center the solder ball and keeps the solder ball down in the desired position thereby minimizing variations in height of the resulting solder bumps. Also, the solder pad may include non-wettable surfaces defined by a non-wettable metal, a metal compound or a dielectric material. The non-wettable areas on the pad confine the solder and avoid the need for a separate solder mask.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 1998Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Tessera, Inc.Inventors: Thomas H. DiStefano, Joseph Fjelstad
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Patent number: 6324755Abstract: A microwave solid interface module having transmit and receive functionality includes a substrate supporting microwave, logic, and DC bias circuits. In one embodiment, the substrate can be formed from BeO. The module can include a BGA package that provides a connector-less interface for RF, DC, and thermal connections to a supporting module. The BGA structure provides vertical connections between the BGA solder balls and a respective DC signal layer, a microwave signal layer, and a thermally conductive core within the supporting module.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Raytheon CompanyInventors: Michael T. Borkowski, Thomas V. Sikina, John W. Roman
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Patent number: 6324756Abstract: A system and method for providing plastic ball grid array (“PBGA”) packages is disclosed. In one aspect, the method and system provide a plurality of PBGA packages. Each of the plurality of PBGA packages including a semiconductor die and a portion of a substrate. The semiconductor die is electrically coupled to the portion of the substrate. The portion of the substrate has an edge. In this aspect, the method and system include forming the plurality of PBGA packages on the substrate and separating the portion of the substrate for each of the plurality of PBGA packages. The portion of the substrate for one of the plurality of PBGA packages is separated from the portion of the substrate for another of the plurality of PBGA packages by a gap. In a preferred embodiment, the gap is created by punching the substrate. The method and system further include filling the gap with a moisture sealant and cutting the moisture sealant to separate the plurality of PBGA packages.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 1998Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.Inventors: Xia Li, Ranji Gannamani
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Patent number: 6324757Abstract: A method of repairing a coolant system associated with an engine for a vehicle, including disconnecting a gooseneck connected to said engine and removing from said engine its thermostat; disconnecting a bottom radiator hose connected to said engine and flushing said engine with water; reconnecting said bottom radiator hose and reconnecting said gooseneck; refilling said engine's radiator with an antifreeze solution; opening a drain valve on said radiator and allowing a predetermined amount of coolant to drain out of said engine corresponding to a volume of a treatment composition to be added, said treatment composition comprising an aqueous silicate mixture comprising 5-80% sodium silicate, based on a total amount of silicates in said mixture, and 50-20% potassium silicate, based on said total amount of silicates in said mixture, said total amount of silicates comprising about 40-50% of said mixture, a glycol in an amount of at least 10% by volume of the composition and the balance being water; startingType: GrantFiled: January 3, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: SCIX, LLCInventor: Robert W. Barks
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Patent number: 6324758Abstract: A method for making a relatively low profile catalytic converter canister 72, 80, 153 which is selectively and operatively deployed upon a vehicle 14 and which may be selectively used to form a catalytic converter assembly.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Visteon Global Tech., Inc.Inventors: Hsin-Hong Huang, Gary Meyers, Kenneth Mark Pickett
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Patent number: 6324759Abstract: A filler neck is connected to a connection pipe attached to a pouring port of a header tank of a radiator. A radiator cap having a pressure valve and an overflow pipe connected to a reservoir are attached to the filler neck. The filler neck has a cylindrical portion which includes an annular pressure-valve sealing portion making contact with the pressure valve, an opening formed inside an inner diameter of the pressure-valve sealing portion to communicate with the connection pipe and an opening peripheral portion formed along a periphery of the opening. The opening peripheral portion is disposed above a lower end of the overflow pipe. The filler neck is formed by pressing a metal plate. Therefore, the filler neck made of metal is readily formed into a shape substantially equal to that of a resin filler neck.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Denso CorporationInventors: Norihisa Sasano, Yoshihiro Iwata, Masanori Iyama, Satomi Muto, Takaaki Sakane
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Patent number: 6324760Abstract: An inflator showing stable operating capability is provided wherein an opening of a gas generator for an air bag which communicates with the atmosphere is closed by a moisture-proof seal tape that is able to prevent a gas generating agent in the gas generator from absorbing moisture or water vapors. The opening of the gas generator which communicates with the atmosphere is closed by the moisture-proof seal tape comprising a substrate and an adhesive. The water vapor permeability of the seal tape is such that the rate of increase in the weight due to moisture absorption of the gas generating agent stored in the gas generator is 2.0% or smaller when the gas generator is left for 20 days in a constant-temperature, constant-humidity chamber kept at a temperature of 80° C. and humidity of 90%.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd.Inventor: Shogo Tomiyama
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Patent number: 6324761Abstract: The end faces of the edge portions of a flat plate, which have been respectively cut into a given shape according to a trimming operation, are then respectively face-struck into a linear shape. Also, in the trimming operation, each of the edge portions of the flat plate is cut into a shape having a larger dimension than that of a finally required shape thereof, and the thus produced excess length portions of the edge portions are worked by compressing when a pair of semidivided cylindrical portions are butted against each other. Since a connecting portion situated between the pair of semidivided cylindrical portions is always pressed with a given pressure, the working properties of the connecting portion in the molding operation are prevented from being revived.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 1998Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Calsonic Kansei CorporationInventors: Seiji Mashiko, Michito Saito
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Patent number: 6324762Abstract: A combinable scriber knife includes a handle combined with a main housing and a subordinate housing. The main housing has a slotted lock at a first end engageable with a locking plate at a first end of the subordinate housing, a U-shaped hook pivoted at a second end including a locking knot on inner side engageable with a locking hole in a second end of the subordinate housing, a pair of coupling posts on an inner side engageable with a pair of coupling holes in an inner side of the subordinate housing, a plurality of chambers inside the main housing to receive a plurality of the hexagonal shanks of screwdriver which are engageable within a hexagonal central bore at the second of the main housing and a trapezoid shaped blade inserted into the slotted lock and retained by a knot inside the main housing.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Inventor: Yin-Hae Huang
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Patent number: 6324763Abstract: An improved structure art design knife comprised of a lower cover, a front upper cover, a rear upper cover, a blade mount, a blade, a release button, and a press button. The blade mount for the blade is contained in the blade mount channel of the lower cover, with a guide slot and a number of stepped engagement notches also disposed on the lower cover. A semicircular hole is formed at the other end of the lower cover, with a tab having a hook slot situated nearby. Formed in the front upper cover that fits onto the front end of the lower cover is an elongated hole having inserted within a retention button and a retention block, and the inner side of the retention block is tapered. Formed at the back end of the rear upper cover is another semicircular hole that corresponds to the semicircular hole of the lower cover. Two insertion nocks are formed along the center of the back side of blade.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Inventor: Tai-Wang Lee
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Patent number: 6324764Abstract: A hedge trimmer assembly for trimming hedges and trees. The hedge trimmer assembly includes a head assembly comprising a rotatable trimmer head and a debris shield. A cutting line extending from the rotating head. A pole with the head assembly pivotably coupled to a first end of the pole. An adjustable head locking assembly for selectively locking the head assembly into a static position relative to the pole. A handle extending from the pole. A motor operationally coupled to the trimmer head. The motor is coupled to a second end of the pole. A trigger operationally coupled between the motor and the trimmer head.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Inventor: Steven B. Watkins
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Patent number: 6324765Abstract: A guard for a weed trimmer includes an elongated telescoping arm attachable to a trimmer shaft. The arm is biased in an extended position. Pivotally attached to a distal end of the arm is a protector plate for providing a protective barrier between a trimmer head and another object such as a tree trunk, plant or fence. The distance between the plate and trimming head can be selectively varied by pressing the plate against the object.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 1999Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Inventor: Gary J. Watkins, Sr.
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Patent number: 6324766Abstract: A clamp structure includes a frame defining an aperture through which an elongate member extends. A shoe is fitted in a channel of the elongate member and is of external cross-section substantially complementary to the cross-sectional configuration of the channel. A mechanism forces the shoe into the channel and firmly presses the elongate member against the frame.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 1999Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Inventor: Jack M. Schooley
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Patent number: 6324767Abstract: A level formed of a flat card that has a series of register marks that are printed on it. The register marks are designed to fit square on the rectangular card. The primary marks are positioned at the two ends of the card. When looking at the register marks, the user can see any angular displacement between them. This angular displacement indicates an out of level condition. If the marks are viewed as being completely horizontal, the card is level. To use the device, simple stand the card up on the surface to be leveled. The angular displacement of the register marks instantly show whether the surface that the card is resting on is level. In this way, just about anything can be tested for level. The device can also be placed on walls or other objects to draw level lines or reference marks. It is also useful as a template for tracing or drawing straight lines for sewing or other activities.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 1999Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Inventor: Todd Houston
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Patent number: 6324768Abstract: A ball lock punch retainer system, including a punch, with a ball receiving grooved seat therein, a punch retainer body, a backing plate, a spring hole located in the retainer body, a ball positioned within said spring hole, a spring located in said spring hole, said spring generally acting to bias said ball into a locking engagement with said punch, an access hole located in the retainer body and communicating with the ball located in the spring hole, an elongated gage member which can be moved into and out of said access hole, one end of said gage member having a ball contact surface thereon, said gage member having a indicating area thereon with an upper end, a middle part, and a lower end, and the gage member being operative to determine when the ball lock is in proper position.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: AIP, Inc.Inventor: Charles G. Wellman
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Patent number: 6324769Abstract: A retractable rule assembly includes a housing assembly and a reel rotatably mounted in the housing assembly. An elongated blade formed of a ribbon of metal having one end connected to the reel is constructed and arranged with respect to the housing assembly to extend from a position tangential to the reel outwardly through a spaced opening in the housing assembly. A coil spring formed of a ribbon of metal has a construction and arrangement between the housing assembly and the reel to rotate the reel in the housing assembly in a direction to wind up the elongated blade when extending outwardly of the housing assembly opening in a normal concavo-convex cross-sectional configuration onto the reel in an abutting volute coil formation in a flattened cross-sectional configuration. A blade holding assembly is constructed and arranged to be manually actuated to hold the blade in any position of extension outwardly of the housing assembly opening and to release the blade from any position in which it is held.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 1999Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: The Stanley WorksInventor: John C. Murray
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Patent number: 6324770Abstract: An improved apparatus and method for the hot air roasting of coffee beans is provided and includes structure for inhibiting contaminants from entering the hot air stream used in the roasting of coffee beans, structure for obtaining a uniform roast of the coffee beans, unitary structure for mounting a handle to a roasting chamber and removably and releasably mounting a cover to the roasting chamber, structure for initiating a roasting cycle and terminating the roasting cycle for a predetermined cooling period at any point during the roasting cycle, structure for double sealing a cover to a roasting chamber, structure for assembling a vessel, a metallic base, and a plastic mount ring into an integral roasting chamber, structure for releasably and removably mounting a roasting vessel to a main housing, dual filters for preventing the blockage of a hot air stream through a hull and chaff collector, and a “fan based” method for controlling the roasting temperature.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2001Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Hearthware Home Products, Inc.Inventors: Jung S. Moon, Rong Liu, Alan R. Kelley
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Patent number: 6324771Abstract: A drying tumbler is provided which includes a temperature bypass which helps prevent an excessive amount of heat from building up in the tumbler. The drying tumbler includes a rotatable drying chamber for containing items during drying. The drying tumber further includes an air handling system that has a heat source which is operable to provide heated air into the interior space of the drying chamber through an air handling and a blower operable to draw air from the interior space of the drying chamber through an air handling outlet. The air handling system is operable so as to produce an air flow through the drying chamber which is substantially parallel to the rotational axis of the drying chamber. A bypass passageway is provided which communicates with the interior of the drying chamber through a bypass inlet which is in spaced relation from the air handling outlet opening and the blower.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Alliance Laundry Systems LLCInventors: Dave McAllister, Jim Sina, Tim Duley, Scott Cowell
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Patent number: 6324772Abstract: A shoe has an upper, a foot support region positioned below at least a portion of the upper to support the bottom of a user's foot, a sole secured below the foot support region, and a flexible member positioned below at least a portion of the foot support region and above at least a portion of the sole. The flexible member has a top surface, a bottom surface, a peripheral portion, and an interior portion. At least two ribs extend substantially across the flexible member. The interior portion of the flexible member deflects in use in a direction substantially perpendicular to a major longitudinal axis of the shoe. At least a portion of the peripheral portion is restrained from movement relative to the interior portion in a direction substantially perpendicular to the major longitudinal axis of the shoe.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Akeva, L.L.C.Inventor: David F. Meschan