Patents Issued in February 14, 2002
  • Publication number: 20020017034
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and device for drying mash-products, and more particularly to a 2-step device for drying mash-products comprising a first drying unit (a flow rotary drying unit) and a second drying unit (a mixing rotary drying unit), the first drying unit and the second drying unit being arranged in series, and a 2-step method for drying mash-products.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2000
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Takanobu Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20020017035
    Abstract: A removable insole for footwear is disclosed which is used for heating the wearer's feet. The insole includes a recessed area for containing a heat source. The improved insole comprises an upper layer, a padding layer, a lower layer, and a cover plate. The cover plate covers the recessed area, thereby forming a cavity for containing a heat source, and extends to the tip of the toe portion. The lower layer has a plurality of recessed channels formed therein which communicate with the recessed area to facilitate the flow of air to and from the heat source. The cover layer is attached to the lower layer in only a few discrete places to facilitate the flow of air to and from the heat source. The insole and/or cover plate have at least one cutout on the periphery of one of the sides in the area of the recessed area which allows for easy insertion and removal of the heat source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2000
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventors: Christl D. Treptow, David Thomas Treptow, Phillip Oren
  • Publication number: 20020017036
    Abstract: Disclosed are articles of footwear and soles therefor, in particular sports shoe soles that include openings for ventilation and vapor exchange. The soles include an insole layer with a plurality of first openings, a support layer with a plurality of second openings that partially overlap the plurality of first openings, and an outsole layer with at least one third opening that at least partially overlaps the plurality of second openings to provide fluidic communications through the sole from an interior of the shoe to an exterior of the shoe. A substantial portion of the plurality of first openings in the insole are interconnected to provide a path for diffusion. The shoes and soles can include a cushioning layer, a tread layer, a breathable membrane, and additional support elements. In addition, the shoes can be used with climate control socks to further enhance the climate control properties of the shoes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventors: Christoph Berger, Gerd Rainer Manz
  • Publication number: 20020017037
    Abstract: A ventilation structure of a shoe sole of the present invention includes the shoe sole 1 formed with a through hole 5 vertically passing therethrough. The through hole 5 is fitted with a ventilation part 6. The ventilation part 6 comprises a flange portion 60 and the projection 61. The flange portion 60 engages the upper surface 2a of the shoe sole 1 so that the ventilation part 6 does not drop off the through hole 5. The projection 61 extends into the through hole 5. The projection 61 is provided with a vent hole 62 vertically passing therethrough for the passage of air.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventors: Tomohiro Hayashi, Minoru Tanaka
  • Publication number: 20020017038
    Abstract: An outsole 1 comprises a high hardness portion 7 and a hardness portion 9. A hardness Ha of the high hardness portion 7 which is measured by a durometer of a type A is 75 to 100. A hardness Hb of the low hardness portion 9 which is measured by the durometer of the type A is equal to or more than and is less than 75. A value of (Ha/Hb) is 1.07 to 2.00. An area ratio of the high hardness portion 7 occupying a bottom e of the outsole 1 is 10% to 90%. An area ratio of the low dness portion 9 occupying the bottom face of the outsole 1 10% to 90%. The sum of the area ratio of the high hardness portion 7 and that of the low hardness portion 9 is 80% or more.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Ikuko Umezawa
  • Publication number: 20020017039
    Abstract: An athletic training shoe insert includes one or more thin strips of heavy material, such as lead, constructed to fit within a shoe and formed to be spaced apart along the length of the shoe and to extend the width of the shoe. A removable insole is constructed to fit within the shoe and to hold the thin strips in a fixed position within the shoe. The thin strips and the insole are designed to allow a human foot to be placed comfortably in the shoe and cooperate to substantially increase the weight of the shoe for training purposes. The number of thin strips is changeable and the position of the thin strips along the length of the athletic shoe is changeable to change the weight of the athletic shoe. That is, a larger number of thin strips can be added to increase the weight of the shoe. Also, additional insoles and weights can be added to a shoe to substantially increase the weight if desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 1999
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: WILLIAM J. HINES
  • Publication number: 20020017040
    Abstract: In the field of clearance of unexploded ordnance from land, there is a need for an improved apparatus for removing unexploded ordnance from the ground. A cutting apparatus includes a plurality of blades on a rotatable shaft, the blades being tapered towards their distal ends. When the blades are driven forwardly through soil while the shaft rotates, they tend to loosen items such as solid ordnance and bring such items to the soil surface. The blades simultaneously sever scissile matter in the soil, thereby facilitating removal of the ordnance. The cutting assembly includes a conveyor for conveying unexploded ordnance away from the soil. The cutting assembly may be mounted on a vehicle including further means for rendering harmless the unexploded ordnance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Applicant: J R French Limited
    Inventor: John Robert French
  • Publication number: 20020017041
    Abstract: A trenching unit used to cut trenches in the seabed for laying pipelines or cables.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventors: Erik Gloppen, Gosta Nilsson
  • Publication number: 20020017042
    Abstract: An aircraft approach and landing system using passive retroreflective panels strategically placed along both sides of a landing strip or runway comprising pairs of color-coded orange panel markers indicating the touchdown zone and singly, the remainder of the landing strip to a left/right reflected beam envelope within which an aircraft may be centered in order to maintain a desired landing vector. The retroreflective sheeting includes a highly visible fluorescent component to render suitable and effective utility in daytime operation and for nighttime use, wherein dual sided panels along both sides of a landing strip, symmetrical from beginning to end, allows for an aircraft landing strip that will accommodate an aircraft to approach and land from either direction; single sided panels accommodates the aircraft unidirectionally.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Wesley E. Schieferstein
  • Publication number: 20020017043
    Abstract: A desktop organizer that is made from a wire frame. The wire frame is shaped to hold a pair of eyeglasses, a container for holding paperclips and thumb tacks and at least two other containers for holding elongated objects such as pens, pencils, emery boards and scissors. There is also a holder for business cards and a holder for a picture frame formed from this wire frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Rudolph Martorella
  • Publication number: 20020017044
    Abstract: This invention is a device for displaying messages which comprises a portable control cabinet with electric power supplied externally, a timing device for controlling opening and closing of a hinged member, such as a car hood, a lifting device, such as air pillows and a visual display attached to said hinged member. This invention includes a method of displaying messages which uses the device or similar devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventors: David A. Tomlin, Gordon H. Curtiss
  • Publication number: 20020017045
    Abstract: An illuminated sign, readable during the night or day, and suitable for use as a house number display, uses a single illuminatable panel, on which a number of stencils are plac critical flicker frequency ed. Each stencil is a rectangular piece of opaque material, such as plastic or metal, in which a central cutout is made in the shape of a number. Several of these stencils are arrayed in front of the illuminatable panel, so that only the light coming through the central cutouts is visible through the stencils. The illuminatable panel is made of an array of LED's, with a diffuser to produce a uniform illumination, and is powered by one or more batteries. A light detector senses the onset of dusk, which activates the illuminatable panel, turning it on, and leaving it on for four or more hours. A constant-current electronic system powers the LEDs, which are pulsed on and off at a speed greater than 90 Hz, which makes the sign appear to the human eye as constantly illuminated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventors: Richard S. Weiss, Richard Eckhardt, Sol Aisenberg
  • Publication number: 20020017046
    Abstract: A sign includes a main body having a first surface and a second surface and an overlay removably attachable to the first surface or the second surface of the main body, and at least two fasteners attached to the overlay for removably securing the overlay to the first surface or the second surface. Each fastener can pass through an oversized hole in the overlay and be movably secured to the overlay with a washer. Each washer spaces the overlay from the main body when the overlay is attached to the main body. The main body can include a plurality of hollow cells within the main body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Mark M. Lavoie
  • Publication number: 20020017047
    Abstract: A bird decoy is disclosed comprising a body frame having a wing frame and a plurality of different neck frames which are selectively removably secured to the body frame. The frames are comprised of flexible steel banding material that allows the body, neck, and wings to move independently with, and in response to, the wind. Each frame is covered by a separate sock, which is comprised of a fabric material imprinted with the feather patterns and colorings of a selected species of bird. Feet, comprising flexible strips of metal, are coupled to the body of the decoy and selectively positioned according to the desired decoy pose. A stake is inserted upwardly through the body of the decoy and is secured to the body frame to support the decoy in various positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Craig A. Mierau
  • Publication number: 20020017048
    Abstract: Fisherman's pliers having pivotally connected members, each member having a handle portion and a jaw portion. A first handle incorporates a weight measuring apparatus partially housed within a longitudinal axial bore defined therein. The weight measuring apparatus preferably includes an elongate rigid plunger having weight indicating indicia thereon, a compressible spring, and a clasp. Attachment of a mass, such as a fish, causes compression of spring such that the weight of the fish is indicated. In an electronic embodiment, the weight measuring apparatus may further include electronic means for digitally displaying the recorded weight. A second handle includes a length measuring apparatus housed within a longitudinal axial bore defined therein. In a preferred embodiment, the length measuring apparatus comprises a telescopically extendable and retractable length-measuring device having length-indicating indicia thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Soloman Lam
  • Publication number: 20020017049
    Abstract: A multipurpose fishing net for sport anglers serves as a landing net, a “strip box” for holding line stripped from a reel prior to casting, and also as a shallow container for temporarily holding a freshly caught fish for photography or other momentary capture before release. A rigid frame is formed of lightweight tubular components, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe. The structure is buoyant, with additional flotation provided by closed cell foam. A net is secured to two opposite sides or more preferably to all four sides of the frame, around the floatation foam portions. The net has some slack therein so that it extends loosely between opposite sides, to allow a captured fish to reside mostly within the water when the present net is floating therein. A tether extends from the frame of the device, for temporary attachment to clothing or other article.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventors: Russell D. Millett, Brenda T. Millett
  • Publication number: 20020017050
    Abstract: A handle for a fly fishing rod includes an elongated sleeve for mounting on a rod and a cowl on one end of the sleeve for partially surrounding the rod in the vicinity of the reel to inhibit sliding of the hand of a user from the handle. The cowl can be a separate element for attachment to an existing fly fishing rod handle. By providing a flange on the bottom trailing end of the cowl, contact between the little finger of the hand holding the rod and the reel is prevented. Thus, the little finger can be positioned in front of the flange so that the caster can safely use it to lead the proper timing of casing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventors: Peter Irrgang, Yasuo Yoshida
  • Publication number: 20020017051
    Abstract: A fish hook formed from a wire has a first end adapted for attachment with a line and a second end comprising a point directed in the general direction of the first end. An intermediary portion extending from the first end to the point includes a shank extending away from the first end and a bent section. An offset is formed into the bent section, is arranged substantially perpendicular to the point, and is dimensioned to support and maintain an accessory thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Lawrence P. Davidson
  • Publication number: 20020017052
    Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to provide an emulsion which shows sufficient rust preventive effect, in spite of water it contains as a constituent of the composition, on a metallic material which is otherwise corroded when coming into contact with water and oxygen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventors: Kenzou Hori, Shunichi Sakuragi, Yutaka Katou
  • Publication number: 20020017053
    Abstract: A method of producing synthetic fuels by hydrogenating carbon monoxide comprising contacting a feed gas containing carbon monoxide and hydrogen with a metal sulfide catalyst comprising:
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2000
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventors: Muneyoshi Yamada, Naoto Koizumi, Yosuke Takahashi
  • Publication number: 20020017054
    Abstract: A retractable, plastic enclosure (30) for row crops, ideally tomatoes, comprises a pair of plastic walls (33, 34) bordering the seedbed (22) that are supported by spaced-apart ribs (40, 42). Row crops between the closed walls are shielded from extreme conditions including frost, heavy rain, freeze, hail, and winds. The multi-ply, plastic walls are formed by folding a sheet of plastic. Arcuate ribs (40, 42) flexibly secure the walls in symmetric, spaced apart, parallel rows adjoining crops on either side of the raised seedbed. The walls may be yieldably drawn together or forced apart by drawstrings (82, 80). The ribs are formed from multiple separate strips (50, 52) that are stapled together and sandwich at least one wall layer. The drawstrings are routed between spaced-apart rib guides in a zigzag fashion. Tensioning of the lower drawstring closes the walls, sheltering the young row crops. The upper drawstring opens the walls.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Applicant: Temple Products, LLC
    Inventors: Andrew B. Temple, Beva O. Temple
  • Publication number: 20020017055
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a subirrigation system designed for deployment within an absorbent soil medium beneath one or more plants. The system comprises one or more reservoirs that may be partially filled with an irrigating liquid. The top of each reservoir has a plurality of holes to allow for drainage and air exchange and at least one trough, which extends down into the reservoir. The trough floor has a plurality of holes so that irrigating liquid in the reservoir may pass into the absorbent soil medium which fills the trough and upward by capillary movement to the roots. Systems for linking, automating and controlling the subirrigation process are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventors: A. Eugene Nalbandian, Charles Hewitt
  • Publication number: 20020017056
    Abstract: A wheeled self-watering tray for a pot having bottom hole(s) includes a tray, a plurality of wheels, and a fluid sucking material. Each of the wheels has a connecting part to connect to the tray. The tray includes a side wall, a bottom wall, and a plurality of raised portions raised from a bottom wall or a side wall or both the bottom and side walls of the tray. The pot sits on the raised portions of the tray, and the accompanied fluid sucking material being inserted into a bottom hole of the pot and sucking fluid from the tray to the pot when it is in use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Jianhua Fan
  • Publication number: 20020017057
    Abstract: A decorative plant assembly and a method for making such including a flower pot or other pot or plant container, a skirt having an opening formed through a portion of the skirt and a bonding means for holding the skirt in a position about the outer peripheral surface of the pot. When placed about the pot, at least a portion of the skirt engages and extends from a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the pot. The skirt may further comprise a plurality of folds. The skirt may further comprise a tubular extension extending from the skirt's lower surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Donald E. Weder
  • Publication number: 20020017058
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a flowerpot, more particularly, to lower feed type flowerpot that receives a minimal amount of soil for supporting an upper part of plant, while supplying appropriate water and air to the soil to provide a favorable atmosphere for plant growth. A flowerpot of the present invention may be separated into an upper clay room (20) and a lower water room (30) by a partition wall (10). A center portion of the partition wall (10) includes a water absorbing portion (14) extending downward to the water room (30) while communicating with the clay room (20). An upper part of the water room (30) may have at least one hole (31) for feeding, draining and providing ventilation so that an air inflow room may be formed between the clay room and the water room having a height substantially equal to an opening level of the hole and an upper side of the water room.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Hwa Suk Chung
  • Publication number: 20020017059
    Abstract: A floral container including a receptacle that holds a liquid and an insert which supports the floral grouping. The insert is positioned within the receptacle above the bottom wall of the receptacle to define a liquid-holding region. The side walls of the receptacle and the side walls of the insert may define a spill-catching region which communicates with the liquid-holding region of the container to catch displaced liquid if the floral container is tilted. The insert may include a divider positioned to form compartments through which the stems may extend to the liquid-containing region of the receptacle. The floral container may be loaded into an outer container to form a floral shipper and a plurality of these floral shippers may be assembled on a pallet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Scott R. Gilbert
  • Publication number: 20020017060
    Abstract: A generally horizontally sliding door includes a sliding or otherwise translating door panel with a full-perimeter seal that engages sealing surfaces upon closing and at least partially disengages the surfaces upon opening. The door panel travels along an overhead track that is slightly inclined to lower the panel=s upper and lower edge seals into engagement with sealing surfaces as the door closes. To provide a substantially full-perimeter seal, a leading edge seal and a trailing edge seal engage sealing surfaces as well. Some of the edge seals are joined to create corner seals. The seals are adapted for single panel sliding doors, bi-parting doors, multi-panel doors, and various combinations thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Applicant: Rite-Hite Holding Corporation
    Inventors: Rodney Kern, Dave Leppert, Peter Schulte, James Schwingle, Dean Shanahan
  • Publication number: 20020017061
    Abstract: A window-lift device for motor vehicles with a connector means for attaching the window panel to a drive element comprises a panel-connector, a drive-connector being attached or attachable to the drive mechanism of the window-lift device for lifting and lowering the window panes, matching fixing pieces for fixing the panel-connector to the drive-connector, and further comprises an assembly piece. The assembly piece being mounted to the drive-connector and carrying or supporting a first one of the matching fixing pieces in a pre-assembly position. The assembly piece and the drive-connector together provide a feeding opening for the panel-connector for finding an aligning position in which the matching fixing pieces may be activated to fix or to pre-fix the panel-connector to the drive-connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Michael Nicolai
  • Publication number: 20020017062
    Abstract: A hinge coupling and a lock for connecting a stationary handrail to a gate arm for a gate. The gate in closed position retains the structural integrity and peripheral profile of the handrail. The hinge coupling consist of a fixed connector and a mobile connector, both pivotally connected to a middle link by pins. The components of the hinge coupling pivot about the pins, enabling the gate arm to pivot through a 180° angle. One hinge connector is inserted and secured into an open end of the stationary handrail. The other connector is inserted and secured into an open end of the gate arm. The lock consists of two mating active and passive components that are fastened to respective terminal ends of the handrail and gate arm. The lock components are provided with a manually releasable latch. All components in the closed position of the gate compactly fit together and are shaped to provide peripheral continuity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Charles H. Morris
  • Publication number: 20020017063
    Abstract: The invention describes a polishing fluid for a chemical mechanical polishing process step, which contains a polycrystalline diamond powder and at least one additive from the group consisting of oxidizing agents, complex-forming agents, surfactants and organic bases. The polishing fluid according to the invention enables the abrasion rate for metal layers and metal oxide layers which contain in particular elements from group 8b of the periodic system to be increased.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventors: Gerhard Beitel, Barbel Seebacher, Annette Sanger
  • Publication number: 20020017064
    Abstract: The present invention provides an LSI device polishing composition containing water, abrasive grains, an organic acid, and an oxidizing agent, and having a pH of 5.5-10.0 adjusted by an alkaline substance, the LSI device polishing composition being used for polishing a copper-containing metal wiring layer in which copper is deposited on an insulating film via barrier metal formed of Ta or TaN; and a method for producing LSI devices by use of the polishing composition. During polishing of a barrier metal such as Ta or TaN and a copper wiring layer, the rate of polishing Ta or TaN can be enhanced, to thereby prevent dishing and erosion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventors: Yoshitomo Shimazu, Takanori Kido, Nobuo Uotani
  • Publication number: 20020017065
    Abstract: An adjustable length bracing device can be installed in a window frame or door frame to secure a sheet of covering material that is positioned to protect the window or door from flying debris resulting from a hurricane, tornado, or other storm. The brace device consists of two independent and moveable bars, which can be adjusted to fit the inside of a window or door opening. The adjustment is made by the use of a metal clip attached to one bar and inserted into a notch on the other bar. The ends of each bar have rubber pads to help prevent marring the window or door opening or frame and to prevent any slipping of the bracing device assembly. Once the assembly is in position, a locking metal ring holds both independent bars together to prevent movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Dale M. Clewis
  • Publication number: 20020017066
    Abstract: A wall system and particularly a load-bearing spine wall defined by rigidly connected spine panels which are usable in conjunction with and connectable to branch panels for defining workstations. These spine panels include an interior frame having plural hollow cross beams rigidly joined between parallel uprights. The cross beams have elongate slots extending lengthwise along the sidewalls thereof. Each side of the frame permits one or more removable covering tiles to be attached thereto for defining the exterior surface of the spine panel. Load-bearing components having cantilevered hangers can be engaged within the elongate slots which extend lengthwise of the cross beams. Vertically adjacent tiles have longitudinal edges spaced to define a narrow elongate passage therebetween which aligns with the mouth of a respectively adjacent hanger-accommodating slot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventors: Dale R. Marshall, Darren R. Long, Rodney Vallas, Jim Thompson Goodchild, Robert E. Steeves
  • Publication number: 20020017067
    Abstract: A wall element incorporating idle rollers, presenting a body with seats into which stationary pins carrying idle rollers are snap-fitted; said body presents two parts (22, 30), of which one is the lower base part (22) and the other the upper base part (30), these being structurally separate, but connected together by just the pins (10, 21), which present end portions (15, 15A) transversely wider than adjacent portions (11a, 21a) provided for their snap-fitting into seats (12a,b,c; 22a,b,c) in said two parts (22, 30), said wider portions (15, 15A) abutting against said seats to prevent any movement of said parts (22, 30) in the axial direction of the pins (10, 21).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Applicant: SYSTEM PLAST S.p.A.
    Inventors: Sergio Marsetti, Rodolfo Reatti
  • Publication number: 20020017068
    Abstract: A foundation element comprises a rigid monolithic prefabricated frame (10) which includes at least two opposite containing side walls (12) and cross-members (14) interconnecting the two side walls (12) so as to form a casting through-cavity between these two walls (12). The frame (10) is intended to be located on the ground (G) with the interposition of adjustable support devices (22) and is intended to receive a hardenable fluid binder material (36) poured into its through-cavity and adapted to spread onto the ground (G) between this and the side walls (12) and to fill the cavity, encapsulating the cross-members (14) and the iron rods (34) or other connecting members for connecting a superstructure element (32). The invention also relates to prefabricated structures including prefabricated tunnels, with foundation elements formed by means of the said prefabricated frames (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Mose Monachino
  • Publication number: 20020017069
    Abstract: A deck construction including a plurality of supports for anchoring deck construction elements to a building site. The supports include a body (which may be an integrally molded concrete pier) having upper and lower portions. The upper portion includes at least one slot for seating a horizontally oriented construction member. The slot includes a center socket portion having four extended corners for seating the bottom end of a vertically oriented construction member. The slot and center socket are defined by connecting wall portions which may be integral to the body or may be of plastic or metal and suitable secured to the body. In some cases, two mutually perpendicular slots are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventors: Paul Hoffman, Sam H. Bright
  • Publication number: 20020017070
    Abstract: A foamed plastic module for building an insulated concrete wall structure by stacking the modules together until the desired configuration of the structure is completed, and when the form is filled, a concrete monolithic waffle wall structure having foam insulation permanently attached to the opposed wall surfaces to form the inner and outer wall surfaces of an enclosure is realized. The module is made of foamed plastic material, such as expanded polystyrene, for example, and is built in a pressure molding apparatus. Each module comprises a rigid form block of a generally rectangular configuration having a hollow interior of a particular predetermined configuration formed between spaced apart confronting sidewalls to form a cement waffle wall. The side walls of the module are secured one to the other by a plurality of spaced tension members. The tension members can be formed of metal or plastic material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Juan R. Batch
  • Publication number: 20020017071
    Abstract: A flooring member comprising a top, a bottom, a first edge, a second edge, a tongue member configured to be received within a groove member of an adjacent flooring member, the tongue member extending generally perpendicular from the first edge and having a top surface and a bottom surface, the tongue member top surface is inclined away from the flooring member top at a first angle, the tongue member bottom surface is inclined toward said flooring member top at a second angle, the second angle being less than the first angle so that a gap resistant interconnection of the tongue within a groove of an adjacent flooring member is achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: David C. DeVivi
  • Publication number: 20020017072
    Abstract: An elongate modular post cladding element is adapted for cooperating with at least one other cladding element to cover a post. The cladding element includes a panel for being applied to the post, and having first and second opposed end edges and first and second opposed, longitudinally-extending side edges. A female fastener extends along the first side edge of the panel. A complementary male fastener extends along the opposed second side edge of the panel. The female fastener has spaced-apart surfaces forming a generally U-shaped groove having a depth at least twice as great as its width. The groove defines a position adjustment zone for receiving a selected portion of a male fastener of an adjacent cladding element to adjustably position the adjacent cladding element on the post.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Harry H. Davis
  • Publication number: 20020017073
    Abstract: The invention relates to a finishing device for floors made of hardenable material which comprises a frame, at least one rotating tool (2) connected thereto and provided with at least two arms (12) upon each of which a blade (13) is fixed, and a driving mechanism, provided on the frame, for driving the tool (2). The blade (13) is fixed to an arm (12) of the tool (2) by means of a connection (14) with at least two parts (23,24) which can be adjusted in respect to each other in the longitudinal direction of the arm (12), the first part (23) of which is mounted on the blade (13) and the second part (24) is connected to the arm (12) by means of connecting means (25, 33-34) and can be fixedly clamped onto this first part (23).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Wilhelmus Cornelis Hendricus Maria Rijkers
  • Publication number: 20020017074
    Abstract: The lid is formed, on the one hand, of a ring (7) and, on the other hand, of a disk (D). The ring (A) comes from a strip cut parallel to the fibers of a fibrous rigid material. Having formed the ring (A) using a two-stage tool, the disk (D) is pressed on the ring (A) and the skirt (L′) is bonded onto the ring (A). A nesting profile and a catch (3′) in the form of a groove open toward the interior are formed. The lid fits onto a container (R) with a rolled edge (O).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Georges Sireix
  • Publication number: 20020017075
    Abstract: A filler device sub-assembly comprising: a first cap gripping arm and a second cap gripping arm, wherein each of the first and second cap gripping arms include a second end, and wherein the second ends of the first and second cap gripping arms cooperatively define a cap retaining region; a pivot opening associated with each of the first and second cap gripping arms, wherein the first and second cap gripping arms are pivotable about the pivot opening; and means for guiding a cap into the cap retaining region, wherein the cap guiding means facilitates outward pivoting of at least one of the first and second cap gripping arms by a cap which results in directing a cap into the retaining region toward retention thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventors: Michael R. Resterhouse, Simon P. Edwards, Robert B. Szabo
  • Publication number: 20020017076
    Abstract: The present invention overcomes the above-perceived problems associated with the known art. The present invention provides an efficient capping machine with an improved turret that may be retrofitted to existing capping machines or included as an integral component of a new capping machine. The improved capping machine includes a rotatable turret that is significantly smaller than conventional bottling turrets. The improved turret utilizes fewer moving parts and it has a smaller mass that enables the turret to rotate more efficiently while requiring less power. The improved capping machine includes a rotating turret section coupled to a mounting plate and support. A cap delivery chute assembly is associated therewith. The improved turret includes a rotatable frame secured to an elevation shaft of the central hub via a torsion bearing assembly. The rotatable frame is driven by a bull gear associated with the capping machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Wendell S. Martin
  • Publication number: 20020017077
    Abstract: The invention relates to a closing device for the closing tools of a bag-packing machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Applicant: O-MEGA PACKAGING
    Inventor: Wolfgang Klinkel
  • Publication number: 20020017078
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for forming, filling, and sealing a flexible recloseable container. Both vertical and horizontal methods for placing product within the container are disclosed. The invention includes guiding a web of film which has interlocking fastener strips sealed to the web. A slider for locking and unlocking the fastener strips is placed in the correct orientation, spread apart at a pair of inner feet, and inserted over the fastener strips. The slider is positioned to close a substantial portion of the strips, and then an end stop, docking station, and corner seal are formed against a sealing plate. The slider is then repositioned, and a tamper evident seal may be placed over the fastener strip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Ronald G. Thieman
  • Publication number: 20020017079
    Abstract: The invention comprises an insert delivery system for use with an automated packaging machine. Preferably, the system is used to include coupons and the like with products being automatically packaged, such as sliced loaf bread. The system may comprise an insert delivery tray or card conveyor, a feeder mechanism, and an insert placer configured to select an insert from the tray or conveyor. Preferably, the delivery placer includes an arm having a holder which comprises a vacuum system. Additionally, the feeder mechanism may be used to feed an insert onto a scoop assembly at various points along the path of the scoop. In certain embodiments of the invention, the insert has multiple folds to allow it to be folded around the product prior to packaging. The invention also comprises methods of using the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Applicant: DSD COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Fatehali T. Dharssi, Dale Lee Klinefelter, Brian Marshall
  • Publication number: 20020017080
    Abstract: A method and machine for wrapping cigars provides for feeding the cigars continuously along a given path, along which a sheet of wrapping material is folded about each cigar, the sheet of wrapping material is closed about the cigar and at the opposite ends to form a closed wrapping, and the closed wrapping is sealed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Mario Spatafora
  • Publication number: 20020017081
    Abstract: Chocolates are wrapped individually by a method that involves feeding single wrapping sheets along a first path in a first direction spaced at a selected pitch, in such a way that the trailing edge of one wrapping sheet and the leading edge of the next are distanced one from another, and at the same time feeding a continuous ribbon in a second direction along a second path that merges with the first path at an assembling station where the ribbon is stably united with the sheets; ribbon and sheet then advance together in a third direction, along which the ribbon is divided into discrete slivers by repeated cuts, each made between the trailing edge of one sheet and the leading edge of the next and at a distance such that each sliver will present a portion projecting from the trailing edge of the wrapping sheet to which it is attached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Mario Spatafora
  • Publication number: 20020017082
    Abstract: A method for packaging a liquid filled container including the steps of providing a container, placing a capsule defining the cavity in the container, filling the container with a liquid, and allowing a gaseous exchange between the liquid and the cavity to provide a benefit to one of the capsule and the liquid. The invention also includes a method for providing retrievable payload in a liquid filled container that includes the steps of providing a capsule in a liquid filled container wherein the capsule has a cavity and is associated with the payload. The method further including the step of pressurizing the cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventors: Stephen W. Cornell, Peter F. Murphy, David C. Brown
  • Publication number: 20020017083
    Abstract: Device for fitting a sleeve onto a container uch as a bottle or a similar object, means being provided for pulling a plastic tube from a supply roller from which a sleeve is cut-off. The device comprises a number of double-walled bushes, each being provided with a guiding member and consisting of a perforated inner wall and an outer wall extending around said inner wall so that an annular space is formed in which underpressure can be generated through a vacuum line. There is a positioning means for the bushes, so that a sleeve can be slid into it and can engage the inner wall of the bush, whereupon the bush is slid across a container and the connection to the vacuum line is disconnected. Then the bush is brought upwards and the container can be removed from the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Petrus Wilhelmus Maria Frankefort