Patents Issued in June 20, 2002
  • Publication number: 20020073623
    Abstract: A center-matched double hinged door assembly for a vehicle having a continuous side aperture at each of opposite side of a vehicle body comprises a front door hinged at a rear end to the vehicle body, a rear door hinged at a front end to the vehicle body, and a door lock/unlock mechanism operative to prevent the rear door from opening prior to the front door while the front door remains closed, to allow the rear door to open while the front door remains open and to allow the rear door to close irrespective of whether the front door remains open or closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Applicant: Mazda Motor Corporation
    Inventors: Toshinori Sakamoto, Yoshio Fukushima, Tomoo Taguchi
  • Publication number: 20020073624
    Abstract: A door for a housing containing electrical components, in particular a switchgear cabinet, having a door frame, which has two vertical profiled frame sections spaced parallel apart from each other and connected at their longitudinal ends by horizontal transverse stays. Vertical and/or horizontal profiled cover elements are applied on an outside of the door to the vertical profiled frame sections and/or the transverse stays. The vertical profiled frame sections have receivers into which at least one cover panel can be inserted, which at least partially covers a door panel area surrounded by the door frame. To be able to equip the door panel area modularly, the receivers of the vertical profiled frame sections are formed as grooves in which edges of the sheathing panels are held. On their longitudinal sides the transverse stays have shoulders, each of which supports at least one plug-in shoulder. The plug-in shoulders are fixed in plug-in receivers of the vertical profiled frame sections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Marc Hartel
  • Publication number: 20020073625
    Abstract: A closure assembly for a motor vehicle has a pre-painted outer panel and a pre-painted inner panel. A first of a plurality of peripheral edges of the outer panel is defined by a first flange extending along the first edge and folded back toward the inner surface of the outer panel. The flange defines a gap between itself and the inner surface. The inner panel has an inner surface disposed against the inner surface of the outer panel. The inner panel has a plurality of peripheral edges substantially corresponding to the plurality of peripheral edges of the outer panel. A first of the inner panel peripheral edges has a first flange extending therefrom received by the gap of the outer panel. A second of the inner panel peripheral edges has a second flange overlaying and joined to a second of the peripheral edges of the outer panel. A third of the inner panel peripheral edges has a flange disposed over and extending no further than a third of the peripheral edges of the outer panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Daniel E. Jennings
  • Publication number: 20020073626
    Abstract: A vehicle window ventilation system of this invention contains vertical slots in forward portions of the window or frame. Air due to vehicle movement passes in the slots to the cavity between the windowpanes. There is a passage for airflow from the cavity rearward to the door handle where there is spacing for outward passage of air. The forward location of the vertical slots allows for the flow of air across a wide area of the windows and hence a minimum reduction of visibility due to moisture in the cavity. The air passageway rearward through the cavity between the windows and then through the door to the rearward located door handle allows for a dispersion pattern of air that covers a large amount of the surface area of the double pane window. While an external fan could be used to enhance the removal of flow of air the forward location of the vertical slots and the rearward location of the inner door passageway to the door handle alleviates the necessity of having a fan.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Kurt A. Ringger
  • Publication number: 20020073627
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a lightweight door for motor vehicles, using the hidden bar-element construction technique. It is characterised by the supporting frame being made in a single piece from a metal sheet of minimum thickness; said metal sheet being a pressed part or a deepdrawn part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Michael Hock
  • Publication number: 20020073628
    Abstract: The invention relates to a system (and devices) for controlling the moisture in wood frame building walls by controlled forced ventilation. The object of the invention is to improve the long term structural performance of the wall by keeping the moisture in the wall cavity below acceptable levels. The invention can also be used to help identify possible water related breaches or defects in the wall at specific locations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Kenneth Gerald Dextras
  • Publication number: 20020073629
    Abstract: The object of invention is a cargo cover (1) , incorporating on the inside pads (2) , inflatable with a medium (air). The cover is placed over the cargo (7) , and at the same time the pads are placed in the corners and at other appropriate places. The cargo is secured with ropes (6) , and the medium is introduced into the pads, causing the pads to expand and tighten the ropes. The fastening of the cargo is elastic and non-loosening, since the deformation of the pads and fastening, members can be compensated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: John Finell
  • Publication number: 20020073630
    Abstract: An overflow chute (1) for guttering, the chute comprising an elongate member (2) having a substantially U-shaped cross-section and including a weir or barrier (10) therein intermediate an overflow spout (3) and an inlet (4) adapted to engage a section of guttering. In a preferred arrangement, the inlet (4) includes male (18) and female (17) coupling portions to link the chute (1) to standard section of guttering (not shown). The inlet (4) further includes a downpipe connector (5) having a through-body aperture (2) for directing rainwater into a downpipe (D). The aperture (6) is protected by a leaf guard (15) to prevent an accumulation of debris in the downpipe (D).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Nicholas Miller Warns
  • Publication number: 20020073631
    Abstract: A gutter protection system for diverting debris and collecting water in a trough of a gutter connected to a building structure is disclosed. The gutter protection system can include a cap that can be positionally fixed in place at a predetermined angle of inclination above the gutter by a support member or bracket. The bracket can be supported by and connected to a hanger that connects the gutter to the building structure. The cap can be spaced apart from the building structure, including a roof of the building structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Michael J. Baker
  • Publication number: 20020073632
    Abstract: A display lifting device is provided which is mounted within a ceiling plenum and is arranged for concealing a support framework, lifting arm and display within the ceiling area. A support arm for the display is pivotally mounted within the framework and is biased in the downward position and supported by a cable mounted on a cable drum drivingly connected to a reversible motor. The support arm comprises at least two telescoping sections with the cable connected to the end of the inner lower most section so that as the cable is extended the arm pivots downward with the telescoping sections extending through gravity to their fullest extent. In this way, the display can extend a considerable distance from the ceiling for viewing by the audience while in the retracted position a very small opening and space within the plenum is required for concealment. Mechanical stops and limit switches are provided at both extremes of the movement of the display and support arm to restrict the angular movement of the arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Charles E. Huffman
  • Publication number: 20020073633
    Abstract: An anti-perching device provided with elongated, laterally spaced, substantially vertical legs adapted to slip over construction frame members, elongated continuous side members extending upwardly therefrom at an angle to obscure the upper horizontal surfaces of the frame members and preclude perching thereon, an elongated continuous upper surface peak configuration extending along the length thereof and shaped to preclude the presentation of a horizontal surface for perching, and an integral stop mechanism for consistent vertical positioning of the device on the frame members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Michael J. Schlichting, Kurt J. Schlichting
  • Publication number: 20020073634
    Abstract: Walls of expanded polystyrene, concrete-receiving forms (referred to as insulated or insulating concrete forms or ICFs) need to be vertical while they are being filled with concrete and while the concrete is curing. An apparatus with a vertical member and a brace member is such that one person can erect it and use it to adjust walls of ICFs so as to be vertical or plumb. The apparatus is capable of being readily used with the forms of any manufacturer by being provided with asymmetrical brackets for detachably attaching the vertical member to a wall firmly, but not rigidly. The apparatus provides a support for a platform, or scaffold, for a person to stand on while guiding the concrete pouring and while plumbing the wall. The vertical member extends upward from the ground and is held firmly against the wall with asymmetrical brackets. The brace member extends from the vertical member at a pivot with the other end of the brace member attached to the ground or floor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: David N. Bolinger, Edward J. Ross
  • Publication number: 20020073635
    Abstract: A skylight solar reflective system for increasing the input of solar radiation into a skylight during low sun angles typically occurring within early morning and later afternoon and for decreasing the input of solar radiation during high sun angles typically during the middle of the day. The skylight solar reflective system includes a main bracket attachable to a frame of a skylight, a pair of end brackets attachable to an opposing side of the frame, a first arm and a second arm pivotally attached to the main bracket with the distal portions of the arms slidably received by the pair of end brackets, a first reflector attached to the first arm, a second reflector attached to the second arm, and a cross brace attached between the first reflector and the second reflector. In an alternative embodiment a third reflector may be utilized that extends between the distal portions of the first reflector and the second reflector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Garret N. Erskine
  • Publication number: 20020073636
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a skid plate and a method for attaching the skid plate to the bottom surface of a pre-hung door assembly to improve wear and moisture resistance. The skid plate includes a first side having a first shaped portion configured to conform to the bottom end of a first doorjamb arrangement and a second side having a second shaped portion configured to conform to the bottom end of a second doorjamb arrangement. The method for attaching the skid plate to the pre-hung door bottom surface includes applying an adhesive to bond the skid plate to the bottom surface, positioning the skid plate so that the first shaped portion and the second shaped portion align with their respective doorjamb ends, engaging tabs against the frame side surface to the doorjambs, and driving fasteners through the skid plate and tabs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Oded E. Rochman
  • Publication number: 20020073637
    Abstract: A multistory apartment building complex may comprise vertically stacked modules and includes one or more vehicle parking levels grade and one or more dwelling unit levels vertically stacked above the vehicle parking levels. At least one of the parking levels includes private garages for at least selected ones of the dwelling units and occupants of the selected dwelling units may move between their own garage and their dwelling unit via an elevator extending directly to the individual dwelling units on each level. The elevators may also serve plural dwelling units on each dwelling unit level. A service corridor is provided on selected dwelling unit levels which may be accessed by a service elevator or spaced apart stairways to provide secondary access between each dwelling unit on each dwelling unit level and street level. Each dwelling unit may include a small service room having a lockable door between the service room and the dwelling unit and a door opening to the service corridor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2002
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Jerry W. Stewart, W. Bryan Thruston
  • Publication number: 20020073638
    Abstract: A corner bead is of the tape-on type, having an elongated metal core strip with a longitudinal arcuate nose and a pair of flanges extending outwardly from the nose at approximately a right angle. A cover strip of paper is bonded to the exterior surface of the core strip, and includes wings which project outwardly beyond the extent of the flanges. The cover strip is formed of a stock paper having high abrasion resistance, tensile strength, and which is dimensionally stable on contact with wet joint compound.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Roland Kunz, Roy R. Rantilla
  • Publication number: 20020073639
    Abstract: A corner bead is of the tape-on type, having an elongated metal core strip with a longitudinal arcuate nose and a pair of flanges extending outwardly from the nose at approximately a right angle. A cover strip of paper is bonded to the exterior surface of the core strip, and includes wings which project outwardly beyond the extent of the flanges. The cover strip is formed of a stock paper having high abrasion resistance, tensile strength, and which is dimensionally stable on contact with wet joint compound.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Roland Kunz, Roy R. Rantilla
  • Publication number: 20020073640
    Abstract: A prefabricated underlay material (1) for location between upper surface of a load-bearing floor (8) and a continuous surface material (9), which underlay material comprises a substantially flexible sheet material (2) and dampening projections (3) formed of porous resilient material on one surface of the sheet material and distributed along the surface. Dampening projections (3) comprise strips (13) of foamed polymer or polymer mixture bonded to a first surface (11) of the sheet material without deformation of the surface thereof, which strips are located continuous, or intermittently continuous, with intervals (S) and are either principally straight or substantially undulating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Thomas Virtanen
  • Publication number: 20020073641
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to a composite structural member comprising a body part and multiple rigid strips which are attached to and separated by the body part. The body part is formed by a core having substantially flat parallel sides and opposed edges, and the opposed edges are covered by the rigid strips. As an example, the core is made of gypsum, and the strips are made of sheet metal. The rigid strips enable screw fasteners to be secured to the structural member. The sides of the core are preferably covered by side sheets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 29, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Applicant: CHRISTOPHER J. BUNTEL
    Inventors: Robert J. Menchetti, Matthew J. Kessler
  • Publication number: 20020073642
    Abstract: A plurality of concrete building units including blocks, stepping stones, wall structures and the like comprise a plurality of spaced-apart golf balls that are externally visible. The golf balls are entrapped within the concrete structure, buried to a distance exceeding ½ their diameter. In the manner they are permanently captivated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Vernon R. Calcote
  • Publication number: 20020073643
    Abstract: The storage roof truss has a non-triangular central opening to provide greater storage space. Truss chords and webs are arranged to provide a central opening with a horizontal bottom and vertical lower sides. This allows more usable storage space. The central opening chords and webs are connected to the top chords in a triangular mesh pattern such that loads on the element junctures are carried in tension or compression. This allows similar structural efficiency as a conventional truss. Therefore roof storage trusses can be constructed with similar costs as conventional trusses. Also, storage roof trusses can have the same range of pitches as conventional trusses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Snow
  • Publication number: 20020073644
    Abstract: The present invention aims to reduce the manufacturing work load of a structure of a liner of a concrete wall. A plurality of liner anchors 10 is constructed longitudinally to one surface of a liner 11, and a plurality of flat bars 14 is constructed transversely to the other surface of the liner 11. Concrete for a reinforced concrete wall is installed using the liner 11 reinforced longitudinally and transversely by the liner anchors 10 and the flat bars 14 as a formwork, and the liner is constructed to the concrete wall by burying the liner anchors 10 to the concrete wall. Thereafter, the flat bars 11 are removed from the liner 14, according to need.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Applicant: HITACHI, LTD.
    Inventors: Ayako Suzuki, Shigeru Nanba, Tsutomu Igari
  • Publication number: 20020073645
    Abstract: Perimeter frame rails and door frames rails are described for a more thermally efficient and cost-effective display case such as for refrigerated display cases. The frames are preferably formed from cold rolled steel. A perimeter frame may include first, second and third walls defining an opening or a recess that can be closed by a contact plate. A door for a refrigerated display case may include a glass unit and a forward portion extending inwardly from a perimeter frame edge portion toward an edge of the forward glass pane and a first side portion extends rearwardly to a groove. An insulating member insulates the door rail from the cold area and includes a portion engaging the groove. A glass door is also provided for a refrigerated display case having a first glass panel, a second glass panel, and low emissivity coatings on the inside surfaces of the first and second glass panels. One or more intermediate glass panels can also be included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Richard J. Richardson, Bennie Reed Downing
  • Publication number: 20020073646
    Abstract: A system for processing containers, includes a sensor for sensing contents of a closed container, an identifier applicator for applying, based on an output of the sensor, a predetermined identifier to the container, a controller for controlling the sensor and the identifier applicator, and a read-out device for reading the identifier and communicating a result of read-out of the identifier to the controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 1999
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: ROBERT J. VON GUTFELD, PAUL A. MOSKOWITZ, TRIEU C. CHIEU
  • Publication number: 20020073647
    Abstract: A mixing and pouring apparatus for computer controlled processing of mixing and pouring operations includes a rotatable arm capable of holding vessels therein, the arm rotatable at programmable speeds and time lengths to perform automated moving and pouring processes. The present invention further provides a cap and vessel positioning system that securely locks a vessel in place and realigns the cap in essentially the identical position in relation to the vessel every time the vessel is capped. In one embodiment, both the cap and vessel have flanges that are aligned when the cap is properly secured to the vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Applicant: Gentra Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Ellen M. Heath, Ruth Shuman, Douglas J. Kluge, Glenn M. Campbell
  • Publication number: 20020073648
    Abstract: A closure feed system for use on an associated form, fill and seal packaging machine for feeding and singulating closures from a closure storage region to a closure applicator. The feed system includes a chute for conveying the closures from the storage region to the applicator along a conveyance path defined by the chute. A singulator includes upper and lower reciprocating members configured for alternatingly reciprocating into and out of the conveyance path. The lower member includes a separating element having an upper surface and a lower surface. One of the upper and lower surfaces is formed at an incline relative to the other surface such that a distance between the upper and lower surfaces increases as the lower member moves into the conveyance path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Applicant: Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance, S.A.
    Inventors: Petr Sevcik, Stefan Annehed, Hisami Mitsuishi, Sheila Moss, Ken Pokusa
  • Publication number: 20020073649
    Abstract: In a machine for packaging stacks of multiply articles of paper into wrapping sheets, a first line conveys stacks of multiply articles of paper to a a wrapping station while a second feeds wrapping sheets to the wrapping station. Each sheet is kept vertically in a waiting position in the wrapping station until one stack is moved towards the sheet, so that the sheet gradually folds around the stack with overlapping parallel edges to be heat-welded. In the said second line there are first endless belts and second endless belts for a wrapping sheet received from conveying means situated upstream. The sheet is pulled up to the wrapping station and is clamped in the wait position by suction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Gianluigi Gamberini
  • Publication number: 20020073650
    Abstract: A method of wrapping a floral grouping, preferably an orchid, with a wrapper which may be a sheet of material, a sleeve or a preformed pot cover. The wrapper is preferably constructed from a laminated material made up of at least a waxy layer and a support layer which are superposed upon each other and connected or laminated to each other. A second waxy layer may be connected or laminated to the other surface of the support surface. The waxy layer is made from a waxy material such as waxed paper, waxed tissue or high density polyethylene. The wrapped floral grouping may also contain a shredded material for cushioning the blooms of the floral grouping.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Donald E. Weder
  • Publication number: 20020073651
    Abstract: For the sequential strapping of stacks of printed products (3) with a strapping tape (27), the stacks are conveyed to a strapping position pressed together between two presser arms (8.1 and 8.2.) and there strapped in a pressed together condition, in that a loop of the strapping tape (27) positioned around the stack (3) is tightened, locked and cut-off from a supply roll. In doing so, the tape loop is applied in the zone of the face sides of the stack outside the presser arms (8.1 and 8.2.) and aligned to slot-shaped apertures (19.1, 19.2) in the presser arms (8.1 and 8.2.) in such a manner, that the strapping tape (27), when it is being tightened, is moved through the apertures (19.1, 19.2) and comes to lie directly on the face sides of the stack. The strapping illustrated is advantageous in particular to strap stacks (3), which have either been previously - or are being simultaneously enveloped with a an enveloping material (25), whereby the envelope is applied around the stack (3) and the presser arms (8.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Erwin Muller
  • Publication number: 20020073652
    Abstract: There is now provided a method and an apparatus therefor for stabilizing products in containers in a continuous container flow by stationary, sequential sections by means of overflowing liquid, whereby the sections are graduated with respect to one another in terms of their liquid temperature, and for purposes of efficient liquid recycling are organized in pairs, so that the liquid is transported by overflow among sections, and to set the desired temperature of the overflowing liquid, liquid is added to the liquid being transported, characterized by the fact that the excess liquid in the at least one zone overflows in a cascade fashion from zone to zone of increasing overflow temperature and into liquid reservoirs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Ulrich Wiedemann
  • Publication number: 20020073653
    Abstract: An automatic film insertion device automatically unwinds a predetermined amount of plastic tubing from a roll, measures the required length, cuts and automatically inserts the cut piece into the mouth of filled pharmaceutical bottles. In one embodiment, a set of rollers receives a sheet of tubing, which is passed to a mandrel that opens the tubing. A guillotine cuts the tubing, and the tubing is pushed by a plow into a receiving member. The tubing is held inside the receiving member via friction until a plunger pushes the tubing out of the receiving member and into the bottle. The plunger then forces the tubing to buckle and remain in the bottle. In a second embodiment, the receiving member comprises a reciprocating tube attached to a shuttle cylinder. During the film advance portion of the cycle, the tube is positioned under a film feed station adjacent a cutting assembly. The film is fed vertically downward by rollers into the receiving member and cut.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Jeff Grass, Victor V. Menayan
  • Publication number: 20020073654
    Abstract: An open cell foam with thermal memory characteristic is used as an indicator for heat damage to an article containing heat sensitive contents packaged in a carton. The foam material may be a polyurethane-based thermoplastic polymer referred to as “Cold Hibernated Elastic Memory” (CHEM) foam. The thermal memory foam can be produced in compressed form and used as inserts in the carton. Upon exposure to a temperature at or above the foam glass transition temperature, the foam insert expands to substantially its original shape (volume) so as to apply a compressive force against the article, making it difficult to remove from the carton. Alternatively, the expanded foam will deform the carton walls, providing an external indication of heat damage. The foam can also be used as a heat-indicating element in an inspection panel of the carton, which ruptures so as to provide external indication of heat damage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: D.W. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20020073655
    Abstract: According to a method for packaging one stack of multiply articles made of paper, a presser receives and compacts the stack of articles to be packaged and a pusher moves longitudinally the stack so as to make the stack hit a wrapping foil, previously placed vertically. The stack, partially wrapped within the wrapping foil, is introduced between a pair of belt conveyors. The presser and the pusher are carried by a slide moving longitudinally between a backward position with respect to the wrapping foil, where the stack is received and compacted, and a forward position, in which the presser hit the wrapping foil and move close to the belt conveyors, so as to transfer and introduce the stack between the belt conveyors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Gianluigi Gamberini
  • Publication number: 20020073656
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming a tubular package is disclosed. A longitudinally advancing strip of film material is guided about a mandrel so as to form a tubular body. As the film advances, margins of the film at the longitudinal edges are guided together into a fin and the fin is guided against the tubular body portion. The edge margins are then welded to each other and to the tubular body portion to form a tube closed cylinder. Individual packages may be formed and filled using conventional form, fill and sealing equipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Keith Geldhauser
  • Publication number: 20020073657
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for filling and sealing of containers, such as sealable valved bags are provided. A sealable valved bag is placed in an upright, erect position, with its sealable valve structure presented to the apparatus, in a slightly open position, amenable to receipt of a filling nozzle of a filling tube. A bag sealing apparatus is placed at the same position along a processing path as a filling apparatus. The filling apparatus and the sealing apparatus are both configured for reciprocable movement into and out of engagement with successive ones of the bags, to enable filling, and subsequent sealing of each of such bags, without intermediate indexing of bags from a filling station to a sealing station.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Christopher Stephan Wadium, Benjamin Bradly Petersen, Kenneth David Goodworth, David Loyd Sorensen, Daren Kay Searle
  • Publication number: 20020073658
    Abstract: A device for use in boxing pliable objects having a footprint into boxes. The boxing device includes a trapdoor unit, a box conveying unit, a tamping unit, and a control unit. The trapdoor unit has coplanar sliding trays that are adapted to be rapidly and simultaneously moved apart from a horizontal closed position, wherein the trays are close together with each, to a horizontal opened position, wherein the trays are slid apart by a distance sufficiently large to pass the footprint of the plurality of objects and permit the objects to fall therethrough in a flat manner into open boxes below. The box conveying unit moves empty open boxes to a position underneath the trapdoor unit. The tamping unit has tamping plates which tamps the objects into the box, and the control unit which controls the operation of the trapdoor unit, the box conveying unit, and the tamping unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Daniel C. Huang, Frank F.J. Huang, Frank Pannier
  • Publication number: 20020073659
    Abstract: A head space inerting system is used in a packaging machine for forming, filling and sealing packages. The inerting system directly introduces an inerting gas into the head space of the formed package subsequent to filling and prior to sealing. The inerting system includes an inerting gas source, an inerting gas heater to heat the inerting gas and an inerting gas nozzle. The inerting gas nozzle is disposed within the form, fill and seal packaging machine to introduce the inerting gas directly into the head space of the packages. The nozzle is further disposed between the top heating station and the sealing station. A method for inerting an atmosphere in the package head space is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Paul Anderson, Ronald Swank
  • Publication number: 20020073660
    Abstract: A latitudinal seal mechanism includes seal jaws 78, fixed cams 75, cam followers 76, a pair of partial cams 88, partial cam followers 78a, rotational shafts 80, coupling members 79, and shaft support portions. The seal jaws 78 are heated, and move circularly such that the seal jaws 78 abut on and move away from tubular film. The fixed cams 75 have shapes that correspond to locuses of movement of the seal jaws 78. The cam followers 76 support the seal jaws 78, and move along the fixed cams 75. The rotational shafts 80 move the cam followers 76 relatively about rotational centers of the rotational shafts 80. The coupling members 79 couple the rotational shafts 80 and the cam followers 76. The shaft support portions rotatably support the rotational shafts 80. The partial cams 88 have a shape that corresponds to a locus of movement of the pair of seal jaws 78 when the pair of seal jaws 78 holds the tubular packaging films.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Masao Fukuda
  • Publication number: 20020073661
    Abstract: A shrink-wrap packaging system comprising a supply of shrink-wrap film, a sealer system and an oven. The sealer system includes a hot-knife assembly, which encapsulates items being packaged by cutting, joining and sealing layers of shrink-wrap film that an operator fits around the items. The hot knife includes a double-edged blade having an electrical surface heater element fixed thereto. The heater element comprises a first layer of electrical insulation fixed directly to the blade, a serpentine resistive film deposited on the first layer and a second layer of insulation covering the resistive film. The oven includes a tunnel in which the encapsulated items are heated to form a shrink-wrap package. The oven includes heat exchangers that mount adjacent the tunnel. The heat exchangers generate heat via an array of electrical surface heater elements similar to those mounted on the hot knife.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Applicant: Charles Beseler Company
    Inventor: Robert Nolan
  • Publication number: 20020073662
    Abstract: A filter portion of a filter includes a plurality of bag-like members. The bag-like members are formed in a container shape having an opening and disposed with intervals therebetween. The periphery of the opening of each bag-like member is supported by a supporting member, and the bag-like members are mutually connected by the supporting member. Consequently, the strength of the filter portion comprising the bag-like members is improved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Applicant: TOYODA BOSHOKU CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kouichi Oda, Minoru Honda, Takanari Takagaki
  • Publication number: 20020073663
    Abstract: A bagless vacuum cleaner system dustcup assembly and method for using said system with a vacuum cleaner apparatus to separate dirt from a mixture of dirt and air inducted into said vacuum cleaner apparatus. Said bagless vacuum cleaner system generally comprises a dustcup assembly, a handle assembly and a motor intake adaptor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Applicant: White Consolidated Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Arnold L. Sepke, Joseph Muclahy, Joyce Thomas
  • Publication number: 20020073664
    Abstract: An air treatment appliance having an external body with a movable portion and a main portion. An air inlet and an air outlet in the external body permit airflow through the device. A fan inside the body is operable to draw in air through the air inlet and to expel it through the air outlet, and the air may be passed through a filter mechanism in the device. An access mechanism permits convenient access to the filter mechanism and other components in the external body. The device is at least partially disabled when the movable portion is moved relative to the main portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Christopher Paul Campbell, Jay F. Perkins
  • Publication number: 20020073665
    Abstract: A filter element is includes a cylindrical media pack defining a central open volume and a longitudinal axis; a first end cap having a central aperture in flow communication with the central open volume; and a second, closed end cap having a central region closing an end of the media pack central, open volume. The closed end cap includes a projection extending axially outwardly therefrom and positioned at a location intersected by the longitudinal axis. An end cover for an air cleaner includes an inner side including a central projection thereon. Preferably, the central projection comprises a wall that includes an outer perimeter defining a regular polyhedron having at least five sides. An air cleaner comprises a cylindrical filter element having a first open end cap, a second closed end cap, and a cylindrical media pack extending therebetween. The first end cap defines an internal radial seal region. The second, closed end cap has a central region including a circular recessed portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Steven Scott Gieseke, Peter J. Murray
  • Publication number: 20020073666
    Abstract: A ceramic filter which includes a plurality of end-plugged honeycomb structures which in combination act to trap and combust diesel exhaust particulates. The exhaust gas flows substantially equally through the end-plugged honeycombs. Preferably the ceramic filter includes two end-plugged honeycomb structures composed of a plurality of alternatingly end-plugged cell channels extending from an inlet face to an outlet face. The end-plugged honeycomb structures are arranged either parallel or perpendicular to the flow of the exhaust gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Willard A. Cutler, David L. Hickman
  • Publication number: 20020073667
    Abstract: Filter arrangements include a barrier media, usually pleated, treated with a deposit of fine fibers. The media is particularly advantageous at high temperature (greater than 140° F.) systems. Such systems may include engine systems and fluid compressor systems. Filter arrangements may take the form of tubular, radially sealing elements; tubular, axial sealing elements; forward flow air cleaners; reverse flow air cleaners; and panel filters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Marty A. Barris, Mark A. Gogins, Thomas M. Weik
  • Publication number: 20020073668
    Abstract: A filter arrangement includes a filter assembly, a filter housing, a seal member, and a moisture separator. The filter assembly has opposite first and second ends, a first axial length between the first and second ends, and a plurality of flutes. Each of the flutes has a first end portion adjacent to the filter assembly first end, and a second end portion adjacent to the filter assembly second end. Selected flutes are open at the first end portion and closed at the second end portion and other selected flutes are closed at the first end portion and open at the second end portion. The filter housing circumscribes the filter assembly. The seal member at least partially circumscribes the filter assembly. The seal member seals a joint between the filter assembly and the filter housing. The seal member also helps to secure the filter assembly within the filter housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2002
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Applicant: Donaldson Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Tokar, Ryan E. McVay
  • Publication number: 20020073669
    Abstract: First line element made of, e.g., wire and second line elements made of, e.g., wire are disposed so that they cross each other and they are welded together at crossing points to form a net. The net is pressed to form an undulating net. An undulating net of a first layer and an undulating net of a second layer are laid one upon the other in such a manner that crossing points of the undulating net of the first layer alternately come into contact with and are separated from crossing points of the undulating net of the second layer. The crossing points which are in contact with each other are welded together by a welding machine. Subsequently, undulating nets of a third to n-th layers are similarly processed to form a three-dimensional net-like structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2002
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Tadayoshi Nagaoka
  • Publication number: 20020073670
    Abstract: A self-propelled forage harvester is equipped with a crop gathering device which transports crop material from the ground to feed rolls that position the crop for being chopped into small pieces by a chopper drum. To prevent pieces of crop material from accumulating on top of the housing structure for the feed rolls and the chopper drum, a flexible shield is mounted between the bottom of the operator's cab and the top of the crop gathering device. Various embodiments are disclosed which feature different access elements of the shield which may be quickly opened to provide access to the feed rolls, chopper drum and other functioning elements provided for processing the crop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Applicant: Deere & Company, a Delaware corporation
    Inventor: Henrik Nieschulze
  • Publication number: 20020073671
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and method for starting an engine. An apparatus comprises a frame and an internal combustion engine operatively mounted to the frame. A control member is operatively connected to the frame, wherein the control member has an activated position and a deactivated position. The control member adapted to complete an engine circuit when in the activated position. An energy storage medium is operatively associated with the engine such that release of energy stored in the energy storage medium turns the engine and facilitates its starting. A starting assembly is utilized to release the stored energy in the energy storage medium. As such, an operator must utilize two separate and distinct actions, activating the control member and activating the starting assembly, to restart the internal combustion engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Jeffrey R. Kucera, Kent Smith
  • Publication number: 20020073672
    Abstract: Multifunctional recycling mower replaces separate lawn mowers for mulching, side discharge, and bag collection into one multifunctional lawn mower using a single multifunctional shell. The multifunctional recycling lawn mower consists of a multifunctional shell and a rotational blade and a handle. The multifunctional shell is used for in situ recycling and discharge and bag collection of grass and weed clippings. The shell is moved and controlled by using the handle which is connected to the shell. The multifunctional shell functions as a recycling mower when it is set and moved in one direction and functions as a discharge and bag collection mower when it is set and moved in the opposite direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Gursel George Yilmaz